Windowsill Chats

Margo is joined by internationally renowned Surface Pattern Designer, entrepreneur, and award-winning online educator, Bonnie Christine. With a self-taught journey that began in 2009, Bonnie has built a thriving creative business, helping over 50,000 students turn their artistic passions into sustainable careers. In this episode, she shares the mindset shifts, strategies, and inspirations that have shaped her path and continue to guide her community.

Margo and Bonnie discuss:

• How growing up in her mom's fabric shop shaped her approach to teaching pattern design

• The evolution of her vision in building a large and engaged creative community

• Taking big risks—like selling her car to invest in her dreams—and what she'd tell someone facing a similar crossroads

• Why 'action is the antidote' to imposter syndrome and a pivotal moment when this mindset made a difference

• The balance between creative techniques and business strategy in her upcoming nine-day workshop

• Helping students find their own authentic sources of inspiration, especially when feeling creatively stuck

• Why she firmly believes there's room for everyone in the creative industry and how she's seen that truth play out

• Challenging the notion that art doesn't solve problems—especially in the world of pattern design

This episode is packed with encouragement, actionable insights, and inspiration for anyone navigating a creative career. Whether you're just starting or looking to take the next big leap, Bonnie's wisdom will remind you that your dreams are worth pursuing—one step at a time.

Connect with Bonnie:

2025 Workshop: Pattern Design Playbook- bit.ly/WindowsillDesignPlaybook

2025 Course: Surface Design Immersion- https://bit.ly/WindowsillImmersion

www.bonniechristine.com

https://www.instagram.com/bonniechristine/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Margo is joined by celebrated artist, illustrator, and creative powerhouse Lisa Congdon for a heartfelt and insightful conversation about what she's learned while navigating a challenging chapter of her life. Lisa opens up about her journey through two total knee replacements and how this period of physical recovery sparked a creative rebirth.

During her recovery, Lisa embraced a slower pace of life, diving into a new sketchbook practice focused on collage and cut paper. What began as a meditative and playful exploration quickly evolved into a rich source of inspiration, reminding Lisa of the joy of creating art simply for art's sake. She candidly shares how stepping away from client work allowed her to reconnect with her artistic roots and experiment in ways that felt healing, liberating, and transformative.

In this episode, Lisa and Margo discuss:

• How Lisa managed her health journey while staying connected to her creativity.

• Managing the guilt that arose from stepping away from her team and work commitments.

• How she led and supported her team while recovering from surgery.

• The role of play and experimentation in sustaining artistic inspiration.

• The importance of consistency and how even small, daily creative practices can lead to big ideas.

• Balancing a thriving art career with the need for personal time and self-care.

• How slowing down can reignite passion and open doors to unexpected creative breakthroughs.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lauri Hopkins https://www.laurihopkins.co.uk/

Lisa's 30 day art challenge w Creative Bug https://www.creativebug.com/instructors/lisa-congdon?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1p28BhCBARIsADP9HrNXhEYWUo8t0lx_kNJAOnhMMwWKu6YLgTralGQO8q3Jjg7r6sm4V90aAjHCEALw_wcB

Connect with Lisa:

https://lisacongdon.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lisacongdon/#

https://www.pinterest.com/lisacongdon/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Margo and Abby cover a dynamic mix of topics on this episode of Creative Current Events, from the devastating fires in Los Angeles and their impact on communities and the arts, to creative business trends and lessons from the sudden closure of Kansas City Canning Company. They share updates on the Getty's initiatives, including their Open Content Program and merger with Shutterstock, delve into IKEA's revival of '70s design, and spotlight eco-friendly Alkemis Paint. Plus, they explore the potential TikTok ban, Seinfeld's take on AI, and a call for volunteers to help preserve historical documents.

