Windowsill Chats

Margo is joined by Tiffany Han, life coach, business strategist, and host of the long-running Raise Your Hand Say Yes podcast, to explore the journey of self-discovery and creative authenticity. Tiffany shares her insights on navigating personal growth without rigid formulas and the importance of recognizing and embracing one’s unique needs. Together, Margo and Tiffany discuss Tiffany’s podcasting journey, her breaks from the medium, and how her themes and approaches have evolved over the years. Tiffany’s practical wisdom and her radical self-belief framework promise to inspire and empower high achievers and creatives alike.

Topics Discussed Include:

• Permission to Be Themselves: Encouraging authenticity and practical self-advice

• Individual Needs Over Formulas: Emphasizing unique personal wants and necessities

• Collective Experience: Recognizing shared struggles to combat feelings of isolation

• Tiffany's Podcast Journey: From the beginnings in 2014 to the evolution and authenticity of her show

• Re-evaluating "Yes": Considering the implications of commitment to avoid burnout

• Radical Self-Belief and the five pillars comprised in DFSTAG (discernment, faith, fear attending, acceptance, and grace)

• Reassessing Goals: Why Tiffany isn’t a believer in 5-year plans and how goals can sometimes put you in a box

• Gentle Productivity: Promoting joy, ease, and delight over traditional productivity metrics

• The challenges of social media use and its impact and ways to use it for good

• Creative Work vs. Day Jobs: Balancing creative pursuits with the reality of day jobs.

Connect with Tiffany: Website: tiffanyhan.comInstagram: @thetiffanyhan

Youtube: @thetiffanyhan

Raise Your Hand Say Yes Podcast

Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com

Instagram: @windowsillchats

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

In the conclusion of this two-part series, Margo continues her conversation with Wellness Coach for Creatives, Sancha Prowse. Drawing from her experiences as a performer and her transformation into a wellness advocate, Sancha offers actionable advice and heartfelt insights for creatives looking to prioritize their well-being while pursuing their passions.

In Part 2, Margo and Sancha dive deeper into:

• The Creative Energy Cycle: Understanding the ebb and flow of creative energy and how to work with, not against, these natural rhythms.

• Burnout Recovery: Practical strategies Sancha used to overcome adrenal fatigue and how you can apply them to your life.

• Nurturing Your Inner Artist: Practices for creating a safe and supportive environment for your creativity to flourish.

• Mind-Body Connection: Exploring how physical health directly impacts artistic expression and vice versa.

• Nutrition and Movement for Creatives: Sancha’s tips on fueling your body with the right foods and incorporating movement into your routine to enhance focus and stamina.

• Boundaries and Balance: Why setting boundaries with your time and energy is essential for avoiding burnout.

• The Power of Connection: Building a supportive community that uplifts and inspires you.

• Rituals for Renewal: Simple daily habits to recharge your mind, body, and spirit.

• Sustainable Success: How to design a wellness plan that supports your creative dreams in the long term.

Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-filled path by joining The Foundry. A monthly membership for creatives.

Connect with Sancha:

https://www.sanchaprowse.com

https://www.instagram.com/sanchaprowse_creative/

https://www.sanchaprowse.com/essential-wellness-toolkit-for-creatives

https://soundcloud.com/user-849377990

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zziXpGZqL_IDFA4DEAAQ

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this two-part episode Margo is joined by Wellness Coach for Creatives, Sancha Prowse. With a background as a professional singer, vocal coach, and visual artist, Sancha has spent years immersed in the creative world, experiencing both its highs and its challenges. After facing intense burnout and adrenal fatigue while striving to excel, Sancha felt a calling to help other creatives navigate similar struggles. Her journey from performer to wellness coach was inspired by a serendipitous moment helping her sister through a health scare, leading her to channel her passion and lived experience into supporting artists in thriving holistically.

Margo and Sancha discuss:

• The importance of tuning into your body and listening to what it’s telling you.

• How prioritizing self-care positively impacts your creativity.

• Identifying what gives you energy and recognizing areas where you may be losing power.

• The transformative power of making small positive changes in your daily routine.

• Cultivating stillness as a way to dive deeper into your artmaking.

• Letting go of limiting beliefs that hold you back from optimal health and creativity.

• Breaking through long-standing blockages to achieve a sense of wellness.

• Why sleep is critical for both your overall health and your creative output.

• The role of self-compassion and celebrating small wins in your wellness journey.

• Building an essential wellness toolkit tailored for creatives.

Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-filled path by joining The Foundry. A monthly membership for creatives.

Connect with Sancha:

https://www.sanchaprowse.com

https://www.instagram.com/sanchaprowse_creative/

https://www.sanchaprowse.com/essential-wellness-toolkit-for-creatives

https://soundcloud.com/user-849377990

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zziXpGZqL_IDFA4DEAAQ

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo shares a personal episode, reflecting on the incredible four-year journey of the podcast and its vibrant community. She opens her heart about her own transformative experiences, the courage it takes to embrace life's uncertainties, and the magic of real connections. Whether you're a loyal listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is an invitation to celebrate growth, creativity, and the beautiful moments yet to come.

Topics Discussed:

• Reflecting on Growth: Finding new perspectives and embracing the lessons from the journey.

• Trust in Connection: The value of real conversations and authenticity in building bonds.

• Navigating Change: Margo's move to Vashon Island and the power of trusting her inner knowing.

• Vulnerability and Handling Doubts: The role of vulnerability in fostering meaningful relationships and navigating pivotal life decisions.

• Impactful Feedback: How listener feedback continues to move and motivate Margo.

• Defining Success: Encouraging listeners to focus on how they want to feel rather than what they want to achieve.

• Celebrating Diversity: The importance of inclusivity and creating supportive environments in our communities.

Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-filled path by joining The Foundry. A monthly membership for creatives.

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Duncan Wardle, the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney and author of The Imagination Emporium: Creative Recipes for Innovation. With 30 years of experience working with Disney's Imagineering, Lucasfilm, Marvel, Pixar, and more, Duncan brings a wealth of knowledge on fostering groundbreaking ideas and creating magical experiences. In this episode, he shares practical tools and insights to reignite creativity, embed innovation into everyday life, and solve problems in revolutionary ways. From sending Buzz Lightyear into space to teaching innovation at Yale and Harvard, Duncan's expertise in Design Thinking has helped organizations like Apple, the NBA, and Spotify redefine how they innovate. 

Margo and Duncan discuss:

• Why our creativity often fades by age six—and how to reignite it

• Simple, actionable tools to unlock imagination and achieve revolutionary results

• Employable skills that the next generation can use to thrive in an AI-driven world

• How The Imagination Emporium makes innovation accessible to everyone

• Real-life examples of using Design Thinking to drive creativity and innovation

• Stories from Duncan’s time at Disney and the lessons learned along the way

Connect with Duncan:

duncanwardle.com 

theimaginationemporium.com

instagram.com/duncanjwardle

linkedin.com/in/duncanwardle

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Margo and Abby are back with a packed episode of Creative Current Events, spotlighting creativity, community, and cutting-edge trends. They kick things off with news from Asheville, where Tanger Outlets is supporting displaced artists with a stunning 2,000-square-foot gallery. Next, they explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art's fascinating employee art show featuring over 600 works, tying it to insights from Patrick Bringley’s book, All the Beauty in the World.

They also dive deep into design trends for 2025, reviewing Canva’s latest article and insights, discuss the rising influence of AI in content licensing, the power of human connection in media, and how bold, textured aesthetics are reshaping design. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or creative enthusiast, this episode is full of inspiration and insights to keep you ahead of the curve.

Mentioned in this episode:

Tanger Outlets Donate Gallery Space in Asheville

https://www.wlos.com/news/local/tanger-outlets-asheville-donates-gallery-space-for-artists-displaced-helene-local-arts-community-creative

Orbit Gallery Space

https://theorbitspace.com/

Met Museum Staff Show

https://hyperallergic.com/969864/over-600-works-by-met-museum-workers-go-on-view-in-largest-ever-staff-show/

Canva’s 2025 Design Trends

https://www.creativebloq.com/design/canva-predicts-these-will-be-the-hottest-design-trends-of-2025

More Canva

https://www.canva.com/design-trends/?clickId=XjSTp1T3dxyKRYeUaAwyfw4HUkCVl82OPWmnQI0&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=Future%20PLC._221109&irgwc=1

Open AI & Meredith Corp

https://www.adweek.com/media/openai-dotdash-meredith-licensing-payment/?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=campaign_11752201_ADWEEK_Daily_241119&lctg=5b82c665-7b66-4670-ae7c-17cb22d1753e

The People who Helped Resurrect Notre Dame

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-people-who-helped-resurrect-notre-dame-60-minutes/

Windowsill Chats Episode 83 - St Germaine de Pres

https://margotantau.com/83-a-fascinating-conversation-about-the-magnificent-church-of-saint-germain-des-prs-and-what-is-being-done-to-preserve-its-rich-and-layered-history-with-david-sheppe/

Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

https://www.amazon.com/Pillars-Earth-Novel-Kingsbridge/dp/0451166892

Flowers & Projects by CJ Hendry

https://www.amazon.com/Pillars-Earth-Novel-Kingsbridge/dp/0451166892

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Ashley Gould, the founder of Âme Atendre™, a brand dedicated to creating thoughtfully designed everyday tabletop objects that foster connection and empathy. After a decade-long career as a lawyer and executive, Ashley pivoted toward a more personal mission—bringing people together through intentional design and meaningful conversation.

Margo and Ashley discuss:

• Ashley's journey from law and corporate leadership to launching Âme Atendre™.

• How her mother's passion for community and gathering inspired her vision for an elevated tabletop brand.

• The philosophy behind Âme Atendre™, including the role of thoughtfully crafted objects in building deeper human connections.

• The fascinating field of neuroaesthetics and its connection to Ashley's work.

• The power of conversations often left off the table and how respect and curiosity can bridge gaps in understanding.

• Sneak peeks into exciting Âme Atendre™ projects in development, including a "death box" for intentional legacy planning, a sleek metal wastebasket, and a new hand-blown crystal vase.

• Insights from Ashley's podcast, On the Table with Ashley, and its mission to foster curiosity and reduce judgment.

Connect with Ashley Gould: www.ameatendre.com

www.instagram.com/ameatendre

www.tiktok.com/@ameantendre

https://www.youtube.com/@ameatendre

https://www.facebook.com/ameatendre

reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com

Connect with Margo:

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Jade Chen, a Shamanic Practitioner, Spiritual Guide, Public Speaker, and Activist, dedicated to helping women transform their lives through inner healing and self-empowerment. With expertise in Shamanism, mindfulness, and artistic expression, Jade shares her mission to guide women on journeys of self-discovery while emphasizing the power of creativity as a tool for healing and change. 

Margo and Jade discuss:

• The pivotal moment when Jade left her corporate career and long-term relationship to embark on a healing journey.

• How creativity and art can serve as powerful forms of expression and spiritual practice, especially in challenging times.

• Practical mindfulness techniques, like mindful breathing and connecting to heart and sacral spaces, to unlock authentic creative expression.

• The role of community in fostering personal growth and supporting creative risks.

• The necessity of embracing raw truths and prayers through artistic work.

• Overcoming societal conditioning to honor your true self and prioritize self-care.

• Jade’s upcoming projects, including her new podcast, The Mud Lotus, focused on healing and transformation.

Connect with Jade:

Website: www.mudlotuslife.com

Connect: mudlotuslife@gmail.com

Connect with Margo:

The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Website: www.windowsillchats.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Matt Jacob, a photographer, educator, and former pilot whose journey has taken him from flying private jets to capturing the world’s most compelling human stories through his camera lens. Matt’s work focuses on celebrating cultures and traditions, with a deep commitment to authenticity and respect, particularly when documenting Indigenous communities. Based in Bali, Matt’s love for storytelling extends beyond photography; he also hosts The MOOD Podcast, where he dives into the lives of creatives, exploring their artistic journeys and insights. With a recently released ebook and an upcoming video course, Matt is dedicated to helping others develop their visual storytelling skills while building a meaningful connection with their craft.

Margo and Matt discuss:

• Matt’s transition from commercial pilot to cultural photographer.

• How travel has shaped his artistic vision and personal growth.

• The challenges and ethics of documenting cultures authentically.

• Navigating imposter syndrome and finding creative confidence.

• The role of photography in preserving and celebrating global traditions.

• Matt’s move from Hong Kong to Bali and its impact on his lifestyle and career.

• The creative process behind his new ebook and video course.

Connect with Matt:

www.mattjacobphotography.com

www.instagram.com/mattyj_ay

https://www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Connect with Margo:

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo and Abby are back with the latest and diving into the intersection of creativity, technology, and community in this episode of Creative Current Events. They share surprising insights, like how 35% of leaders feel most creative early Monday mornings, and explore how routines like the "4 AM club" or late-night bursts can impact productivity. They also discuss Blue Sky, an emerging, community-driven alternative to Twitter, and the fascinating rise of AI art (we’re sensing a theme!), including a million-dollar painting created by a humanoid robot.

Lastly, they highlight the value of community in creative work, featuring initiatives like the Foundry (by Margo, herself), a membership program designed to inspire, how to shop mindfully this holiday season, branding with agencies like Outline, and why gifting Steve and Mary Jo Hoffman's books is a must this season.

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.fastcompany.com/91227308/the-surprising-time-of-day-youre-most-creative

https://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/article295604429.html

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-12/robot-painted-artwork-soethbys-million-dollar-auction/104585102

https://claude.ai

https://gemini.google.com/

https://www.printmag.com/type-tuesday/positype-declares-independence-with-a-refreshed-website-new-typefaces/

https://www.positype.com/

https://www.creativeboom.com/inspiration/outline-ky-allport-of-the-south-carolina-studio-on-xxx/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200634843-a-season-for-that

https://www.amazon.com/Season-That-Found-Southern-France/dp/0593240286

https://www.amazon.com/STILL-Noticing-Mary-Jo-Hoffman/dp/1580936334/ref=sr_1_1?crid=BMZ1AKZFDR2W&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xjtLqEK7CzKM2l-zl3yeLanI1o8KaUW_f6v7vq10V6vwAHA3N06_uB0HqF3NgnuCm73kDgVprJolpL7tLD3lxqAHolkGAgLQAgd2ULsGPxCm_A1AitP3AVS7nqmRWAa6yiKzykBGb5opB-ZZ8OwzEw.4Pr0khKk13_eVTTAWJKo3xJEDqB2gcIth_FgiFPmyfA&dib_tag=se&keywords=still+the+art+of+noticing&qid=1732062346&s=books&sprefix=still+the+art+of+noticing%2Cstripbooks%2C141&sr=1-1

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by calligraphy artist and educator Shinah Chang. Shinah spent her life following the "proper" path: attending an Ivy League college, graduating from a prestigious law school, and working tirelessly at a top international law firm. However, after countless uninspiring days and sleepless nights under her desk, she decided to reclaim her life. Shinah left her legal career and explored various creative outlets—knitting, woodworking, drawing, and graphic design—until she fell in love with calligraphy.

Over the past nine years, she built Crooked Calligraphy into a million-dollar business, only to intentionally scale it back to create a simpler, more spacious life. Shinah has collaborated with brands like Disney, Anthropologie, and Johnson & Johnson and taught thousands of students how to master calligraphy and launch their own creative ventures.

In this episode, Margo and Shinah discuss:

• Shinah's journey from corporate law to founding Crooked Calligraphy.

• How burnout shaped her decision to leave a high-powered legal career.

• The structured yet expressive nature of calligraphy as an art form.

• Tools she used to challenge societal expectations and reclaim her joy.

• Her innovative teaching philosophy, which prioritizes strategic creativity over technical perfection.

• The pressures of scaling a creative business and why she chose to simplify.

• The importance of mindfulness, self-kindness, and collaboration in personal and professional growth.

• Lessons on balancing practicality with creativity and the power of authentic connections.

Connect with Shinah:

Website: https://www.crookedcalligraphy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crookedcalligraphy

Free "How to Become a Calligraphy Pro" Workshop: https://crookedcalligraphy.lpages.co/register/

Connect with Margo:

Website: www.windowsillchats.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Margo is joined by Sarah Helen More, a Seattle-based artist and designer with a vibrant, kaleidoscopic style rooted in her personal history and love for textiles. Originally from Portland, OR, and Houston, TX, Sarah grew up surrounded by her mother’s handmade quilts—a key inspiration in her colorful work today. She studied textile design at the Rhode Island School of Design and has had a varied creative career, including roles as an art history teacher, studio assistant for Takashi Murakami, and more. In 2023, Sarah received her first public art commission with the Port of Seattle, set to debut at SeaTac International Airport in 2025.

Margo and Sarah discuss:

• Taking on big challenges before feeling “ready”

• Sarah’s creative process: from digital sketches to final painting

• Using change as a creative catalyst

• Finding joy and inspiration, even during difficult times

• The role of nature in her creative process

• Overcoming creative blocks and learning new skills for public art

• Influences of the Pattern & Decoration movement and folk art traditions

• Maintaining joy in creativity during tough times

Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-driven path by joining The Foundry, a monthly membership for creatives. Visit yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry today to lock in the Foundry Member rate!

Connect with Sarah:

www.sarahhelenmore.com

www.sarahmore.com

www.instagram.com/sarahhelenmore

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by friend of the pod, Asheville, NC resident, artist and tax expert Hannah Cole to bring a powerful story of survival, community, and the unwavering support for artists affected by recent devastating floods in Asheville. Together they explore the harrowing events that led to severe flooding, destroying homes, businesses, and cherished creative spaces. They also touch on the importance of financial strategies, particularly for creatives, with insights from Hannah at and how her expertise has been a beacon of hope for many small business owners navigating the treacherous waters of disaster recovery (and those outside of the flood zone).

