Making It Creative

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Alexis and Ash are co-founders from The University of Arizona, and Alexis is here to share their journey from college students to eventually becoming small business owners. Initially hesitant about the idea, they ended up going for it and achieving some pretty shocking results! We explore the journey of discovering your creative passion, the challenges of starting a baking business, and how community support can be leveraged for your benefit. Stay tuned for specifics like the legal frameworks of cottage food laws to stay in the LAW when it comes to selling homemade food. Alexis and Ryan discuss the journey of starting a baking business while balancing college life, community engagement, and future plans with career goals outside of baking. She shares insights on pricing, time management, community support, and the importance of confidence and niche branding.

📱 Instagram:

@studentmade_arizona

@constellation.confectioneries

@ Student-Made Store

@Making it Creative Podcast

🛍️ Shop:

Student-Made Arizona 

Constellation Confectioneries

All Campus Shops

📖 Read:

Alexis + Ash's Story

📺 Watch:

Follow On Youtube

🎧 Relevant Episodes:

Tommey's UorArizona Episode⁠

🏛️ Join Us:

⁠Launch on Your Campus 

Apply to Be a Creator!

Apply to Be a Manager!

🙏🏼 Our Awesome Partner: 

McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship

🤔 Other Shoutouts

Made in Tucson Event

Learn Sign Language!

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Our monthly top brands episode for today comes from Michigan State and James Madison University– where we dive into to printmaking artists and their lessons for planning ahead, physically creating their prints, and most importantly, remembering the fun of it all at the end of the day. Student-Made’s Digital Marketing Strategist, Liz brings her main reasons why these brands stood out to her this month, and how other creative small business brands can adopt some of these same methods for gaining success (at least in their own way of how they define success…)

🔑 Key Topics:

• Brand differentiation and recognition

• Social media marketing and content creation

• Product development and packaging

• Balancing school and entrepreneurship

• Leveraging campus resources and retail stores

• Building customer connections through behind-the-scenes content

• Holiday product planning and early preparation

• The importance of consistency in branding

📱 Instagram:

Designs by Erika

Nails by Erika

Artzona Creates

Art by Madison Sproules

@Student-Made Michigan State 

@Student-Made JMU 

@Student-Made USC

USC Soda City

👩🏽‍💻 Shop:

This Month’s Top Products

Erika Truelove

Arizona McNicol

Madison Sproules

🎧 Listen to Relevant Episodes: 

Our September 2026 Top Brands

📚 Read:

October 2026 Top Brands Blog

MSU Success Story

🏛️ Join Us!

SCALE Conference 2027 

Launch on Your Campus 

Apply to Be a Creator

🙏🏼 Thanks to Our Awesome Partners: 

MSU Burgess Institute

JMU Gilliam Center

Our Campuses

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Student-Made co-founders, Ryan and Lindsay explore the importance of focusing on the right audience for small businesses and how impact often comes from meaningful face-to-face connections rather than large social media followings. They share insights from their recent experiences at farmer's markets and university events, emphasizing authenticity and strategic engagement.

💬 Takeaways

• The importance of focusing on a smaller, engaged audience

• Impact of face-to-face interactions at markets and events

• Authentic branding based on personal identity

• Balancing social media presence with real-world engagement

• Metrics versus meaningful connections in business

• The role of community and support networks

• Strategies for early customer engagement and loyalty

• The significance of brand consistency and authenticity

📱 Instagram:

Student-Made Store

Making it Creative Podcast

👩🏽‍💻 Shop:

⁠Our Campuses

📖 Read:

Lindsay's October 2026 Letter

JMU Popup Success 2025

🎧 Relevant Episodes:

Series Part 1: Your First Idea May Not Be Your Best One

4 Ways to Make the Most of Limited Time as a Creative Founder

📺 Watch:

Youtube - Making it Creative

🏛️ Join Us!

Launch on Your Campus 

SCALE Conference 2027 @TXST

RSVP Live Episodes

🙏🏼 Thanks to Our awesome Partners: 

Our Campuses

🎙️ Episode Description: 

In this Creator Story episode, Adriana Green from College of Charleston shares her journey from initially hating jewelry to founding A’luxuri jewelry brand while balancing college life and an accounting major. We explore her early challenges with putting yourself out there, the importance of finding support, and lessons learned in being consistent, even when it feels like the support isn’t always there.

🔑 Key Topics

• Adriana's journey from disliking jewelry to creating her own brand

• The role of college events in launching a business

• Challenges of support and visibility as a young entrepreneur

• Lessons in branding and marketing for student businesses

• Time management and balancing multiple responsibilities

• Networking with local businesses and mentors in Charleston

• The importance of taking risks and trying despite setbacks

• Personal growth through entrepreneurship and community involvement

📱 Instagram:

@studentmade_cofc

@aluxurijewelry

@ Student-Made Store

@Making it Creative Podcast  

🛍️ Shop:

Student-Made CofC 

A'Luxuri Jewelry

All Campus Shops

📖 Read:

Adriana's Story

📺 Watch:

Follow On Youtube

🎧 Relevant Episodes:

⁠Madison's ASU Episode⁠ (Jewelry)

Kenisha's UNC Episode

🏛️ Join Us:

⁠Launch on Your Campus 

Apply to Be a Creator!

🙏🏼 Our Awesome Partner: 

CofC School of Arts

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Welcome to our September 2026 (SEC) edition of our “Top Student Brands,” hosted by our digital marketing strategist, Liz, who breaks down why she chose these student brands across the country who have each shown one big key to success in creating buzz for their young brand. In this episode, we explore how two student entrepreneurs from the University of Missouri and the University of South Carolina built their brands from passion to legitimacy. They share insights on branding, community, social media, and balancing authenticity with growth. Plus, catch some serious wellness advice whether you’re a college student or just anyone out there with a busy life (aka all of us) looking to find centering through diet.

🔑 Key Topics:

• ​Brand development to becoming a ‘legit’ business with proven success
• ​The role of community and collaboration in growth
• ​Using social media and LinkedIn for branding
• ​Turning passion into tangible products like cookbooks and jewelry
• ​The importance of authenticity and personal connection

📱 Instagram:

Dylan Olivia

Willa Wear Jewelry

@Student-Made Mizzou

@Student-Made USC

👩🏽‍💻 Shop:

This Month’s Top Products

Student-Made Mizzou

Student-Made USC

🎧 Listen to Relevant Episodes: 

Our May 2026 Top Brands

Dylan’s Zou Life Podcast Episode

🏛️ Join Us!

Launch on Your Campus 

🙏🏼 Thanks to Our Awesome Partners: 

Trulaske Center For Entrepreneurship

USC School of Visual Arts

Our Campuses

🤔 Other Shoutouts: 

Stan Store

Dylan’s Article Feature

Soda City Market SC

🎙️ Episode Description: 

In this episode, co-founders Lindsay and Ryan explore how entrepreneurial ideas evolve over time, emphasizing that your first idea is rarely your best… (yet). They share personal stories, business pivots, and insights on adapting to new opportunities, highlighting the importance of flexibility and continuous learning along the journey.

💬 Takeaways

• The importance of flexibility in business ideas

• Examples of business pivots and evolution

• The role of customer feedback in shaping business models

• Branding and identity in entrepreneurial ventures

• The significance of community and partnerships in growth

• Adapting products and services to new markets

• The journey from initial idea to scalable business

• The impact of entrepreneurship centers and support networks

📱 Instagram:

Student-Made Store

Making it Creative Podcast

👩🏽‍💻 Shop:

⁠Our Campuses

📖 Read:

Lindsay's September 2026 Letter

Marquett’s Successful Student-Made Launch

🎧 Relevant Episodes:

Original Founding Story Episode

4 Ways to Make the Most of Limited Time as a Creative Founder

📺 Watch:

Youtube Coming Soon

🏛️ Join Us!

Launch on Your Campus 

🙏🏼 Thanks to Our awesome Partners: 

Our Campuses

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Dive into the vibrant world of student-led entrepreneurship at Texas State University, where innovation, community, and real-world experience collide. This episode showcases the journey of student managers, faculty perspectives, and the exciting future of Student-Made, highlighting how experiential learning fosters successful entrepreneurs.

🔑 Key topics:

The evolution and impact of the Student-Made program on campus entrepreneurship

How hands-on, experiential education bridges the gap in traditional university offerings

Role of student managers and faculty in fostering entrepreneurial skills and community

Success stories and alumni outcomes, including student sales and competitions

The upcoming Scale by Student-Made Conference in 2027 and future expansion plans

Challenges faced and lessons learned from launching new university programs

The importance of community, networking, and collaboration in student entrepreneurship

The long-term vision: integrating entrepreneurial skills into diverse student journeys

📱 Follow:

Student-Made Store

Making it Creative Podcast  

Quinn Valentine, Director TXST Center for Student Entrepreneurship - LinkedIn

Stephen Rayburn, Texas State Management Department

Regina Bautista - LinkedIn

Addie Villegas - LinkedIn

📖 Read:

Addi’s Manager Story

📺 Watch:

Follow On Youtube

🎧 Relevant Episodes:

Fall 2025 Manager Episode

Spring 2025 Manager Episode

🏛️ Join Us!

Launch on Your Campus 

🙏🏼 Thanks to Our awesome Partner: 

Texas State Center for Student Entrepreneurship (Formerly CIE)

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Journey with us from young creative in Alabama to full-time college student managing a thriving event planning business, Ari’s Designs. A Mexican immigrant’s family background, cultural values, and passion for memorable family experiences are the basis of this venture. Stick with us for Ari’s future ambitions, including expanding into global markets and owning her own venue one day.

🔑 Key Takeaways + Chapters

• Passion and love for the work are key motivators for success.

• Balancing education and business is possible with good time management

• Building a brand that reflects cultural values can create a unique market position

• Global sourcing and supply chain are vital for scaling a creative business

04:41 Arianna's Background and Family Influence

09:39 The Birth of Ari’s Designs

14:42 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

18:24 Navigating College and Business Ownership

24:45 The Impact of Troy University on Business Growth

25:44 Empowering Student Entrepreneurs

28:17 The Meaning of Community in Business

31:40 Supporting Fellow Creators

32:51 The Role of a Retail Manager

37:31 Lessons Learned in Business

45:41 Building for the Future

48:15 Finding Inspiration and Motivation

53:13 Navigating Burnout and Health

57:20 The Importance of Balance in Entrepreneurship

01:00:24 Ari's Designs: Vision for the Future

01:07:07 Memorable Moments in Event Planning

📱 Instagram:

@studentmade_troy

@arisdesigns

@ Student-Made Store

@Making it Creative Podcast  

📖 Read:

Ari's Creator Story

📺 Watch:

Follow On Youtube

🎧 Relevant Episodes:

Stickers, Strategy, School Spirit: Shop Julia Kelly is Accessorizing JMU’s Gamedays

Trash to Trends: Threefold Vintage Spawns from Finding a 70's Big Bird on the Street, Feat. OkState's Trey O'Toole

🙏🏼 Our Awesome Partner: 

Troy U IDEA Bank

🤔 Other Shoutouts

Good Life Project Podcast

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Welcome to our May Top Brands episode, (the last of season 6), where we explore the journeys of three innovative student entrepreneurs from Michigan State University, the University of Missouri, and the University of South Carolina. Discover their brand stories, social media strategies, and plans for future growth as they share valuable insights for aspiring creators.

