Avsnitt
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Margo is joined by friend of the pod, Asheville, NC resident, artist and tax expert Hannah Cole to bring a powerful story of survival, community, and the unwavering support for artists affected by recent devastating floods in Asheville. Together they explore the harrowing events that led to severe flooding, destroying homes, businesses, and cherished creative spaces. They also touch on the importance of financial strategies, particularly for creatives, with insights from Hannah at and how her expertise has been a beacon of hope for many small business owners navigating the treacherous waters of disaster recovery (and those outside of the flood zone).
Margo and Hannah discuss:
What it was like to experience Hurricane Helene first hand
Support efforts and challenges post hurricane
The loss of Hannah’s art studio in Asheville
Campaigns and efforts to support those in and around Western North Carolina
The need for increased grant funding in the River Arts District
Managing tax liabilities and leveraging deductions.
"1% for Asheville" support grants
Hannah’s offering, Money Boot Camp for creatives and how she makes financial education non-intimidating.
Connect with Hannah:
https://www.sunlighttax.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sunlighttax/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by designer and illustrator Kay Wolfersperger, based in Savannah, GA. Known for her lively, colorful work infused with humor and positivity, Kay’s designs have appeared in advertising, stationery, branding, children’s books, and surface design. She has extensive experience partnering with brands to craft unique, memorable campaigns. When not at her desk, Kay enjoys strength training, running, traveling, and catching up on films. In this episode, they explore Kay’s journey from a young art enthusiast to a respected creative professional, reflecting on the importance of experiential learning, maintaining physical and mental wellness, and using positive affirmations to navigate both personal and professional challenges.
Margo and Kay discuss:
Kay's early artistic influences, including her stepmother, an art teacher
Her transition from graphic design to fibers and screen printing at SCAD
The challenges and autonomy of running a small business vs. corporate roles
Creative practices for overcoming creative block in daily routines
The role of mind-body wellness in enhancing creativity
Using therapy and affirmations to manage anxiety and build a positive outlook
Collaboration in creative projects, balancing personal vision with teamwork
Embracing imperfection with the mantra, "done is better than good"
Kay's upcoming wholesale collection and the key moments that inspired its development
Connect with Kay:
https://www.kaywolfersperger.com/
https://www.instagram.com/kaywolfersperger/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Margo is joined by Lisa Murphy, a guest with an inspiring story of reinvention and resilience. Raised in small-town Iowa, where her family grew their own food, Lisa followed a traditional path—earning a degree in Actuarial Science and securing a lucrative corporate job. But life shifted when she left her career to travel the world, study Eastern philosophy, and teach yoga, even to members of the royal family in Dubai, while supporting her now-ex-husband.
After her divorce at 47, Lisa realized her best years were still ahead. Now, at 57, she’s a healthy aging expert and has been running her own successful business since 2013. Her mission is to help women and business leaders move away from common health fears and adopt proactive habit changes. Through her signature RAV protocol, Lisa empowers professionals to optimize their health, allowing them to live vibrant, active lives while reaching their biggest goals.
Lisa and Margo discuss:
Lisa’s life in Asheville and the impact of Hurricane Helene
How the wellness industry can better incorporate mental awareness and balanced nervous systems into mainstream narratives
The four pillars of healthy aging: food, mood, rest, and movement
Lisa’s critique of the Standard American Diet
Strengthening community support systems to better cope with natural disasters
The power of mindset in the aging process
Holistic health practices that have worked for Lisa
Device addiction, digital detoxes, and maintaining a balanced nervous system for well-being
Connect with Lisa:
https://www.lisamurphyllc.com
https://www.instagram.com/lisamurphyllc/
https://www.facebook.com/lisa.murphy.kc/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-murphy-health-coach/
https://www.youtube.com/@LisaMurphyLLC
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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In this episode of Creative Current Events, Abby and Margo tackle the ups and downs of navigating social media as a creator. Margo opens up about her recent Instagram suspension and the ripple effect it’s had on her business, leading to a bigger conversation about algorithm frustrations, lack of transparency, and how social media companies fall short in supporting creators. They also discuss the devastating impact of natural disasters on our global community, focusing on how Florida-based artists are recovering from Hurricane Helene and Milton and how listeners can help from afar. Abby and Margo then share practical tips for diversifying communication outside of social media, dig into recent tech updates from Apple and Microsoft, and explore how creativity can thrive in even the most challenging conditions—like making art in the dark.