Margo and Hannah discuss:

• What it was like to experience Hurricane Helene first hand

• Support efforts and challenges post hurricane

• The loss of Hannah’s art studio in Asheville

• Campaigns and efforts to support those in and around Western North Carolina

• The need for increased grant funding in the River Arts District

• Managing tax liabilities and leveraging deductions.

• "1% for Asheville" support grants

• Hannah’s offering, Money Boot Camp for creatives and how she makes financial education non-intimidating.

Connect with Hannah:

https://www.sunlighttax.com/

https://www.instagram.com/sunlighttax/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by designer and illustrator Kay Wolfersperger, based in Savannah, GA. Known for her lively, colorful work infused with humor and positivity, Kay’s designs have appeared in advertising, stationery, branding, children’s books, and surface design. She has extensive experience partnering with brands to craft unique, memorable campaigns. When not at her desk, Kay enjoys strength training, running, traveling, and catching up on films. In this episode, they explore Kay’s journey from a young art enthusiast to a respected creative professional, reflecting on the importance of experiential learning, maintaining physical and mental wellness, and using positive affirmations to navigate both personal and professional challenges.

Margo and Kay discuss:

• Kay's early artistic influences, including her stepmother, an art teacher

• Her transition from graphic design to fibers and screen printing at SCAD

• The challenges and autonomy of running a small business vs. corporate roles

• Creative practices for overcoming creative block in daily routines

• The role of mind-body wellness in enhancing creativity

• Using therapy and affirmations to manage anxiety and build a positive outlook

• Collaboration in creative projects, balancing personal vision with teamwork

• Embracing imperfection with the mantra, "done is better than good"

• Kay's upcoming wholesale collection and the key moments that inspired its development

Connect with Kay:

https://www.kaywolfersperger.com/

https://www.instagram.com/kaywolfersperger/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Lisa Murphy, a guest with an inspiring story of reinvention and resilience. Raised in small-town Iowa, where her family grew their own food, Lisa followed a traditional path—earning a degree in Actuarial Science and securing a lucrative corporate job. But life shifted when she left her career to travel the world, study Eastern philosophy, and teach yoga, even to members of the royal family in Dubai, while supporting her now-ex-husband.

After her divorce at 47, Lisa realized her best years were still ahead. Now, at 57, she’s a healthy aging expert and has been running her own successful business since 2013. Her mission is to help women and business leaders move away from common health fears and adopt proactive habit changes. Through her signature RAV protocol, Lisa empowers professionals to optimize their health, allowing them to live vibrant, active lives while reaching their biggest goals.

Lisa and Margo discuss:

• Lisa’s life in Asheville and the impact of Hurricane Helene

• How the wellness industry can better incorporate mental awareness and balanced nervous systems into mainstream narratives

• The four pillars of healthy aging: food, mood, rest, and movement

• Lisa’s critique of the Standard American Diet

• Strengthening community support systems to better cope with natural disasters

• The power of mindset in the aging process

• Holistic health practices that have worked for Lisa

• Device addiction, digital detoxes, and maintaining a balanced nervous system for well-being

Connect with Lisa:

https://www.lisamurphyllc.com

https://www.instagram.com/lisamurphyllc/

https://www.facebook.com/lisa.murphy.kc/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-murphy-health-coach/

https://www.youtube.com/@LisaMurphyLLC

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this episode of Creative Current Events, Abby and Margo tackle the ups and downs of navigating social media as a creator. Margo opens up about her recent Instagram suspension and the ripple effect it’s had on her business, leading to a bigger conversation about algorithm frustrations, lack of transparency, and how social media companies fall short in supporting creators. They also discuss the devastating impact of natural disasters on our global community, focusing on how Florida-based artists are recovering from Hurricane Helene and Milton and how listeners can help from afar. Abby and Margo then share practical tips for diversifying communication outside of social media, dig into recent tech updates from Apple and Microsoft, and explore how creativity can thrive in even the most challenging conditions—like making art in the dark.

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.youtube.com/@dewintonpaperco

https://tantaustudio.com/windowsillchat219/

https://www.annieatkins.com/

https://www.melissaweisspottery.com/

https://www.sunlighttax.com/

Microsoft’s Notepad gets spellcheck and autocorrect 40 years after launch

Use Zoom’s AI Companion to Take Notes and Summarize Meetings

Why Make Art in the Dark?

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Elise and Halee, the dynamic duo behind the Easy Bake Coven podcast, where spooky meets sass. What began on a Halloween night with a bottle of Kim Crawford wine and board games has evolved into a podcast that explores the weird, creepy, and unexplainable. Elise’s background in journalism and Halee’s experience in social work bring a unique blend of nuance and humor to their conversations about paranormal activity, true crime, and mysterious events. Known for their playful banter and easy rapport, listening to them feels like hanging out with friends as they dive into the world’s greatest mysteries—from cryptids to whodunnits—with a side of comedic relief.

In this episode, Margo, Elise, and Halee discuss:

• The origin story of Easy Bake Coven and what sets them apart

• How family traditions or rituals can influence a child's understanding of spirituality or the supernatural

• Spooky stories about signs from passed loved ones

• Finding balance between humor and sensitivity when discussing heavy topics without undermining victim stories

• Managing burnout and streamlining podcast production as a duo

• The responsibilities and ethics of content creation

• Why children might be more perceptive to spiritual experiences

• Research methods for preparing in-depth historical dives for podcast episodes

• The importance of listener engagement and effective ways to build and maintain it

• How personal histories and passions shape their podcast

Mentioned in this episode:

• The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch Watch: YouTube linkBook: Amazon link

• Radio Rental podcast: Radio Rental

• Spooked podcast: Spooked

• The Forager’s Daughter Tarot Deck: The Forager’s Daughter

• The Hot Zone by Richard Preston: The Hot Zone

• Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth: Call the Midwife

Connect with Elise and Halee:

• Website: Easy Bake Coven Podcast

• Instagram: @easybakecovenpodcast

Connect with Margo:

• Website: Windowsill Chats

• Instagram: @windowsillchats

• Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this revisited episode, Margo reintroduces her thought-provoking conversation with Australian artist and surface pattern designer Kirsten Katz, highlighting the enduring relevance of authenticity in creative work. Kirsten’s journey from ballerina to surface designer showcases how following your passion can lead to a unique artistic style. Since this original conversation, Kirsten’s work continues to evolve, and her insights into creating from a place of intuition and authenticity remain as important as ever.

Kirsten shares how her background in Textile Design has shaped her bold, modern, and botanical-inspired creations, which continue to catch the eye in today’s world of contemporary design.

Margo and Kirsten explore:

• The importance of staying true to yourself and creating art that you love

• How to focus on your style and confidence as an artist

• Experimenting with mediums and techniques to stay inspired

• The role of intuition in honing color combinations

• Why commission work might not always align with your creative vision

• And so much more!

This conversation is packed with timeless advice for creatives navigating their own artistic paths. Tune in for fresh takeaways on how to honor your authentic self as an artist, no matter the trends.

Kirsten’s work can be found on: apparel, home décor, fabric, stationery, giftware, and more.

Connect with Kirsten: Website: kirstenkatz.com.auInstagram: @kirstenkatzartFacebook: kirstenkatzartLinkedIn: Kirsten Katz Design

Connect with Margo:

Website: windowsillchats.com

Instagram: @windowsillchats

Patreon: patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by versatile mixed-media artist and designer, Kayla Ackelson. Kayla holds a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts with a focus on non-traditional photography from Millersville University. After completing her studies, she gained valuable experience as a Gallery Assistant and Art Instructor in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She later worked at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, first in Visitor Services and then in the Development department. In 2021, Kayla fully committed to her artistic and interior design endeavors, turning them into her full-time career. Her passion for fostering creativity continues through her role as an instructor at ArtFusion in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, where she teaches students of all ages. Alongside teaching, Kayla actively exhibits her work in local galleries and maintains a strong online presence to engage a broader audience. She is also a mother, creator, and lover of plants, design, and nature.

Margo and Kayla discuss:

• Her career shift to full-time artistry and interior design

• Claiming your power as an artist and creative

• The role journaling and meditation play in her art and work

• Insights into creating inviting, personal spaces

• The power of vision boards

• The importance of incorporating childhood inspirations and personal mementos into your environment

• How her book extends a decade-long journaling practice

• How meditation influenced her decision to share personal experiences to help others

• Her commitment to a flexible and evolving creative practice

• Her philosophy on art and perfection, and how creating daily supports mental health

• Embracing multiple creative roles

Connect with Kayla:

• Website: www.kaylaackelson.com

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/kaylaackelson

• Her new book: https://amzn.to/47wktUw

• Kayla’s Workshop: https://www.kaylaackelson.com/store/p85/mixedmediaworkshop.html

Connect with Margo:

• Website: www.windowsillchats.com

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/tantaustudio

• Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Annie Atkins, a graphic designer and legendary prop maker for film and television. She is known for her work with Wes Anderson on The Grand Budapest Hotel, which won the Academy Award for Best Production Design at the 87th Academy Awards. Since then, she has worked again with Wes Anderson on Isle of Dogs and The French Dispatch as well as on Steven Speilberg's West Side Story and Bridge of Spies. Annie’s first book, Fake Love Letters, Forged Telegrams, and Prison Escape Maps, was published in 2020 by Phaidon. In her first children's book, Letters From The North Pole, five children from all around the world write to Santa Claus with ideas for Christmas gifts and are amazed when he writes back! Through five letters from Santa that children can pull out and read, the hidden world of the North Pole is revealed, from how reindeer can sleep standing up to what snacks Santa would like left out on Christmas Eve, and how he gets round the world so quickly. This is a nostalgic and festive tale, reminiscent of the classic The Jolly Postman and Annie's iconic work on such films as The Grand Budapest Hotel.

Margo and Annie discuss:

• How Annie’s upbringing in a creative household influenced her decision to pursue graphic design and the pivotal moments that led her into the film industry

• Her impressive portfolio working on films and specific challenges and joys she encountered while working with distinctive styles of directors

• Hand-lettering vs. digital design

• Film prop details and some of the various intricate props she crafted

• Learning through mistakes, how using a 50-star flag instead of a 48-star flag in Bridge of Spies taught her to ensure historical accuracy

• Personal Projects vs. Commissioned Work

• What the job of a graphic designer on a film set typically involves and how it contributes to the overall storytelling in a movie

• Her captivating and interactive new children's book, Letters from the North Pole

Connect with Annie:

www.instagra.com/AnnieAtkins

www.annieatkins.com

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this previously aired episode, Margo is joined by (former) Productivity Coach & Online Business Consultant Chelsea Wessman. Chelsea is a popcorn obsessed, mom of 3, living next to the Utah mountains and is passionate about empowering ambitious mompreneurs to take back their time, make more money without putting in more hours, and create a life that aligns with their values. She helps ambitious women to optimize time, money, and mindset without sacrificing sanity through systems, financial freedom, and time management hacks.

They discuss:

• The difference between productivity and being busy and how to figure out which one you’re spending more of your time being

• Why you don’t have to time block or map out your entire day, week, or month to be productive

• When you should have a template or system for certain things in your life or business

• How she helps creatives and other business owners map out online product and service promotional launches 

• Reverse engineering goals

• The importance of clarity and structure

• How mindset plays into productivity

Chelsea is passionate about inspiring others to see more for their life, do more of what matters most, and be more of who you’re meant to be because you’ll never regret investing the time and effort required to reach your potential. 

Resources Mentioned:

The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz

High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendon Burchard

Connect with Chelsea:

https://view.flodesk.com/emails/63caebcf75888582c8c6b579

www.instagram.com/chelseawessman

Chelsea’s Jumpstart Checklists Resource

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by travel designer, leader of design trips & retreats, and the author of Paris by Design: An Inspired Guide to the City’s Creative Side, Eva Jorgensen. Eva is also a 17 year design industry veteran with an MFA degree who has taught art, ran an artisanal stationery company for a decade, curated an independent gift shop, and worked as a freelance creative director. Eva grew up in California and lived in France, Belgium, and Ohio for much of her 20s. She now lives in the Utah mountains with her husband, Kirk, and their 2 kids.

Margo and Eva discuss:

• Eva's upbringing in California and early artistic inspiration.

• How both her Mother’s stories and influence and her Father’s entrepreneurial background guided her creative path.

• How she went from operating a letterpress business to organizing exclusive creative retreats.

• Her exciting plans for upcoming design-focused trips to Belgium and the Cotswolds.

• Balancing artistic dreams with family life.

• Her Ambition to one day write and direct an independent feature film.

• Finding inspiration through nature, travel, and being offline.

• How writing a magazine turned into a book. 

• The importance of connection and how her retreats bring people together.

• Eva’s upcoming retreats.

Connect with Eva: 

https://www.evajorgensen.com/

https://www.evajorgensen.com/letters-from-eva

www.instagram.com/evajorgensentravel

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by dynamic artist, entrepreneur, and the visionary CEO, Amber Byers Amber is the CEO and founder of Tadpole Press. She leads with creativity and inclusivity, serving as the head judge of the Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest, an international competition that celebrates the power of words and fosters a vibrant community of writers. Her passion for writing extends beyond the contest; she regularly blogs at Living a Life Imagined, where she shares her commitment to positivity and authenticity as a creative force. Amber’s literary works reflect her imaginative spirit and diverse background, including The Magic Door Origin Story, a sci-fi tale inspired by her childhood, and Sophie and Spot, which garnered a Gold Medal for Best First Book in the chapter book category at the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards in 2019. Amber shares her journey from attorney to influential writer and entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of creativity, authenticity, and diverse voices in literature and shares her cultural roots with the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and her mission to foster inclusivity through her work.

Margo and Amber discuss:

• Her transition from legal career to writer and entrepreneur

• The internationally loved 100-word writing contest

• Her cultural roots with the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and how they shape her creative expression 

• How influences like Simone Biles and Liz Gilbert shape her philosophy

• The significance of cultural heritage, gender identity, and the inclusive mission of Tadpole Press

• Being unafraid to stand out by not following the rules

• Discovering abundance in limitless creative expression and joy

• How identity as an agender and biracial person influenced their approach to writing and editing

Connect with Amber:

https://www.tadpolepress.com/welcome

https://www.tadpolepress.com/100-word-writing-contest

https://www.tadpolepress.com/blog

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tj35X6TwPVA

https://www.tadpolepress.com/post/my-pronouns

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined for another Creative Current Events catch up with the one and only Abby Campbell. They dive into a rich blend of creative insights and practical tips to boost productivity and brand presence - and of course, a little AI. Join them as they discuss their latest favorite articles from the interwebs including Jenna Kutcher's approach to mastering Instagram, complete with her valuable hacks for time management and content organization, a groundbreaking AI copyright infringement case featuring artist Jenga Zhang, and its potential impact on the art world, a creative cat named Momo who aids in the marketing behind a pottery brand, the latest in color-matching technology with the Nix eyedropper tool, how companies like West Elm are redefining Halloween decor, and a whole lot more.

Mentioned:

Reels from Hans Lorei Design

https://www.instagram.com/hansloreidesign

Copyright infringement case against AI Image Generators

https://venturebeat.com/ai/artists-celebrate-as-copyright-infringement-case-against-ai-image-generators-moves-forward/

Momo the Cat’s pottery is selling out!

https://www.instagram.com/feeeuuhh/

New color-matching-capturing gadget, Nix

https://www.nixsensor.com/mini-3-color-sensor/?_gl=1*1lqdpt6*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTk0MDgxMjAyMC4xNzIzODM2Mjky*_ga_9615G94BKR*MTcyMzg0MzM1NS4yLjAuMTcyMzg0MzM1NS4wLjAuMA..&gclid=CjwKCAjw8fu1BhBsEiwAwDrsjOC-8OZ8yR2qT1KMBGyCUspMN-TpK-7_5IEECCQCPHkuw0-fqjKEDBoCM2QQAvD_BwE

Jenna Kutcher on Instagram Productivity hacks that actually WORK

https://jennakutcher.com/

Article:

https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/instagram-productivity?_hsmi=318394396

Replacing the word “Unfortunately“ in the workplace

https://www.thecandidly.com/2019/lets-stop-using-this-one-word-in-professional-settings

Summerween

https://www.axios.com/2024/07/29/halloween-decorations-michaels-costco-home-depot-summerween

https://www.westelm.com/shop/holidays/halloween/?Kenshoo=_k_CjwKCAjw8fu1BhBsEiwAwDrsjFUqGEkX43GdLtzJqsTqyBzf_E5Lalh1H9fJjkon2LtxPyclOzl8mBoCnDYQAvD_BwE_k_&cm_ven=BrandSearch&cm_cat=Google&cm_pla=Brand_Search_Holiday_Exact&cm_ite=west%20elm%20halloween_18579335980_kwd-929824583416&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw8fu1BhBsEiwAwDrsjFUqGEkX43GdLtzJqsTqyBzf_E5Lalh1H9fJjkon2LtxPyclOzl8mBoCnDYQAvD_BwE

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Kenzie Elston, the whimsical artist behind Snippets of Whimsy. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP program, Kenzie began her career designing for Procter & Gamble's Pampers and Always brands. Now freelancing, she licenses her joyful illustrations and playful hand lettering to gift, garden, stationery, and home decor companies. Known as a "positivity artist," Kenzie’s creative identity shines through her love for color, florals, and uplifting designs. Beyond art, she enjoys collecting sketchbooks, antique tchotchkes, and novels, and she lives for daily dance parties with her two young sons.

Margo and Kenzie discuss:

• Her journey from working for Proctor and Gamble to finding her unique voice as an illustrator

• Growing up in a creative atmosphere & finding your own way.