Mentioned in this episode:

Erin Gallagher - Sponsor Families affected by the LA Fires

https://www.instagram.com/erin.gallag.her/

Her Spreadsheet

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/10yby5fqb4OdqhhakJBN-6ZYWh7nyJ2ZoEWGoOUESDSo/edit?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabsc3b7pNXns-8dAKsp_LktE87Au26EVj4Z0BvaH_TbqjRhKaQoYHRtcBU_aem_3GiEBeXCFqhQKZtg-FIioQ&gid=0#gid=0

Pasadena Humane Society

https://www.instagram.com/pasadenahumane/

Article- How to help artists and art workers devastated by Los Angeles wildfires

https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2025/01/14/los-angeles-wildfire-fundraisers-support-artists-art-workers

Getty Open Content Images

https://www.getty.edu/projects/open-content-program/faqs/

Getty Open Content Article

https://www.openculture.com/2024/03/the-getty-makes-nearly-88000-art-images-free-to-use-however-you-like.html

Getty/Shutterstock Merger

https://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/shutterstock-merge-with-getty-images-deal-valued-37-billion-2025-01-07/

All the astounding works that are entering the public domain!

https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/public-domain-matisse-frida-kahlo-robert-capa-works-1234729194/

An interesting article on copying via Aeolidia, (because the Emily McDowell article on Public Domain is not available)

https://aeolidia.com/what-to-do-when-someone-copies-your-design/

Ikea's New Old Releases

https://www.dezeen.com/2024/12/17/ikea-nytillverkad-collection-byakorre-shelf-2025-design/

Conscientious Alkemis Paint

https://alkemispaint.com/collections/all#

TikTok Ban

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyng762q4eo

What to know about RedNote (where TikTok users are flocking)

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2025/01/16/what-is-rednote-tiktok-ban/77725672007/

Jerry Seinfeld on Jimmy Fallon.. & AI thoughts

https://www.instagram.com/p/DEXoj66OXMU/

Fyxer AI

https://www.fyxer.com/

The National Archive is looking for people who can read cursive!!

https://people.com/national-archives-is-looking-for-volunteers-who-can-read-cursive-8775099

Here's how to start reading & transcribing!

https://www.archives.gov/citizen-archivist/missions

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Margo is joined by Brooke Schultz, a multi-passionate creator and advocate for embracing creativity in all aspects of life, especially within motherhood. Brooke shares her inspiring journey of weaving artistry into everyday life and discusses how creativity can be a powerful tool for transformation and connection. Her photos have been featured in Oprah, Martha Stewart, and Parents. Whether she's writing a musical about motherhood, leading retreats like her upcoming program Resurgence, or photographing families, Brooke is deeply passionate about using creativity to transform life's challenges into meaningful art.

Topics Discussed:

• The beauty and significance of small, unseen creative acts

• How motherhood can ignite and shape creative pursuits

• Balancing creativity with the demands of family life, including parenting a child with special needs

• The concept of intentional creativity and finding inspiration in everyday tasks

• Brooke's approach to translating passion into business, including her retreats and podcast, Wildly Creative Life

• The story behind Brooke's musical about motherhood and her journey pitching it to Broadway

• Practical strategies for fostering creativity amidst a busy lifestyle

• The value of creating art that comes from the heart, whether or not it gains recognition

Brooke's wisdom and relatable approach remind us that living a creatively fulfilling life doesn't require fame or perfection—it's about finding joy and purpose in the art of everyday moments.

Connect with Brooke:

Website: https://brookebschultz.com

Website: https://brookeschultzphotography.com

Instagram: @brookebschultz

Wildly Creative Life Podcast

Connect with Margo:

Website: www.windowsillchats.com

Instagram: @windowsillchats

Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Margo is joined by Tiffany Han, life coach, business strategist, and host of the long-running Raise Your Hand Say Yes podcast, to explore the journey of self-discovery and creative authenticity. Tiffany shares her insights on navigating personal growth without rigid formulas and the importance of recognizing and embracing one's unique needs. Together, Margo and Tiffany discuss Tiffany's podcasting journey, her breaks from the medium, and how her themes and approaches have evolved over the years. Tiffany's practical wisdom and her radical self-belief framework promise to inspire and empower high achievers and creatives alike.

Topics Discussed Include:

• Permission to Be Themselves: Encouraging authenticity and practical self-advice

• Individual Needs Over Formulas: Emphasizing unique personal wants and necessities

• Collective Experience: Recognizing shared struggles to combat feelings of isolation

• Tiffany's Podcast Journey: From the beginnings in 2014 to the evolution and authenticity of her show

• Re-evaluating "Yes": Considering the implications of commitment to avoid burnout

• Radical Self-Belief and the five pillars comprised in DFSTAG (discernment, faith, fear attending, acceptance, and grace)

• Reassessing Goals: Why Tiffany isn't a believer in 5-year plans and how goals can sometimes put you in a box

• Gentle Productivity: Promoting joy, ease, and delight over traditional productivity metrics

• The challenges of social media use and its impact and ways to use it for good

• Creative Work vs. Day Jobs: Balancing creative pursuits with the reality of day jobs.

