Episodes
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Margo is joined by Molly Balint, creative entrepreneur, mentor, and founder of the SOFT Business movement. Molly helps women break away from hustle culture to build businesses that are as nourishing as they are profitableâcentered around heart, balance, and alignment. With a background in storytelling, community-building, and soulful mentorship, Molly brings a grounded, compassionate lens to what it means to show up authentically in business today.
In this heartfelt conversation, Margo and Molly explore what it really takes to create a business rooted in your values, especially in a digital world that often prizes noise over nuance. Molly opens up about the inner work required to break free from old patterns, the difference between performative vulnerability and authentic presence, and how redefining success through softness can be a powerful act of creative leadership.
Margo and Molly discuss:
Mollyâs personal evolution from hustle-fueled creative to SOFT Business mentor.
The deeper inner work needed before brand strategy can be effective.
Why âjust be yourselfâ advice often misses the markâand how to do it in a way that feels safe and true.
What the SOFT Business model looks like in practice (and how it doesnât mean being less ambitious).
Letting go of productivity pressure and embracing cycles, seasons, and boundaries.
Instagram storytelling as a tool for connection, not performance.
Navigating vulnerability, visibility, and personal boundaries online.
How motherhood, farm life, and creative business coexist on Mollyâs 300-acre Maryland farm.
Why softness isnât weaknessâitâs a radical, sustainable strength.
Connect with Molly:
www.mollybalint.comhttps://www.instagram.com/molly.balint
https://softbusinessclub.co/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchatshttps://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by multi-passionate creative Kim Bloomberg, the joyful force behind Studio Art Beat. A fine artist, educator, and self-proclaimed art supply nerd, Kim brings a refreshing perspective to the creative journeyâone thatâs less about staying in your lane and more about following curiosity wherever it leads. With a background in both fine art and education, over two decades of teaching experience, and years running her own jewelry business, Kim shares how she ultimately found fulfillment by embracing her ADHD-fueled love for switching mediums and diving headfirst into new materials.
After leaving behind the New York hustle for the artistic charm of Chicagoâs North Shore, Kim launched Studio Art Beat as an inclusive space to demystify art and make creativity accessible to all ages. She now leads workshops, partners with brands like Gelli Arts, and teaches online coursesâincluding one that brings rhinestone bedazzling to the masses. Through her story, Kim reminds us that freedom, play, and experimentation are not distractionsâtheyâre the path.
Margo and Kim discuss:
Growing up in an art-loving family and the creative influence of her parents and grandfather.
Letting go of a long-term jewelry business and the guilt that came with that decision.
How embracing her neurodivergent brain led to business clarity and personal joy.
Turning her natural desire to switch mediums into a strength rather than a struggle.
Building an online art education platform thatâs welcoming, inclusive, and non-intimidating.
Why sharing her process openly (rather than gatekeeping) has helped her business grow.
Collaborating with brands while maintaining authenticity and community connection.
The value of playful creativity for both kids and adultsâand why itâs never too late to start.
How sheâs made rhinestones cool again with her Cricut-powered online course.
The beauty in allowing your creative identity to evolveâand giving others permission to do the same.
Connect with Kim:
www.studioartbeat.comwww.instagram.com/studioartbeat
Connect with Margo:
https://www.windowsillchats.comhttps://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Episodes manquant?
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Margo and Abby catch up on emerging art fairs, AI-fueled creativity, and an unexpected Spotify collab in the latest episode of Creative Current Events, a special segment of Windowsill Chats. This round of curious and creative conversation touches on everything from practical tips for artists and makers to heartwarming stories and pop culture fun.
They dig into the impact of recent tariff shifts on small businesses, celebrate alternative art fairs that uplift emerging artists, and spotlight muralists transforming both interiors and cityscapes. Youâll also hear about a cross-country artist on a mission, royalty-free music with a mission, and a billion-dollar design app you probably use (but may not know the backstory of). Plus: AI tools worth trying, Stanley's branding genius with Post Malone, and what happened when a kid got too close to a Rothko.
As always, thereâs a little something for everyoneâwhether you're looking for inspiration, useful resources, or just a reason to smile. Donât forget to let us know what sparked your creativity this week!