Mentioned in this episode:
https://www.youtube.com/@dewintonpaperco
https://tantaustudio.com/windowsillchat219/
https://www.annieatkins.com/
https://www.melissaweisspottery.com/
https://www.sunlighttax.com/
Microsoft’s Notepad gets spellcheck and autocorrect 40 years after launch
Use Zoom’s AI Companion to Take Notes and Summarize Meetings
Why Make Art in the Dark?
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
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Margo is joined by Elise and Halee, the dynamic duo behind the Easy Bake Coven podcast, where spooky meets sass. What began on a Halloween night with a bottle of Kim Crawford wine and board games has evolved into a podcast that explores the weird, creepy, and unexplainable. Elise’s background in journalism and Halee’s experience in social work bring a unique blend of nuance and humor to their conversations about paranormal activity, true crime, and mysterious events. Known for their playful banter and easy rapport, listening to them feels like hanging out with friends as they dive into the world’s greatest mysteries—from cryptids to whodunnits—with a side of comedic relief.
In this episode, Margo, Elise, and Halee discuss:
The origin story of Easy Bake Coven and what sets them apart
How family traditions or rituals can influence a child's understanding of spirituality or the supernatural
Spooky stories about signs from passed loved ones
Finding balance between humor and sensitivity when discussing heavy topics without undermining victim stories
Managing burnout and streamlining podcast production as a duo
The responsibilities and ethics of content creation
Why children might be more perceptive to spiritual experiences
Research methods for preparing in-depth historical dives for podcast episodes
The importance of listener engagement and effective ways to build and maintain it
How personal histories and passions shape their podcast
Mentioned in this episode:
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
Watch: YouTube link
Book: Amazon linkRadio Rental podcast: Radio Rental
Spooked podcast: Spooked
The Forager’s Daughter Tarot Deck: The Forager’s Daughter
The Hot Zone by Richard Preston: The Hot Zone
Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth: Call the Midwife
Connect with Elise and Halee:
Website: Easy Bake Coven Podcast
Instagram: @easybakecovenpodcast
Connect with Margo:
Website: Windowsill Chats
Instagram: @windowsillchats
Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
In this revisited episode, Margo reintroduces her thought-provoking conversation with Australian artist and surface pattern designer Kirsten Katz, highlighting the enduring relevance of authenticity in creative work. Kirsten’s journey from ballerina to surface designer showcases how following your passion can lead to a unique artistic style. Since this original conversation, Kirsten’s work continues to evolve, and her insights into creating from a place of intuition and authenticity remain as important as ever.
Kirsten shares how her background in Textile Design has shaped her bold, modern, and botanical-inspired creations, which continue to catch the eye in today’s world of contemporary design.
Margo and Kirsten explore:
The importance of staying true to yourself and creating art that you love
How to focus on your style and confidence as an artist
Experimenting with mediums and techniques to stay inspired
The role of intuition in honing color combinations
Why commission work might not always align with your creative vision
And so much more!
This conversation is packed with timeless advice for creatives navigating their own artistic paths. Tune in for fresh takeaways on how to honor your authentic self as an artist, no matter the trends.
Kirsten’s work can be found on: apparel, home décor, fabric, stationery, giftware, and more.
Connect with Kirsten:
Website: kirstenkatz.com.au
Instagram: @kirstenkatzart
Facebook: kirstenkatzart
LinkedIn: Kirsten Katz DesignConnect with Margo:
Website: windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
Patreon: patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by versatile mixed-media artist and designer, Kayla Ackelson. Kayla holds a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts with a focus on non-traditional photography from Millersville University. After completing her studies, she gained valuable experience as a Gallery Assistant and Art Instructor in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She later worked at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, first in Visitor Services and then in the Development department. In 2021, Kayla fully committed to her artistic and interior design endeavors, turning them into her full-time career. Her passion for fostering creativity continues through her role as an instructor at ArtFusion in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, where she teaches students of all ages. Alongside teaching, Kayla actively exhibits her work in local galleries and maintains a strong online presence to engage a broader audience. She is also a mother, creator, and lover of plants, design, and nature.