Connect with Tiffany: Website: tiffanyhan.comInstagram: @thetiffanyhan

Youtube: @thetiffanyhan

Raise Your Hand Say Yes Podcast

Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com

Instagram: @windowsillchats

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

In the conclusion of this two-part series, Margo continues her conversation with Wellness Coach for Creatives, Sancha Prowse. Drawing from her experiences as a performer and her transformation into a wellness advocate, Sancha offers actionable advice and heartfelt insights for creatives looking to prioritize their well-being while pursuing their passions.

In Part 2, Margo and Sancha dive deeper into:

• The Creative Energy Cycle: Understanding the ebb and flow of creative energy and how to work with, not against, these natural rhythms.

• Burnout Recovery: Practical strategies Sancha used to overcome adrenal fatigue and how you can apply them to your life.

• Nurturing Your Inner Artist: Practices for creating a safe and supportive environment for your creativity to flourish.

• Mind-Body Connection: Exploring how physical health directly impacts artistic expression and vice versa.

• Nutrition and Movement for Creatives: Sancha's tips on fueling your body with the right foods and incorporating movement into your routine to enhance focus and stamina.

• Boundaries and Balance: Why setting boundaries with your time and energy is essential for avoiding burnout.

• The Power of Connection: Building a supportive community that uplifts and inspires you.

• Rituals for Renewal: Simple daily habits to recharge your mind, body, and spirit.

• Sustainable Success: How to design a wellness plan that supports your creative dreams in the long term.

Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-filled path by joining The Foundry. A monthly membership for creatives.

Connect with Sancha:

https://www.sanchaprowse.com

https://www.instagram.com/sanchaprowse_creative/

https://www.sanchaprowse.com/essential-wellness-toolkit-for-creatives

https://soundcloud.com/user-849377990

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zziXpGZqL_IDFA4DEAAQ

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this two-part episode Margo is joined by Wellness Coach for Creatives, Sancha Prowse. With a background as a professional singer, vocal coach, and visual artist, Sancha has spent years immersed in the creative world, experiencing both its highs and its challenges. After facing intense burnout and adrenal fatigue while striving to excel, Sancha felt a calling to help other creatives navigate similar struggles. Her journey from performer to wellness coach was inspired by a serendipitous moment helping her sister through a health scare, leading her to channel her passion and lived experience into supporting artists in thriving holistically.

Margo and Sancha discuss:

• The importance of tuning into your body and listening to what it's telling you.

• How prioritizing self-care positively impacts your creativity.

• Identifying what gives you energy and recognizing areas where you may be losing power.

• The transformative power of making small positive changes in your daily routine.

• Cultivating stillness as a way to dive deeper into your artmaking.

• Letting go of limiting beliefs that hold you back from optimal health and creativity.

• Breaking through long-standing blockages to achieve a sense of wellness.

• Why sleep is critical for both your overall health and your creative output.

• The role of self-compassion and celebrating small wins in your wellness journey.

• Building an essential wellness toolkit tailored for creatives.

Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-filled path by joining The Foundry. A monthly membership for creatives.

Connect with Sancha:

https://www.sanchaprowse.com

https://www.instagram.com/sanchaprowse_creative/

https://www.sanchaprowse.com/essential-wellness-toolkit-for-creatives

https://soundcloud.com/user-849377990

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zziXpGZqL_IDFA4DEAAQ

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo shares a personal episode, reflecting on the incredible four-year journey of the podcast and its vibrant community. She opens her heart about her own transformative experiences, the courage it takes to embrace life's uncertainties, and the magic of real connections. Whether you're a loyal listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is an invitation to celebrate growth, creativity, and the beautiful moments yet to come.

Topics Discussed:

• Reflecting on Growth: Finding new perspectives and embracing the lessons from the journey.

