Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on a season that’s tested my leadership, my health, and my patience.

This episode is all about what happens when things don’t go as planned—when bringing on help creates more friction than relief, when old triggers resurface, and when slowing down feels impossible. I’ll be sharing the tools that are helping me navigate the mess, the clarity I’ve found in unexpected places, and why getting uncomfortable might just be the invitation to grow.

If you’ve ever felt like the chaos is too loud, or like you're creating in the middle of your own storm—this one’s for you.

Takeaways:

• We need to get a little uncomfortable to make change happen.

• Triggers are invitations to explore deeper emotions.
• It's okay to slow down and honor the season you're in.

• Chaos can attract more stress; calmness leads to clarity.

• We are stronger and more resilient than we give ourselves credit for.
• You are allowed to change and create something beautiful from a messy place.

LINKS 

Watch on YouTube: Coming Soon

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on ⁠Instagram ⁠

Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠⁠

**use code Podcast for 15% off**

We’re slowing things down—in the best way possible. I’m joined by Michelle Simmons, founder of Slow North, a natural lifestyle brand born in Austin and built on intention, creativity, and calm.

What started in her garage with a pot, hot plate, and a vision for clean-burning candles has grown into a thriving business rooted in sustainable practices, handcrafted products, and community connection. 

We talk about the messy middle of entrepreneurship, the value of listening to your gut (and your customers), and how to build a brand that truly reflects who you are. Whether you’re a maker, a dreamer, or somewhere in between, this conversation is a warm hug and a gentle nudge to keep going.

So grab your favorite candle, take a deep breath, and let’s dive in.

TAKEAWAYS

• Started Slow North after becoming more conscious of the products in her home.
• Slow North's mission is rooted in transparency and sustainability.
• Starting at farmers markets provided valuable feedback for product development.
• Investing in a business coach can provide necessary guidance and accountability.
• Sustainability in packaging is a priority for modern businesses.
• Balancing family and business requires intentional time management.
• Lifelong learning is essential for personal and professional development.

LINKS 

Listen on Apple: 

Listen on Spotify:  

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OdZ-UOmyyJ8

Follow Slow North on Instagram

Shop Online  -⁠⁠ https://www.slownorth.com

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on ⁠Instagram ⁠

Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠⁠

**use code Podcast for 15% off**

What started as a side hustle turned into a viral mental health tool with simple, bite-sized coloring books for adults—designed to reduce stress, support neurodivergent users, and bring daily joy.

This week, I sit down with A Brighter Year's Founder Shanti Grossman to talk creativity, calm, and building a business that matters.

Shanti shares her journey from a musical upbringing and music industry career to launching three different product-based businesses. Her honest reflections on business pivots, viral TikTok success, and learning to scale are full of wisdom for creatives and entrepreneurs alike. Plus you'll definitely hear the spark when two extrovert creatives catch up.

Whether you're looking for a laugh or creative inspiration, this ones's a good one!

TAKEAWAYS

• Shanti has always been creative, influenced by her musical family.
• She transitioned from the music industry to entrepreneurship to avoid a cubicle job.
• Her first businesses taught her valuable lessons about scaling and marketing.
• A Brighter Year started as a creative outlet and evolved into a mental health tool.
• The design philosophy focuses on simplicity and accessibility for busy individuals.
• Listening to customer feedback is crucial for product development.
• TikTok success and how it's played a significant role in her business growth.
• Future partnerships and programs to help people feel more joyful!

LINKS 

Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/454yCci

Listen on Spotify:  https://spoti.fi/4dgLkqG

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/99TxxzmyWns

Follow A Brighter Year on Instagram

Shop Online  -⁠ https://abrighteryear.com

Freebies and More Fun!

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram

Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠

**use code Podcast for 15% off**

In this episode, I’m opening up about something we all face but rarely talk about—rejection. I recently went through an experience that shook me, but instead of letting it define me, I chose to learn from it. I'm sharing how I shifted my mindset, found power in reflection, and discovered that a "no" can actually open doors to something even better.

I’ll talk about the importance of pressing pause—especially if you’re constantly in go-mode—and why self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. I’m also encouraging you to do something simple but powerful: make a list of your wins. Sometimes, we need that reminder of who we are and what we’ve already overcome.

This episode is for anyone navigating a setback, looking for clarity, or just needing a little boost to keep going. I’ve been there—and I want you to know, you're not alone, and the journey ahead is still yours to claim.

LINKS 

Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/4ltDKN0

Listen on Spotify:  https://bit.ly/4j11ExC

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ljkg_JEQXUo

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram

Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠

**use code Podcast for 15% off**

NOMINATE AN ARTIST:

If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at [email protected]

Keywords:

artist, ceramics, social media, creative journey, positive mindset, community, entrepreneurship, overcoming rejection, small business, female entrepreneur, small batch ceramics, art podcast, artist journey

Jessica Bubnich of Sunroom Ceramics is a ceramicist whose path from the corporate world to full-time artist is nothing short of inspiring. We talk about the struggles of calling yourself an artist, the thrill of problem-solving through clay, and the ever-present challenge of balancing creativity with business. Jessica also shares why ‘done is better than perfect’ might just be the best advice for any artist trying to grow their audience. As she has found success by embracing authenticity, learning to post even when it feels scary, and using social media as a tool rather than a source of stress.

If you’ve ever doubted your creative identity or felt stuck between passion and profitability, this episode is for you. So grab a cup of coffee and settle into wherever you are listening and let’s get started…

CHAPTERS:

Introductions & Quick Fire Question Game

02:40 The Journey to Embracing the Artist Identity

05:25 Always Creative? 

