Join me for an inspiring conversation with Zak Foster, a trailblazer in the artistic quilting community, whose journey from a high school Spanish teacher to a full-time artist and podcaster is nothing short of transformative. Zak shares the pivotal moments during the pandemic that led him to embrace his passion and create the Quilty Nook, a vibrant community for quilters. Through our discussion, we uncover how Zak uses his art not just for expression, but as a force for community building and social change, highlighting the courage required to leave a conventional career path in pursuit of one's passion.

Discover how "Apogee Jubilee," Zak’s innovative creative piece, serves as a metaphor for humanity's journey and potential, tackling future anxieties and championing self-awareness and connection. We discuss the subtle power of everyday interactions in combating loneliness and nurturing community ties, illustrated by Zak’s journey in crafting a festival quilt for a folk school. The conversation is peppered with insights on the balancing act between creativity and responsibility, the nuances of setting boundaries, and the vital role of self-care in sustaining leadership within community spaces.

This episode also takes a poignant turn into the realms of family history and ancestral trauma, with Zak exploring the silence surrounding his own roots. We address themes of privilege and identity, particularly through the lens of Zak’s experiences as a white, male, queer artist navigating Brooklyn's diverse landscape. As Zak uncovers the layers of his family's past, he stresses the importance of confronting historical truths and the transformative power of understanding one's heritage. This enriching conversation promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for art's role in community building and the courage required to follow one's true calling.

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Crafting holds a meditative power, a truth that Lucy Brennan, also known as @CharmAboutYou (and she does a Saturday Night Craftalong on Instagram). embodies in her life journey. As she shares her story, we learn how the art of crafting, passed down from her grandmother and mother, became her refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Balancing a full-time job and creative passions, Lucy reflects on how crafting has found its way back into the hearts of a younger generation, offering a peaceful counterbalance to modern-day stress.

Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we navigate through the emotional challenges Lucy faced over the past few years. Unexpected opportunities, such as TV appearances, arrived unplanned, alongside personal loss, all of which reshaped her understanding of self-worth. Through a playful meme comparing 2019 to 2023, we take a moment to acknowledge the shared anxieties of our times, while the wisdom of Eckhart Tolle guides our discussion on finding peace and reducing self-imposed pressures by staying anchored in the present.

In our exploration of personal growth, Lucy opens up about the vital role of gratitude, connection, and self-care in overcoming anxiety and depression. From music and movement to embracing one's divine energies, she shares practical strategies for lifting spirits and fostering a sense of self-worth. Whether it's through the metaphorical oxygen mask of self-care or the empowering act of stepping out of comfort zones, Lucy's experiences underscore the strength and resilience needed to embrace life's inevitable changes with grace and courage.

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Ever felt trapped by the roles others expect you to play? Quilter Dee Bushrod of @pixelquilts knows that feeling all too well. Renowned for her intricate pixel quilts, Dee takes us through her emotional journey of overcoming depression, breaking free from people-pleasing habits, and bravely stepping away from a structured religious environment to embrace an authentic self. Listen as she recounts the touching story of attempting to gift a pixel quilt of the Queen during her Platinum Jubilee, a project that was met with an unexpected twist, highlighting the unexpected paths authenticity can lead us down.

Quilting became more than just a craft for Dee—it was a lifeline during times of family transition and personal struggles. A Billie Eilish-themed quilt, created to comfort her daughter, sparked a newfound passion that transformed dark times into moments of beauty and connection. Dee's experience is a testament to how creative expression can lead to self-discovery, illustrating the therapeutic power of embracing imperfections and celebrating authentic joy.

Stepping away from long-held roles and identities is not easy, yet Dee shares how rewriting her narrative led to a liberation from fear and societal expectations. Her journey emphasizes the courage it takes to prioritize self-worth over external validation, fostering meaningful relationships that transcend religious boundaries. Through her story, Dee inspires us to find the courage to be true to ourselves, shedding the masks of people-pleasing to uncover a more fulfilling life—one quilted with love, authenticity, and joy.

Follow Dee on Insta @pixelquilts

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What if embracing your true identity could unlock a world of healing and self-discovery? Join us in this heartfelt episode of Breaking the Blocks as we sit down with the remarkable Chris Marchini, an inspiring quilter whose personal journey is nothing short of transformative. Chris courageously opens up about his struggles with severe depression and suicidal tendencies, offering a beacon of hope to those facing similar battles. He shares the intimate details and the profound impact of coming out as gay while married, all during a tumultuous chapter in his life.

