The Jeweler's View

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In this episode of The Jeweler's View, metalsmith educator Courtney Gray discusses the concept of 'imperfect action' in a creative business. After 25 years in the industry, she shares the challenges of overcoming perfectionism and self-sabotage, emphasizing the importance of taking action even in imperfect circumstances. She shares a story from her community illustrating a jeweler’s struggle and eventual success through small, imperfect steps. Gray advocates focusing on rhythm over speed to avoid burnout and highlights that progress is often messy but necessary for growth.

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

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What if the very thing holding you back isn’t fear  but control?

In this episode of The Jeweler’s View, host Courtney Gray shares a powerful real-life story about the morning she trusted her intuition and how that moment changed everything. Through that story and lessons from her own creative journey, Courtney explores how artists and jewelers can learn to let go, trust their instincts, and find flow in both business and life.

If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I’ll do it later,” or pushing harder when things don’t go to plan, this episode will help you reframe what flow really looks like. Spoiler: it’s not ease, it’s rhythm, awareness, and the courage to listen when life nudges you in a new direction.

Courtney also shares how this same principle is woven throughout her Transform course  guiding jewelers and creative entrepreneurs to build businesses rooted in purpose, sustainability, and confidence.

🎧 You’ll learn:

• Why resistance often turns into control
• How to recognize when to let go and pivot
• Why trusting yourself is key to creative growth
• What “flow” actually feels like for makers
• How small, aligned steps lead to big transformation

✨ Sponsor:
This episode is proudly supported by Gesswein, helping jewelers, metalsmiths, and manufacturers stay ahead of the curve since 1914. Gesswein doesn’t just sell tools  they help you use them better. Visit www.gesswein.com
to explore tools, training, and resources that keep your craft sharp and your creativity flowing.

🔗 Connect & Learn More:
Find tools, coaching, and the Transform course at courtneygrayarts.com
.
Follow @courtneygrayarts on Instagram and share what part of this episode resonated most.

Because growth doesn’t come from perfection it comes from trust.

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of 'The Jeweler's View,' host Courtney Gray, a seasoned metalsmith educator and creative business strategist, addresses the topic of resistance and how it affects artists and creators. Drawing on her 25 years of experience, Courtney explains how resistance manifests as procrastination, self-doubt, and perfectionism, often keeping creators from progressing. She shares personal anecdotes and client stories, emphasizing the importance of recognizing, understanding, and overcoming resistance. Courtney provides practical steps to manage resistance, including naming it, taking small actions, and sharing struggles within a community. She encourages listeners to start their creative endeavors without waiting for perfect conditions, highlighting that resistance is a sign of growth and progress. Courtney also promotes her Transform membership and invites listeners to join her supportive community to continue their creative journeys.

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

Overcoming Scarcity Mindset and Embracing Abundance with Brianna Zeena

In this episode of 'The Jeweler's View,' hosted by Courtney Gray, metalsmith educator and creative business strategist with 25 years in the jewelry industry, the focus is on shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance. Courtney continues her discussion with Brianna Zeena, a business coach in the permanent jewelry space. They explore the importance of overcoming negative self-talk and comparisonitis, the significant impact of a supportive community, and the crucial difference between a victim and victor mentality in business. Brianna shares her personal journey from being in debt to achieving financial success and emphasizes the importance of resilience and seizing opportunities. The episode encourages listeners to take control of their narratives and pursue their dreams with perseverance, positivity, and an abundance mindset.

https://www.linkedlocalnj.com/

00:00 Introduction to The Jeweler's View
00:51 Recap of Last Week's Episode
01:23 Diving into Money Mindset and Scarcity
02:36 Shifting from Scarcity to Abundance
05:06 The Power of Social Proof
07:28 Emails from Listeners
12:58 Victim vs. Victor Mentality
20:22 Starting the Day with Energy
20:38 Assessing Your Energy Levels
21:23 Facing Life's Challenges
22:00 Overcoming Excuses
22:22 Building a Business Against the Odds
24:11 The Importance of Resilience
26:13 Balancing Work and Personal Life
30:25 The Power of Words and Manifestation
32:00 Embracing Vulnerability
34:30 Navigating Life's Journey
35:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

 Building Authentic Relationships and Business Integrity with Brianna Zenna

In this episode of The Jeweler's View, host Courtney Gray welcomes Brianna Zenna, a leader in the permanent jewelry industry and serial entrepreneur. They discuss Brianna's entrepreneurial journey from vacuum sales to owning multiple businesses, highlighting the value of collaboration over competition, and the importance of building meaningful relationships in business. The conversation dives deep into handling customer service with integrity, the challenges of managing staff, and the necessity of creating a systematic approach to ensure customer satisfaction. Brianna shares how stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing discomfort can lead to greater opportunities and growth. Listeners are challenged to try something they wouldn't normally consider to shake up their routine and potentially find new avenues for success.