Key Topics:

• Brand authenticity and community building

• Social media content strategy and brand voice

• Product development and manufacturing process

• Balancing multiple businesses and time management

• Future plans and scaling strategies

Chapters:

05:36 Building a Brand: Kataira's Journey

08:42 Social Media Strategy and Customer Engagement

11:44 Visual Branding and Professionalism

14:40 Kora Lyon and Her Dual Brands

17:35 The Joy Journal and Creative Collaboration

32:43 Exploring Print Options and Customization

33:51 Showcasing Multiple Brands and Products

35:59 Introducing Caitlin Melton and Her Entrepreneurial Journey

37:12 The Evolution of Caitlin Creates

42:42 Launching Whisk Takers: A New Venture

47:20 Feedback and Public Interaction in Business

53:16 Future Aspirations and Brand Growth

01:02:37 Signature Moments: Defining Brand Identity

01:06:10 Community Engagement and Brand Representation

01:07:50 Creative Journeys: Personal Stories Behind Brands

01:12:43 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

📱 Instagram:

@shopbccosmetics

@kindlykora

@madebyinjoy

@caitlyncreates.sc

@whisk.takers.sc

@Student-Made Michigan State

@Student-Made Missouri

@Student-Made USC

Read

April Top Brands Blog

🎧 Listen to Relevant Episodes: 

Our April 2026 Top Brands

🏛️ Join Us!

Launch on Your Campus 

🙏🏼 Thanks to Our Awesome Partners: 

MSU Burgess Institute

Trulaske Center For Entrepreneurship

USC McNair Institute

Our Campuses

🌟 Other Shoutouts

Soda City Market Columbia, SC

Get on a NYC Times Square Billboard!

🎙️ Episode Description: 

Student-Made Co-Founders, Lindsay and Ryan explore actionable tips for maximizing productivity during tight deadlines, whether in business or life. From clarifying priorities to enjoying the journey, they emphasize strategies to maintain focus and fulfillment when time is scarce.

🔑 Key Topics + Chapters:

• The importance of getting clear on what truly matters to avoid overwhelm

• Recognizing and avoiding the busy mindset that hampers productivity

• The value of finishing what you start to build confidence and momentum

• How to enjoy the hustle and find satisfaction in your daily progress

• The significance of balancing urgency with intentionality, avoiding frantic rushes or retreat

• The benefits of closing loops on projects to foster growth and reflection

• How to leverage limited time for meaningful impact, including in student entrepreneurship and organizational growth

• The mindset shift needed when approaching final moments—embracing chaos while finding joy in the process

(02:05) Making the most of limited time in business and life contexts

(03:00) Lindsay’s letter: How pressure influences our actions

(05:04) Get clear on what actually matters and prioritize high-impact tasks

(06:44) Sports analogy: the psychology of focusing when time runs out

(09:28) The ripple effect: focusing on one impactful task to move many things forward

(11:14) Avoiding the trap of responding to everything and focusing proactively

(12:34) Managing email overload and maintaining productivity

(14:16) The mindset shift: working smarter in the last weeks of the semester or year

(17:36) The importance of middle ground—balancing grand ideas with achievable steps

(22:13) Balancing focus and flexibility without defaulting to busy or frozen states

(25:37) The pitfalls of frantic rushing: doing the wrong tasks under pressure

(28:00) Composure and focus, exemplified by football’s game-winning drives

(37:45) Finishing what you started: the power of closing loops

(41:16) The importance of celebrating completed projects to foster confidence

(44:10) Growing organizational projects and adding new initiatives responsibly

(50:02) Maintaining ongoing systems for effective communication and engagement

(56:25) The challenge of adding new ideas without sacrificing sustainability

(58:45) Embracing chaos and enjoying the final push of a project or year

(63:19) Leverage the chaos to find joy and gratitude in the process

(65:49) The philosophical view: The journey is the only thing that truly exists

(66:47) Reflecting on intense periods of travel and growth as opportunities

(71:21) Accepting seasonal fluctuations—slow and busy times alike

📱 Instagram:

Student-Made Store

Making it Creative Podcast

👩🏽‍💻 Shop:

⁠Our Campuses

📖 Read:

Lindsay's April Letter

🎧 Relevant Episodes:

5 Ways to Reset Your Creative Business for Spring

4 Reasons to Love Being an Entrepreneur

📺 Watch:

Follow On Youtube

🏛️ Join Us!

Launch on Your Campus 

🙏🏼 Thanks to Our awesome Partners: 

Our Campuses

🌟Other Shoutouts

Whisk Takers Cookies!

Gentle Soul Tea Blends