Articles Mentioned:
Tariff Chart
https://www.piie.com/research/piie-charts/2019/us-china-trade-war-tariffs-date-chart
The alternative art fairs championing emerging artists
https://www.wallpaper.com/art/best-art-fairs-for-emerging-artists
Murals have moved indoors
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/13/style/murals-interiors-wall-art.html
Kreh Mellick
https://www.instagram.com/krehmellick/
Murals Outdoors
https://www.instagram.com/mantrarea/?hl=en
50-50 Project
https://www.cheyennerenee.com
Artivive App allows augmented reality Tracy Dawn Brewer
https://www.artivive.com/
7 genius chatbot prompts that will instantly boost your ideas
https://www.tomsguide.com/ai/7-genius-gemini-prompts-that-will-instantly-boost-your-ideas
Child damages Rothko work at Rotterdam museum
https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2025/04/29/child-damages-rothko-work-at-rotterdam-museum
V & A East Storehouse
https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/about-va-east-storehouse?srsltid=AfmBOooad4l6QVnVru427Vuem0kb6PpKDh0ZLLWpF3J1AaRpxFwdgIhK
The Story of Canva
https://www.instagram.com/p/DHSgugYIE02/?hl=en&img_index=1
Royalty Free Music by Moby
https://mobygratis.com/
Stanley & Post Malone Collaboration
https://www.stanley1913.com/collections/post-malone-stanley-collab-2025
Barilla pasta playlist
https://open.spotify.com/user/w2p1oq867ns7jele6g3lw66fk
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
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Margo is joined by business coach and podcast host Nikita Williams in a conversation on building a businessâand a lifeâthat honors your whole self. Living with multiple chronic illnesses, Nikita has learned how to redefine success, make peace with limitations, and turn her lived experience into a source of power and purpose. She and Margo explore what it looks like to craft a creative path that makes space for rest, joy, and authenticityâwithout burning out or hiding who you are. They discuss the real and raw journey of navigating health challenges as a creative woman of color, how podcasting became a lifeline and legacy, and the importance of building businesses based on actual capacity. Nikita invites listeners to rethink hustle culture and embrace the art of doing what you can, when you canâwith intention, honesty, and hope.
Margo and Nikita discuss:
How living with chronic illness shapes identity, business, and self-advocacy
Turning your limits into superpowersâwhat resilience really looks like
The unique layers of being a woman of color with invisible illnesses
The three phases of chronic illness: ânewbie,â awareness, and OG
Designing a business around your capacity (not your ideal self)
Why storytelling and being witnessed are critical for healing
Moving from hustle to harmony: redefining productivity and rest
Structuring your work and life to honor flare days and energy rhythms
Managing comparison, creative permission, and celebrating your own pace
Connect with Nikita:
www.thrivewithnikita.comwww.instagram.com/thrivewithnikita
https://www.craftedtothrive.com/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by creative couple Steve and Mary Jo Hoffman for a tender, thought-provoking conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the art of intentional living. In the wake of losing their family home to a fire, Steve and Mary Jo open up about what it means to rebuildânot just a house, but an entire way of living. They share how their individual creative practices continue to evolve, how they support one another through parallel play and creative autonomy, and how loss clarified what truly matters.