• Using elements to create, and building a design bank.

• What playing with your art & creativity opens up

• Her intuitive approach to art 

• Finding a knack for blending family life with a flourishing creative career

• Drawing inspiration from her children

• The importance of creating cohesive collections

• Navigating market trends

• The necessity in holding strong boundaries as a creative

• Upcoming retreats that promise to build a close-knit community of like-minded creatives

Connect with Kenzie:

www.snippetsofwhimsy.com

www.instagram.com/snippetsofwhimsy

ReStart Make Art (Retreat!): https://www.restartmakeart.com/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Sonoma Valley-based artist Alex Cole, whose paintings are inspired by her travels and the Northern California landscapes. Her work has been featured in RUE magazine and published in “Wild Lands” and “Artist of the Bay Area” by Jen Tough. With over twenty years of experience, Alex’s art is characterized by her love of contrast in color, texture, and pattern, and her pieces can be found in collections across the US, Europe, and Canada.

Born in Bronxville, New York, and raised in Paris and Ibiza, Alex was exposed to diverse cultures that greatly influenced her artistic style. After earning a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art, she moved to Sonoma, California, where she began teaching at the Sonoma Community Center. Her workshops and retreats, held both locally and internationally, encourage others to tap into their creative potential by exploring nature and embracing experimentation. Alex's work, including her public art project for The City of Santa Rosa, showcases her dedication to inspiring creativity in others.

Margo and Alex discuss:

• Her creative path and how growing up abroad impacted her creative journey

• Embracing vulnerability and creativity through art and teaching

• Saying yes to new opportunities in art and life

• Creative freedom and the power of play

• Building authentic connections

• Embracing the unknown in artistry

• Giving back through art

• The power of saying YES

• How facilitating workshops in Spain shaped her approach to teaching and learning simultaneously

• How non-verbal communication can enhance the exchange of creative ideas in an artistic setting

• Finding alignment in personal core values when it comes to creating

• How she inspires others to be brave in art making and business

Connect with Alex:

https://www.alexcolestudio.com

https://www.instagram.com/alexcolestudio/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

It’s time for Creative Current Events! Margo and friend Abby Campbell are diving into the creative realm and catching up on the latest articles and happenings and giving you the footnotes so you don’t have to! They discuss the joys of creating art on walls vs traditional canvas, the importance of pushing creative boundaries, Canva’s report on creativity and AI, Apple’s new AI partnership, a controversial olympic ad, Anthropolgie’s new adaptive clothing line, and more. 

Have a topic or article you want to hear about in a creative current events episode? Send us a DM on Instagram! 

Mentioned: Lori Siebert’s Windowsill Workshop

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/lorisiebert2024?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.yourtantaustudio.com%2Fa%2F2147917190%2FQzSoxhML

Garance Dore (Instagram Post)

https://www.instagram.com/p/C328nZyN5kc/?hl=en&img_index=1

Kit Kemp Design (Instagram Post)

https://www.instagram.com/kitkempdesignthread/?hl=en

Kelly O’Neal/Design Legacy Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/design_legacy

The Canva Report on Creativity in the Workplace

https://www.canva.com/newsroom/news/hbr-creativity-report/?li_fat_id=94056869-ea57-4646-ba01-e9b51f8ba7ce

The News so far on “Apple Intelligence” https://www.theneurondaily.com/p/apple-intelligence-finally?utm_source=www.theneurondaily.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=apple-s-ai-tease

Google Olympics ad sparks new ire over generative AI

https://www.axios.com/2024/07/31/google-olympics-ad-ai-gemini-ire?_hsmi=318224684

Swiss army knife maker to produce range without a blade

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/article/2024/may/07/swiss-army-knife-maker-to-produce-version-without-a-blade

Anthropologie Adaptive Clothing Collection

https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/anthropologie-adaptive-clothing-collection/

https://www.anthropologie.com/stories-adaptive-fashion-for-everyone

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Ana Bianchi, an artist, designer, illustrator, children's book author, and color enthusiast. Ana shares her journey from her early beginnings in art to her diverse range of creative projects. Originally from Mexico and having spent many years in New York, Ana now resides in the Bay Area, where she uses her garden as a natural color lab for her photography and color project, Color/Flora. Ana's work spans branding, illustrated graphic design, the PaperGirl Collection, surface design, and ceramics, with color as the unifying element throughout. She has exhibited her art globally, including in Mexico, Italy, the Netherlands, India, Greece, and New York City. Margo and Ana discuss:

• Understanding Trends: design versus fashion and the average lifespan of a trend

• Audience: Who follows trends, and who pays attention to them?

• The Origin of Trends: how trends are initiated, spotting them early, and identifying emerging trends

• Engaging with Trends: when to engage, maintaining individuality, and is it possible to ignore trends as creative business owners?

• Color Trends: Pantone, industry specific color trends, color of the year

• Era-based color cycles and navigating trends you don’t care for

• Navigating trends you dislike

• Impact on artistry: Do color trends hinder artistic individuality?

• Timeless colors, desired trends, and finding inspiration

Connect with Ana: 

https://www.instagram.com/analovescolor/

https://www.analovescolor.com/

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by award nominated content creator with over a decade of experience in social media marketing and Canva design, Georgia Williams. She is also the host of "Content Tea with G," her popular global podcast, where she delivers a unique blend of creativity, social media content and northern charm, inspiring listeners worldwide to embrace their own authenticity, and stand out through content creation. She also performs regularly as a professional singer and has been featured in The Mirror, The Daily Mail, the BBC and others. As a singer, she has entertained crowds of up to 7,000 people. With her unique blend of marketing knowledge and stage performance, Georgia is on a mission to help business owners create social media content with more joy and show up exactly as they are, both online and off.

Margo and Georgia discuss:

• her creative journey and decade-long experience in social media marketing

• How her upbringing in a creative environment shaped her career

• What it means and looks like to be a Canva ambassador

• Her time on The Voice UK and being mentored by Tom Jones

• The highs and lows of public perception and what it has taught her in business (and showing up online)

• Leveraging personal interests for content creation

• Authenticity and mental health

• Thoughts on AI and creativity

• Motherhood and how it’s influenced her professional aspirations and creative pursuits

Connect with Georgia:

https://www.instagram.com/rayofsocial/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiawilliamsrayofsocial/

https://www.facebook.com/rayofsocial

https://www.tiktok.com/@rayofsocial

https://www.threads.net/@rayofsocial

https://open.spotify.com/show/2Gza4gxFeCElcNS0UDsLP3

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/content-tea-with-g-content-tips-and-ideas/id1727143437

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by middle-aged Minnesotan, Author, creative, and Tax Preparer Steve Hoffman. Steve who has always been in love with France, both the country and the idea of it as a place where he can be a better version of himself moved together with his family to the small village of Autignac in southern France, where he quickly realized life there was far from his romanticized expectations. Through cooking what the local grocer suggested and learning winemaking from a neighbor, he discovered the true beauty of a culture deeply connected with its landscape. Steve is a Minnesota tax preparer and award-winning food writer, with his work published in Food & Wine, The Washington Post, and The Minneapolis Star Tribune. His memoir, A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France, will be published in July 2024. He shares one acre on Turtle Lake, in Shoreview, Minnesota, with his wife, Mary Jo, their elderly puggle, 80,000 honeybees, and a pair of sandhill cranes

Margo and Steve discuss:

• Steve’s creative journey and the inspiration that found him

• The transformative aspects of his family's extended stay in the Languedoc Region of Southern France

• Impact of working in the vines and a village winery on perspective towards wine and winemaking

• Changes in travel philosophy after the experience in France

• The challenges and rewards of parenting both abroad and at home

• How he inspires and encourages his kids in their creativity

• Sneak peek of upcoming appearance on The Splendid Table on July 18

• Where to find Steve’s work, follow his journey, and purchase his new memoir

Connect with Steve:

www.sjrhoffman.com

https://www.instagram.com/sjrhoffman/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Catching up on all things creative current events and highlighting some fun and interesting articles, Margo is joined by friend and current event co-host Abby Campbell. This week they are discussing the growth challenges Cara has been facing and how we can give grace, Etsy’s updated stance on AI, Sticker Mule's political controversy, how a baseball hit made a beer company millions, and finding inspiration outside of our own online algorithm. 

Have a topic or article you want to hear about in a creative current events episode? Send us a DM on Instagram! 

Mentioned in this episode:

Cara Facing New Challenges

https://www.fastcompany.com/91157162/the-cara-app-went-viral-now-it-faces-new-challenges

Etsy’s stand on AI from their Handbook

https://www.etsy.com/seller-handbook/article/1275449912004

More on Etsy & New Naming Categories

https://www.fastcompany.com/91153074/etsy-is-using-humans-to-stand-out-in-an-ai-obsessed-world

Etsy’s Ad

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUFvwHBZOgo

A Dramatic Reading of a Small Business Customer Service Email

Leigh Standley of Curly Girl Cards

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9nJezDON6E/

Ariadne Kritonos on Instagram!

Thanks for the thoughtful discussion, Ariadne.

https://www.instagram.com/ariadnekritonos/

Coopers Light - Coors Light’s OUT Campaign

Unintentionally started by Angels Player Shohei Otani

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5GQvqfqRSU

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Arianne Foulks. Arianne is the founder of Aeolidia, a Shopify development agency that's been working with creative shop owners since 2004. Her team blends strategy and design to create super-effective Shopify sites, email marketing, and branding. She is also a popular educator and small business enthusiast. As a champion for creative brands, she has a 17+ year reputation for thoughtful redesigns that help businesses level up. She loves having a problem to solve, and has focused throughout her career on building online homes for fascinating people. She is also a mom of two teenagers, enjoys walking, and always has a pile of books by her bed.

Margo and Arianne discuss:

• Arianne’s creative history of crafting beaded jewelry and zines in her childhood to transforming the online presence of creative e-commerce businesses

• How she cultivated her niche in the e-commerce industry

• The challenges of selling unique products in a market flooded with mass-produced items

• The power of storytelling in e-commerce.

• Core values and how they guide Aeolidia

• the significance of having a minimum viable product

• continuous evolution of brand voice

• How and why her team switched to a four day work week

• how to avoid scope creep and set good expectations when working with clients

• Using the Entrepreneurial Operating System to run a business

Connect with Arianne:

https://aeolidia.com/

https://www.instagram.com/aeolidia/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariannefoulks/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by friend and former guest, Michael Schultz. Michael is the co-owner and creative eye of Cursive New York, which operates 2 stores in New York City. Cursive is a tightly focused concept with the simple mission of cultivating joy. Michael, along with his husband, Douglas Duncan, have established Cursive as a strong and forward voice in the industry where they offer gift, stationery, home and lifestyle products and is constantly evolving. Cursive operated in New York City’s iconic Grand Central Terminal for 11 years and within ABC Carpet & Home for 15 years, until the Covid-19 pandemic upended those long runs. Making lemonade out of lemons, Schultz and Duncan doubled down on New York and opened 2 shops in New York’s West Village neighborhood, 4 blocks apart. One shop is true to the original Cursive vision, while Cursive Home is the brand's extension into home goods.

Margo and Michael discuss:

• Going all in on yourself, trusting your gut and having confidence in your creativity

• The thin line between inspiration and imitation within the digital landscape

• The risks of looking too closely at others' work and what it can lead to

• The importance of developing a unique point of view

• The patience and vulnerability required to pave your own path in the creative industry

• Maintaining confidence in one's original work even if it isn't immediately recognized 

• Strategies that artists and designers can use to cultivate their own original ideas

• Setting yourself apart as a leader and visionary by thinking two steps ahead

Connect with Michael:

www.instagram.com/cursivenewyork

www.instagram.com/curisvenyhome

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Join Margo and Abby Campbell for another creative current events catch-up! They discuss boosting self-confidence by ditching "imposter syndrome," explore innovative product design, and highlight the winners of Penguin Books' 2024 Cover Design Contest. They also delve into the latest trends in the art world and share personal anecdotes on overcoming creative blocks. Tune in for insightful discussions and actionable tips to fuel your creative journey.

Mentioned: 

https://www.reddit.com/r/DefendingAIArt/comments/1da6ctq/cara_was_doomed_to_fail_from_the_beginning/ https://www.creativeboom.com/tips/how-to-be-more-confident-as-a-creative/

https://www.creativeboom.com/news/penguin-reveals-the-winners-of-its-2024-cover-design-award/

https://www.bandanaofthemonth.club/

https://hudsonvalleyseed.com/pages/call-for-art

https://sowtrueseed.com/pages/art-call

https://www.westcoastseeds.com/pages/artist-packet-contest

Have a topic or article you want to hear about in a creative current events episode? Send us a DM on Instagram! 

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by one man band, Dan Checkers otherwise known as Dan & Drum. Releasing his debut album in 2017 with no label, connections, or many friends for that matter, he was surprised to see it get millions of streams in the first year, thanks to creators like Jenna Marbles featuring the music. Since then, he's been consistently releasing music, earning 10s of millions of streams across platforms, while touring across the US. Since COVID, he's been selling personalized songs to fans that are then publicly released later- which he finds to be his most artistically fulfilling venture to date!

Margo and Dan discuss:

• His path into music and niching into personalized music

• The power of networking and connections in the music industry

• How he transformed challenges brought on by the pandemic into an opportunity

• His process of songwriting

• His belief in the personal being universal

• Personal struggles with depression and how a gift from his mom became a crucial outlet

• How social media algorithms can be leveraged to build an audience

• Potential benefits and limitations of signing with a music label

Connect with Dan:

https://www.dananddrum.com/personalizedsongs

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ZajCRAa7VEcTytwxzr20a

https://www.instagram.com/dananddrum/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In part 2 of 2, Margo is joined by calligrapher and author, Brittany DeSantis. Brittany is most well known for her focus on mindfulness and the sensory experience of writing and creating: the sound of the pen on the paper, the way the ink flows on the page, the concentration it takes to form each stroke and how to find a "flow" by doing something just beyond your comfort zone. Journaling has become Brittany’s main focus. She pairs art and writing to show others a barrier-free way of expressing themselves and feels the outcome is always less important than the act of creating itself.

Margo and Brittany discuss:

• Her path from rediscovering her love for art in a watercolor calligraphy class to founding Peak Paper Co

• Transitioning from an advertising job to full-time artistry

• How creating simple forms helped her in combating creative block

• Art as a tool for navigating grief

• Strategies that Brittany has found to be effective in balancing multiple roles and responsibilities like motherhood and entrepreneurship

• The value of reaching out for mutually beneficial relationships

• The importance of creating a supportive space for creativity

• Finding inspiration from neuroaesthetics and the science-backed benefits of art-making

• How she overcame imposter syndrome by focusing on teaching beginners

• Her groundbreaking grief journal proposal and what it’s led to

• What it’s been like to partner with a renowned brand like Montblanc

• The therapeutic benefits of art and journaling

• An upcoming retreat in Portugal that promises to be a haven for creative minds

• And so much more

Connect with Brittany:

www.peakpaperco.com

www.peakpaperco.com/my-book

https://www.amazon.com/Forget-You-Not-Keepsake-Navigating/dp/1958803375

www.instagram.com/peakpaperco

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by artist, calligrapher, and avid journaler, Brittany DeSantis. After making a big cross-country move to Alberta, Canada nearly a decade ago, Brittany fell in love with the mountains and back in love with art. This move inspired the "peak" in her business name, Peak Paper Co. Through global brand partnerships and from Brittany’s tiny home studio, she's taught the art of calligraphy, watercolor and journaling to over 50 thousand people worldwide. One of Brittany's very cool teaching roles is that of global luxury brand, Montblanc's, Inspire Writing instructor. She focuses on the "beginner" stage as she believes we're all inherently creative and our own handwriting is a gift. Brittany is the proud mother of two young daughters and now, a published author who still deeply misses her dad. Art and writing inadvertently helped her cope with his loss 20 years ago, and still does to this day. It's why she created a guided grief journal to help others find the power of putting pen to paper when we're going through hard times.

Margo and Brittany discuss:

• Her path from rediscovering her love for art in a watercolor calligraphy class to founding Peak Paper Co

• Transitioning from an advertising job to full-time artistry

• How creating simple forms helped her in combating creative block

• Art as a tool for navigating grief

• Strategies that Brittany has found to be effective in balancing multiple roles and responsibilities like motherhood and entrepreneurship

• The value of reaching out for mutually beneficial relationships

• The importance of creating a supportive space for creativity

• Finding inspiration from neuroaesthetics and the science-backed benefits of art-making

• How she overcame imposter syndrome by focusing on teaching beginners

• Her groundbreaking grief journal proposal and what it’s led to

• What it’s been like to partner with a renowned brand like Montblanc

• The therapeutic benefits of art and journaling

• An upcoming retreat in Portugal that promises to be a haven for creative minds

• And so much more

Connect with Brittany:

www.peakpaperco.com

www.peakpaperco.com/my-book

https://www.amazon.com/Forget-You-Not-Keepsake-Navigating/dp/1958803375

www.instagram.com/peakpaperco

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Back with a creative current events update, Margo is joined by Abby Campbell. They dive into the latest social media app, Cara, and its mission to filter out generative AI images so that people who want to find authentic creatives and artwork can do so easily, Meta’s somewhat scary new AI policies and the difficulty in opting out, and Adobe versus the Ansel Adams Estate - what went wrong and what kinds of processes should be in place to ensure it doesn’t happen in the future. 

Have a topic or article you want to hear about in a creative current events episode? Send us a DM on Instagram! 

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by seasoned artist, designer, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the creative industry Paul Pape. Paul’s journey began with a passion for education stemming from a need to escape an abusive childhood. Eventually, he found his way to design and fabrication, which led to the creation of thousands of personalized products for clients worldwide as well as industry giants such as Disney, Universal, Nickelodeon and more.. In recent years, he’s pivoted to empowering Creatives, Companies and Corporations, sharing his expertise and insights to help them embrace innovation, reverse the Creativity Crisis and make life and work FUN again. As a speaker, educator, and mentor, he inspires others to unleash their creative potential and find fulfillment in their personal and professional lives.

Margo and Paul discuss:

• Pauls personal creative journey and how an abusive childhood played a role from inspiration to career

• How the industrial revolution shifted jobs towards more creative pursuits and how technology now frees us for even greater imaginative endeavors

• How customized creations can touch lives in unexpected ways

• The incredible impact creativity can have on our lives

• Dealing with copyright and trademark challenges

• Empowering the next generation of creatives

• The importance of failing with purpose

• Nurturing creativity in education

• The evolving role of technology and AI in artistic expression

• His unique framework to foster creativity called PLAY (Ponder, Learn, Apply, Yield)

• Joy and importance of teaching without gatekeeping

Connect with Paul:

https://paulpape.it/

https://www.youtube.com/paulpapedesigns

https://www.instagram.com/paulpapedesigns/

https://www.facebook.com/paulpapedesigns

Freebie! https://talk.ac/paulpape?code=WINDOWSILL

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Jewelry Designer Dani Paquin. Dani founded Agapantha Jewelry in April of 2004 after 6+ years of living as a touring singer-songwriter. While it was an incredible, dream fulfilling time, people don't love paying for music and the hustle was unsustainable. Between tours, Dani started working for a couple of designers, assembling jewelry and found that it was fun, creative, she was good at it, and people were willing to pay for it. She did music and jewelry for a while, semi-retired from music, opened an adorable vintage shop in Brooklyn, and eventually found her way into the full time flow of entrepreneurship. In 2010 she moved back to her home state of California and Agapantha has been headquartered in Torrance (Los Angeles County) for the past 14 years. In that time, the style of jewelry has changed dramatically and landed where it is currently - delicate, modern, layering jewelry - handmade in her production studio using primarily sterling silver and 14k gold filled materials.

Margo and Dani discuss:

• Her  journey from music to crafting exquisite, delicate, and modern jewelry

• How she built a successful business through innovative strategies, combining wholesale, retail, and unique events

• Diversifying offerings so all the eggs aren't in one basket

• The future of her brand as she ventures into fine jewelry

• The intricacies of running a creative business

• The importance of customer interaction and the challenges of navigating tough economic times

• Hiring a team and the importance of finding people that are better than you

• The incredible community she's built through initiatives like "Flash Sale Friday" and the Agapantha VIP club

• And more

Agapantha is carried in boutiques all over the world, including the Agapantha showroom. Dani’s business model is fluid, allowing for change and flexibility, but combines wholesale, retail, online, and events including activities such as piercing, laser engraving, and forever jewelry.

Connect with Dani Paquin:

www.agapantha.com

www.instagram.com/agapanthajewelry

www.tiktok.com/@agapanthajewelry

Connect with Margo: 

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by artist and designer for the gift & home decor industry, Jennifer Brinley. Jennifer has been in the industry for over 20 years with a degree in Studio Art from UC Santa Barbara and she believes well designed products can bring moments of joy. Her creative path took her to graduate school for architecture before promptly dropping out after learning advanced math was involved to pass "structures." She then bounced around with a variety of jobs to save money to go to Europe for 3 months with a childhood friend. After Europe, came the quandary of what to do next and decided she would go back to school to become an art teacher. A want ad looking for a T-shirt designer led to quickly creating a fake portfolio and she began designing T-shirts for Crazy Shirts as well as getting a business license to sell her own T-shirts. She met her licensing agent by chance making color copies at Kinkos and today her designs have been on everything from tableware, gift mugs, kitchen textiles, rugs, fabrics, placemats, trays, coasters, gift bags, flags, art poles and planters.

Margo and Jennifer discuss:

• Finding inspiration in nature and how one of her best selling products is a nature inspired design

• Balancing creativity and business in the art world

• The importance of staying informed and interested within one's industry

• Fueling passion through seeing others' work and new trends

• The impact of art and design on behavior and well-being

• The benefits of engaging in art daily for brain stimulation

• Biophilic design and nature's calming effect on the brain

• Studies on neuroaesthetics (the measurable changes that occur in the brain while looking at art, design, architecture, interior design, etc) 

Connect with Jennifer:

https://www.instagram.com/jenniferbrinley/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by artist, photographer and author Mary Jo Hoffman. In her previous life, Mary was an aerospace engineer until one day she decided to take up a daily practice of photographing something in nature. This daily practice turned into STILL Blog, profound revelations about the connectedness of all things, the importance of place, and her own life. Her new book, STILL: The Art of Noticing, features 275 of the most stunning photographs Mary Jo has accumulated over thousands of consecutive days of daily shooting accompanied by perceptive, deeply felt, and oftentimes humorous essays illuminating the insights gained through this daily creative practice. Mary Jo has enlisted the help of her husband, Steve, and their two children on this creative endeavor. What started out as a way to practice for retirement, has turned into a second career! Mary Jo's photos will have you looking at your own backyard in a different way and noticing much more than you ever did before.

Margo and Mary Jo discuss:

• Her creative path and how she went from aerospace engineer to photographer and author

• The importance of continuing the creative process despite life events

• Creating a memory grid

• The concept of 72 microseasons and how it impacts her creativity and photography

• Benefits and challenges of committing to long-term creative projects

• Licensing Deals, her experiences in working with Target and West Elm

• Maintaining a creative life while raising a family and the impactful legacy that can leave for children

• The intricacies of finding beauty in everyday life,

• Her new book, Still: The Art of Noticing

Connect with Mary Jo Hoffman:

https://www.instagram.com/maryjohoffman/

STILL: The Art of Noticing

http://eepurl.com/bTvh4n (Newsletter)

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Trying something new this week with a new little episode format! In this episode, Margo is joined for a short conversation with fellow creative and friend of the Windowsill, Abby Campbell. They explore a few recent articles and subject matter that they’ve been chewing on such as the recent FTC ruling banning non-compete agreements, a Harvard Business Review article on combating burnout, and a fascinating tech piece on Nightshade—a new tool designed to protect artists' works from AI exploitation.

Have a topic or article you want to hear about in a creative current events episode? Send us a DM on Instagram! 

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by friend of the Windowsill, Emily McDowell. As an advisor, thought partner, and coach, Emily McDowell helps save creative entrepreneurs’ time, money, and sanity, and helps product-based brands succeed. As founder of the stationery brand Em & Friends, she created Empathy Cards, a more honest and supportive alternative to traditional sympathy cards, which drew organic coverage by hundreds of major media outlets in 22 countries and inspired a sea change to the industry. As a writer and illustrator, her work has gone viral countless times, and for over a decade, she’s been known for creating products that make people wonder if she’s been reading their diaries. Emily is also the co-author and illustrator of There Is No Good Card for This: What to Say and Do When Life Gets Scary, Awful, and Unfair to People You Love, and offers unsolicited advice, cautionary tales, and missives from the great adventure of midlife in her Substack newsletter, Unqualified.

Margo and Emily discuss:

• Her experiences in going viral unexpectedly

• the mental shift from creating for joy to creating for profit and how it affects the process and output

• The transition from owning a stationary company to creative coaching

• Challenges and revelations in manufacturing

• Keeping creativity alive amidst business endeavors

• Inclusivity and diversity in creative communities

• The psychological and creative benefits of engaging in non-monetizable creative activities

• Her experience in exiting/selling a business and having a non-compete agreement

• Licensing creative work

Connect with Emily:

www.withemilymcdowell.com

www.thegreatergoodsalliance.com

www.emilymcdowell.substack.com

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined again by tax expert for creatives, Hannah Cole. Hannah specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she’s helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements, and through her podcast. Margo and Hannah unpack the complex world of finances, exploring the impactful financial habits that can safeguard your future, the emotional hurdles around financial literacy, and how shifts in mindset can lead to financial empowerment. They also dive into the importance of IRA contributions and the significant tax advantages they offer, the impact of non-compete laws on wages and even some antitrust law news.

Margo and Hannah discuss:

• Why understanding and managing finances can feel particularly hard for creative businesses

• Some of the mental shifts necessary for artists to tackle financial understanding and planning effectively

• Non-compete agreements 

• Antitrust laws and how small businesses are currently being impacted

• Understanding state business licensing and quarterly taxes for freelancers

• Daily investment tips to potentially reach a million-dollar retirement fund

• Hannah’s advocacy for basic, proven investment methods over complex strategies

• Why you should focus on minimizing fees and long-term wealth building

Sign up for Money Bootcamp with Hannah and receive $100 off by using code WINDOWSILL at checkout!

Connect with Hannah:

https://www.sunlighttax.com/

https://www.sunlighttax.com/podcast

https://www.sunlighttax.com/deductionsguide

Free class on-demand: go.sunlighttax.com/register

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by the incredibly talented Leigh Standley, founder of Curly Girl Design. Lee has been making waves in the greeting card industry since 2003, creating beautifully crafted cards that resonate deeply. In this episode, Leigh opens up about the evolution of her business through the seismic shifts in technology and consumer behaviors over the past two decades. From the early days of e-commerce to dealing with the challenges brought on by the pandemic that forced a business model shift from wholesale to direct sales, Leigh shares her journey of adaptability, passion, and persistence. She also shares her thoughtful approach to business, emphasizing personal values, the importance of meaningful connections, and why she remains committed to crafting products that genuinely speak to the heart.

Margo and Leigh discuss:

• The history of Curly Girl Design since its inception in 2003

• How her personal values have influenced the decision-making process in her business

• Why she pivoted from wholesale to direct sales and challenges that arose during the shift

• Advice for creative entrepreneurs and the importance to think beyond the “just start” phase

• The evergreen business model

• Selling meaningful, consumable items that you’re proud of as a creative

• The importance of interacting directly with your customers

• Business success beyond the financial aspect

• Her new mystery box product offering

• And more!

Connect with Leigh:

https://www.curlygirldesign.com/

https://www.instagram.com/curlygirldesign

https://www.instagram.com/leigh.standley/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Aussie Surface Pattern Designer Rachael King. Obsessed with pattern from an early age, Rachael King grew up watching her talented mother making clothes not only for her and her siblings but for bridal and formal events too. While working in her mom's fabric shop, she mused over how the pattern repeated over the fabric and wondered how fabric was printed and wouldn't it be wonderful to design fabric too? It took another 23 years before Rachael was able to start a diploma in graphic design that would then lead into her dream of becoming a surface pattern designer. Represented by Nerida Hansen at Surtex in 2017 led to her first licensed collection with Spotlight stores and since then she has worked with fashion, homewares and greeting card companies, been a part owner in a print-on-demand fabric business, self-published two books, and is now teaching and mentoring in her much-loved industry. Rachael adores the connection she makes with fellow designers through her various touchpoints and feels very privileged to be able to inspire and nurture emerging surface designers.

Margo and Rachael discuss:

• Rachael’s creative path and how her mom instilled a love for creativity in her

• Self-publishing her book, Pattern Pulse, after initial rejection

• Elizabeth Gilbert's book, Big Magic, and how it catalyzed her creative endeavors

• Tribulations and triumphs of women in the creative business landscape: asserting value, advocating for fair compensation, and having a network of peers and mentors

• The importance of physical art in a digital age

• Why individuality and authenticity are crucial to the art industry

• How artists can stay true to their unique style while also being commercially viable

• Challenges of building a creative community in Australia

• The influence and support that often comes from maternal figures in fostering creativity

• Thoughts and tips for artists facing low payment offers

Connect with Rachael:

www.rachaelking.com.au

www.patternpulse.com.au

www.instagram.com/rachaeldoesdesign

www.instagram.com/australiansurfacedesigners

www.facebook.com/rachaelkingdesignsbrisbane

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this part 2 of 2 episode, Margo is joined by founder of Lonesome Pictopia, Melanie Nead. Rooted in American tattooing, the wild spaces of the Pacific Northwest, and the belief that all work should be a force for good, Lonesome Pictopia is a woman-owned design collective creating magical worlds with original wallpapers, textiles, and murals. After fifteen years as a custom tattoo artist, Melanie turned her love of plants and pattern to creating one-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals, with an eye on releasing a house line in the spirit of historic wallcoverings. Their deeply designed wallpapers are traditionally printed in the UK by a sustainable manufacturer of some of the finest wallpapers in the world. Her work has appeared in Architectural Digest, Luxe Magazine, Casa Vogue Brazil, and the Business of Home podcast, among many others.

Margo and Melanie discuss:

• How to manage project expectations, setting clear boundaries and communication with clients

• The power in systems in order to save time and costs

• How building in a margin of error to the cost of projects has helped her team

• Infusing personal values and making a social impact into her work

• Math and knowing your numbers as a creative business owner

• Positioning yourself and how it can build confidence

• And more!

Connect with Melanie:

www.lonesomepictopia.com

www.instagram.com/lonesomepictopia

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by founder of Lonesome Pictopia, Melanie Nead. Rooted in American tattooing, the wild spaces of the Pacific Northwest, and the belief that all work should be a force for good, Lonesome Pictopia is a woman-owned design collective creating magical worlds with original wallpapers, textiles, and murals. After fifteen years as a custom tattoo artist, Melanie turned her love of plants and pattern to creating one-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals, with an eye on releasing a house line in the spirit of historic wallcoverings. Their deeply designed wallpapers are traditionally printed in the UK by a sustainable manufacturer of some of the finest wallpapers in the world. Her work has appeared in Architectural Digest, Luxe Magazine, Casa Vogue Brazil, and the Business of Home podcast, among many others.

Margo and Melanie discuss:

• Her creative path and the transition from tattoo artist to surface pattern designer

• navigating the balance between tradition and innovation within her art

• How to manage project expectations, setting clear boundaries and communication with clients

• Infusing personal values and making a social impact into her work

• The difficulty that comes with shifting career paths

• Discovering a passion for design after tattooing

• The impact of design and creativity on mental health

• The magic that comes from authenticity and experimental drive

• Business systems for creative entrepreneurship and how platforms like Instagram can still be a powerhouse for business growth

• Balancing the need for creative mental space with the business demands of schedules and deadlines

• Maintaining and revitalizing historic crafts and artistic expressions

• Cinema as a design inspiration

Connect with Melanie:

www.lonesomepictopia.com

www.instagram.com/lonesomepictopia

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined once again by surface pattern designer, intuitive art maker, and course creator Jessica Swift. As a child, Jessica sported a nearly-permanent Crayola marker stain on her left arm, from pinky to elbows so, naturally, she became an artist. She creates colorful, uplifting artwork and manufactures her own products in her studio in Portland, Oregon. She also collaborates with inspiring companies and publishers to create branded products such as fabric, stationery, puzzles, books, and more. She's the author of 3 books and teaches online classes on topics including pattern design, color, and intuitive art-making.

Margo and Jessica discuss:

• The pivotal moment that changed the trajectory of Jessica’s career as an artist

• How she combines outer art mediums with an inner focus for healing

• Using art making as a portal for personal discovery and self expression

• How to tune out external noise in order to trust your inner voice better

• How engaging with art can impact decision-making

• Jessica’s approach in how she uses art as a vehicle for personal growth and insight rather than just an aesthetic outcome

• Authentic expression online

• Her upcoming course, Unleashed: A Creative Journey to Inner Freedom

Connect with Jessica:

www.jessicaswift.com

www.instagram.com/jessicaswift

https://www.artforselfcare.com/unleashed

Windowsill Chats Episode 105

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined once again by artist, metalsmith, teacher, creative business coach, writer, and entrepreneur Megan Aumen. Megan has built a multi-faceted business around her passion for art, design, and creativity. In addition to her eponymous jewelry line and various other creative pursuits (including textile design, painting, and sculpture), she runs Designing an MBA, where she talks and teaches about the intersection of art and business, and Artists and Profit Makers, an online mentorship program for creative business owners. She is the author of four books, including Try It & See and Permission to Be an Artist.

Margo and Megan discuss:

• The importance of experiential art

• Understanding the seasonality of a business and why it’s important

• Her journey with both self-doubt and self-empowerment when it comes to valuing creative work

• Rest and relaxation for creatives and how she integrates principles into her own life to maintain a healthy creative process

• Traditional advice that’s often given to artists regarding problem-solving and how it can limit their creative expression and the impact of their work

• Generative AI: ethical considerations and its impact on creative workers

Connect with Megan:

shop.meganauman.com

instagram.com/meganauman

youtube.com/meganauman

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by book-loving, notebook-hoarding literacy teacher educator who is on a mission to change lives one book and one notebook at a time, Stephanie Affinito. Stephanie blogs about the power of leading literate lives and podcasts weekly on books and reading, writing and notebooks and everything in between. Stephanie shares about the transformative power of reading and writing and how her own personal journey of rediscovering creativity through self-expression and the joy of literature.

Margo and Stephanie discuss:

• Reading and writing as a form of therapy

• Understanding restorative reading practices

• The science behind reading for mental and physical health

• The connection between literacy and emotional well-being

• Encouraging joyful reading habits

• Building a book apothecary

• The importance of starting with achievable goals

• Establishing rituals around reading

• And so much more

Connect with Stephanie:

www.alitlife.com 

www.instagram.com/AffinitoLit 

www.facebook.com/AffinitoLit 

www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit 

www.threads.net/@affinitolit 

www.getliterate.co

stephanie-affinito-0cab.mykajabi.com/envelopesofliteratelove

stephanie-affinito-0cab.mykajabi.com/workwithstephanie

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

The one and only Lisa Congdon is back in the windowsill for an honest conversation on work life balance, creating harmony and ease in life, and what she’s given up in order to have more of what she wants. Illustrator and author Lisa Congdon is best known for her colorful, graphic drawings and hand lettering. She works for clients around the world including Comme des Garçons, Crate and Barrel, Facebook, MoMA, REI, and Harvard University among many others. She is the author of ten books, including the starving-artist-myth-smashing Art Inc: The Essential Guide to Building Your Career as an Artist and her latest book Find Your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic.

