Today, I’m sharing how I went from struggling to write regular emails to building a system that helps us send two value-packed newsletters with ease and joy. You’ll learn the purpose behind our two biweekly newsletters—“Secrets of the Studio” for surface pattern designers and “Beneath the Surface” for creative entrepreneurs—and how having a clear structure and cadence changed everything.

I walk through the importance of defining your audience, creating intentional sections, and using a repeatable template to take the guesswork out of writing. With tools like Kit and thoughtful planning, we’ve created newsletters that not only feel good to send, but are fun and inspiring to read too. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your own newsletter rhythm, I hope this inspires you to find a system that works beautifully for you.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/201

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

As creative entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves wondering what our audience wants—what they’re thinking, needing, or hoping we’ll create next. In this episode, I share one of the most powerful tools we use to stop guessing and start knowing: surveys. You'll hear exactly how we ask meaningful questions, the specific ones we rely on, and how we design surveys that lead to clear and confident decision-making.

The episode begins with a funny (and humbling) story about a yacht surprise gone sideways. It’s a lighthearted reminder of how important it is to ask the right questions before making decisions, whether big or small. From there, I walk through three detailed examples of how surveys have shaped key areas of our business this past year: email newsletters, product development, and live events.

You’ll learn how one simple survey question led to a major new feature in our Pattern Plus membership, how asking about newsletter cadence brought instant clarity, and how we use post-event feedback to improve each year’s conference. I also share the framework we use to build surveys that are simple, specific, and impactful—along with the tools and practices that help us get great results.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about what your audience wants or needs, this episode will show you just how easy and effective it can be to ask. You don’t have to wonder. You just have to ask.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/200

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

Stu McLaren is one of the most impactful mentors I’ve ever had, and I’m thrilled to bring him back to the podcast to talk about a topic that can completely transform your creative business: recurring revenue through membership sites. Stu’s course, The Membership Experience, was a game changer for me. It’s the only course I’ve ever completed on time, and it’s one I return to year after year. After taking it, my membership revenue shifted from unpredictable spikes to a steady, staircase-like pattern of growth.

In this episode, we explore why recurring revenue is so powerful—especially for creatives who often juggle inconsistent income streams and the demands of hands-on work. Stu shares his journey of moving from burnout and one-on-one service work to launching Wishlist Member, the world’s number one WordPress membership plugin. That experience gave him unique insight into what makes a membership site succeed over time.

We discuss why creatives are uniquely suited to this model, with stories of artists, painters, sticker designers, and teachers who now run thriving memberships. Stu and I also tackle common concerns like the fear of content burnout and the myth of "subscription fatigue." He offers practical, encouraging advice on how to create a membership that delivers real results and keeps your members engaged.

Whether you already run a membership, are thinking about launching one, or are simply curious, this conversation is full of wisdom and actionable ideas. Stu’s upcoming free live workshop is also something I recommend wholeheartedly—it’s one of the most energizing events I attend every year.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/199

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

After a little spring break, I’m back with a behind-the-scenes update on what’s been unfolding in our business and creative world. This season has been one of the most energizing yet, full of new ideas, bold moves, and heart-filled work. In this episode, I’m sharing what we’ve been working on, what’s coming next, and what you can look forward to on the podcast.

It all started with a leadership retreat in January that sparked a fresh season of building, creating, and expanding. Since then, we’ve been deep in development mode, launching several projects that have been on my heart for years.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/198

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest challenges that growing teams face: role clarity and alignment. When businesses start out, it’s natural for everyone to pitch in and wear multiple hats. But as the business grows, this all-hands-on-deck approach can lead to confusion, inefficiencies, and even burnout. That’s why today’s conversation is all about how to ensure that your team is working together with clarity, confidence, and a shared sense of ownership.

I share a personal story that sparked my realization about the importance of communication; let’s just say it involved neon paint, a carefully planned outfit, and an unexpected hug! From there, I break down the four key steps to aligning your team and fostering a culture of accountability:

• Create an Accountability Chart – Define roles and responsibilities so every team member knows what they own.

• Use the GWC Framework – Ensure every team member "Gets it, Wants it, and has the Capacity" to succeed in their role.

• Set 90-Day Rocks – Break down your vision into measurable, actionable priorities.

• Establish a Meeting Cadence – Keep communication strong with weekly and quarterly check-ins.

With these steps, you’ll create a work environment where your team is rowing in the same direction, projects are completed on time, and goals are achieved with excellence. Plus, I’m sharing a free accountability chart template to help you put this into action.

Whether you’re leading a team or envisioning your dream team as a solopreneur, this episode will help you bring clarity and structure to your business.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/197

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

Does running your creative business sometimes feel like a circus? You're juggling tasks, managing projects, and trying to keep everything in motion, while secretly wondering if there's a better way. In this episode, I’m sharing one of the most transformative shifts I’ve made in my business: implementing an operating system.

An operating system isn’t just for big corporations. No matter the size of your business, having a structured framework helps bring clarity, alignment, and efficiency to your workflow. It can transform how you work, how your team communicates, and how your business grows.