About Mary Jo Hoffman:
Mary Jo is an artist and photographer best known for her project STILL, a daily nature photography practice that blossomed into a decade-long blog and the book STILL: The Art of Noticing. Her images and essays capture the quiet beauty of everyday natural objects and invite readers to see the world with fresh eyes. She lives in Shoreview, Minnesota, with her husband Steve and their puggle Jack, who joins her on daily foraging walks.About Steve Hoffman:
Steve is a James Beard Awardâwinning writer whose debut memoir, A Season for That, chronicles his familyâs relocation to southern France and the unexpected beauty found in ordinary food, people, and rhythms. A tax preparer by day and food writer by heart, Steveâs work has appeared in The Washington Post, Food & Wine, and The Minneapolis Star Tribune. He lives with Mary Jo on Turtle Lake, surrounded by bees, cranes, and creative inspiration.Margo, Steve, and Mary Jo discuss:
Navigating loss and rebuilding with intention after the fire that destroyed their home and studios
How daily creative rituals can ground and guide us through upheaval
The power of noticing: Mary Joâs journey with STILL and the discipline of paying attention
Writing memoir and confronting vulnerability in Steveâs A Season for That
What it means to live in a âtotal work of artâ and create a life aligned with your values
How partnership and creativity intertwine without merging
Embracing slow living, meaningful routines, and the grace found in the everyday
Previous Episodes with Mary Jo & Steve
Episode 197: "Finding Beauty in Everyday Life: The Power of Creative Practice and the Art of Noticing with Mary Jo Hoffman"
Episode 209: "A Season for Change: Steve Hoffman on New Perspectives, Culture, and Finding a Sense of Belonging"
Connect with Steve Hoffman:
www.sjrhoffman.com
https://www.instagram.com/sjrhoffman/
Connect with Mary Jo Hoffman:
https://www.instagram.com/maryjohoffman/
STILL: The Art of Noticing
http://eepurl.com/bTvh4n (Newsletter)
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo and Abby catch up on pink taxes, party store shakeups, and grandma hobbies making a comeback in the latest episode of Creative Current Events. This special segment of Windowsill Chats dives into cultural shifts, small business realities, and brand storytelling thatâs catching their creative eye. They also explore how big-box stores like Michaels are filling retail voids left by Party City, how hobby shops in the UK are struggling, and what all this means for the crafting world. The conversation also dives into the rising conversation around the Pink Tax and Pink Tariffsâand how these unseen costs hit both consumers and creative entrepreneurs. Plus: a fresh look at niche content creation, a POD platform for artists, why Uniqlo is serving coffee now, and the nostalgic charm of slow, tactile hobbies like embroidery, crochet, and calligraphy.
Articles Mentioned:
Michaels & Party City https://finance.yahoo.com/news/michaels-seeing-void-left-party-133819782.html
HobbyCraft Decline in the UK
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5y651327ekoThe Pink Tax
https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/taxes/articles/the-pink-tax-costs-women-thousands-of-dollars-over-their-lifetimesPink Tariffs on Womenâs Clothing
https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/16/business/womens-clothes-pink-tariffs/index.htmleeBoo Founder on Tariffs Impacting Small Businesses https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBRplSmhI-8
Canvastry Print-on-Demand Platform
https://www.canvastrywholesale.com/Grandma Hobbies Are In
https://theeverymom.com/grandma-hobbies/Uniqloâs NYC Coffee Shop & Lifestyle Strategy
https://ny.eater.com/2025/3/19/24388687/uniqlo-coffee-open-nyc-cafe-manhattan
https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/contents/lifewear-magazine/styling/Den of Pin (Hyper-niche Community Building)
https://www.instagram.com/den_of_pin/Yeti Product Storytelling Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSpdnXWlgJgHuckberryâs Cinematic Product Launch
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFtu6Bi-blYAmy Poehler & Rashida Jones Launch âGood Hangâ Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aF-p8z_R2q0Connect with Abby:
https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/
Instagram: @ajcampkc
Pinterest: @ajcampbellConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
The Foundry at Tantau Studio -
Margo is joined by writer, coach, and retreat leader Maria Bowler for a conversation about redefining creativity beyond the limits of productivity. Maria helps creatives transform resistance into clarity and insight, drawing on her background as a magazine editor, creative writing teacher, and holder of a master's degree in religion and the arts from Yale University. Originally from Canada, she now lives with her family in the Driftless region of the U.S., where she continues to explore and teach a more holistic approach to creative living.
Margo and Maria discuss:
Mariaâs creative journey, from childhood passion to overcoming major blocks
How to redefine resistance as a valuable teacher rather than an obstacle
The differences between productivity and creativityâand why confusing the two leads to burnout
Seeing creativity as a collaboration with life, not just a series of tasks
The impact of perfectionism on creative expression and how to loosen its grip
Embracing whole-life creativity as part of daily living, not a separate act
Balancing creative output with essential intake and inspiration
Giving yourself permission to make mistakes and stay curious
Practical strategies for reconnecting with creativity during stuck periods
Highlights from Mariaâs new book Making Time: A New Vision for Crafting a Life Beyond Productivity
Connect with Maria:
www.mariabowler.com
www.mariabowler.substack.com
https://www.instagram.com/mariaevbowler
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
@windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by Monika Forsberg, an award-winning illustrator and surface pattern designer known for her playful, colorful, and striking work across books, fabrics, homewares, toys, and more. Born and raised in a small coastal town in Swedish Lapland, Monika moved to London in 1995 where she now lives with her husband, two children, and a delightful mix of pets. Sheâs a keen swimmer, aspiring stamp collector, and former animator who believes in being versatile over niche. Her work is rich with curiosity, imagination, and a deep love for creative exploration. In this warm and meandering conversation, Monika and Margo dive into the layered realities of a creative careerâone that doesnât always follow a linear path but is all the more beautiful for it.
Margo and Monika discuss:
Monikaâs upbringing in Swedish Lapland and how it shaped her worldview
Moving to the UK and studying art in multiple forms
Embracing versatility over specialization in creative work
The joys (and challenges) of working with client briefs
Why personal projects are essential to her process
How she uses Instagram and Substack to share more authentically
Dreaming up whimsical projectsâlike a fantastical fair
Approaching tricky client relationships with honesty and grace
Continuing to grow, shift, and stay creatively energized
Connect with Monika:
Website: walkyland.com
Instagram: @monika_forsberg
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by Brian Selznick, the wildly imaginative author and illustrator whose groundbreaking books have redefined how we tell stories. Known for seamlessly blending text and image in powerful, cinematic ways, Brian shares the origins of his creative process, the stories behind his best-known works, and the magic of collaborative art-making. Together, they explore what it means to honor both the reader and the story, why grief and love are ever-present themes in his work, and how he approaches retelling iconic tales through fresh and inclusive lenses. From The Invention of Hugo Cabret to Run Away With Me, Brianâs work invites readers into deeply felt worlds where art and narrative become one.
Margo and Brian discuss:
The start of Brianâs creative process and how he moves from words to illustration
His unique storytelling style and cinematic inspirations
What it was like to have The Invention of Hugo Cabret adapted by Martin Scorsese
Collaborating with director Todd Haynes on the Wonderstruck film adaptation
His philosophy on creative ownership and openness in adaptations
Designing the 20th anniversary covers for the Harry Potter series and grappling with the controversies surrounding J.K. Rowling.
The importance of telling authentic queer love stories in his new novel Run Away With Me
Exploring universal themes of love, grief, and time in narrative
The reimagining of The Nutcracker with a historical, class-conscious twist
How Brian sees the future of storytelling as both expansive and inclusive
Connect with Brian:
https://brianselznick.com
https://instagram.com/thebrianselznick
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by Jaime Townzen, a Southern California-based writer and professional artist whose watercolor paintings have earned international acclaim. Jaimeâs creative talents span both visual art and the written wordâher essays and microfiction have been featured in Light Magazine and Fairfield Scribes, and her debut novel Absorbed was released in January 2025. When sheâs not painting or writing, Jaime enjoys soaking up the sun at the beach with her family and their dogs or catching live music performances.
Margo and Jaime discuss:
The intersection of writing and visual art in Jaimeâs creative practice
The journey of publishing her debut novel, Absorbed
How she built an art career with watercolor as her medium
The role of intuition and emotion in both painting and storytelling
How grief has shaped Jaimeâs creative process and how she walks alongside it
The way her lived experiences inform and enrich her writing
How motherhood and family life influence her artistic expression
The importance of honoring slow seasons and creative rest
Jaimeâs thoughts on community, connection, and what success really means
Connect with Jaime:
http://www.instagram.com/jaimegetscreative
https://www.facebook.com/jaime.townzen/
https://tiktok.com/@jaimegetscreative
jaimetownzen.com
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo and Abby catch up on colorful collections, creative conferences, and curious cultural trends in the latest episode of Creative Current Events. This special segment of Windowsill Chats dives into all the artful oddities, thought-provoking news, and heartwarming discoveries that have recently caught their attention.
