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Building a creative career is one thing—making it sustainable (without burning yourself out) is another. In this episode, we sit down with Kate Smith, an artist and author who’s proof that you can build a thriving creative business without selling your soul. We talk about the power of embracing silliness, the realities of mass-market licensing, and why betting on yourself is the best investment you’ll ever make.

We also get real about the challenges of working with clients, staying true to your artistic voice while still paying the bills, and the secret sauce to making your work actually fun. Plus, Kate shares her approach to creative decision-making, the non-negotiable boundaries that keep her sane, and what she wishes more artists knew about building a business that doesn’t just survive—but thrives.

All that and more when you listen to this episode:

• Why betting on yourself can lead to unexpected creative opportunities
• How to balance passion projects with commercial work without burnout
• The role of joy and playfulness in running a creative business
• Why originality is your greatest asset (and how to lean into it)
• The realities of mass-market licensing and working with big retailers
• How to make client collaborations feel valuable instead of restrictive
• The importance of defining success on your own terms

Connect with our guest:

• Instagram: @katesmithcompany
• Website: Kate Smith Company

Mentioned in this episode:

• Noodles the Dog
• The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

Connect with Katie & Ilana from Goodtype

• Goodtype Website
• Goodtype on Instagram
• Goodtype on Youtube

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Grab your tea, coffee, or drink of choice, kick back, and let's get down to business!