Artist Academy

In this episode of the Artists Academy Podcast, I’m sitting down with the wildly talented muralist Mandi Caskey—aka Miss Birdy—whose colorful, whimsical work totally stopped me in my tracks on Instagram. We talk all about how she went from painting in tunnels for fun to getting hired to paint massive fantasy-inspired murals for cities, festivals, and corporate clients.

Mandi shares how a random graffiti hangout in college sparked her love for street art, how she carved her own path despite professors and critics pushing for something more “traditional,” and how she’s built a thriving business doing what she loves most—telling stories through playful, larger-than-life murals.

We also dive into how she finds clients, the systems she’s set up to apply for mural calls, and how her nonprofit, Catalyst Columbus, is helping turn overlooked spaces into bold public art across Ohio. If you’ve ever dreamed of making a living from your art—and doing it your own way—you won’t want to miss this conversation.

In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sitting down with muralist Lacey Hennessey to talk about how she went from painting coolers in college to building a full-time mural business. Lacey shares how she left her corporate job behind, fueled by a business-first mindset and smart use of social media to grow her audience and client base.

We chat about how she keeps everything organized with color-coded spreadsheets, why transparency online has been key to her success, and how vinyl murals became a game-changer for scaling her business. Lacey also dives into her “box system” for pricing murals and how she structures client conversations to save time and avoid endless revisions.

If you’re looking for practical tips to blend creativity with business and make a living as an artist, you’re going to love this episode with Lacey!

In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m talking with muralist Naomi Haverland, whose dreamy, dimensional style is turning everyday walls into magical, mural-worthy moments. Naomi’s work is bold, playful, and packed with personality—and in this conversation, she shares exactly how she got here.

We chat about the early days of finding her voice as an artist and why she only shares the kind of work she wants to attract. Naomi dives into the process of applying to mural festivals, what it’s like painting alongside other artists from around the world, and how she’s learned to confidently navigate public art opportunities.

She also talks about working with clients of all kinds—corporate, private, and community-based—and how she adjusts her approach to fit the project while staying true to her creative vision. From digital prep to on-site execution, Naomi walks us through her tools, techniques, and the mindset that keeps her work feeling fresh and fun.

If you’ve ever wondered how to bring your unique style to the wall—and actually get paid for it—this episode is full of the inspiration and insight to help you do just that.

This week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast features Kendall Kippley, a muralist from Colorado who’s built a thriving career painting in the style she loves — and getting paid for it. 

Kendall shares her journey into mural-making, from an early art education surrounded by nature to apprenticing under an experienced muralist who showed her the ropes. We dive into how she’s cultivated her recognizable, nature-inspired style, what her process looks like on and off the wall, and how she connects with the clients and brands who appreciate her unique voice. 

You’ll also hear her practical tips for landing the kinds of commissions you want, creating systems that make mural work easier, and keeping your creative spark alive while balancing the business side of art. 

If you’ve ever wondered how to make your mural career feel authentic and sustainable — this one’s for you! Tune in and get inspired by Kendall’s story and strategies for painting what you love and making a living doing it.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m giving you a peek inside the Artist Academy membership by sharing one of our core training videos—the second video you see when you join. It’s a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a professional muralist (keyword: professional, also keyword: profitable).

I break it all down: what to do first, how to avoid overthinking, and how to keep going when you inevitably hit those “what now?” moments.

Whether you're just starting out or need a better system, this episode lays out the exact steps to grow your art business and become the go-to artist in your area. Because the journey really starts when you begin to confidently own the title artist—and build from there.

Let’s get to work!

This week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast features California-based muralist Hana Daly, who’s been creating murals professionally for over 20 years. If you’re the type of artist who just wants to show up and paint—without diving deep into the business backend—Hana’s story is going to feel like a warm hug and a gentle nudge forward. 

We talk about how she got started without an art degree, how she built her business through word-of-mouth, residential clients, and just being a genuinely good human. She shares what it’s like to paint emotionally powerful murals in pediatric hospitals (including end-of-life care spaces), and how she’s become known for her “one-day murals” that deliver fast impact with heart. 

We also chat about charging fairly, working with donors for community projects, and why residential gigs might just be the underrated gem in the mural world. 

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the business side or unsure how to get started, Hana’s honest, heartfelt approach will leave you inspired and ready to say “yes” more often.

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, we dive into the world of Girls Who Paint Murals—Allison and Christine, a powerhouse duo who’ve been painting murals together for over four years, knocking out 1-2 projects every week.

They open up about how teamwork, clear communication, and leaving ego at the door keeps their workflow smooth and their murals top-notch. You’ll get the lowdown on their pricing—from square footage rates to minimum charges—and hear how they find clients through word-of-mouth, social media, and more.

They also share why solid contracts and job site efficiency are non-negotiable, and offer candid advice for aspiring muralists: make sure this path fits you, beyond just the paycheck.

Whether you’re dreaming of your first mural or looking to sharpen your business game, this episode delivers honest advice and smart strategies you can put into action.

www.artistacademy.com

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing some of my favorite painting and mural hacks, many of which I’ve gathered from YOU—my fellow artists—and from my own studio experience.

I’ll let you in on clever ways to use everyday household items like coffee cans, ladles, and silicone muffin trays to make painting easier and more efficient. I’m also giving a peek into my life on the farm, juggling work and animals, and how I’m balancing it all.

Tune in for some creative shortcuts and a few laughs along the way!
Check out my Mural Supply List! 

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing Chapter 2 of Mural Money—a sneak peek into my book that walks you through the early days of building my art business, back when I had more determination than experience.

I’ll explain how I define luck as preparation meeting opportunity and introduce the idea of the “Luck Fairy,” who only shows up when you’re actively working toward your goals. You’ll hear the real story behind my first paid projects, filing for an LLC, and how saying yes to a small opportunity led to a dream job painting for a major outdoor store.

I’m also diving into the idea that talent alone isn’t enough. It’s the work behind the scenes that builds momentum and attracts the right opportunities.

Whether you’re just starting your mural journey or looking for that next big break, this episode is full of honest stories and insights from the path I’ve walked myself.

Let’s put in the reps—and let the Luck Fairy catch up.

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing Chapter 1 of my book Mural Money and walking you through my journey from business major to full-time artist.

I’ll talk about the importance of getting crystal clear on your ideal art career—what it looks like, how it feels, and the steps to start building it. You’ll hear why a formal art education isn’t always necessary, and how you can grow your skills and confidence outside the classroom.

I’m also diving into the power of learning from artists you admire and how that inspiration can shape your own journey. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your art career, this episode is full of real talk and practical advice to help you make it happen.

Let’s dream big—and then get to work.