They touch on how color is used intentionally in media like the show Severance, the healing potential of museums (including Switzerlandâs bold move to prescribe them for mental well-being), and the magic of virtual museum visits. They also explore current concerns around learning, attention, and AI search tools, all wrapped up in their signature blend of insight and humor.
As always, listener submissions help fuel the funâso keep sending those articles their way!
Articles Mentioned:
Crayon Collector
https://www.kvue.com/article/news/community/crayon-collection-texas-torch-red-colors-strange/273-adc66c54-6598-429b-9f80-c600038034b5#
Colors of Severance
https://www.instagram.com/movieluts/reel/DFNePz-iCXL/
https://www.polygon.com/tv/539421/severance-season-color-theory-red-green-blue
10 Best Art Museums
https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-art-museum/
Art as Therapy
https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/art-therapy-swiss-doctors-prescribe-museum-visits-2025-03-12/
Google Arts & Culture! Free Museums Visits & so much more
https://artsandculture.google.com/
Human Intelligence Sharply Declining
https://futurism.com/neoscope/human-intelligence-declining-trends
PISA Results
https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/pisa-scores-by-country
AI gets it wrong
https://futurism.com/study-ai-search-wrong
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
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Margo is joined by talented writer, editor, and marketing strategist Jessica Suggs. With 19 years of experience in copywriting and a background as Director of Media Services for a top faith-based media agency, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge about the enduring power of email marketing. These days, she helps entrepreneurs and authors craft messages that sound like themâwith services spanning from brand voice development to full-scale book editing and publishing support. As a wife, mom of two, and creative business owner, Jessica is no stranger to balancing big ideas with real-life connection.
Margo and Jessica discuss:
Why email is still one of the most powerful marketing tools
How to develop and maintain a strong, authentic brand voice
The magic of welcome sequences and consistent, heartfelt communication
Transitioning from a corporate career to creative entrepreneurship
Building connection and community through words
How AI can enhanceânot replaceâhuman messaging
Tips for balancing work, creativity, and motherhood
The value of mastermind groups and creative support systems
Get 50% off your Flodesk Subscription by visiting www.flodesk.com/c/tantaustudio
Join the Greater Goods Alliance: A small group virtual mentorship, mastermind community, and in-person retreat for product-based business owners with Lisa Congdon & Emily McDowel (Applications Closing 3/28) https://thegreatergoodsalliance.com/
Connect with Jessica:
www.jessicasuggsmarketing.comhttps://www.facebook.com/jessicasuggsmarketing
https://www.instagram.com/jessicasuggsmarketing/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by transformational coach, team support facilitator, and organizational specialist Lacy Young for an honest and heart-expanding conversation about healing, creativity, and stepping into your zone of genius. For over 15 years, Lacy has guided women through radical self-discovery, creating spaces where they can embrace deep healing, foundational belief work, and personal autonomy. She blends soul-level healing with practical business wisdom, helping high-performers and founders step into their most powerful and joyful work. But before she could hold space for others, Lacy had to embark on her own healing journeyâone that led her to confront deep-rooted suffering, redefine what it means to be whole, and ultimately transform her approach to both life and work.
Margo and Lacy discuss:
Lacyâs personal healing journeyâhow she went from being in deep pain to holding space for others, and what she learned about the power of radical permission
The necessity of filling your own cup first and why prioritizing self-healing isnât selfish but essential
The creative awakening happening nowâhow art, expression, and creative play are unlocking something crucial in our collective healing and remembering
Finding and tending to the roots of sufferingâwhy traditional self-improvement often focuses on symptoms, and how Lacy helps people go deeper
The shift in her work toward founders and high-performing teamsâwhy sheâs drawn to supporting leaders in creating aligned, sustainable success
Why women supporting women is more important than everâthe power of collective healing and what it looks like in action
How to right-size âBig Thingsââshifting overwhelming life challenges into manageable, joyful transformations
Connect with Lacy:
https://shiftwithlacy.com/
http://www.instagram.com/lacyannyoung
https://insighttimer.com/ShiftWithLacy
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by illustrator, author, and sketchbook enthusiast Mike Lowery, a New York Times Best-Selling Illustrator whose work spans over 80 books, greeting cards, magazines, and even food trucks. Known for his playful, humor-infused drawings, Mike shares his creative journey and insights into the business of illustration. In addition to making books, Mike is an avid sketchbook-keeper and has taught classes worldwide, including more than 30,000 students in-person and online, and encourages others to join him in starting a daily drawing habit and in the business of illustration.