Margo and Kayla discuss:
Her career shift to full-time artistry and interior design
Claiming your power as an artist and creative
The role journaling and meditation play in her art and work
Insights into creating inviting, personal spaces
The power of vision boards
The importance of incorporating childhood inspirations and personal mementos into your environment
How her book extends a decade-long journaling practice
How meditation influenced her decision to share personal experiences to help others
Her commitment to a flexible and evolving creative practice
Her philosophy on art and perfection, and how creating daily supports mental health
Embracing multiple creative roles
Connect with Kayla:
Website: www.kaylaackelson.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kaylaackelson
Her new book: https://amzn.to/47wktUw
Kayla’s Workshop: https://www.kaylaackelson.com/store/p85/mixedmediaworkshop.html
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/tantaustudio
Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
Margo is joined by Annie Atkins, a graphic designer and legendary prop maker for film and television. She is known for her work with Wes Anderson on The Grand Budapest Hotel, which won the Academy Award for Best Production Design at the 87th Academy Awards. Since then, she has worked again with Wes Anderson on Isle of Dogs and The French Dispatch as well as on Steven Speilberg's West Side Story and Bridge of Spies. Annie’s first book, Fake Love Letters, Forged Telegrams, and Prison Escape Maps, was published in 2020 by Phaidon. In her first children's book, Letters From The North Pole, five children from all around the world write to Santa Claus with ideas for Christmas gifts and are amazed when he writes back! Through five letters from Santa that children can pull out and read, the hidden world of the North Pole is revealed, from how reindeer can sleep standing up to what snacks Santa would like left out on Christmas Eve, and how he gets round the world so quickly. This is a nostalgic and festive tale, reminiscent of the classic The Jolly Postman and Annie's iconic work on such films as The Grand Budapest Hotel.
Margo and Annie discuss:
How Annie’s upbringing in a creative household influenced her decision to pursue graphic design and the pivotal moments that led her into the film industry
Her impressive portfolio working on films and specific challenges and joys she encountered while working with distinctive styles of directors
Hand-lettering vs. digital design
Film prop details and some of the various intricate props she crafted
Learning through mistakes, how using a 50-star flag instead of a 48-star flag in Bridge of Spies taught her to ensure historical accuracy
Personal Projects vs. Commissioned Work
What the job of a graphic designer on a film set typically involves and how it contributes to the overall storytelling in a movie
Her captivating and interactive new children's book, Letters from the North Pole
Connect with Annie:
www.instagra.com/AnnieAtkins
www.annieatkins.com
Connect with Margo:
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.windowsillchats.com
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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In this previously aired episode, Margo is joined by (former) Productivity Coach & Online Business Consultant Chelsea Wessman. Chelsea is a popcorn obsessed, mom of 3, living next to the Utah mountains and is passionate about empowering ambitious mompreneurs to take back their time, make more money without putting in more hours, and create a life that aligns with their values. She helps ambitious women to optimize time, money, and mindset without sacrificing sanity through systems, financial freedom, and time management hacks.
They discuss:
The difference between productivity and being busy and how to figure out which one you’re spending more of your time being
Why you don’t have to time block or map out your entire day, week, or month to be productive
When you should have a template or system for certain things in your life or business
How she helps creatives and other business owners map out online product and service promotional launches
Reverse engineering goals
The importance of clarity and structure
How mindset plays into productivity
Chelsea is passionate about inspiring others to see more for their life, do more of what matters most, and be more of who you’re meant to be because you’ll never regret investing the time and effort required to reach your potential.
Resources Mentioned:
The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz
High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendon Burchard
Connect with Chelsea:
https://view.flodesk.com/emails/63caebcf75888582c8c6b579
www.instagram.com/chelseawessman
Chelsea’s Jumpstart Checklists Resource
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by travel designer, leader of design trips & retreats, and the author of Paris by Design: An Inspired Guide to the City’s Creative Side, Eva Jorgensen. Eva is also a 17 year design industry veteran with an MFA degree who has taught art, ran an artisanal stationery company for a decade, curated an independent gift shop, and worked as a freelance creative director. Eva grew up in California and lived in France, Belgium, and Ohio for much of her 20s. She now lives in the Utah mountains with her husband, Kirk, and their 2 kids.