Navigating the turbulent waters of his Mormon upbringing, Chris shares the challenges of reconciling his sexuality with religious expectations. His story highlights the societal pressures that led to a marriage bound by norms and the liberation he found in breaking free to live authentically. The conversation delves into the complexities of family dynamics, revealing the emotional and logistical hurdles of separating from a partner and co-parenting, while maintaining authenticity in personal growth. Through Chris's narrative, we explore the profound impact of embracing one's identity and finding freedom in authenticity.

Chris's passion for creativity shines through as he recounts how sewing and quilting became vital components of his healing journey. From a childhood interest in sewing to a flourishing quilting career, Chris's story is a testament to the power of creative expression in overcoming personal hurdles. With insights into building a social media presence and advice for navigating life’s challenges, this episode underscores the importance of focusing on self-preservation and living authentically. Chris’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of embracing one’s true identity and passions.

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Have you ever wondered how a passion for quilting can become a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing? Join me as I chat with Amanda Oros, the dynamic host of "Not Your Granny's Quilt Show." Amanda and I share our personal journeys as step-parents, highlighting the emotional challenges and growth that come with it. We also explore the deeper meaning of community within the quilting world, breaking stereotypes and emphasizing the importance of creativity in overcoming life's hurdles.

Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we discuss the journey of healing through self-trust, especially when confronting deeply rooted beliefs from an evangelical upbringing. We delve into the significance of self-awareness, the struggle against black-and-white thinking, and the importance of maintaining family connections despite differing beliefs. Through personal anecdotes, we reflect on the pivotal moments that triggered our healing journeys, stressing the importance of open communication and personal growth in fostering better relationships.

Navigating the loneliness that often accompanies personal growth is another key theme in our chat. We touch on the relief and challenges of embracing one's true self, setting boundaries for self-care, and recognizing the toxic nature of people-pleasing. Amanda and I also discuss the concept of toxic positivity and how embracing authenticity and self-love can lead to a more fulfilling life. Join us for an episode filled with honest reflections and insights on overcoming personal blocks and finding genuine connections.

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Join us for an inspiring kick-off to season two of "Breaking the Blocks" with your host, Rachel Pierman. This episode features a heartfelt conversation with seasoned quilter Sherri Lynn Wood, who shares her journey from traditional quilting to sustainable practices. Sherri Lynn's dedication to using second-hand fabrics is not just an ecological choice but also a deeply personal one, driven by the desire to create meaningful connections through fabric and personal stories. We also touch on Sherri Lynn's resilience in overcoming life blocks, like the loss of her mother at a young age, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their struggles.

Rachel and Sherri Lynn delve into the profound impact of grief on creativity, discussing how the death of a parent can shape an artist's path. She recounts her experience of losing her mother during her MFA program, which empowered her to pursue her artistic vision with renewed determination. They explore how emotions, even painful ones, can fuel intense creativity and a sense of purpose. Quilting, as they discuss, is more than just a craft; it's a therapeutic practice that can lead to significant emotional and artistic breakthroughs.

Finally, the episode emphasizes the importance of focusing on the positives in life and how this mindset can enhance creativity and personal growth. Sherri Lynn shares her life motto, "May your creativity lead you to more truth and love," and discusses her focus on creating enriching experiences through workshops. From exploring the interconnectedness of creativity, healing, and community, to encouraging listeners to embrace their creative journeys, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Tune in to connect with Sherri lynn's inspiring work and gain insights that could transform your own creative practice.

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What if your quilt could capture a century of emotions? In this spellbinding episode of Breaking the Blocks, we sit down with the talented quilter and artist, Lucy Engles, to discuss the metamorphosis of her artistic style and the personal journey behind it. Lucy reveals the importance of saying no to regain energy and headspace, and how the pandemic reshaped her creative and professional life. We also explore the intricate balance of maintaining a studio and the pressure that comes with growing a business, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the natural evolution of art over a decade.

The conversation takes an enlightening turn as we explore the intersection of art, social work, and therapy. Lucy shares her unique insights into how the skills needed for art align with those in social work, especially in challenging areas like mental health and substance misuse. Discover the profound impact of her "Vanishing Act" quilt, a powerful visual record of 100 days of emotions and societal events. Lucy’s experiences in art therapy and dance movement therapy highlight the therapeutic potential of creative expression, offering a compelling case for combining her art and social work degrees to benefit mental health.

We wrap up with an inspiring discussion on self-discovery and the courage required to follow one's artistic path. Lucy candidly shares her transition from a prolific quilter to embracing a slower, more intentional process, and her dreams of exhibiting her quilts in art spaces and collaborating with big brands like Adidas. The episode challenges traditional perceptions of quilting and underscores the importance of taking risks, as encapsulated in Lucy's motto, "just do it." Join us for an episode that promises to reshape your understanding of creativity, resilience, and the art of saying no.

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Why do some creatives break boundaries successfully while others struggle to find their spark? Join us as we sit down with the renowned improv quilter Nicholas Ball, also known for his stunning Instagram presence under @QuiltsfromtheAttic, who shares his unexpected journey from a disillusioned photographer to a celebrated textile artist. Nicholas recounts his transformation, painting a picture of a creative upbringing shaped by his grandmother and father, and how those early influences in knitting, embroidery, and woodworking steered him towards his current passion for quilting.

Discover how Nicholas navigated through family dynamics and found his artistic voice amidst contrasting interests with his sports-loving brother. We reminisce about the special bond he shared with his grandmother over sewing, gardening, and baking, which not only grounded his textile career but also inspired his first book. Nicholas offers a candid look at his creative evolution, discussing how a simple image of a leek led him to embrace improv quilting and how impactful events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement have influenced his work.

Nicholas doesn't shy away from sharing the unseen struggles of maintaining a creative career, from the emotional challenges of balancing personal and professional life to the pressures of perfectionism. Learn about his adventures in Paris, his shift from photography to quilting, and the importance of self-care and setting boundaries to avoid burnout. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with insights into Nicholas's creative process, the making of his latest book, "Use an Ornament," and the life lessons he's gathered along the way.

To follow Nicholas head over to Instagram @quiltsfromtheattic
To buy the book you can find it here:

https://luckyspool.com/products/use-ornament-the-history-and-exploration-of-the-improv-quilt?_pos=1&_sid=8d5a06494&_ss=r

Also on Amazon UK and USA

Nicholas will also be signing copies on the Bernina stand at the Festival of Quilts 2024.

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What happens when quilting becomes a lifeline for someone managing ADHD? Artist Kate Sandford joins us on Breaking the Blocks to share her transformative journey. She recounts her path from art college to embracing quilting, highlighting how this creative outlet helped her navigate the complexities of ADHD while raising young children. Listen as Kate reveals her early memories of making things and her passion for art, explaining how quilting offered a structured yet expressive way to channel her energy and creativity.

Returning to art after intense self-doubt and a recent ADHD diagnosis at 48, Kate offers an emotional and candid look at her struggles with feelings of inadequacy. She discusses the significant role of hormones, how her children's experiences with autism and ADHD influenced her self-understanding, and the importance of seeking help and support. The episode touches on the challenges of growing up as a creative child under pressure to conform and how these experiences shaped her approach to parenting and personal identity.

Kate also opens up about the therapeutic power of crafting in managing mental health, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-expression. From the excitement of attending a two-day masterclass to the mixed feelings of receiving an autism diagnosis later in life, she reflects on the continuous process of healing and self-discovery. Join us for an inspiring discussion on the transformative power of art, the necessity of understanding one's unique neurological wiring, and the value of finding supportive communities.

Follow Kate on @katemustsew on Instagram

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How do you keep your creative spirit alive while facing the challenges of a chronic illness? Emily Watts, an accomplished animator and passionate quilter, shares her personal journey, balancing her artistic passions with the realities of debilitating fatigue and vertigo. Growing up with a love for art, her parents once advised her to keep it as a hobby, but Emily defied that advice, transitioning from a corporate job to a thriving career in animation. Her story is a testament to overcoming both personal and professional hurdles, drawing strength from her creative endeavors.

Emily’s life is woven with the threads of digital animation and tactile quilting. Discover how she found solace in quilting through the Santa Monica Quilt Guild during her toughest times, and how the physical and community aspects of quilting complemented her digital work. Emily offers a candid look into the emotional toll of living with a chronic condition, the complexities of differentiating between symptoms, and the comfort she finds in her creative projects despite the limitations imposed by her health.

In our conversation, Emily also talks about the profound impact of her plant-themed quilt, a year-long project that became a symbol of perseverance and personal growth. Initially overlooked for its simplicity, the quilt resonated deeply with many due to its heartfelt backstory. Emily reflects on the value of simple connections, the universal experience of self-doubt, and the importance of patience and perseverance. This episode is an inspiring exploration of redefining identity, embracing change, and finding joy and meaning in art and adversity. Join us for an enriching discussion on the intersection of creativity and resilience.

You can follow here on @emilywattsquilts on Instagram

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