Margo and Mike discuss:
How Mikeâs childhood passion for drawing superheroes in a Filipino grocery store led to a career in illustration
The moment he received his first check for his art (and why he still keeps it)
His love for humor in art and how it shaped his path in children's book illustration
The importance of maintaining a consistent sketchbook practice for creativity and career growth
How to build a portfolio that speaks directly to potential clients by focusing on project-based ideas
The evolving role of social media for artists and how he approaches it today
Finding inspiration through travel, daily life, and keeping curiosity alive
Teaching and encouraging others to start a daily drawing habit
The intersection of art and businessâhow to navigate the industry and create a sustainable career
Connect with Mike:
www.gettingpaidtodraw.com
www.mikelowery.com
www.instagram.com/mikelowerystudio
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by Brigida Swanson, a botanical artist, product designer, and the founder of Yardia, to discuss creativity, business contentment, and forging your own path as an artist. Brigida shares her journey from teaching middle school art to building a thriving product businessâwithout relying on social media. Her nature-inspired watercolor stationery and home goods celebrate identity, belonging, and a deep connection to place, all created from her backyard garden studio in Seattle.
Brigida opens up about redefining success on her own terms, the decision to leave Instagram and TikTok, and the unexpected creative doors that opened as a result. Whether you're an artist, maker, or small business owner, this conversation will inspire you to explore new ways of marketing and growing your workâwhile staying true to what brings you joy.
Margo and Brigida discuss:
Leaving Social Media â Why Brigida walked away from Instagram and TikTok and how she continues to grow her business without them.
Business Contentment â Shifting from a traditional success mindset to one rooted in sustainability and fulfillment.
Managing Comparison â Softening the inner critic and embracing a more supportive creative process.
The inspiration behind Her Plant Companion Tarot deck
Her upcoming Contentment Over Content workshop, helping product-based business owners market beyond social media.
Connect with Brigida:
https://yardia.co/
https://plantcompaniontarot.com/
https://contentmentovercontent.com/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by independent filmmaker and writer Courtney Daniels to discuss the joys and challenges of creating outside the Hollywood studio system. Courtney shares her journey from writing spec scripts as a receptionist at Warner Brothers to producing her own feature films, including What Other Couples Do. She opens up about the power of not waiting for validation, making films on a budget, and turning her latest screenplay, A Blind Date in NYC, into a short novel. Together, they explore the freedom of independent creativity and why success comes from taking action rather than waiting to be chosen.
Margo and Courtney discuss:
The freedom of independent filmmaking outside Hollywood
Why waiting for validation hinders creativity
How Courtney made her first feature film on a shoestring budget
Tips for affordable filmmaking and getting started with minimal resources
Turning a screenplay into a book: A Blind Date in NYC
Overcoming fear and embracing the creative process
Film festivals as stepping stones for indie filmmakers
Building daily creative habits to stay inspired
The importance of manufacturing surprise in storytelling
Connect with Courtney:
https://courtneydanielsfilms.com/
https://www.instagram.com/courtneydanielstoyou/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-daniels-9abb0864
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQFenMHq7I8
https://www.amazon.com/What-Other-Couples-Michael-Friedman/dp/B00QLZRLKK
https://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-You-Courtney-Daniels/dp/B0CJJZ9VTG
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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In this episode of Creative Current Events, Margo Tantau and creative collaborator, Abby Campbell, are back with another insightful chat exploring the latest news from the art field. From retired Crayola colors with cult followings to the resurgence of vintage art supplies and cassette tapes, they unpack why these blasts from the past still spark creativity today. Plus, they dive into how AI is influencing artists like photographer Tim Flach, Targetâs fast-paced approach to trend-driven merchandise, and what color trends are set to define 2026. And if youâve been curious about using mind mapping to unlock new creative ideas, Margo and Abby share practical tips to get started.