Margo and Eva discuss:
Eva's upbringing in California and early artistic inspiration.
How both her Mother’s stories and influence and her Father’s entrepreneurial background guided her creative path.
How she went from operating a letterpress business to organizing exclusive creative retreats.
Her exciting plans for upcoming design-focused trips to Belgium and the Cotswolds.
Balancing artistic dreams with family life.
Her Ambition to one day write and direct an independent feature film.
Finding inspiration through nature, travel, and being offline.
How writing a magazine turned into a book.
The importance of connection and how her retreats bring people together.
Eva’s upcoming retreats.
Connect with Eva:
https://www.evajorgensen.com/
https://www.evajorgensen.com/letters-from-eva
www.instagram.com/evajorgensentravel
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by dynamic artist, entrepreneur, and the visionary CEO, Amber Byers Amber is the CEO and founder of Tadpole Press. She leads with creativity and inclusivity, serving as the head judge of the Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest, an international competition that celebrates the power of words and fosters a vibrant community of writers. Her passion for writing extends beyond the contest; she regularly blogs at Living a Life Imagined, where she shares her commitment to positivity and authenticity as a creative force. Amber’s literary works reflect her imaginative spirit and diverse background, including The Magic Door Origin Story, a sci-fi tale inspired by her childhood, and Sophie and Spot, which garnered a Gold Medal for Best First Book in the chapter book category at the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards in 2019. Amber shares her journey from attorney to influential writer and entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of creativity, authenticity, and diverse voices in literature and shares her cultural roots with the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and her mission to foster inclusivity through her work.
Margo and Amber discuss:
Her transition from legal career to writer and entrepreneur
The internationally loved 100-word writing contest
Her cultural roots with the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and how they shape her creative expression
How influences like Simone Biles and Liz Gilbert shape her philosophy
The significance of cultural heritage, gender identity, and the inclusive mission of Tadpole Press
Being unafraid to stand out by not following the rules
Discovering abundance in limitless creative expression and joy
How identity as an agender and biracial person influenced their approach to writing and editing
Connect with Amber:
https://www.tadpolepress.com/welcome
https://www.tadpolepress.com/100-word-writing-contest
https://www.tadpolepress.com/blog
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tj35X6TwPVA
https://www.tadpolepress.com/post/my-pronouns
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined for another Creative Current Events catch up with the one and only Abby Campbell. They dive into a rich blend of creative insights and practical tips to boost productivity and brand presence - and of course, a little AI. Join them as they discuss their latest favorite articles from the interwebs including Jenna Kutcher's approach to mastering Instagram, complete with her valuable hacks for time management and content organization, a groundbreaking AI copyright infringement case featuring artist Jenga Zhang, and its potential impact on the art world, a creative cat named Momo who aids in the marketing behind a pottery brand, the latest in color-matching technology with the Nix eyedropper tool, how companies like West Elm are redefining Halloween decor, and a whole lot more.
Mentioned:
Reels from Hans Lorei Design
https://www.instagram.com/hansloreidesign
Copyright infringement case against AI Image Generators
https://venturebeat.com/ai/artists-celebrate-as-copyright-infringement-case-against-ai-image-generators-moves-forward/
Momo the Cat’s pottery is selling out!
