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What makes someone a maker?

For ceramic artist and educator Kent Child, the answer goes back to childhood—watching his grandfather and father work with their hands, discovering clay in the Southwest, and eventually finding his way into Japanese folk pottery, wood firing, and ceramics.

In this episode of Made to Make, Kent joins Shannon Grissom to explore the people, places, materials, and traditions that shaped his creative life. He shares how teachers, mentors, students, and friendships, including renowned potter Conrad Calimpong influenced his approach to ceramics, including the profound impact of Shoji Hamada, Dr. Herbert Sanders, and Japanese folk pottery.

Kent also recalls building his first wood-fired kiln in Los Gatos and the decades-long friendships and annual firings that grew from that experience. For him, wood firing isn't simply about producing beautiful pots—it's about teamwork, storytelling, shared labor, and the community that forms around the fire.

The conversation goes beyond ceramics into a larger question: What is art really for? For Kent, art is fundamentally an act of communication and human connection.

They also reflect on what technology and smartphones have changed about the way we pay attention, talk to one another, and experience the world.

It's a conversation about clay, fire, tradition, friendship, teaching, and the enduring human need to make something with our hands—and share it with others.

And now a word from our sponsor, today that would be me! If you're creating, growing, or figuring things out, encouragement matters. The Sock Monkey Oracle is something special—it's like having a creative friend you can turn to when you need reassurance, clarity, or a gentle reminder that you're doing better than you think. You can find it on Amazon, and it's there for those moments when you need support without judgment. That's the Sock Monkey Oracle on Amazon. N

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What if sharing your story could help someone else heal?

In this episode of the Made to Make Podcast, veteran, author, and artist Brendan T. Kelly opens up about his journey from 22 years of military service to finding healing through writing and creativity. Together, we explore resilience, PTSD, vulnerability, and how storytelling can transform pain into purpose.

Whether you've faced trauma yourself or simply believe in the power of creativity to change lives, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

🎧 Listen now and discover how art, honesty, and hope can help us find our way home.

If you are in crisis, please dial 988 or go to the nearest emergency room. https://www.988california.org/

And now a word from our sponsor, today that would be me! If you're creating, growing, or figuring things out, encouragement matters. The Sock Monkey Oracle is something special—it's like having a creative friend you can turn to when you need reassurance, clarity, or a gentle reminder that you're doing better than you think. You can find it on Amazon, and it's there for those moments when you need support without judgment. That's the Sock Monkey Oracle on Amazon. N

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What if the most extraordinary art begins with the most ordinary moments?

In this episode, I chat with acclaimed painter Kathy Sheridan, whose luminous still lifes and intimate landscapes invite us to slow down and truly see the world around us. Kathy shares her unlikely path from pursuing science to studying with legendary painter Wayne Thiebaud, revealing how a single childhood museum visit—and later, an unexpected gift of oil paints—set her on a life-changing creative journey.

Together, they explore the power of light, the importance of mentorship, and the concept of aesthetic arrest—those rare moments when a work of art stops us in our tracks and reconnects us with the present. Kathy reflects on how her work has evolved toward simplicity, why aging has deepened her artistic vision, and how paying attention to everyday beauty can transform both art and life.

Whether you're an artist, collector, or simply someone longing to reconnect with creativity, this conversation is a gentle reminder that inspiration is always waiting in the quiet moments we often overlook.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Kathy's unexpected journey from science to professional artist
• The childhood museum experience that changed her life
• Studying with renowned painter Wayne Thiebaud
• Why light is her greatest source of inspiration
• The meaning of "aesthetic arrest" and why it matters
• How her artistic style has evolved toward simplicity
• Finding beauty in everyday life and ordinary objects
• Encouragement for artists to trust the creative journey

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Creativity begins with paying attention.
• The ordinary often holds extraordinary beauty.
• Great mentors can shape both your craft and your confidence.
• Simplicity can create the deepest emotional connection.
• Art invites us to slow down, be present, and truly see.

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In this episode of Made to Make, host Shannon Grissom sits down with mixed-media artist Tiffany Waugh to explore a creative life driven by curiosity, experimentation, and a willingness to follow inspiration wherever it leads. Working across watercolor, ink, acrylics, digital art, crochet, sewing, and mosaics, Tiffany shares how creativity has become both a practice and a way of life.

The conversation dives into the fascinating world of neurographic doodling, a creative technique that helps uncover emotions, process experiences, and spark self-discovery. Tiffany also opens up about balancing artistic pursuits with the demands of everyday life, embracing risk in the creative process, and learning to trust unexpected opportunities.

Whether you're an artist, maker, or someone who simply wants to reconnect with your creative side, this episode offers an encouraging reminder that creativity belongs to everyone—and that sometimes the most rewarding journeys begin with a simple "yes."

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In this episode of Made to Make, host Shannon Grissom sits down with author Paul Cwalina to explore the winding path that led him from a successful business career to becoming a published novelist. Drawing on a lifetime of experiences, Paul shares how his upbringing, strong work ethic, and deep understanding of human nature have shaped his approach to storytelling.

The conversation dives into Paul's organic writing process, where characters often take the lead and stories unfold in unexpected ways. He discusses the themes that consistently emerge in his work—including imperfection, forgiveness, redemption, and the complex balance between darkness and hope. Whether writing Christian fiction or psychological thrillers, Paul strives to create authentic stories that reflect the emotional realities of life.

Paul also offers practical advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing discipline, perseverance, and the importance of trusting your creative instincts. This thoughtful conversation is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to pursue a creative calling and that the most compelling stories often grow from the experiences that shape us.

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In this inspiring episode of We Are Made to Make, host Shannon Grissom sits down with artist, dancer, educator, architect, musician, and creative explorer Nants Foley for a rich conversation about what it truly means to live a creative life. From studying architecture and teaching in collaborative art spaces to running a rural school of husbandry and embracing collage as a current artistic passion, Nants shares how creativity has been the connecting thread through every chapter of her journey.

Together, they explore the power of community in the creative process, the importance of curiosity and intentional living, and why artistry isn’t reserved for a select few — it’s something deeply human. Nants reflects on the lessons she’s learned through music, farming, teaching, and visual art, offering wisdom on reinvention, self-discovery, and finding beauty in everyday moments.

This heartfelt episode is a reminder that creativity can take countless forms and that making something meaningful often begins with simply paying attention to the world around you.

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In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, artist and teacher Denise Hall opens up about her creative journey—from sketching from the family Bible as a child to building a life centered on art, family, and perseverance. Denise shares how she nurtured her passion while balancing full-time work and motherhood, along with honest insights and practical encouragement for anyone trying to make space for creativity in a busy life.

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Most people think creativity comes from talent or inspiration — but for artist David Sandum, it’s been a deep, healing journey shaped by depression, trauma, and rediscovery. When life’s darkest moments hit, he turned to art, transforming pain into powerful visuals and stories that challenge how we see suffering, resilience, and self-expression. Now, David reveals how embracing instinct, symbolism, and spontaneity can break you free from creative blocks and open new pathways in your mind and heart.In this compelling conversation, you’ll discover:

 How David’s depression sparked a 25-year artistic journey that culminated in exhibits worldwide and a poignant Auschwitz series honoring his grandmother’s past.

 The spiritual and emotional significance behind his signature roots and network-inspired symbols—patterns that reflect grounding, interconnectedness, and personal history.

 Why creativity acts as a catharsis—empowering you to process overwhelming feelings and regain control during life's toughest storms.

 Practical tips for overcoming creative stagnation: creating a nurturing space, starting with instinctive doodles, and embracing mistakes as part of the process.

 The surprising differences between painting, printmaking, and writing as emotional outlets—and why allowing accidents can lead to your most authentic work.

 How moving physically, exploring nature, and shifting mediums—like photography—can reignite your inspiration when you're stuck in darkness.

Whether you’re battling personal struggles, feeling creatively blocked, or simply craving a deeper connection to your art, this episode offers transformative insights. David’s resilience and openness show that healing one stroke at a time is possible—and that your story deserves to be told through your art. Perfect for artists, dreamers, and anyone seeking a way back from despair, this conversation will inspire you to find beauty in vulnerability and strength in imperfection. Visit David Sandum’s website or follow him on Instagram @davidsandum for more of his inspiring work. This episode reminds us: your greatest growth often comes from life’s hardest lessons—and your art can be your most powerful healing tool.

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Discover how Diane Breuer’s international artistic journey shaped her unique style, her approach to fostering creative communities, and her advice for tapping into your own creativity—regardless of experience level. This episode offers inspiring insights into artistic growth, mediums, and the importance of collaboration.

In this episode:

• Diane shares her lifelong love of art, influenced by her family history and early childhood experiences across different cultures.
• The conversation explores how Indian and Brazilian art traditions have enriched her work, especially her use of color and space.
• Learn about Diane’s eclectic artistic training, and her preferred mediums like pastel and oil, including her process for creating portraits.
• The importance of community in art—through her Art Hub and local collaborations—is a central theme.
• Practical tips on overcoming creative blocks, starting new art projects, and the value of joining artist groups and classes.
• Diane discusses her inspiring journey living abroad and how it influenced her artistic perspective and techniques.
• Find out where to see her work online and how she encourages everyone to explore their creative potential—no matter their age or experience.

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In this episode of the Made to Make Podcast, host Shannon Grissom talks with spiritual director and author Colette Lafia about the powerful connection between creativity and spirituality. Together they explore how creativity can become more than a skill or hobby—it can be a sacred practice that connects us with the divine.

Colette shares how creative expression can deepen self-awareness, nurture our inner lives, and help us cultivate a meaningful relationship with ourselves, others, and something greater. From simple rituals like lighting a candle before beginning creative work to free-writing exercises that unlock inspiration, this conversation offers practical ways to bring intention, gratitude, and spiritual awareness into your creative process.

Drawing from insights in her books Comfort and Joy, Seeking Surrender, The Divine Heart, and Leaving the Shore, Colette encourages creators to see their work as an ongoing dialogue—one that invites curiosity, openness, and trust.

If you’re an artist, writer, maker, or anyone seeking deeper meaning in the creative process, this episode will inspire you to embrace creativity as a sacred path.

✨ In this episode we discuss:
• Creativity as a sacred act and spiritual discipline
• How artistic materials and mediums can become teachers
• The connection between contemplative practices and creativity
• Free writing exercises to unlock inspiration
• Simple rituals to bring intention and presence to creative work
• Maintaining creative energy and nurturing the inner artist

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Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com