• Trust in Connection: The value of real conversations and authenticity in building bonds.

• Navigating Change: Margo's move to Vashon Island and the power of trusting her inner knowing.

• Vulnerability and Handling Doubts: The role of vulnerability in fostering meaningful relationships and navigating pivotal life decisions.

• Impactful Feedback: How listener feedback continues to move and motivate Margo.

• Defining Success: Encouraging listeners to focus on how they want to feel rather than what they want to achieve.

• Celebrating Diversity: The importance of inclusivity and creating supportive environments in our communities.

Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-filled path by joining The Foundry. A monthly membership for creatives.

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Duncan Wardle, the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney and author of The Imagination Emporium: Creative Recipes for Innovation. With 30 years of experience working with Disney's Imagineering, Lucasfilm, Marvel, Pixar, and more, Duncan brings a wealth of knowledge on fostering groundbreaking ideas and creating magical experiences. In this episode, he shares practical tools and insights to reignite creativity, embed innovation into everyday life, and solve problems in revolutionary ways. From sending Buzz Lightyear into space to teaching innovation at Yale and Harvard, Duncan's expertise in Design Thinking has helped organizations like Apple, the NBA, and Spotify redefine how they innovate.

Margo and Duncan discuss:

• Why our creativity often fades by age six—and how to reignite it

• Simple, actionable tools to unlock imagination and achieve revolutionary results

• Employable skills that the next generation can use to thrive in an AI-driven world

• How The Imagination Emporium makes innovation accessible to everyone

• Real-life examples of using Design Thinking to drive creativity and innovation

• Stories from Duncan's time at Disney and the lessons learned along the way

Connect with Duncan:

duncanwardle.com

theimaginationemporium.com

instagram.com/duncanjwardle

linkedin.com/in/duncanwardle

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

Margo and Abby are back with a packed episode of Creative Current Events, spotlighting creativity, community, and cutting-edge trends. They kick things off with news from Asheville, where Tanger Outlets is supporting displaced artists with a stunning 2,000-square-foot gallery. Next, they explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art's fascinating employee art show featuring over 600 works, tying it to insights from Patrick Bringley's book, All the Beauty in the World.

They also dive deep into design trends for 2025, reviewing Canva's latest article and insights, discuss the rising influence of AI in content licensing, the power of human connection in media, and how bold, textured aesthetics are reshaping design. Whether you're an artist, designer, or creative enthusiast, this episode is full of inspiration and insights to keep you ahead of the curve.

Mentioned in this episode:

Tanger Outlets Donate Gallery Space in Asheville

https://www.wlos.com/news/local/tanger-outlets-asheville-donates-gallery-space-for-artists-displaced-helene-local-arts-community-creative

Orbit Gallery Space

https://theorbitspace.com/

Met Museum Staff Show

https://hyperallergic.com/969864/over-600-works-by-met-museum-workers-go-on-view-in-largest-ever-staff-show/

Canva's 2025 Design Trends

https://www.creativebloq.com/design/canva-predicts-these-will-be-the-hottest-design-trends-of-2025

More Canva

https://www.canva.com/design-trends/?clickId=XjSTp1T3dxyKRYeUaAwyfw4HUkCVl82OPWmnQI0&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=Future%20PLC._221109&irgwc=1

Open AI & Meredith Corp

https://www.adweek.com/media/openai-dotdash-meredith-licensing-payment/?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=campaign_11752201_ADWEEK_Daily_241119&lctg=5b82c665-7b66-4670-ae7c-17cb22d1753e

The People who Helped Resurrect Notre Dame

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-people-who-helped-resurrect-notre-dame-60-minutes/

Windowsill Chats Episode 83 - St Germaine de Pres

https://margotantau.com/83-a-fascinating-conversation-about-the-magnificent-church-of-saint-germain-des-prs-and-what-is-being-done-to-preserve-its-rich-and-layered-history-with-david-sheppe/

Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

https://www.amazon.com/Pillars-Earth-Novel-Kingsbridge/dp/0451166892

Flowers & Projects by CJ Hendry

https://www.amazon.com/Pillars-Earth-Novel-Kingsbridge/dp/0451166892

Connect with Abby:

https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/

https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/

Connect with Margo:

www.windowsillchats.com

www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill