In this episode, Gwen Bortner talks with paper artist Abigail McMurray of YEIOU Paper Objects about what it really looks like to achieve sustainable success in running a business without burning out. Abigail shares how she went from making flat-pack craft kits to designing intricate 3D house portraits, map art, and collage-based pieces that honor the idea of “home” – and why she’s intentionally kept her business small and deeply personal.

You’ll hear how Abigail:

• Recovered from the burnout of years spent making labor-intensive commissions
• Identified what she didn’t want her business to become – and used that to find clarity
• Protects her creative well through play, community classes, and intentional scheduling
• Uses the Weekly Course of Action to build structure without sacrificing freedom
• Navigates selling across multiple channels, from local markets to custom commissions

This is an honest look at crafting a business that supports your creativity rather than consuming it. If you’re a maker or artist trying to balance demand, creative energy, and real-life context, this conversation offers grounded insight into sustainable success.

Check out Abigail’s work