07:04 A degree in Hamburger-ology from McDonald's

15:17 Problem Solving in Ceramics

16:50 The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Molds

19:50 Favorite Ceramic Piece Made

20:52 The Evolution of Content Creation

22:36 Overcoming Social Media Anxiety

27:58 Small Batch Production: A Business Model

32:36 Navigating Work-Life Balance as a Business Owner

37:23 Building Community Through Authenticity

44:58 Building a Creative Workspace at Home

49:58 Where to find Sunroom Ceramics 

TAKEAWAYS:

• Embrace your identity as an artist.
• Transitioning from corporate to creative can be challenging but rewarding.
• Social media can be a powerful tool for artists.
• Finding a community of like-minded individuals is crucial.
• Work-life balance is a continuous journey for entrepreneurs.
• It's okay to not have everything figured out.
• Done is better than perfect when it comes to content creation.
• Building connections with others in the art world can enhance your journey.

LINKS 

Watch on YouTube: COMING SOON

Follow Sunroom Ceramics on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sunroomceramics

Shop Online  - https://www.sunroomceramics.com

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on instagram -   / brushstrokespottery  

Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com

**use code Podcast for 15% off**

Listen on Apple: ⁠https://apple.co/3EOipgq⁠

Listen on Spotify:  ⁠https://spoti.fi/4icjBsp⁠

NOMINATE AN ARTIST:

If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at [email protected]

ceramics, slip casting, art podcast, artist journey

Resolutions? Overrated. But a single word to guide your year? That’s where the magic happens. In this episode of I'm helping you brainstorm the perfect word to set the tone for 2025—whether you’re craving growth, creativity, or a fresh start. I'll share insights from my own journey as a small business owner, why intentional goal-setting actually works, and how choosing the right word can fuel your mindset all year long. Tune in for inspiration, creative brainstorming, and a fun approach to making 2025 your best year yet!

TAKEAWAYS:

LINKS 

Listen on Spotify:  

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bU63GzH2s4c

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on instagram -   / brushstrokespottery  

Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com

NOMINATE AN ARTIST:

If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at [email protected]

Want to boost your holiday market sales this season? Duh, who doesn’t! Join me as I dive into five essential sales strategies that small business artists can easily implement to turn curious shoppers into loyal customers. From simple actions like getting people to stand up, to sharing the unique process behind your art, and meeting customers where they are, these tips have a proven track record of boosting booth sales. We’ll also cover the power of seeing and recognizing each person, ditching judgments, and leveraging QR codes to connect visitors directly to your online world. Tune in to discover how you can make your holiday market booth a magnet for sales!

Side note...this is also applicable to retail shops and boutiques.

LINKS:

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram

Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com

NOMINATE AN ARTIST:

If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at [email protected]

I’ve been thinking a lot about my identity as an artist lately and where I want to go next in my life and career and how that has left me feeling restless. I shared briefly on Instagram stories how I was struggling and the 3 key things I did to reconnect and reset. So many of your resonated with that message and wanted to hear more so I recorded this quick episode expanding on what I learned and discovered with the hopes that it can help you too. Enjoy!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

I would absolutely loved to hear what you took away from this episode (or any others). It would mean the world to me if you could take 2 minutes to leave a quick review on the podcast. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

TAKEAWAYS:

LINKS:

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram

Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com and use code PODCAST for 10% off!

NOMINATE AN ARTIST:

If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at [email protected]

Molly Sanyour is a ceramic artist and entrepreneur who turned her love for pottery and getting her hands dirty into a vibrant community studio which opening soon in Atlanta. She is so real and full of life. And In this episode, she shares the highs and lows of building her business, her excitement of teaching others, and the unexpected viral sensation of her famous 'butt mug,' yes you head me correct, which even caught the attention of singer Lizzo." BUT it’s not just about pottery—Molly opens up about why gratitude and dreaming big are essential to her journey. Whether you're an aspiring artist, seasoned creator or  someone looking for inspiration to chase your own dreams, this episode is packed with insights and stories to encourage you. 

Takeaways:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Molly's Move to Atlanta

05:17 Societal Norms and Pursuing a Career in Art

06:35 The Importance of Creative Thinking and Artistic Expression

09:31 Transitioning from Teaching to Opening a Community Pottery Studio

18:46 The Story Behind the Famous 'Butt Mug' and Lizzo's Involvement

25:15 Staying Up to Date on Trends and Protecting Intellectual Property

27:09 The Importance of Gratitude and Dreaming Big

36:48 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as an Artist

40:38 The Importance of Being Present on Social Media

47:14 Embracing the Uncertainty and Evolution of Your Art Journey 

LINKS 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EuyNtZJ9Tec

Follow Molly on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mollysanyourceramics

Shop Online  - https://www.mollysanyourceramics.com

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram

Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com

NOMINATE AN ARTIST:

If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at [email protected]

Keywords:

ceramic artist, community pottery studio, following dreams, teaching ceramics, butt mug, mass production, copyrighting designs, gratitude, dreaming big, art, ceramics, style, inspiration, originality, winter wonderland trees, shipping, imposter syndrome, social media, pottery studio, pottery show

Dive into the colorful world of Samantha Jezek, is a modern artist who explores figures, faces, and abstracts in bright, colorful hues. Samantha shares her artistic journey, from discovering her love for painting in college to creating the impactful 'Not Alone' series, which addresses themes of trials, addiction and recovery. Learn about her collaborations with companies to produce unique trinket trays, coasters, and apparel, and her plans to expand into textiles and home goods. Samantha also discusses the importance of finding a niche, staying true to one's creativity, and balancing motherhood with an art career. Get inspired by her story of resilience, evolution, and community in the ever-changing art world.

TAKEAWAYS:

LINKS:

Watch on YouTube

Follow Samantha Jezek on Instagram

Shop Online  - https://samanthajezekart.com

Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram -

Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com

NOMINATE AN ARTIST:

If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at [email protected]