https://www.instagram.com/feeeuuhh/
New color-matching-capturing gadget, Nix
https://www.nixsensor.com/mini-3-color-sensor/?_gl=1*1lqdpt6*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTk0MDgxMjAyMC4xNzIzODM2Mjky*_ga_9615G94BKR*MTcyMzg0MzM1NS4yLjAuMTcyMzg0MzM1NS4wLjAuMA..&gclid=CjwKCAjw8fu1BhBsEiwAwDrsjOC-8OZ8yR2qT1KMBGyCUspMN-TpK-7_5IEECCQCPHkuw0-fqjKEDBoCM2QQAvD_BwE
Jenna Kutcher on Instagram Productivity hacks that actually WORK
https://jennakutcher.com/
Article:
https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/instagram-productivity?_hsmi=318394396
Replacing the word “Unfortunately“ in the workplace
https://www.thecandidly.com/2019/lets-stop-using-this-one-word-in-professional-settings
Summerween
https://www.axios.com/2024/07/29/halloween-decorations-michaels-costco-home-depot-summerween
https://www.westelm.com/shop/holidays/halloween/?Kenshoo=_k_CjwKCAjw8fu1BhBsEiwAwDrsjFUqGEkX43GdLtzJqsTqyBzf_E5Lalh1H9fJjkon2LtxPyclOzl8mBoCnDYQAvD_BwE_k_&cm_ven=BrandSearch&cm_cat=Google&cm_pla=Brand_Search_Holiday_Exact&cm_ite=west%20elm%20halloween_18579335980_kwd-929824583416&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw8fu1BhBsEiwAwDrsjFUqGEkX43GdLtzJqsTqyBzf_E5Lalh1H9fJjkon2LtxPyclOzl8mBoCnDYQAvD_BwE
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
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Margo is joined by Kenzie Elston, the whimsical artist behind Snippets of Whimsy. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP program, Kenzie began her career designing for Procter & Gamble's Pampers and Always brands. Now freelancing, she licenses her joyful illustrations and playful hand lettering to gift, garden, stationery, and home decor companies. Known as a "positivity artist," Kenzie’s creative identity shines through her love for color, florals, and uplifting designs. Beyond art, she enjoys collecting sketchbooks, antique tchotchkes, and novels, and she lives for daily dance parties with her two young sons.
Margo and Kenzie discuss:
Her journey from working for Proctor and Gamble to finding her unique voice as an illustrator
Growing up in a creative atmosphere & finding your own way.
Using elements to create, and building a design bank.
What playing with your art & creativity opens up
Her intuitive approach to art
Finding a knack for blending family life with a flourishing creative career
Drawing inspiration from her children
The importance of creating cohesive collections
Navigating market trends
The necessity in holding strong boundaries as a creative
Upcoming retreats that promise to build a close-knit community of like-minded creatives
Connect with Kenzie:
www.snippetsofwhimsy.com
www.instagram.com/snippetsofwhimsy
ReStart Make Art (Retreat!): https://www.restartmakeart.com/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by Sonoma Valley-based artist Alex Cole, whose paintings are inspired by her travels and the Northern California landscapes. Her work has been featured in RUE magazine and published in “Wild Lands” and “Artist of the Bay Area” by Jen Tough. With over twenty years of experience, Alex’s art is characterized by her love of contrast in color, texture, and pattern, and her pieces can be found in collections across the US, Europe, and Canada.
Born in Bronxville, New York, and raised in Paris and Ibiza, Alex was exposed to diverse cultures that greatly influenced her artistic style. After earning a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art, she moved to Sonoma, California, where she began teaching at the Sonoma Community Center. Her workshops and retreats, held both locally and internationally, encourage others to tap into their creative potential by exploring nature and embracing experimentation. Alex's work, including her public art project for The City of Santa Rosa, showcases her dedication to inspiring creativity in others.
Margo and Alex discuss:
Her creative path and how growing up abroad impacted her creative journey
Embracing vulnerability and creativity through art and teaching
Saying yes to new opportunities in art and life
Creative freedom and the power of play
Building authentic connections
Embracing the unknown in artistry
Giving back through art
The power of saying YES
How facilitating workshops in Spain shaped her approach to teaching and learning simultaneously
How non-verbal communication can enhance the exchange of creative ideas in an artistic setting
Finding alignment in personal core values when it comes to creating
How she inspires others to be brave in art making and business
Connect with Alex:
https://www.alexcolestudio.com
https://www.instagram.com/alexcolestudio/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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It’s time for Creative Current Events! Margo and friend Abby Campbell are diving into the creative realm and catching up on the latest articles and happenings and giving you the footnotes so you don’t have to! They discuss the joys of creating art on walls vs traditional canvas, the importance of pushing creative boundaries, Canva’s report on creativity and AI, Apple’s new AI partnership, a controversial olympic ad, Anthropolgie’s new adaptive clothing line, and more.
