Unlock the secrets to genuine online storytelling as Sarah Tasker, the creative force behind the renowned Instagram account Me and Orla, joins us on Mind Over Medium! Sarah shares her inspiring journey from speech therapist to a digital storyteller, guiding us through the importance of authenticity and the bravery it takes to share creative work publicly. We delve deep into her journey and the evolution of her career, unveiling the critical steps to self-acceptance and how these have shaped her approach to content creation.

Discover why Substack may just be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for. We’ll compare it to Instagram, highlighting its potential to offer deeper engagement through long-form content that people are eager to pay for. From integrating photos, videos, and even podcasts into your Substack, the platform's flexibility is a boon for creatives. Hear firsthand how my experience with Substack has rejuvenated my creative process, allowing me to cultivate a more connected and monetized audience.

Navigating the unpredictable waters of Instagram’s algorithms can be daunting, but Substack provides a stable and reliable alternative. We'll explore strategies for transitioning your followers to Substack and the importance of maintaining a cohesive personal brand across all platforms. From solving creative challenges to the liberation of breaking societal norms, this episode is brimming with insights to fuel your artistic journey. Don’t miss out on valuable resources and coaching opportunities available on my website to help you launch and grow your online presence effectively!

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What if the key to unlocking your creativity was simply doing nothing? Join us on this artistic journey as we announce an exciting move of our podcast to Substack, a platform that promises to enhance our community connection like never before. We're thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with Atlanta-based artist Shelley Helms Fleischman. Shelly, known for her captivating encaustic and mixed media work, takes us through her artistic evolution—from a lover of poetry and a private creator to a celebrated artist. Listen in as Shelly shares the transformative power of a supportive community and a life-changing residency that ignited her creative spark.

Ever wondered how artists balance creativity with the demands of daily life? We unpack the concept of "otium" and its essential role in the artistic process. I share personal routines that fuel my creative energy, from morning walks in pajamas to watching birds and sun salutations. The conversation highlights the often overlooked challenges faced by artists, such as finding a supportive community and the dichotomy between artistic fulfillment and conventional job expectations. We dig deep into how "odium," the luxury of doing nothing, is a crucial part of letting ideas simmer and eventually flourish.

Navigating the art world is no easy feat, and we explore the unique challenges and triumphs of being a professional artist. From the vulnerability of sharing art to balancing creativity with business, we discuss the pressures of maintaining a social media presence and the mental exhaustion that can come with it. I share personal anecdotes about the importance of taking breaks and finding inspiration in nature to combat creative blocks. We also delve into the joy of celebrating wins, not just by achieving personal milestones, but by supporting fellow artists and building a personal art collection. Get ready for an episode that brings the artistic journey to life, offering insights and stories that will resonate with both artists and art lovers alike.

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Ever wondered how to transition from a graphic designer to a full-time artist? This week on "Mind Over Medium," I am thrilled to announce that our podcast is moving to Substack! This platform, with its community-building potential, is the perfect new home for us. To mark the occasion, I have an enriching conversation with Drew Steinbrecher, a celebrated artist known for his work in gel printing, collage, and quilting. Drew opens up about his transition from graphic design to art, sharing the experiences and mistakes that shaped his unique style and drove his success.

Our discussion dives into Drew's thought processes behind his artistic choices, including why he chose fiber as his primary medium and the thematic connections in his "Urban Fabric" quilt series. We underscore the importance of writing to add depth to one's work and reflect on the persistence required to shift from a graphic design career to a full-time art practice. Drew’s journey is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit needed to find success in a creative field, making this episode an essential listen for aspiring artists.

We also spotlight the exciting world of organizing online artist summits, inspired by my experience at Kelly Conrad's event. The Collage Maker Summit and the Gel Printer Summit have been remarkable successes, and we discuss the logistics and benefits of such events. Hear about our upcoming plans, including a free event for beginner gel plate users, and gain insights into balancing creativity and entrepreneurship. Whether you're an artist looking to turn your passion into a business or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable advice and personal anecdotes. Don't miss it!

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Unlock the transformative power of journaling with insights from our special guest, Ashley Wright, the renowned journaling coach and founder of Strokes of Freedom. Ashley opens up about her journey, sharing her passion for journaling, the impact it had on her during the 2020 lockdown, and how it can help artists achieve their creative goals. She even offers three exclusive journaling prompts tailored just for artists! Plus, don't miss the exciting announcement about my upcoming studio sale, and how you can get early access by joining my email list.

Discover how journaling can enhance mental clarity and self-awareness through a variety of journal types, from large 8x11 formats to tiny, portable notebooks. Learn about the therapeutic benefits of externalizing thoughts onto paper to interrupt repetitive mental loops and gain clearer perspectives. We also discuss how journaling provides a private, judgment-free space for self-exploration and helps in achieving a concise understanding of your emotions and intentions before involving others in your personal narrative.

We delve into personal stories of transformation through creative exploration and self-expression. Hear how acknowledging emotions can lead to significant healing and better communication in personal relationships. Overcoming barriers like fear of judgment and embracing the liberating experience of writing without self-critique are key themes. We wrap up by sharing valuable journaling advice to help artists reconnect with their work and explore creativity without constraints. Tune in for an episode that celebrates the joy of creativity, healing, and personal growth through the art of journaling.

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Can art truly transform a living space? Discover the answer as we sit down with Hope Austin, owner of Hope Austin Interiors, to explore the vital role of art in interior design. Hope imparts her wisdom on sourcing the perfect pieces, emphasizing the significance of understanding client preferences while allowing artists to maintain their creative freedom. Learn why trying art in its intended space is crucial for a harmonious design and get a glimpse into the diverse tastes of her clientele, ranging from abstract to figurative art.

Ever wondered how artists can successfully pitch their work to interior designers? Hope shares invaluable insights on this dynamic relationship, discussing practical strategies for artists, including the use of social media and tools like ArtCloud. She recounts her experiences with artist pitches and the powerful impact of visual aids on decision-making. Additionally, we delve into the challenges of incorporating original art into design projects and managing client expectations, underscoring the value of authentic artwork.

Balancing a thriving design business with personal life is no small feat. Hope reveals her approach to maintaining this delicate equilibrium, highlighting the importance of effective delegation and a strong support team. From establishing a client base in a new city to leveraging marketing efforts via social media and art shows, Hope's journey is both inspiring and instructive. Listen in as we wrap up with tips on building artistic partnerships and connecting with like-minded creatives to foster growth and innovation. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice and inspiring stories for artists, designers, and art enthusiasts alike.

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What if you could transform your hobby into a full-time career? Join us on Mind Over Medium as we chat with Kim Hassel, a remarkable mixed media artist from Greenville, South Carolina. Once a successful magazine editor, Kim shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from the world of publishing to embracing her true passion: painting. She gives us a glimpse into the vibrant art community in Greenville and her participation in the enchanting Flowers Magic Art Fest. Kim's story offers a compelling look at the challenges and triumphs of balancing a regular job while cultivating an artistic career.

Mentorship is a powerful catalyst in an artist’s journey, as Kim vividly illustrates through her experiences with renowned artist Alice Williams. Kim recounts how a transformative workshop with Alice rekindled her love for painting, leading to a profound mentorship that took her on artistic adventures from the scenic Amalfi Coast to Alice’s charming home in France. These enriching experiences highlight the importance of seizing opportunities and the lasting bonds formed through shared creative endeavors.

Marketing art in today’s digital age requires a strategic approach, and Kim shares her insights on making the most of workshops and leveraging social media platforms like Instagram. From embracing new techniques to the practicalities of sourcing the right supplies, Kim opens up about the highs and lows of the creative process. We also discuss the emotional rollercoaster of promoting new work and the importance of building anticipation. This episode is packed with valuable advice for artists aiming to turn their passion into a sustainable career while navigating the complexities and pleasures of the creative journey.

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Have you ever found yourself pondering the true essence of creativity and how it can be unleashed? Mind Over Medium warmly welcomes Shay Kent, a Tampa-based mixed media artist and teacher, who reveals her personal reawakening to the arts after a hiatus and offers sage advice to listeners seeking to break free from conventional restraints. This episode promises a journey into the heart of artistic expression, where the rules are bent and a supportive environment is key to nurturing one's creative soul.

As Shay opens up about overcoming self-criticism and the intimidating aspects of managing an art business, listeners are treated to a blend of personal anecdotes and practical strategies. Her emphasis on balancing the raw passion of creating with the necessary evils of entrepreneurship speaks to artists and creators who wrestle with maintaining their creative integrity amidst the demands of running a business. Shay's insights into setting goals, allowing for personal artistic time, and accepting the natural chaos of the creative process will resonate deeply with those striving for both professional success and personal fulfillment.

Finally, Shay and I explore the vital roles of community, organization, and personal well-being in sustaining an artist's productivity and inspiration. Whether it's the importance of connecting with fellow creatives, implementing organizational hacks, or finding inspiration in the simplest joys of life, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice. And for those captivated by Shay's message, there's an open invitation to delve deeper into her world, with opportunities for a one-on-one discovery call or a free mixed media class that promises to spark your imagination and breathe new life into your creative pursuits.

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Have you ever reached a point in life where the path you're on just doesn't feel right anymore? That moment of realization hit mixed-media collage artist and teacher Cat Rains like a splash of vibrant paint on a blank canvas. She joins us on Mind Over Medium to recount her colorful transition from an unfulfilling conventional career to the rich, textured world of art—a journey that teaches us it's never too late to discover and pursue our passions. Listen as Cat shares not only her personal transformation but also offers wisdom on cultivating joy through her course "Collage Joy," painting a picture of the fulfillment found in both creating and imparting knowledge.

Navigating the landscape of a creative business can feel like a juggling act, requiring a balance of discipline and innovation. In our candid conversation, we uncover how Cat harnesses focus to steer clear of the alluring 'shiny objects' that threaten to distract. We also wade into the digital realm where mastering technology becomes an essential brushstroke in the portrait of artistic success. The dialogue branches out to touch on the importance of embracing opportunities that may initially seem daunting, providing a masterclass in growing beyond comfort zones and confronting resistance with strategies like the "task tower" for productivity.

If you've ever felt stifled creatively or stuck in a mundane task, this episode offers a splash of inspiration. We break down how small, consistent art steps can lead to leaps in confidence and how embarking on a 100-day collage project can unfold into an astonishing display of personal growth and artistic evolution. Cat's insights into setting achievable goals and the joy of progress stitch together a narrative encouraging us to weave creativity into the fabric of our lives, transforming the ordinary into extraordinary. Tune in as we explore the canvas of life with Cat Rains, and get ready to pick up your own artistic tools with renewed vigor and a heart full of joy.

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When the world turned upside down, Andrea Chebeleu didn't just adapt; she transformed her artistic journey into a digital wonderland. This episode of Mind Over Medium is a heartfelt conversation with Andrea, where she opens up about her entrepreneurial voyage, sparked by the global shift to remote life. As she moved to Oregon, a new chapter began, not just for her but for a flourishing community of creatives who've come together in her Watch, Learn, Play group. We traverse the landscape of launching a creative business, the pure joy of enabling artists to engage with their craft, and how, despite the juggle of family life, Andrea has cultivated a digital sanctuary where art is both learned and experienced.

It's not all about the paint and canvas; ritualistic morning practices, embracing our neurodiversity, and a daily dose of gratitude are the quiet undercurrents of our creative processes. Andrea and I share intimate details of our life-affirming routines and how, sometimes, they're the lifeboat in a sea of chaos. We talk about the delicate dance between nurturing one's own creative spirit and pouring into the community, tackling the hurdle of creative blocks with a touch of whimsy, and the art of restructuring our internal narratives to foster growth and healing. All this as we peel back the curtain to reveal the often unseen administrative load that comes hand-in-hand with creative success.

The vibrant tapestry of an artist's life wouldn't be complete without the threads of social media and public engagement. We close with musings on our favored platforms, like Instagram, where the soul of our work is laid bare for the world to see. This conversation is a beacon for creatives seeking inspiration and connection, and my gratitude extends to every listener who's joined us on this journey. Through episodes like this, we aspire to not just inspire but also to shape a community where each artist's voice is amplified and where every stroke, sketch, and splatter is a testament to the shared heartbeat of our collective endeavor.

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Ever pondered what it takes to transform adversity into a colorful array of achievements? Nika Maples, an inspirational author and coach, joined me to unravel her own tapestry of life. From conquering the fallout of a stroke that rendered her quadriplegic at 20 to becoming an empowering figure for individuals yearning to etch their stories into the annals of published literature, Nika's narrative is as vivid as the color-themed magazine she once published—and as bold as the artwork she chose for her book cover, artwork that I had the privilege of creating.

Embrace the fearless "Why Not?" mindset with us as we venture through past victories like Teacher of the Year and tackle the psychological barriers that often anchor us before we even set sail. This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a roadmap for navigating life's contests, discerning when to leap into opportunities, and how to orchestrate the seemingly impossible, like a dual celebration of a Writers Conference paired with a milestone birthday bash, all with just a six-week notice. Inspiration strikes in the tales of steadfast determination and the joys that follow when we push beyond our comfort zones.

Finally, we wade through the emotional swamps that writers often find themselves mired in, seeking solid ground on the other side. Doubts and fears of judgment are but mirages we confront, offering advice that transforms writing trepidation into a wellspring of creativity. The episode closes on a note of gratitude and growth, a reminder to cherish the shared moments of artistic expression and personal success. Join us on this journey, where double doors of opportunity await and where every chapter encourages you to craft your own story with heart, resilience, and a dash of playfulness.

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