I dive into:

• The signs that your business needs an operating system (miscommunication, delays, and inefficiencies sound familiar?)

• How the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) completely changed the way my team operates

• Other systems you might consider, including Scaling Up and 4DX (The Four Disciplines of Execution)

• Four actionable steps to streamline your business:

• Choose a system that fits your business size and needs

• Align your team around a clear vision

• Implement key tools like scorecards, priorities (Rocks), and an issues list

• Run structured, productive meetings to keep everyone on track

I know that structure might sound like it stifles creativity, but I’ve found the opposite to be true. A strong operating system actually frees you up to be more creative because you’re not constantly managing chaos. With clear processes in place, you can focus on doing the work you love.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/196

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

Do you ever feel like your business is entirely on your shoulders, like every decision, deadline, and detail depends on you alone? I see you. I’ve been there too. But what if you could empower your team to not only take on tasks but truly own them—sometimes even doing them better than you?

In this episode, we’re diving into the power of delegation and trust. I know firsthand how difficult it is to let go, especially when your work is deeply personal. But the reality is that refusing to delegate is the riskiest move of all. It keeps you stuck in a cycle of overwork and burnout, limiting your impact and slowing your growth. If you want to step into true leadership and scale your business, you have to build a team that doesn’t just support you, they lead alongside you.

I share my own turning point, when I realized I couldn't keep carrying everything alone. By implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and building clear accountability structures, my team started thriving. In this episode, I walk you through the exact framework I use to empower my team, including:

• Defining roles clearly with an accountability chart

• Starting small to build trust gradually

• Setting clear expectations using 90-day goals (or “rocks”)

• Holding weekly check-ins to maintain progress and solve challenges together

• Celebrating wins because recognition fuels motivation

When you put these strategies into place, you create a business that runs efficiently, a team that feels empowered, and the freedom to focus on the work that truly lights you up. If you’re ready to take action, I’ve also created a Delegation Checklist to guide you step by step. Download it from the show notes at theprofessionalcreative.com.

Let’s build a business where trust and leadership go hand in hand.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/195

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

Have you ever started an online course with the best intentions: excited, motivated, and ready to learn, only to lose momentum along the way? You’re not alone! In today’s episode, we’re talking about how to not only start an online course but actually finish it strong. Whether it’s a creative workshop, a business training, or a deep-dive into a new skill, the key to success is in how you approach the journey.

Online education has played a massive role in my personal and professional growth, and I know firsthand that focus is the hardest part. That’s why I’m sharing the exact 8 steps I use to cross the finish line on any course I take. These steps will help you stay motivated, create a plan, and make sure your investment, both time and money, is put to good use.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/194

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the transformative power of gratitude and how developing a simple gratitude practice can reshape your mindset, spark creativity, and guide you through life’s challenges. I share personal stories about how gratitude helped me through some of my most overwhelming times, including the early days of building my creative career.

Gratitude doesn’t just happen—it’s intentional. I explain how pausing to reflect on what we’re thankful for can shift our perspective from what’s missing to what’s abundant, creating a foundation for joy and resilience. I also share my own daily practice, which involves setting aside a few moments each morning to journal about what I’m grateful for, specific moments of growth, and even the challenges that have shaped my journey.

I talk about how gratitude has not only influenced my personal growth but also my work as a creative and an educator. Hearing stories from students whose lives have been transformed through surface pattern design fills me with gratitude and reminds me why I love doing this work.

To help you start or deepen your own gratitude practice, I’ve created a free printable gratitude prompt. This tool can help you build a daily habit that’s simple yet impactful.

As we’re in the middle of the launch for Surface Design Immersion, I’m feeling immense gratitude for this community and for every student who has joined or is considering joining. If you’ve been on the fence, I encourage you to take the leap—there’s room for you in this creative space.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/193

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide

Today, I’m sharing how to create beautiful and cohesive color palettes—an essential skill for any surface pattern designer or creative. My favorite source of inspiration? Nature. Endless combinations await discovery all around us, from the hues in a sunrise to the intricate details of a flower.

Creating color palettes can be a joyful and intuitive process. I’ll guide you through my four-step method: observing colors in your environment, capturing inspiration through photography, extracting colors digitally, and refining your palette to ensure balance and harmony.

This approach brings depth and meaning to your work, transforming simple observations into palettes that feel authentic and connected to your creative voice. You’ll also learn tips for selecting tones, incorporating neutrals, and evoking emotion through color.

Finally, I’m excited to invite you to my free workshop, Your Pattern Design Playbook. This workshop, running through February 19th, will help you map out your first collection and explore ways to create income from your art.

📒 Episode Notes, Links, & Resources 📒

https://www.professionalcreative.com/blog/192

📝 Read the Transcript 📝

Connect with Bonnie: ▸ ONLINE | http://bonniechristine.com ▸ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/bonniechristine ▸ START SIMPLE IN SURFACE DESIGN | FREE MINI CLASS | https://www.bonniechristine.com/startsimple ▸ FREE SURFACE DESIGN GUIDE | https://www.bonniechristine.com/guide