Mentioned in this episode:
Crayola Colors Reintroduced
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/childrens-products/toy-reviews/a63653059/crayola-dandelion-limited-edition-retired-colors/
Buzz Feed dipping into Social Media?
https://slate.com/technology/2025/02/buzzfeed-social-media-network-island-ai-jonah-peretti.html
Ai being used to copy Atistsâ Photos
https://www.thetimes.com/uk/technology-uk/article/photographer-says-ai-copied-his-work-can-you-spot-the-difference-q6hr5jfs2
Midjourneyâs Artist Scraping List!!!
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.cand.407208/gov.uscourts.cand.407208.129.10.pdf
Luxury Social Media- Artist Driven
https://alexandrarabbitte.substack.com/p/luxury-social-media-a-case-study?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Target Shortens Go-to-Market Strategy
https://www.retaildive.com/news/target-shortens-go-to-market-strategy-trends/737307/
Coloro x WGSN introduce the Key Colours for S/S 26
https://www.wgsn.com/en/blogs/coloro-x-wgsn-introduce-key-colours-ss-26
Mindmapping
https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/what-is-mind-mapping?_hsmi=340884926
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
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In the second part of their conversation, Margo and Sue dive deeper into the mindset shifts, strategies, and creative breakthroughs that help artists and entrepreneurs build thriving businesses. Sue shares personal stories of transformation, the challenges creatives face in valuing their work, and how to create sustainable success through branding, sales strategies, and embracing new tools. This episode is packed with insights on overcoming fear, finding confidence, and stepping into your creative power.
Margo and Sue discuss:
Artist sales strategy: the power of a waiting list â Why exclusivity and demand can transform your business.
The value of art and validation â How to separate external validation from true creative success.
Creating your personal brand â The importance of storytelling and consistency in branding.
Adapting to new creative tools â Staying relevant and innovative in a changing industry.
Family portraits after loss â The emotional depth of photography and capturing meaningful moments.
Empowering women entrepreneurs â Encouraging women to embrace leadership and financial independence.
Connect with Sue:
Download Sueâs free 3x3 Bio Guide: https://suebryce.com/write-your-3x3
Download Sueâs Timeplate Guide: https://suebryce.com/timeplates-guide
Follow Sue on Instagram: @suebrycephotographer
Learn more: https://suebryce.com/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Margo is joined by the incredible Sue Bryce for a two-part conversation on creativity, self-worth, and business success. With over 35 years as an award-winning photographer and 25 years in business, Sue has dedicated her career to empowering creatives and solo-preneurs to step into their full potential. From overcoming fear to monetizing creativity, Sue shares invaluable insights on how artists and business owners can truly thrive.
Margo and Sue discuss:
Overcoming self-worth in sales â Why self-doubt impacts pricing and success.
Learning to monetize creativity â How to shift from a struggling artist mindset to a thriving business owner.
Creative empowerment through online education â The power of learning and teaching in todayâs digital world.
Monetizing creative flow â How to align passion with profitability.
Prioritizing personal creativity â The importance of making time for your own artistic fulfillment.
Empowering artists to share their art â Overcoming fear and hesitation when putting work into the world.
Connect with Sue:
Download Sueâs free 3x3 Bio Guide: https://suebryce.com/write-your-3x3
Download Sueâs Timeplate Guide: https://suebryce.com/timeplates-guide
Follow Sue on Instagram: @suebrycephotographer
Learn more: https://suebryce.com/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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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 momâs fabric shop shaped her approach to teaching pattern design
The evolution of her vision in building a large and engaged creative community
Taking big risksâlike selling her car to invest in her dreamsâand what sheâd 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 thereâs room for everyone in the creative industry and how sheâs seen that truth play out
Challenging the notion that art doesnât solve problemsâespecially 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 pursuingâone 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
- Montre plus