https://www.linkedlocalnj.com/

00:00 Introduction to The Jeweler's View
01:05 Meet Brianna Zenna: A Journey from Vacuum Sales to Permanent Jewelry
03:09 The Power of Collaboration Over Competition
04:25 Entrepreneurial Lessons and Personal Growth
07:00 Balancing Work and Emotions
10:21 Building a Business with Integrity and Protocols
12:30 Creative Collaborations and Community Building
25:21 Collaborating for Success
27:43 Training and Empowering Staff
32:05 Handling Difficult Customers
35:22 Balancing Professionalism and Personal Boundaries
38:05 The Importance of Patience and Perspective
43:39 Embracing Discomfort for Growth
44:36 Conclusion and Challenge for Makers 

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

For over a century, Gesswein has been a trusted name for jewelers, manufacturers, and studios around the world, providing tools, technology, and hands-on support to help them stay ahead in a changing industry. 

In this episode of The Jeweler’s View, I sit down with Roger Gesswein to talk about the company’s family legacy, how they’ve embraced innovation while staying true to their values, and why partnerships matter now more than ever. 

From new technologies like electro polishing to the importance of in-person connection at trade shows, Roger shares insights that every jeweler, from independent studios to large manufacturers, can use to work smarter, serve customers better, and stay competitive. 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

• How Gesswein blends tradition with innovation to stay relevant
• The role of technology in shaping the future of jewelry making
• Why relationships and shared values matter in today’s industry
• Practical ways jewelers can modernize without losing their roots

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

• Watch their short demo video: “Understanding Electropolishing for Jewelers” on YouTube → Electropolishing Video
• Learn more about electro polishing on Gesswein’s blog → Understanding Electropolishing for Jewelers
• Explore tools, training, and support from Gesswein → Gesswein Website

 Whether you’re just starting out or running a full-scale manufacturing shop, this conversation will leave you inspired about what’s possible when the right tools, technology, and partnerships come together.
 

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Jeweler's View, Courtney Gray, a metalsmith educator and business strategist, reflects on the impactful 'Transform' course she created, designed to bridge the gap between creativity and business. She shares inspiring stories of women from diverse backgrounds—scientists, retirees, fine artists, and career jewelers—who have taken the course and experienced significant personal and professional growth. From gaining business structure and confidence to reigniting passion for their craft, these women illustrate that transformation is possible at any stage of life or career. Courtney emphasizes the importance of community, support, and continuous learning. She invites listeners to join the next cohort of the 'Transform' course and offers free masterclasses to help them start their journey.

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Jeweler's View, Courtney Gray, a metalsmith educator and creative business strategist, shares her journey in the jewelry industry and the creation of her course, Transform. Gray highlights the impact of her course on various women who have faced unique challenges in their jewelry-making careers. These women, including Breeta, Sophia, Mary, and Andrea, experienced significant personal and professional growth through the course, gaining confidence, clarity, and direction. Gray emphasizes the importance of showing up for oneself and the value of community support. The episode also announces upcoming sessions of the Transform course and encourages listeners to join or attend a free masterclass.

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

 In this episode of The Jeweler's View, hosted by Courtney Gray, a seasoned metalsmith educator and creative business strategist, Courtney shares personal experiences and profound insights on the transformative power of struggle. Reflecting on her son's journey and her own professional challenges, she emphasizes that struggle is an inevitable part of life and business, not a sign of weakness. Instead of avoiding it, she encourages listeners to embrace and learn from their struggles, using them as raw material for growth, innovation, and resilience. Throughout the episode, Courtney highlights the importance of processing these experiences, whether through community support, mentorship, or personal reflection, and offers practical advice on how to navigate and extract meaning from difficult times. She also announces the upcoming session of her transformative course, inviting listeners to join her in this journey of learning and personal growth. 

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Jeweler's View, Courtney Gray emphasizes the importance of viewing mistakes not as failures, but as opportunities for growth and innovation. Drawing from her experience as a metalsmith and stories from various industries, including the invention of WD-40, Post-it notes, and the light bulb, she illustrates how 'happy accidents' can lead to incredible breakthroughs. Gray shares personal anecdotes and challenges listeners to reframe their approach to mistakes, encouraging them to see these moments as stepping stones to success. She invites listeners to embrace their creative journey, learn from every misstep, and transform what might seem like setbacks into unique, defining elements of their work.

Support the show

Visit www.CourtneyGrayArts.com to read more about what I offer.  Be sure to follow The Jeweler’s View so you never miss an episode! Now you can watch on You Tube: @theJeweler'sView. I’d love it if you could subscribe, and leave a rating and review by scrolling down on the main show page, this helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you. 

💎 Have thoughts to share or just want to say hi? Reach out anytime and be sure to get on my VIP newsletter list. Welcome to the tribe!

– Courtney
Helping Jewelry Creatives access the knowledge, resources, and mindset they

need to achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Connect with me or check out the Transform Your Jewelry Business course at 

www.CourtneyGrayArts.com

🤗 Linktree: All the Things 

🎁 Get your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and Customers  and 

...