Margo and Lisa discuss:

• The notion of work life balance and Lisa’s current take on it

• The process of engangling herself from being a workaholic

• Creating a self care and wellness practice

• The importance of non-monetized hobbies

• The learning lessons that come from decision making

• Why she always says “every mistake is progress”

• The 80/20 rule when it comes to business income

• Print on demand

• How being disciplined has allowed her more freedom in her life

Connect with Lisa:

https://lisacongdon.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lisacongdon/

Art Inc. by Lisa Congdon

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by California photographer and retreat creator and host, Sarah Leader. Sarah received her first camera at the age of 8 and hasn’t stopped photographing since but her why and who she photographs has evolved several times over while still saying true to her own style and uniqueness. She found a passion for empowering women through the art of photography in 2010, which evolved into a retreat offering called "Persephone Unleashed.” Persephone Unleashed was born from Sarah’s belief that women are magic, as well as her fiery passion to document beautiful creatures as they break free of their chrysalis. Her approach to photographing women is founded on authenticity & self-compassion, and she practices it by showing up to that space with you, unapologetically herself — awkward, messy bits and all.

Margo and Sarah discuss:

• Her personal journey with creativity and photography

• The inspiration and story behind Persephone Unleashed (stemming from her own Postpartum Depression) and how it’s evolved since its inception

• Using photography as a form of storytelling

• How she approaches photographing women with authenticity and self-compassion

• How she uses photography as a tool for empowering women and how self portraiture contributes to their sense of self and liberation

• Margo’s experience at Persephone Unleashed

• Creating an environment that encourages women to break free and embrace their authenticity

• Tips for how individuals can embrace their own unique beauty and tell their stories through photography (even if they're not professional photographers)

• The incredible team at Persephone Unleashed

• Upcoming events and more

Mentioned:

Exploring the Interwoven Journey of Spirituality and Creativity: Jade Chen on Shamanic Practices, the Potency of Nature, and Personal Evolution (Episode 174)

Connect with Sarah:

www.persphoneunleashed.com

www.instagram.com/persephoneunleashed

https://sarahkathleen.com/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by former Windowsill Chats guest, Lori Siebert. Lori, an accomplished artist with a rich background in graphic design and art licensing, shares the evolution of her creative journey, reflecting on the major shifts in her life post turning 60, from handling significant losses to prioritizing joy and self-care. Together, they share insights into recent personal health discoveries and why they’ve decided to prioritize their health now and how they hope to encourage you to do the same. Lori also shares on the shift in her career, choosing projects that resonate personally after selling her studio building and relieving financial pressures. She discusses how this pivotal decision, along with a newfound pursuit of happiness through self-care, led her to acknowledge her chameleon-like adaptability as a signature mark in her art.

Margo and Lori discuss: 

• The intersection of creativity and health and why you can’t have one without the other

• Discovering new creative passions that aid in wellness such as cooking

• Plank contests and pilates

• Unique art challenges and how they infuse their lives with inspiration

• How intergenerational relationships impact Lori’s creative process

• Prioritizing sleep

• Managing time and maintaining a healthy balance between work, self-care, and creativity

• Upcoming events and plans for Lori

• And more!

Connect with Lori:

http://www.instagram.com/lorisiebert.studio/

http://www.pinterest.com/lorisie

http://www.facebook.com/lorisiebertstudio

www.lorisiebert.com

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by tax expert Hannah Cole who specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she’s helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements from Florida to Alaska, and on the Sunlight podcast. She is the founder of Sunlight Tax. As artists carve their paths through various industries, they encounter a myriad of challenges, yet financial literacy is rarely addressed, leading to feelings of failure and shame. Today's conversation with Hannah sheds light on this systemic failure and turns it into a journey of empowerment and self-compassion (something all creatives should have)!

Margo and Hannah discuss:

• The responsibilities that come with being a small business owner in the US

• Navigating self-employment taxes and optimizing deductions

• Personal struggles that Hannah faced within her own creative career and financial literacy

• What propelled her towards accounting education

• How she acts as a translator between the creative and tax worlds

• Simple advice artists can implement today when it comes to money management

• Her Money Bootcamp program and podcast

• How to save more money

• And more!

Connect with Hannah:

www.instagram.com/sunlighttax

www.sunlighttax.com

www.sunlighttax.com/podcast

Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $130k in Your Savings https://go.sunlighttax.com/free

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In part two of this two-part episode, Margo is joined by illustrator, product designer, toy creator, and bookmaker of sophisticated and simple objects that inspire and delight young and old alike, Suzy Ultman. from graphic design to creating educational content for children, Suzy emphasizes the importance of infusing personal beliefs into professional projects and how hardships in her life such as her divorce and the loss of her sister played a role in her own creativity and imparting it on children. Make Time for Play is the main philosophy behind everything that she does as an artist and her signature products celebrate play, creativity, connection, and community in the world around us. 

Margo and Suzy discuss:

• Her desire to create more Jewish products to represent her culture and heritage

• How personal struggles influenced her creative process and approach to life

• The self-growth and happiness that comes alive through creativity

• Using social media as a creative tool

• Rediscovering the joy of Shabbat and what it brought back in to her life

• The importance in finding time for creativity, self-reflection, and relationships

• Her new kids stationery collaboration

• And more

Connect with Suzy:

www.instagram.com/suzyultman

www.suzyultman.com

Connect with Margo: 

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this two-part episode, Margo is joined by illustrator, product designer, toy creator, and bookmaker of sophisticated and simple objects that inspire and delight young and old alike, Suzy Ultman. from graphic design to creating educational content for children, Suzy emphasizes the importance of infusing personal beliefs into professional projects and how hardships in her life such as her divorce and the loss of her sister played a role in her own creativity and imparting it on children. Make Time for Play is the main philosophy behind everything that she does as an artist and her signature products celebrate play, creativity, connection, and community in the world around us. 

Margo and Suzy discuss:

• Suzy’s creative path: transitioning from studying accounting to pursuing a career in graphic design

• Her experience of working in design for Adidas

• Prioritizing handwork, creativity, and inspiration in the creative process

• How personal identity and cultural heritage plays a role in her creative process

• Challenges she’s faced when integrating her Jewish identity into her work

• Lessons learned from finding representation and building artistic vision

• The importance of connection and community when it comes to doing creative work

• Staying true to one's story and identity

Connect with Suzy:

www.instagram.com/suzyultman

www.suzyultman.com

Connect with Margo: 

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by fantastical and whimsical artist, Jules Gissler. Jules doesn’t color in the proverbial lines, and she is proud to create art that has a voice and a story. Over the years, my work has taken different shapes, as has she. Jules believes in being braver, bolder, and unafraid to take up space and also the important role humor and connection plays in our evolution. Jules' art is an embodiment of who she is. It’s how she lives her magic, the combination of vulnerability, attachment to nature, courage, and her voice that make her unlike any other being under the sun. She is grateful to have discovered these qualities and hopes the many layers of emotions and experiences she has, shows up in her work in a way that inspires smile-ish-ness (her Dr. Seuss made-up word) and connection.

Margo and Jules discuss:

• Attending Montana State University to discovering her passion for art and jewelry design

• The significance of music and its impact on her creativity

• How she’s embraced new opportunities and takes initiative in business

• Vulnerability, connection, and natures role in her creative journey

• How she continually pushes forward in trying new things (artistic endeavors, life, etc.)

• Storytelling through her art

• Collaborating with a designer like Michael Grey for Birkenstock

• Advice for artists navigating their own creative journeys

Learn the art of PROCreate with Beth Buffington by visiting https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill

Connect with Jules:

https://www.julesgissler.com

https://instagram.com/julesAgissler

https://www.facebook.com/julesGisslerArtist

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jules-gissler

https://www.pinterest.com/julesgissler/

https://www.amazon.com/Save-Earth-Daisy-Sleeve-T-Shirt/dp/B09NTQ2SZW/

https://www.illustratorsforhire.com/featuring/jules-gissler-illustrator-for-hire

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com/

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by the cheeky glam ma'am behind the Champagne Fabulous brand of gifts and home decor, Mandi Blackford. Through her brand, Mandi encourages people of all ages to unabashedly be exactly who they WANT to be with her motto "Age Inappropriately.” A watercolor & acrylic artist previously selling under the brand Jetset Barbie Art, Mandi took her creative career to the next level in 2022 when she launched the Champagne Fabulous brand with her first two original products on Amazon in the US, UK, and Australia. A pool float in the shape of a champagne bottle, and a doorbell frame that says "Press for Champagne". All while maintaining her demanding full-time day job as a hotel software product manager. Mandi recently launched The Age Inappropriately Show – a weekly video podcast where hilarious content will always come back to the underlying message of encouragement to have self-love, confidence, and live authentically.

Margo and Mandi discuss:

• Her Arkansas upbringing, Baptist background and her evolving desire to be a preacher's wife to becoming an artist

• The unique path and many jobs that took her to Las Vegas, Austin, Dallas, and Chicago before moving to Longview, TX

• What traveling taught her and how it inspired her first creative business name, Jetset Barbie

• Finding a new form of creativity through painting at the age of 46

• Making art profitable

• The Amazon FBA program: learning the ins and outs to sell her products on Amazon

• Learning to embracing her individuality and overcome societal norms

• Her new podcast and video show, Age Inappropriately

• And more!

Learn the art of PROCreate with Beth Buffington by visiting https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill

Connect with Mandi:

https://champagnefab.com/

https://youtube.com/@champagnefab

https://www.instagram.com/champagnefabulousllc/

https://www.facebook.com/ChampagneFabulousLLC

https://www.tiktok.com/@champagnefab

https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/mandiblackford

https://twitter.com/champagnefaboo

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com/

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by certified and credentialed life coach and hypnotherapist, masterful speaker, and courageous communication expert Amy Green Smith. Amy uses her roles as coach, writer, podcaster, and speaker to move individuals to a place of radical personal empowerment and self-worth. With acute focus on helping people “find their voice”, she is highly sought after for her uncommon style of irreverence, wisdom, and humor.

Margo and Amy discuss:

• Her life crisis moment that led her to leave an industry she had great success in

• The importance of effective communication and emotional well-being

• Learning to find your voice and powerfully say 'No' as an artist

• Combatting people-pleasing in business

• Finding the right words, creating boundaries, and cultivating self-worth as an entrepreneur

• Navigating uncomfortable conversations

• The science behind our four fear responses (and how they hold creatives back)

• Her amazing Free-sources

• And so much more! 

Learn the art of PROCreate with Beth Buffington by visiting https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill

Connect with Amy:

Amygreensmith.com

http://amygreensmith.com/free

http://instagram.com/heyamygreensmith

http://facebook.com/heyamygreensmith

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyamygreensmith

http://twitter.com/heyamygreen

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by listener favorite guest Beth Buffington. Beth is a licensed illustrator, and an online digital illustration instructor, creative coach, and podcaster. Like most creatives, she has been drawing since she was old enough to hold her favorite red crayon. After graduating with a degree in art and graphic design, Beth began her creative career working for “in-house” corporate art departments. 
After years of corporate communications, she decided to focus on her personal creative passions, by starting her own business. Her work has grown into several facets including home decor products, course creation and her latest creative outlet, adventure exploring and podcasting.

Margo and Beth discuss:

• Beth’s creative path from in-house designer to entrepreneur

• The importance of making time for self-improvement and finding joy in learning something new

• Benefits of using technology, like Procreate, to create art anywhere

• Challenges of rejection and finding a supportive community in pursuing creative work

• How she discovered her passion for teaching

• Balancing creative pursuits with other responsibilities

• The power in consistent creativity and its effect on health

• Her upcoming course, free workshops and podcast

• And more!

Mentioned in this episode:

Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us by Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen

Connect with Beth:

https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill

https://bdi-celebrate.today/

Create Today Podcast

https://www.instagram.com/b.b.buffington_celebratetoday/

https://www.facebook.com/BDIcreatetoday

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bbbuffington/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFNR_jaR-CnBXIHC5RVTnQg

https://www.skillshare.com/profile/Beth-Buffington/4859209

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by botanical watercolor artist, teacher and podcast host Ping He. Ping made a career change from flower consultant to botanical artist in 2019 and shortly thereafter launched a successful stationary and gift brand, Ping He Art where she turned her intricate designs into beautiful paper products. Today, her art is available in 150 stores across 12 counties. In 2021, Ping was diagnosed with breast cancer which is when she realized her need and desire to live a life with purpose and she created Thriving Women Artists, a podcast by Ping and two friends sharing their tips and knowledge when it comes to working as a freelance artist and encouraging other women in creative industries. Amongst her work, Pink is currently working on designing a creative app called Botany Works where creative expats can share their passion for botanical art as well as live a creative and fulfilled life on their own terms.

Margo and Ping discuss:

• What it was like growing up during cultural revolution in China and what it taught her

• Taking charge of your own destiny and understanding what you want out of your own life and business

• Considering your own business risks and personal aspirations

• Taking baby steps and being unafraid of your own possibility and potential

• Navigating health challenges for herself and her child and how they affected her business

• How she balances motherhood and a creative business

• The richness of opportunities that come from collaboration

• Passion, authenticity and self-belief

• And more!

Connect with Ping:

www.pinghe.art

www.instagram.com/pinghe.art

https://www.facebook.com/pingheartstudio/

https://www.instagram.com/twapodcast/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

This week Margo and her sister play a bit of a role reversal and Margo is interviewed In the Windowsill! As the creator and host of the podcast, Margo rarely shares intimately about herself but she figured it was time to change that. Margo shares her experience with wire art and the moment a piece of art went from an act of creativity to monetized creativity, working in wholesale, collaborating with artists to create unique retail products, and bridging the gap between creatives and their businesses. She also discusses her love of music, the personal growth she’s experienced over the past year, and her current pursuits in silversmithing and jewelry making. With the help of Shelley, Margo explores her insights on reinvention, self-reflection, and her plans for 2024.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lynn Whipple’s 100 Bad Paintings

Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang

The Gown: A Novel of the Royal Wedding by Jennifer Robson

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

See full show notes at www.windowsillchats.com/podcast

Margo is joined by Shamanic Practitioner and Spiritual Guide Jade Chen. Jade supports and assists people on their healing journey and believes everyone has the capacity to activate the healer within. Her own awakening journey began in 2016 when life took some major turns and she left both a highly financially secure career and a relationship of over 6 years. She felt she had been living her life in a dazed dream; just going through the motions and trying her best to maintain surface happiness. She began to pray a lot and then reconnect to the spirit world through those prayers, and began to receive some answers. The messages she received included to acknowledge her own experience, pain and trauma and to go inward and hold space for herself in a way that felt real. Since 2016 she’s continued to receive messages that have allowed her to grow and evolve while helping others do the same. She works with people one on one and in group settings and also leads healing retreats throughout the year. 

Margo and Jade discuss:

• Jade’s year of transformation that led her to shamanic and spiritual work

• What a Shamanic Practitioner is and does

• Use of practices like meditation and connecting with nature for healing

• The connection between creativity and spirituality

• Tapping into our inner-child through creativity

• The commonality of being an empath among highly creative people

• Overcoming imposter syndrome and anxiety in sharing creative work

• And more

Connect with Jade:

www.mudlotuslife.com 

www.instagram.com/jadelotuschen 

Illuminated Women’s Business Retreat

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by artist, designer, and educator Rukmini Poddar. Rukmini’s creative passion lies at the intersection of emotional wellness and creative storytelling which she helps others connect to through her new book Draw Your Feelings: A Creative Journal to Help Connect with Your Emotions through Art. Rukmini found her creative voice through participating in the #100DayProject for over 9 consecutive years and has grown her instagram community to over 100,000 followers. She is best known for her drawings that give life to her personal emotions.

Margo and Rukmini discuss:

• Her personal and artistic journey

• The connection between emotions and art

• How vulnerability can inspire others

• Recognizing and working through different forms of resistance such as self-sabotage and procrastination

• The links between art, emotions, and mental wellness

• The importance of creativity for individuals in corporate roles and the need for more humanity in the workspace

• Her journey with 100-day projects

• Overcoming creative challenges

• The beauty in naivety when you’re doing something for the first time

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram

The Art of War by Steven Pressfield

Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown

Connect with Rukmini:

Draw Your Feelings by Rukmini Poddar

https://www.instagram.com/rockinruksi/

https://www.dearruksi.com/

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by writer, singer-songwriter, teacher, and coach Marisa Handler. Marisa is the author of Loyal to the Sky, which won a Nautilus Gold Award for world-changing books and her essays, fiction, and poetry have appeared in numerous publications. Her music is also streamed across large platforms such as Spotify and iTunes. Marisa earned her MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, and has received many fellowships in Creative Writing, including a Fulbright and an Elizabeth George Foundation grant. On the spiritual side, Marisa has been studying Insight Meditation in retreats and daily life since 2002, and instructing since 2012. She is a Certified Facilitator of The Work of Byron Katie, and has long-term practices in Authentic Movement, Somatic Experiencing, and various forms of dance. Marisa is the founder of Live Your Creative Genius, an in-depth coaching program offering a new paradigm for creative work, and she teaches on creativity, writing, and transformation at places like Stanford University, Spirit Rock Meditation Center, Esalen, and the California Institute for Integral Studies.

Margo and Marisa discuss:

• Her creative path and how spirituality plays a role in her many creative mediums

• Cultivating creativity, finding support in a creative community, and connecting with one's authentic voice

• The challenges of balancing creative pursuits with jobs

• Creating a sacred space for creativity

• Her 9 month coaching program

• How we are intrinsically creative beings

• How we do our best creative work by becoming who we truly are

• Embracing our shadow

• Viewing our obstacles as allies

Join Windowsill Chats Patreon for just $5 a month and receive early access to the Windowsill Chats Podcast, question submission for Q&A, replay's of monthly Q&A create-together sessions, a vibrant Facebook community, and more at www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill!

Connect with Marisa:

www.marisahandler.com

"Alchemize Your Creative Vision" on December 12th: https://marisahandler.com/programs/aycv/

Live your Creative Genius (9 month coaching): https://marisahandler.com/programs/lycg/

https://marisahandler.com/programs/firing-up-the-engines/ 

https://www.facebook.com/marisa.handler.3

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Q6NM99n37Lch8xG4Rjkfx?si=YqGdYLUaSo-JnGgyF_qbww

https://insighttimer.com/marisacreates

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Britta Borden-Tabor, a trailblazing digital influencer and empowerment coach whose passion knows no bounds. Britta has dedicated her life's mission to inspiring and uplifting women over 40, helping them uncover their passions and turn their dreams into reality. She isn't just a coach; she's a beacon of motivation, a force of nature, and a true inspiration to countless souls. Through her powerful words and magnetic presence, Britta ignites a flame within her audience, urging them to embrace their full potential and conquer any obstacles in their path. Her infectious enthusiasm and unshakeable belief in the power of women's dreams make her a compelling force in the realm of personal development.

Margo and Britta discuss:

• Her desire to be seen as someone different than she was typically seen as and how that was a catalyst in showing up in a new way

• The power in showing up without overthinking

• Creating a community versus creating following

• What it means to be authentic and step into your power

• Her role as a full time caregiver, special needs advocate and what it’s taught her

• Breaking the stereotype of what a plus size woman should wear

• Taking control of your own experiences and becoming an expert in your own life

• Finding a balance between making a profit and helping people

• Overcoming rejection before finding success on social media

• How paying it forward and helping others has resulted in unexpected rewards and joy

Join Windowsill Chats Patreon for just $5 a month and receive early access to the Windowsill Chats Podcast, question submission for Q&A, replay's of monthly Q&A create-together sessions, a vibrant Facebook community, and more at www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill!

Connect with Britta:

www.instagram.com/britt_dazzle

www.facebook.com/Britta Borden-Tabor

www.tiktok.com/@brittatabor

https://thebeekeepher.com/

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by fine artist Robyn Thayer. Robyn has been making the world a more appealing place as a beauty maker and storyteller since her first smile. Robyn’s art education is informal and profuse; a daily act. Her favorite artwork is large in scale and she prefers to use acrylics, water-soluble graphite and crayons, to create representational, contemporary abstract paintings. In this way she is able to convey a dreamlike quality- reflecting the innocence and grandeur of where the private inner world and the wild outside meet.

Margo and Robyn discuss:

• How Margo first discovered Robyn and how her creative path has evolved since that time.

• The transformative power of art and the importance of personal growth and experimentation

• Her artistic process and techniques as well as the challenges she has faced in the art world

• The importance of community and the power of bravery in supporting one another

• How her trauma has played a role in her creativity and even lends itself to her work

• Her upcoming book, storytelling through painting, musings, and poetry

• What it means to utilize rebel energy in creativity

• Intuitive art making

• And more!

Join Windowsill Chats Patreon for just $5 a month and receive early access to the Windowsill Chats Podcast, question submission for Q&A, replay's of monthly Q&A create-together sessions, a vibrant Facebook community, and more at www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill!

Connect with Robyn:

https://www.instagram.com/robyn_thayer_fine_art

www.RobynThayer.com

https://m.facebook.com/RobynThayer-ProfessionalArtist

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by watercolor artist and surface pattern designer Cass Deller. Most notably known for her modern, coastal art style, Cass blends the beauty of her natural surroundings and beach holiday nostalgia. Imbued with the subtle, relaxed tones of hazy beachside summers, her hand-painted watercolor artwork evokes understated luxury and effortless style. With over 10 years of experience as a designer and a passion for collaboration, Cass has worked with many Global Companies as well as some of Australia's most well-known brands to bring a fresh, modern edge to the lifestyle and fashion industry.

Margo and Cass discuss:

• Her creative entrepreneurial path and the many different niches she’s worked in

• Discovering and developing her own artistic style and how she helps others in discovering theirs

• Why collaborating is the backbone of her creative career

• Strategies and practices that have helped her maintain a positive and productive mindset 

• Her surface pattern design course and mentorship opportunities

• Following joy and curiosity. How she does it herself and how she encourages others to embrace their creative pursuits

Join the waitlist for Surface Pattern Design for Creative Entrepreneurs. Get 10% off eligible offers using code MARGO. 

Connect with Cass:

https://www.instagram.com/cassdellerdesign

https://www.cassdeller.com.au

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by dental hygienist turned water color illustrator, Ivy Zellmer. With a lifelong love of paper and artful entertaining, Ivy created her first stationary series at the age of nine. She bundled up the papers and shipped them across the country—an early love letter to hand-lettered correspondence. Then, in her formative years of early womanhood, Ivy traveled to France, an experience that forever influenced her artistic aesthetic. These passions artfully combined, and what started as hand-painted gift tags and a holiday card with Ivy’s signature bicycle has transformed into Napa Valley’s premier watercolor house. After dedicating 15 years to dentistry, Ivy shifted back to her childhood passions, keeping the art of a handwritten note alive, and is now running a full-time design and luxury "paperie" gift collection. Today, Ivy Paperie is dedicated to providing a portal to an elevated life—sharing beauty, spreading joy, and creating genuine connection through elegant gifting.

Margo and Ivy discuss:

• Her path from dental hygienist to full time creative artist and what helped her take the leap

• The impact that studying abroad in France had on her

• Her experience working with a mastermind group and with mentors

• Creating a wholesale catalog and why it was crucial in the success of her business

• Collaborating with local stores and businesses before casting a wider net 

• Ways to stand out in a world of digital communication, specifically with handwritten notes

• Building credibility, reputation, and experience as a creative

• Finding a supportive community 

• And more

Join Windowsill Chats Patreon for just $5 a month and receive early access to the Windowsill Chats Podcast, question submission for Q&A, replay's of monthly Q&A create-together sessions, a vibrant Facebook community, and more at www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill!

Connect with Ivy: 

https://ivypaperie.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ivypaperie/

https://www.instagram.com/ivypaperie/

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

This week, Margo is joined by illustrator, artist, teacher, and all-around creative person, Lisa Bardot. With the iPad and Procreate as her medium of choice, she creates industry-leading digital brushes, tutorials, and art-making resources to help beginners and experienced artists alike find joy in creating. Her tutorials and classes have been viewed by millions, with high praise for her thorough, concise, and fun teaching style. Additionally, she runs Making Art Everyday, providing drawing prompts and challenges to help people overcome fears and develop an art-making practice, as well as Art Maker’s Club, a joy-filled creative community and learning hub for digital art-makers.

Margo and Lisa discuss:

• Lisa’s creative path and how she became involved with Procreate

• Discovering and creating new Photoshop brush styles

• Launching her daily art challenge

• The endless creativity and benefits of using procreate

• Procreate enhances art, replicates traditional techniques.

• The beauty of connection and collaboration when it comes to creating and how she nurtures her online communities

• Approachable techniques to improve artistic skills quickly.

• Drawing in Procreate and digitally versus pen to paper

• And her new book, Drawing Digital: The Complete Guide to Learning to Draw and Paint on Your iPad

Join Windowsill Chats Patreon for just $5 a month and receive early access to the Windowsill Chats Podcast, question submission for Q&A, replay's of monthly Q&A create-together sessions, a vibrant Facebook community, and more at www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill!

Connect with Lisa:

https://bardotbrush.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lisabardot/

https://www.artmakersclub.com/

https://www.instagram.com/artmakersclub

Order Drawing Digital: The Complete Guide for Learning to Draw and Paint on Your iPad

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by renowned author, artist and designer, Annie Sloan who is one of the world’s most popular experts in the field of decorative painting. After studying Fine Art at university in the 1970s, Annie went on to write her first book, The Complete Book of Decorative Paint Techniques – which is considered to be the industry bible on the subject. Since then, she has published 26 books on paint effects, color, and interior design. In 1990 Annie invented her revolutionary no-prep Chalk Paint, which transformed the world of furniture painting. Wall Paint and Satin Paint were added to the range and today Annie Sloan has a huge following of interior designers, professional painters and up-cyclers who love to bring Annie’s color expertise to their homes. Her creative flair has led her to being named one of Britain’s most influential female designers and she was awarded a CBE for services to Interior Design in 2023.

Margo and Annie discuss:

• Annie’s creative path and studying different mediumships of art

• Her process for mixing colors

• Decorative paint techniques

• How being an early adopter to social media has played a role in the success of her business

• The process of creating her revolutionary chalk paint

• How and why she began to sell her paints beyond her own shop and what makes her stockists successful

• Being awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for her services to Interior Design

• And more!

Connect with Annie:

www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome

www.instagram.com/chalkpaint

www.instagram.com/anniesloanstagram

https://www.youtube.com/@AnnieSloanHome

https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome/

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

Margo is joined by Nurse Practitioner, mentor, guide and coach for midlife-ish women (and her sister!) Shelley Tantau. Shelley has a superpower for empowering others to see beyond their perceived boundaries in order to find healing, clarity, and incite positive change within their lives. Her journey through grief after the loss of a dear friend was the catalyst to challenging cultural and societal norms as well as the stories she told herself to find healing and joy within. Shelley believes that the world needs people that are living their most full and vibrant lives…not ones that are “just fine” and that your joy matters just as much as the person next to you.

Margo and Shelley discuss:

• Putting a stop to the glorification of busyness

• Fear around exposing ourselves to vulnerability

• Understanding trauma in order to heal from it

• Creativity and its relation to healing

• Liberation work and why it’s been so important in Shelley’s own journey

• Habits: the bad and the good, the learning and unlearning

• Finding joy after loss and grief

• Stepping into authenticity and finding one's true path

Connect with Shelley:

https://www.shelleytantau.com/

https://www.instagram.com/stantau

https://www.facebook.com/shelley.tantau/

https://www.pinterest.com/stantau/

Margo is joined by interior designer Karen Nepacena and photographer Christopher Dibble to discuss mid century modern design, approaching creativity in their own ways, and how their fun and unique collaborative partnership came to be.

Karen is the founder of Destination Eichler which began as a design blog chronicling her and her husband's journey renovating their Eichler home in Northern California. Soon after it started, the blog gained national attention and they began taking on clients who were attracted to their modern design aesthetic and focus on mid-century modern architecture. In 2016 Destination Eichler transitioned from an online blog into a full service interior design firm helping homeowners re-imagine and transform their homes.

Christopher is a photographer, husband, and dog guy, and loves to use color in unpredictable ways that surprise and contribute to a great image. He doesn’t shy away from visual experimentation and loves collaborative projects where challenging situations motivate him to stretch his creativity and vision. Chris is passionate about photographing interiors and people within those spaces - connecting with people and earning their trust in front of the lens being his #1 goal. He captures images that span between clean elegance and whimsical fun with a range landing somewhere between editorial storytelling and catalog crispness. His work has been featured in editorial publications including House Beautiful, Dwell, HGTV, Country Living, Entertainment Weekly, Time, Paper, and People Magazine, among others.

Together, Karen Nepacena and Christopher Dibble's have recently released a new book, Midcentury Modern Style which takes readers on a visual journey through 12 real and down-to-earth midcentury inspired homes, offering a practical guide to incorporating the style into any space. The two artists have been collaborating for several years to capture Karen's interior design work, and an artistic partnership and friendship blossomed. The pair created Midcentury Modern Style for anyone curious to learn more about the design period or anyone who wants to incorporate midcentury flair into their homes.

Mentioned in this episode:

Store Market Market in Palm Springs https://www.shopmarketmarket.com/

Modernism Week https://modernismweek.com/

Dev Heyrana https://www.heyrana.studio/

John Henry - Stranger Fruit  https://www.jonhenryphotography.com/#1

Alys Tomlinson http://www.alystomlinson.co.uk/

Jessica Poundstone https://www.jessicapoundstone.com/

Connect with Karen and Chris:

https://www.instagram.com/destinationeichler/

https://www.instagram.com/dibblephoto/

https://www.destinationeichler.com/book

Margo is joined by artist and illustrator, Megan Price, otherwise known by her business name The Darling Fig. Megan feels like she has had many creative incarnations but it wasn't until she dusted off her paintbrushes and embraced the fact that she was an artist, that she finally found a medium through which she could fully express her full creative vision. Megan paints by hand to capture the joy in life’s everyday moments. She believes in slowing down and finding the magic in the little things. Her work can be seen as a collection of sustainably printed greeting cards and fine art prints, or as bespoke artwork commissions for clients.

Topics discussed: 

Her journey of creativity and why she started The Darling Fig

Finding enjoyment in the process of artistic creation

The sweet spot of creative flow

Her experience with art challenges

What art is really all about to her and why she doesn’t necessarily care if people love or hate her work but rather how it makes them feel

Gratitude and how journaling fosters a positive mindset as well as posts her creativity

Finding stillness in her creative practice

And more!

Connect with Megan: 

www.thedarlingfig.com.au

www.instagram.com/thedarlingfig

Margo is joined by fellow PNW island dweller, Rachel Phillips. Rachel is a mama to three boys, 32 chickens, and a 'robust' amount of art supplies. She refers to herself as a little Anne of Green Gables with a dash of Pippi longstocking and a side of Laura ingalls and holds a master's degree in wildflower picking, a doctorate in smearing paint and has studied extensively under the likes of mother nature, Grandfather Twilight and Bob Ross YouTube videos. Rachel has been practicing heART journaling for over a decade as a way for her to tell her story and the stories of people she meets along the way. They are jam-packed full of art, artifacts (heARTifacts), quotes, lists, collages, illustrations and pretty much everything but the kitchen sink. Her creative niche is joy and she does and makes whatever she feels like, whenever she feels like while giving others permission to do the same. 

Topics discussed:

[10:27] Why Rachel was led to journaling and the nostalgia it brought

[16:14] Moving to an island helped me relax.

[22:59] Storytelling: how stories connect generations and spark magical experiences.

[28:30] Fitting your creativity in as it works for you. Why Rachel does pick-up pages instead of morning pages.

[29:33] Rachel’s new online course and unique way of sharing creative tips for journaling.

[34:58] How she’s manifested her current life and what she hopes to manifest in the future. 

[45:06] Living authentically and honestly and the pros and cons that come with it.

[46:29] Being multi passionate

[56:02] Who inspires Rachel

Connect with Rachel:

www.instagram.com/rachelphillips3

www.plantingmarigolds.com

https://plantingmarigolds.teachable.com/p/heart-journal-course

Margo is joined by artist, illustrator and quintessential creative entrepreneur, Becky Dawson. Becky started screen printing t-shirts in her spare bedroom 12 years ago with a little knowledge and a lot of hope (and creativity) and has since evolved into designing and manufacturing her own line of paper and gift products sold in 100’s of stores worldwide. She paints, draws, and makes ceramic creations on top of owning and managing a brick and mortar gallery & gift shop that exclusively carries her art and products. Becky’s art is a creative world full of mythical creatures, farm animals and pets, plants and flowers and she’s inspired by the beautiful, the unusual, joy, and fun.

Topics Discussed:

[00:55] Becky’s early creative path going from hairstylist to graphic tee designer and Etsy shop owner

[07:55] Discovering creative potential and consistent income through new endeavors

[18:06] Finding new ways to manage and ship products in order to focus on her art

[20:03] How Becky built her brand locally and why she opted out of most trade shows

[27:48] Finding connection through art and conversations with others

[36:13] Getting into ceramics

[42:29] How slow periods have led to artistic growth and expansion

[44:17] Getting creative during the pandemic and opening her self-serve gift shop

[51:19] Advice for emerging artists and creatives on finding their own path

[54:22] People inspiring Becky

Mentioned in this episode:

Morgen Barrett

Budgie Goods

Connect with Becky:

http://onelaneroad.com/

www.instagram.com/onelaneroad

www.facebook.com/onelaneroadart

Margo is joined by elementary school art teacher Faigie Kobre. Faigie uses a choice based method called TAB (teaching for artistic behavior) and has recently developed a program for schools called Beyond Copycat Crafts that helps other teachers aid in how to give children developmentally appropriate, creative art instead of copycat, cookie cutter crafts. Faigie also has taught adult creativity through mixed media and alcohol inks. She teaches the difference between creativity and artistic ability and how our own thoughts on this subject likely stems from our childhood experiences.

Topics discussed:

[02:53] How a business course unexpectedly sparked creativity in Faigie

[08:34] Why she was initially rejected from a coaching program and how taking initiative changed her coaches mind

[12:02] How perfectionism stifles creativity; art is problem-solving.

[21:04] How and why creativity develops differently in us and when we begin to see self-doubt with our own creative abilities

[22:27] How mixed media art has been both transformational and liberating for Faigie

[27:39] Teaching for artistic behavior. Faigie’s choice-based program  that teaches drawing, collage, painting and creates an exciting learning environment for kids

[31:36] Guiding kids to embrace challenges in creativity

[33:11] Integration of art in education and curriculum

[37:06] Teaching art concepts with freedom, not restrictions

[47:49] How she got involved with alcohol inks and her course

Connect with Faigie:

www.eduart4kids.com

www.eduart4kids.com/beyond

www.instagram.com/eduart4kids

https://www.pinterest.com/faigie/

https://www.facebook.com/eduart4kids/

Margo is joined by co-founder and creative director of El Extraordinario, Marcus Hurst. El Extraordinario is an award winning creative outfit specialized in audio fiction and podcasts making timeless long form content with high production values and a strong emphasis on sound design. Looking more to music record labels like XL Recordings as inspiration for creating podcasts rather than traditional podcasting, El Extraordinario is anything but traditional.

Marcus shares his experiences in the world of blogging, journalism, and now podcasting, and how he’s found success in being adaptable, assembling a solid team, brand partnerships, how he manages social media personally and professionally and much more.

Topics discussed:

[02:23] Blogging and its impact on journalism

[06:57] The monopolization of blogging

[11:49] Developing a different approach to journalism

[19:08] The importance of high production values and audio engineering with the types of content he produces

[23:16] Creating a successful sponsored brand podcast in partnership with Switzerland Tourism

[25:48] Coming up with new ideas and how to execute them. Exploring the freedom and risk-taking that comes into play at El Extraordinario

[33:13] Spanish elegance and politeness with ground rules.

[38:26] Benefits of having a small team and understanding each person's unique values

[39:45] Connections and creativity within the podcasting realm

[48:07] Spanish speaking markets versus English speaking markets

[50:03] Upcoming podcast projects

[54:22] People and things currently inspiring Marcus

Connect with Marcus:

https://www.instagram.com/elextraordinario.wtf/

https://twitter.com/marcushurst/

Margo is joined by certified empowerment coach, Sheila Kamuda. Sheila was inspired to become a coach through her own healing journey after the loss of her husband, and leadership experience where she directed a team of 20 creatives and eventually started Live Out Loud Coaching. She is passionate about helping professionals value who they are and what they "bring to the party" and recognize they have not been put here to just take up space but to realize their full potential. 

 In this episode, Sheila opens up about her own healing journey and how it led her to create her coaching company, her creative practices that helped aid in her healing journey, how to embrace your own brilliance, the power of gratitude, her books and a whole lot more.

Topics discussed:

[04:31] How grieving led to writing letters to her husband and where she received the message to become a coach.

[09:23] Boosting your own confidence and recognizing your accomplishments.

[22:25] Her innovative journal with empowering and simple prompts.

[23:49] Choosing happiness, gratitude, kindness, and self-love. Magical, life-changing principles in a gratitude journal.

[29:20] Overcoming self-doubt, releasing blocks, and trusting intuition.

[32:55] The power in reflecting on past actions and seeking improvement.

[37:39] Her book and how it helps individuals embrace being alone and heal.

[48:41] Who inspires Sheila

Mentioned in this episode:

Sydney

Connect with Sheila:

https://www.liveoutloudcoaching.com/

www.instagram.com/liveoutloudcoach

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-kamuda-a056882/

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by contemporary visual artist and illustrator Melissa Lakey. Melissa is based in Joshua Tree, California, where the windows of her art studio look out into the Mojave Desert. Her colorful work celebrates the landscape and animals of the American Southwest and her love of cowboys, road trips, and summer vacations. Melissa shares on observing others and how it can inspire our own creative processes, the concept of using sketchbooks with specific themes and approaching journaling, overcoming creative obstacles and more.

Topics discussed:

[01:32] An introduction to Melissa

[05:12] Her unique art journey: finding passions and discovering new possibilities

[12:25] Exploring different techniques and materials in vibrant art

[13:13] Her love for art supplies and some of her favorite tools

[20:21] Her first residency experience and the inspiration and motivation she found in attending 

[26:29] First show in Joshua Tree and the feedback she received 

[35:39] Thoughts on self-identification and artistic work

[39:20] Her sketchbook practice and how it aids in her projects and bigger works

[42:42] The value she finds in exploring other artists methods

[47:59] Thoughts on teaching

Margo and Melissa also discuss why she took a break from creating and the fears that come up when taking a break, her number one tip for 100-day projects, why social media friends have been pivotal in her career and why she doesn’t live post her work but rather waits a month or so to post. 

Mentioned in this episode:

Sarah Dyer (https://www.sarahdyer.com/)

Sou'wester Lodge Artist Residency (https://www.souwesterlodge.com/art/artist-residency/)

Hey There Projects (https://www.heythereprojects.com/)

Wyatt Hersey (https://www.wyatthersey.com/)

Emma Carslile (https://www.emmacarlisle.com/)

Natalie Lundeen (https://natlundeen.myportfolio.com/)

Connect with Melissa:

https://www.melissalakey.com

https://www.instagram.com/melissa.lakey

"Colors of the Sun, Songs of the Moon" in Taos, NM from August 19th - September 20th (https://www.instagram.com/lunojo_gallery/)

Sketchbook Workshop (https://inkygoodness.samcart.com/products/sketchbook-workshop-melissa-lakey/)

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by talented artist and writer, Caitlin Metz. Caitlin is an illustrator and designer, cloud-watching feeler, new poetry convert, wayward design professor, and a queer gentle parent. They’re also irreverent, silly, and deeply romantic about what art-making and feeling your feelings can do for oneself and the world. From drawing to photography, poetry to collaging, Caitlin explores various mediums to express themself and invites others to do the same.

Throughout the conversation, Caitlin shares about the power of the body map and how it can help us understand and navigate pain and other feelings, as well as how it’s been a transformative practice for themself. They also share insights into their creative process, including the importance of making space to get bored, engaging in activities that fill them back up, and recognizing the value of small snippets of writing and record-keeping.

Caitlin has an amazing new book just out, (their second) called Feel Something Make Something; a guide to collaborating with your emotions.

Episode Topics:

[00:00] Introduction to Caitlin

[06:09] How art-making is a gift as well as a form of relief and self-care

[14:39] The concept of the body map and its impact on understanding chronic pain

[24:42] Finding resilience in personal practices and the power of returning to them over and over again

[29:17] Using curiosity, attention, and storytelling to drive creative practices

[36:22] How making space to get bored fuels creativity

[41:28] Melding their teaching practice with self-care and how they teach their students

[47:18 ] Learning the rhythm of their body and using it to their advantage

[58:49] Where to find them online, their amazing new book Feel Something Make Something, social media, Patreon, Etsy, and loads more

Mentioned in this episode:

Invisible Things by Andy J. Pizza, Sophie Miller 

Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience by Brené Brown

Allison Kunath Art

Connect with Caitlin:

www.caitlinmetz.com 

www.patreon.com/caitlinmetz

www.instagram.com/caitlinhasfeels 

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Brandi Kincaid for a chat on finding inspiration, the power of journaling, and the art of sending extravagant hope by mail. Brandy, a tiny treasure seeker and paper lover, shares her experiences as a designer, creator, and curator of monthly hope packages as they delve into the creative process behind these packages, the importance of personal connections, and the impact they have on both the sender and the recipient. Brandy's passion for journaling and her thoughtful, empathetic approach to her work shines through as she shares insights, tips, and glimpses into the art of finding meaning in the world.

Margo and Brandi discuss:

• Showing up unapologetically

• What it means to bring your tender self to the table

• Why she keeps a commonplace book and notebook with her everywhere she goes

• How she customizes her Extravagant Hope designs  for what her community needs each month

• Gentle softness and quiet vs. motivation and a call to action

• What her journal pages reflect

• Her different art supply preferences 

• Creating and sharing work as personal expression, not for validation or commercial purposes

• Why she still sends physical products instead of going 100% digital

• Her process of designing, making, packaging for Extravagant Hope package Her internal battles when it comes to marketing and promoting 

• Sourcing inspiration

Mentioned in this episode:

Words in Air: The Complete Correspondence Between Elizabeth Bishop and Robert Lowell

The Habit of Being: Letters of Flannery O'Connor by Flannery O'Connor and Sally Fitzgerald

Quilts of Gee’s Bend

Connect with Brandi:

https://www.instagram.com/brandi_kincaid

Www.theshinybits.com

Www.Brandikincaid.com

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this episode, Margo is joined by her very own Social Media Manager, Mackenzie Jones. With a diverse and fascinating creative journey of her own, she has become an invaluable resource for artists and makers seeking to harness the power of social media marketing to propel their artistic careers. She dives into her own creative experience and how she became a self-taught social media expert, fostering authentic connections through different platforms, fostering authentic connections and tons of tangible tips for using social media in your own creative business. 

Margo and Mackenzie discuss: 

• Understanding the social media landscape

• The challenge of self-promotion that many creatives face

• How to choose which platforms to use in your business

• Creating an impactful online presence

• Brand voice and exposure

• Common pitfalls she sees creatives (including herself!) make

• Content pillars

• Aligning with your audience

Send Mackenzie a DM that says "1:1" @socialcreativebrand to get all the details on her special offering! 

Connect with Mackenzie:

https://www.instagram.com/socialcreativebrand/

Connect with Margo:

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.windowsillchats.com

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this episode, Margo dives into the habits of successful creatives - the habits that she’s navigated herself and what she sees in the many other creatives she’s both worked with and learned from. Finding consistency in practices, embracing failure and iteration, collaborating and networking through different mediums and experiences, and building genuine relationships, explore with Margo what sets creatives apart!

Learn more about Shared Studio Sessions with Margo and get on the waitlist! 

Margo is joined by two creative powerhouses, Erin Drews and Leigh Standley to discuss their collaboration of art, words, and working together. Erin Drews is a Michigan based artist inspired by nature and Fauvism. She loves using color to create visual excitement and play, most typically through the subject of flowers. She's been described as "pink lemonade with a shot of whiskey," and when she's not creating, you can find her laughing, connecting, collecting art, immersing herself in nature, and enjoying the people she loves.

Leigh Standley is the artist, writer and owner of Curly Girl Design, Inc. where her line of clever and colorful greeting cards and gift items have taken the industry by delightful storm. Focused on the magic of the small moments, her product peeks into the corners of life and taps into the hearts of all.Founded in 2003, the company began with just 12 greeting cards and grew steadily. In 2005, Leigh was the recipient of her first LOUIE award for greeting card excellence and was nominated for 3 more in 2010. Her work and studio have been featured in creative publications like Where Women Create, Stationery Trends, Boho Magazine. Leigh believes firmly in the power of a creative community and the power of that community to unlock our truest selves. 

Margo, Leigh and Erin discuss:

• Their own creative businesses and a beautiful collaboration they’re working on

• Mental health, adult ADHD, depression, PTSD, and how it has informed their art

• The loneliness that can come from being a solo creative and how they work through that

• Some of Erin’s unique art collections

• Why she currently has a career outside of her art

• What it means to live in wonder and curiosity

• The intersection of the creative act and faith or spirituality

• The very unique funding model that Erin works on through Hope College and how it can be a difference maker in many people’s lives

Connect with Erin:

www.isntagram.com/drews_barrymore

www.erindrewsart.com

Connect with Leigh:

https://www.curlygirldesign.com/

https://www.instagram.com/leigh.standley/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by independent artist and art business agency owner, Sarah Lörenk. Sarah graduated with a BFA in 2011 and has worked as an independent artist since then. She first began her creative business as a stationary designer moving from retail into wholesale before venturing into street art. She learned through several iterations of her business the difference between artist and entrepreneur and realized there was a big gap in the market for supporting artists as entrepreneurs. Now, through her company, The Time Art, she provides artists with the essential tools and support to help them run successful and sustainable creative businesses. 

Margo and Sarah discuss:

• Her creative journey from stationary to graffiti and business management

• Selling wholesale versus retail as a paper goods creator

• Setting goals in relation to who you’re marketing to

• Visual intelligence

• The fundamental differences between artists and entrepreneurs and why you have to have business structure if you want to turn a profit from your art

• The pros and cons of social media as an artist

• Why you need to have content pillars and what they look like

• Visibility versus profitability

• And more!

Mentioned in this episode:

Visual Intelligence: Sharpen Your Perception, Change Your Life by Amy Herman

Connect with Sarah:

https://www.thetime-art.com/

https://www.instagram.com/thetime.art/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thetime.art

Business Model Template

Margo is joined by artist, art retreat facilitator, and author Carrie Schmitt. Carrie began painting in 2009 while bedridden after being diagnosed with a life-threatening allergy to heat. She paid attention to a very poignant internal message. Since then she has devoted her life to creativity in many facets and allows herself and creativity to continue to evolve. Her mission is to teach students not only how to paint, but more importantly to have a loving relationship with your art because it has the power to heal, empower, and transform us when we offer it our tenderness instead of our criticism.

Carrie teaches online classes and in-person retreats at her home and artist sanctuary called House of Miracles in Steilacoom, Washington. She also licenses her art for products, including stationary, home décor, clothing, and more. She has written several books, including The Story of Every Flower, a 10 year celebration of her journey as an artist. Her picture book A Flower in Her Heart: The True Story of an Artist Who Bloomed, won the Mom’s Choice Award in 2022. 

Margo and Carrie discuss: 

• How creativity has guided her through big life changes and transitions

• Her life changing diagnosis and how it really became the catalyst to her spiritual and creative journey

• The story of what she calls her “accidental spiritual pilgrimage” and what she learned from it

• Creating the House of Miracles and how it came to be

• Her experience of working through feelings of shame and silent suffering and how things changed when she became more vulnerable and spoke on her struggles

• Honoring the feminine

• Why she talks and listens to her paintings and encourages others to do the same

• Finding freedom and non-judgement within herself

• Getting to know creativity in a new way

Mentioned in this episode:

Puget Sound Plungers

Chromophobia by David Batchelor

Ilarion Merculieff

Connect with Carrie:

www.carrieschmittdesign.com

www.instagram.com/carrieschmitt

www.facebook.com/CarrieSchmittArtAndDesign

Margo is joined by former teacher & blogger turned entrepreneur, and second time guest in the Windowsill, Anna Huff. As a business mindset coach, Anna works to empower women to pursue their passions and live in authentic alignment with who they were divinely designed to be. Through years of burnout and struggling to find alignment, Anna played small. Thinking that if she just did more, worked harder, learned more, and achieved more she would find what she was looking for. What she discovered was that nothing she could ever do, earn, or say would make her any more worthy of becoming who she was divinely designed to be. Through the process of fully discovering her purpose, she now helps others master their own mindset practice in order to live in alignment and acceptance of who they really are.

Margo and Anna discuss: 

• Permission and acceptance to be multi passionate

• Human design and how it allows you to go deeper in self-discovery

• How to sit in the discomfort and feel your way through fear

• The mindset shift that made meditating easier for her 

• What success mindset is and how to operate from it

• Detaching from the outcome 

• Not letting fear have all the fun

• Vulnerability, openness, and growing awareness to one's thoughts

Connect with Anna:

www.instagram.com/theannahuff

www.facebook.com/theannahuff

www.theannahuff.com

Join the Mindset & Marketing Facebook Group

Margo is joined by sisters Kim and Tracy of Hearts on Fiber out of Davidson, North Carolina. Kim and her three daughters were of the belief that every small town needs a local yarn store so when the Davidson craft center closed, an empty space for fiber arts opened. The urge was so strong to try and fill the “space” that they quickly began planning a way to open a new kind of craft store.

Hearts on Fiber started with little more than an idea, late nights dyeing yarn out of their kitchen which became the laundry room and eventually the attic until their passionate mission to be so much more for their town came to fruition. Since moving into their current location in downtown Davidson, the business has expanded and Kim’s sister Tracy has taken on a role within the business. Hearts on Fiber provides kits and tools for a range of fiber arts, along with the space to learn, inspire, explore fiber arts, build community, and so much more.

Margo, Kim and Tracy discuss:

• The stars aligning and how Hearts on Fiber really came to be

• Instilling creativity in her daughters from a young age

• How working with family impacts their business and managing different personalities

• How Tracy came into the business

• How to cultivate community through inspiring and teaching

• Making knitting/fiber arts accessible to people of all levels

• Demystifying knitting techniques

• Private class offerings versus group classes

• Where to start if interested in knitting for the first time

• And so much more

Connect with Kim & Tracy:

https://www.heartsonfiber.com/

www.instagram.com/heartsonfiber

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by self-taught polymer clay artist Rachael Skidmore.  Rachael’s passion for self-expression, penchant for artistic creativity, and dedication to hard work have been the foundation of her success as a small business owner for over 13 years.

She established MadebyMaeberry in Aug 2019 and has inspired large audiences through her social media presence online and delivered hands-on teaching by hosting intimate classes in person. 

 While she is widely recognized in the polymer clay community for producing high-quality pieces, her voice of genuine support for inclusivity is what makes her stand out as a creator. A curator of color with a knack for original design and tantalizing patterns, Rachael takes inspiration from all aspects of her life; from her passion for vintage clothing to her love for hiking in the mountains with her family. 

Margo and Rachael discuss: 

• Her journey from social work to polymer clay creativity

• Her mental health journey: therapy, medication, and living with ADHD

• The importance of having people to lean on to aide in your success

• How to scale when you like to work for yourself and by yourself

• Finding harmony between creative work and family life

• Risk taking and growing her audience

• Her experience in publishing a book

• And more

Connect with Rachael:

http://madebymaeberry.com/

www.instagram.com/madebymaeberry

Polymer Clay Jewelry; The Ultimate Guide to Making Wearable Art Earrings

Polymer Clay Jewelry Design for Beginners (Dometika Course)

Margo is joined by self-taught artist, writer, and internationally recognized best-selling author Meera Lee Patel. Meera writes books that help people connect with themselves, each other, and the world around them. Her books & journals for everyone have sold well over a million copies and have been translated into more than a dozen languages worldwide. In 2021, Meera was awarded the Olin Fellowship to pursue her MFA in Illustration & Visual Culture at Washington University in St. Louis, MO. After spending many years waiting for “the right time” to pursue her first love, children’s literature, she’s finally following her heart. In the forthcoming years, while continuing her advocacy for greater mental health awareness through her work, she hopes to write and illustrate for children and the grownups who care for them.

Margo and Meera discuss:

• Meera’s journey from feeling disconnected in her career to finding fulfillment through creativity

• Upholding the values instilled by her immigrant parents

• Managing her full time job and her creative career for 8 years and what it taught her

• The importance of building resilience and discipline 

• What she believes is the main difference between people who are successful or not successful

• Having dedication to your vision

• The vulnerability and unknown involved in deciding to work on oneself

• Imposter syndrome as a self-taught artist and author

• Why she decided to go to school for her MFA, how it’s been challenging, and how she’s used it as a unique opportunity

• Navigating motherhood, marriage, and multiple family businesses

How It Feels to Find Yourself: Navigating Life's Changes with Purpose, Clarity, and Heart

Connect with Meera:

www.meeralee.com

www.instagram.com/meeraleepatel

https://twitter.com/meeraleepatel

https://meeraleepatel.substack.com/

Margo is joined by printmaker, surface designer, textile artist, and author Jen Hewett. Jen’s work combines her love of loud prints, 1970s maximalism, and saturated colors with the textures and light of the landscapes that surround her. In addition to creating her own products, Jen designs fabric for the quilting and home sewing market, and home collections for national manufacturers and retailers. Her clients include: Moda Fabrics, World Market, Anthropologie, Blue Sky Planners, and Brewster Home Fashions. She is the author of Print, Pattern, Sew, and This Long Thread: Women of Color on Craft, Community and Connection.

Margo and Jen discuss:

• Her creative path from HR consulting to creative and where she got the courage to change career paths

• Creating creative momentum

• Finding harmony as a self-employed artist

• Keeping your day job until your business is viable

• Why she shares her income sources and breakdown publicly 

• When and where she started to notice a lack of diversity within the craft community

• Why she believes in selling her misprints (and why they often sell quickly)

• Working in digital versus analog and her process for each

• Some of her new collections and projects she’s looking forward to

• And so much more

Connect with Jen:

https://jenhewett.com/

www.instagram.com/jenhewett

Margo is joined by Utah based photographer Justin Hackworth. Working throughout the United States for a variety of wedding, portrait, corporate and editorial clients, Justin's work has been shown in galleries throughout Utah and in publications such as Parade, Glamour, American Photo, The London Times, The Wall Street Journal, along with many others. In addition to his photography work, Justin is a sought-after speaker and educator, offering workshops and events, and even teaches as an adjunct professor at Utah Valley University.

Justin's unique style and engaging approach to photography have earned him a loyal following on social media, where he shares his insights and experiences with fellow photographers and enthusiasts. He is always trying new ideas, exploring what is possible with his camera and discovering new creative avenues, making him one of Utah's most sought after photographers.

Justin and Margo discuss:

• His creative path and how he ended up in the field of photography (thanks to elective credits)

• His longtime mentor and inspirer, Kent Miles

• Learning and understanding what makes great light

• The drawback to knowing what works and finding your style

• The importance of not caring what others think in certain scenarios when it comes to creativity

• His approach and process of getting to know his subjects before shooting

• Overcoming fear when it comes to your creativity

• How a clear vision is critical to quality

• And much more

Connect with Justin:

www.justinhackworth.com

www.instagram.com/justinhackworth

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by productivity expert, author, and host of the "Take Tiny Action" podcast, Monique Malcolm. Monique helps overwhelmed women take control of their lives, one tiny action at a time. Her approach to coaching and personal development is holistic, taking into account the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. With her book "Don't Let Fear Have All the Fun" and one-on-one coaching, Monique helps clients overcome their fears and achieve their goals. Monique's larger mission is to help people see a greater possibility for their lives.

Margo and Monique chat about:

• Her creative path and how she brings her ideas to life

• The importance in building sustainable businesses that feel good

• Having self-awareness around creating your own process

• Releasing the “how” and trusting in your higher power

• Owning the things that cause you fear

• Creating structure and strategy in order to spend time being creative

• Tuning into your greater possibility and opportunities

• And more

Connect with Monique:

https://taketinyaction.com/

https://www.instagram.com/taketinyaction/

https://www.instagram.com/moniqueemalcolm/

Don't Let Fear Have All the Fun (Book)

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by self-taught artist Tammy Smith. Tammy founded her studio in 2009 after designing gifts, giftwrap and partyware at Hallmark Cards Inc. Her first art teachers being her father and grandmother, Tammy’s first business was making large scale stained glass windows in her parents basement. After Hallmark, she began making mixed media wire and clay sculptures that she sold at art fairs around the country and the desire for stability eventually led to the online business she runs today.

In the past, Tammy has also illustrated children's books for Henry Holt, designed wire garden accessories and holiday collections for Studio M and Midwest CBK and licensed her surface pattern designs to Graphique de France and Unique Industries to name a few.

Margo and Tammy discuss:

• Her creative and multi-faceted career
• How she thinks up new concepts and why it’s her favorite part of the creative process
• Winning best in show at multiple art fairs
• Having resilience in the art industry
• Running an Etsy shop (Small Ideas Studio)
• Creating authentic connections within the art community
• And more

Connect with Tammy:

https://www.tammysmithdesign.com

https://www.etsy.com/shop/smallideasstudio

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by art agency owner and founder, Julie Ager. Julie started her career with twelve years of consulting on consumer product buying behavior with major mass merchandisers, department stores and other manufacturers and retailers throughout the United States, as well as Mexico and South Africa. From there she started the ADG agency in 1997 in partnership with a few close artist friends. Julie knows that developing great products requires more than great art and design; it requires teamwork, collaboration and a comprehensive understanding of today’s market which is why she built ADG on the foundation of partnership, creativity, integrity, and longevity.

Margo and Julie discuss:

• Her path from consultant to agency founder

• What she looks for in artists she represents

• What it’s like to run a small, sustainable art agency

• Navigating the customer journey as an artist and understanding the different roles required

• Manufacturing relationships

• How to move the consumer along and knowing who you’re selling to

• The ecosystem of agent-artist-product manager relationships within her own business

• What a product manager thinks about when trying to create a product that their customers will buy

• And more

Connect with Julie:

https://artsdg.com/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by tastemaker, blogger, and author Ted Kennedy Watson. After a childhood spent in Kansas City Ted moved to the Pacific Northwest, first to college in Portland, Oregon, and later to Seattle where he was instantly enchanted by the dramatic scenery. Once a long time tennis teacher and connoisseur of the game, Ted began his career in the visual arts by representing some of the friends and people he knew who were creating interesting objects. In the early 90s, Ted opened a wholesale showroom selling  to retailers all over the country. Neiman Marcus, Barney’s, Gump’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom to name a few.

Visitors have been flocking to Watson Kennedy Fine Living in Seattle’s Pike Place Market for 17 years to shop the just-right mix of treasures for the bed, bath, table, and home. The allure continues at its sister store, Watson Kennedy Fine Home, with an even larger selection of furnishings, one-of-a-kind finds, and little luxuries including botanically scented home fragrances and beauty products. From the framed artwork on the walls to the inventive vignettes that fill every corner, both shops are more than simple inventory—they are the expression of a particularly refined point of view, one that has been evolving Watson’s entire life. 

Margo and Ted discuss:

• How his identity motivated him change career paths

• The influence Seattle has had on him and his business

• The necessity to always be learning and growing within the retail industry

• How he was chosen to be on the creative team for the Bill and Melinda Gates wedding festivities

• Repetition: how he’s used it as a tool to gain knowledge on many things

• Being an early adapter to blogging

• His latest book, Ted Kennedy Watson’s Guide To Stylish Entertaining

• Having intention behind everything he does and offers

• And so much more

Connect with Ted:

https://www.tedkennedywatson.com/

https://watsonkennedy.com/

https://www.instagram.com/watsonkennedy/

Ted’s Curated Spotify Playlists

Margo is joined by the multi-passionate maker and designer, Leah Quinn. Self employed for 20+ years, Leah started as a web designer and event photographer and prior to that worked as a landscape & interior designer for both commercial and residential properties. Now, after moving from New York to slow rural village life in Southern Vermont, she is remodeling an 1865 Victorian Farmhouse with her own designs. 

Leah’s first memories of surface pattern design fascination came when she was five and she knew at that time she was to be an artist. As her journey continued she eventually discovered Make It in Design courses with Rachael Taylor that would finally allow her to dive into learning all about surface design. When she saw that her creative maker’s business was at a challenging stage of scaling and growing, she knew she had to create a life that supported what she could and wanted to do in the future.

Margo and Leah discuss: 

• Her winding journey that has included creative outlets such as music, interior design, web design, apothecary products, and more

• How she scaled her apothecary business

• Saying yes to your own interests and listening to your intuition

• Quieting the noise

• How courses changed her business

• Challenges and lessons she learned from scaling

• Her motivators to create every day

• And more

Connect with Leah:

www.LeahQuinn.com

www.Instagram.com/leahquinndesign

www.HeartandSoulApothecary.com

Margo is joined by artist, designer, illustrator, maker, and teacher Kelli May Krenz. For Kelli, creating is like breathing, she simply must do it. She believes in creating every day and has many interests when it comes to doing so. She has a deep love for painting, stitching, graphic design, illustration and everything she can possibly make in her studio and spends her days dreaming up things that make her happy hoping that by sharing, others will fill their happy cup too. Kelli likes to use vintage materials, all things found in nature, and is a huge believer in finding joy in creating with very little - using what she already has.

Margo and Kelli discuss:

• Kelli’s creative journey, and the twists within her personal life that shaped her professionally

• Her love for details and type fonts

• Creating more unique art by using what you already have on hand

• Creating online courses and her tips for others interested in teaching

• Her experience in finding and working with a representative

• Creating a stationary line

• An aneurysm, divorce, deceit, and how she stayed hopeful when her life felt like it was unraveling

• The power in showing up for oneself and leaning into your core beliefs

• What it means to live a positive filled life

• And more

Connect with Kelli:

https://www.kellimaykrenz.com/

https://www.instagram.com/kellimaykrenz/

https://www.facebook.com/kelli.maykrenz/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/kellimay

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by graphic designer and business extraordinaire Erin Cantwell. After working at a branding firm in NYC, Erin quickly discovered she had a knack and passion for the business side of the creative industry and has since then specialized in business operations and client experience, helping to grow and run successful creative agencies. She has served in COO and Director level positions in branding and marketing agencies and today, is a partner at Clearbridge Branding Agency, an award-winning branding agency with multiple locations. 

Through her own company, Erin Cantwell Co., and her volunteer work, Erin continues to work with designers, makers, and other creative entrepreneurs as business coach, helping them to start and scale successful and profitable businesses while doing the work they love.

Margo and Erin discuss:

• Her creative path and how she discovered her knack for the business side of things

• How her knowledge of both sides of the business has helped within her career and launching her own business

• Burnout, failure, and how to create a sustainable creative business

• Vision setting, finding clarity, and defining our own meaning of success

• When to niche

• And more!

Connect with Erin:

https://erincantwell.co

http://www.instagram.com/erincantwellco

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativecoo

Business Building for Creatives

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by art advisor, curator, and gallery owner Liz Lidgett. Liz’s passion for art allowed her to see that competent art consulting for private companies and corporations was a need that wasn’t being filled. With that in mind, she began her art consultation business, Adore Your Walls, in 2013. Since then, her business has grown and she recognized once again that online and national consulting – the type that exists for furniture and interior design – was completely absent for the world of art and has expanded her services, including a gallery space. With her developed expertise, Adore Your Walls has evolved into her new brand: Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design. Within the rebrand, Liz continues to consult, partner with artists and regularly contribute to design publications across the country. She represents 50 unique artists from around the world—with a commitment to always represent at least 50% women and/or BIPOC artists. Although her gallery is located in Des Moines, Iowa, they have an international reach, shipping 80% of the work they sell, and have sold to clients in 45 states and 7 countries. 

It was important for Liz to create a gallery that operated in a way she felt galleries should operate, where artists were paid fairly and quickly, and where an approachable, non-pretentious experience is created for clients. Her mission is “Art For Everyone.” Although they represent some very well-known artists like Hunt Slonem, Liz wants people to know that you don’t have to be a millionaire to be an art collector. Liz has gained a huge following on social media by showcasing the art in her gallery, the artists, and fun facts about art.

Margo and Liz discuss:

• What led Liz to start her own gallery

• The important of creativity and adorning your walls with art

• How she has changed the landscape of Des Moines and surrounding cities with murals 

• Why art collecting can be accessible for anyone, not just millionaires

• How to find your personal style in art and how to find art that fits with the design of your space (size, color palette, spacing with furniture, etc.)

• How she helps clients in being socially conscious with the art pieces — who the artist is, how they create, the reasoning behind a piece of art, etc.

• Her approach to buying and selling art

Connect with Liz:

https://www.lizlidgett.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lizlidgettgallery/

https://www.instagram.com/lizlidgett/

Ten Minute Masterpieces with Liz Lidgett

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by stay at home mom (of nine children) turned licensed artist, creative author, and educator, Shannon Christensen. After being home with her children most of her early life, Shannon turned to creativity when grief struck which turned into a reinvention of herself and a creative career came along with it.  Although her home base is in the U.S.A., she’s spent the past four years living abroad in Jordan, Sweden, and currently Montenegro accompanying her husband's career as a contractor. Shannon’s creative road trip has taken many twists (a BFA Illustration degree at 42, featured in Western Art Collector magazine spread, her studio as an inspo spot on HGTVs Rate My Space) – and turns (acrylic magazine illustration work to Fine Art oil painting in museums, private collections & juried exhibitions to licensing contemporary watercolorist). Shannon is now embarking to help others reach their creative potential with a Creative Roadmap for others to follow.

Margo and Shannon discuss:

• Her creative path and a long standing desire to be able to support her family outside of motherhood

• Grief, loss and finding joy again

• Why vulnerability is necessary when it comes to healing

• The feeling of home and how she finds it while living abroad

• The 8 Creative Power Habits

• Building confidence in your creations and changing your neural pathways

• Her approaches to finding fitting opportunities 

• Outsourcing tasks and skills you’re not confident or comfortable in

• Her Build Your Body of Work Membership

• And more!

Connect with Shannon:

https://www.shannonsstudio.com

Creative Roadtrip Passport

Jumpstart Your Creative Engine Book

http://www.shannonsportfolio.com

Build Your Body of Work Membership

Connect with Margo:

Join the In the Windowsill Patreon Channel

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.tantaustudio.com

Margo is joined by cultural leader, oral historian and documentarian Mi’Jan Celie Tho-Biaz, Ed.D. who shares narratives of personal transformation and community change.To say this historian’s own history is distinguished is an understatement: Mi’Jan curated and hosted Unfinished Network’s first 2022 public salon on the theme of multiracial democracy, with CNN’s Van Jones and MSNBC’s Maria Teresa Kumar. She also designed and led the Gloria Steinem Initiative’s public policy digital storytelling pilot at Smith College, and served as a New Mexico Humanities Council Scholar. Mi’Jan has held Visiting Scholar appointments at Columbia University and New York University and served as faculty in the Cultural Leadership program at The Banff Centre in Canada. Currently Mi’Jan serves as faculty with Omega Institute, co-host for the National Art Education Association’s podcast, as well as principal oral historian and public art curator for Policy Link’s California BIPOC Liberation Stories Project. She works with communities across the themes of sovereignty, transformation, liberation, healing and love.

Margo and Mi’Jan discuss:

• What it means to be an oral historian

• What her work and creative practice looks like

• California BIPOC liberation stories

• How she designs her year

• Out of body experiences she would have during keynote storytelling

• The art of slowing down and why it became critical to her practice

• The intersectionality of creative and spiritual practices

Mi’Jan is best known for connecting with audiences through her visionary, story-rich talks at a range of institutions, from Carnegie Hall to the Institute of American Indian Arts to SXSW. Her goal? To make the historical contemporary and personal, while surfacing the marginalized stories that need to be heard.

Connect with Mi’Jan:

www.mijancelie.comakers/mijan-celie-tho-biaz/

Mi’jan’s Monthly Newsletter

Bimonthly Professional Development Interview Series:

National Art Education Association's Connected Arts Networks 8-part podcast series:

www.freshspeakers.com/spe

https://www.eomega.org/people/mijan-celie-tho-biaz

Margo is joined by Kim Smith - a Lancaster County native born with the love of art in her soul. Kim earned her BFA in Communication Design from Kutztown University and has owned TCG Design, a marketing and design firm for more than 30 years. Even though she is in a creative business, something was always missing. After the last of her three children became more independent, she felt drawn to pursue her love of painting. Now she commits to a daily practice of painting before the sun rises. Over the past several years, Kim has grown her art practice to participating in outdoor art shows, having her work represented by several galleries and also teaching workshops, online, at home and abroad.

Margo and Kim discuss:

• Her creative path and why she began to paint

• How her painting led to sharing her work, becoming represented, and now teaching

• How she got past the preciousness

• Why being creative means making ugly things sometimes

• How to know when it’s time to lean in versus wait on a project or passion

• The many parallels of art and life

• Finding harmony between running a business, creative pursuits, and family life

• How she fuses intention and intuition into her art

• Her 6-week course, Art in Bloom as well as her monthly membership and workshops

• And more!

Connect with Kim:

https://www.kimmyerssmith.com/

https://www.instagram.com/kimmyerssmith/

https://www.facebook.com/kimsmithfineart

https://www.youtube.com/c/KimSmithar

Art in Bloom: a six-week online floral oil painting course

Inspiring Art Collective: a monthly membership and creative space curated to nurture creativity and confidence

Oil painting workshop