When Covid cost her a job, single mom Juliane Popelka turned $600 and a dream into Silk for Everyone. From selling pillowcases at First Friday to surpassing $100K in sales, Juliane shares how grit, resilience, and reinvestment built her business from the ground up.

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

Website: https://www.silkforeveryone.com

Merch Talk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merch.talk/

In this episode of Merch Talk, we sit down with a mother of four and faith-filled potter and small business owner who turned a creative outlet into a meaningful artisan brand. 🎙️ She shares how her pottery journey began during pregnancy, the struggles of starting before she felt ready, and what it's really like to build a handmade business while raising a family.

We talk about:

- Starting a business with no experience

- Lessons from her very first market

- Why your work has value even before it's perfect

- How God used pottery to reshape her path

- Giving back through business — including donating 15% of sales to her church

Whether you're a potter, a creative entrepreneur, a faith-based business owner, or just someone dreaming of starting your own small, local artisan brand, this episode will encourage you to take that first step.

✨ Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Connect with the Merch Talk Podcast:

🎙️ Instagram: @merch.talk @themerchantile @merchantilemarket

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@themerchantileofscottsdale4660

Connect with Maria from Mud Water Studio:

🌿 Website: www.mudwaterstudio.com

🌿 Instagram: @mudwaterstudio

In this episode, I sit down with Saige Harris, owner of FERN Floral Studio, a small artisan floral business known for creating unique, one-of-a-kind flower arrangements using unexpected combinations and hard-to-find blooms. Originally from Hawai'i, Saige shares what it was like to move her floral business across the country to Arizona and the lessons she's learned about growing a local business, trusting the process, and staying true to your values and creativity in a competitive industry. We dive into overcoming comparison, the reality behind social media success, and how faith has helped her navigate the ups and downs of small business ownership. Whether you're a local artisan, florist, or creative entrepreneur, you'll be encouraged and inspired by Saige's story.

Connect with Saige Harris & FERN Floral Studio: 🌿 Website: fernfloralstudio.com 🌿 Instagram: @fernfloralstudio

Connect with the Merch Talk Podcast: 🎙️ Instagram: @merch.talk

In this second episode of Merch Talk, join me as I sit down with my husband, Eugene, a seasoned veteran in the retail industry. Together, we delve into the intricate aspects of hiring, firing, and most importantly, crafting a vibrant company culture that employees embrace. From recruiting top talent to navigating difficult personnel decisions, we share insights, anecdotes, and strategies aimed at fostering a workplace environment where every team member feels valued and motivated.

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/merch.talk/?hl=en

In this episode, we're thrilled to have Melissa Balkon, the visionary founder of Phoenix Supply Co and Strong Design Studio, as our special guest. Melissa shares invaluable insights into optimizing your product displays in both physical stores and outdoor markets, along with some unconventional tips you may not have considered yet. If you're a retailer or a maker, you won't want to miss this! Melissa even has a fantastic offer exclusively for our listeners. When you shop online at Phoenix Supply Co, use the code "THEMERCH" to enjoy a generous $5 discount on purchases of $40 or more. Please note that this offer is valid for one use per customer, and the subtotal must reach $40 before tax. Check out our online store at www.phoenixsupply.co to explore the wide range of maker tools and supplies, including the highly recommended Market Profitability Calculator Tracker. To access the Profitability Calculator product directly, simply click on this link: [Market Profitability Calculator Tracker](https://www.phoenixsupply.co/collections/maker-tools/products/market-profitability-calculator-tracker) For more information and to stay connected with Phoenix Supply Co, visit our website at www.phoenixsupply.co and follow us on Instagram at [Phoenix Supply Co on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/phoenixsupplyco). And don't forget to explore Melissa's design studio, Strong Design Studio, at www.strongdesign.co for additional creative inspiration and services. Tune in to discover Melissa's trade secrets, market strategies, and the special something that'll elevate your next pop-up event. Listen now for insider tips that can transform your business and boost your profits. Enjoy the episode! Don't forget to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/merch.talk/?hl=en

How do you turn that great idea into a full business? Welcome to Merch Talk, the podcast that explores how your entrepreneurial dreams can become a reality.

I'm Kimberly Pak, your host and the proud owner of two beautifully curated local boutique marketplaces in Arizona, where local businesses come together to showcase their products under one convenient roof. On our show, I conduct interviews with fellow local business owners, offering valuable advice, encouragement, and unwavering support. Whether you're in the early stages of planning your business, dreaming about starting one, or already on your business journey, join us for a deep dive into real lessons you can apply to your business. And remember, dreams gather here at the Merchantile.

Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.