Have a topic or article you want to hear about in a creative current events episode? Send us a DM on Instagram!
Mentioned:
Lori Siebert’s Windowsill Workshophttps://www.yourtantaustudio.com/lorisiebert2024?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.yourtantaustudio.com%2Fa%2F2147917190%2FQzSoxhML
Garance Dore (Instagram Post)
https://www.instagram.com/p/C328nZyN5kc/?hl=en&img_index=1
Kit Kemp Design (Instagram Post)
https://www.instagram.com/kitkempdesignthread/?hl=en
Kelly O’Neal/Design Legacy Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/design_legacy
The Canva Report on Creativity in the Workplace
https://www.canva.com/newsroom/news/hbr-creativity-report/?li_fat_id=94056869-ea57-4646-ba01-e9b51f8ba7ce
The News so far on “Apple Intelligence” https://www.theneurondaily.com/p/apple-intelligence-finally?utm_source=www.theneurondaily.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=apple-s-ai-tease
Google Olympics ad sparks new ire over generative AI
https://www.axios.com/2024/07/31/google-olympics-ad-ai-gemini-ire?_hsmi=318224684
Swiss army knife maker to produce range without a blade
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/article/2024/may/07/swiss-army-knife-maker-to-produce-version-without-a-blade
Anthropologie Adaptive Clothing Collection
https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/anthropologie-adaptive-clothing-collection/
https://www.anthropologie.com/stories-adaptive-fashion-for-everyone
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
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Margo is joined by Ana Bianchi, an artist, designer, illustrator, children's book author, and color enthusiast. Ana shares her journey from her early beginnings in art to her diverse range of creative projects. Originally from Mexico and having spent many years in New York, Ana now resides in the Bay Area, where she uses her garden as a natural color lab for her photography and color project, Color/Flora. Ana's work spans branding, illustrated graphic design, the PaperGirl Collection, surface design, and ceramics, with color as the unifying element throughout. She has exhibited her art globally, including in Mexico, Italy, the Netherlands, India, Greece, and New York City.
Margo and Ana discuss:Understanding Trends: design versus fashion and the average lifespan of a trend
Audience: Who follows trends, and who pays attention to them?
The Origin of Trends: how trends are initiated, spotting them early, and identifying emerging trends
Engaging with Trends: when to engage, maintaining individuality, and is it possible to ignore trends as creative business owners?
Color Trends: Pantone, industry specific color trends, color of the year
Era-based color cycles and navigating trends you don’t care for
Navigating trends you dislike
Impact on artistry: Do color trends hinder artistic individuality?
Timeless colors, desired trends, and finding inspiration
Connect with Ana:
https://www.instagram.com/analovescolor/
https://www.analovescolor.com/
Connect with Margo:
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.windowsillchats.com
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by award nominated content creator with over a decade of experience in social media marketing and Canva design, Georgia Williams. She is also the host of "Content Tea with G," her popular global podcast, where she delivers a unique blend of creativity, social media content and northern charm, inspiring listeners worldwide to embrace their own authenticity, and stand out through content creation. She also performs regularly as a professional singer and has been featured in The Mirror, The Daily Mail, the BBC and others. As a singer, she has entertained crowds of up to 7,000 people. With her unique blend of marketing knowledge and stage performance, Georgia is on a mission to help business owners create social media content with more joy and show up exactly as they are, both online and off.
Margo and Georgia discuss:
her creative journey and decade-long experience in social media marketing
How her upbringing in a creative environment shaped her career
What it means and looks like to be a Canva ambassador
Her time on The Voice UK and being mentored by Tom Jones
The highs and lows of public perception and what it has taught her in business (and showing up online)
Leveraging personal interests for content creation
Authenticity and mental health
Thoughts on AI and creativity
Motherhood and how it’s influenced her professional aspirations and creative pursuits
Connect with Georgia:
https://www.instagram.com/rayofsocial/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiawilliamsrayofsocial/
https://www.facebook.com/rayofsocial
https://www.tiktok.com/@rayofsocial
https://www.threads.net/@rayofsocial
https://open.spotify.com/show/2Gza4gxFeCElcNS0UDsLP3
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/content-tea-with-g-content-tips-and-ideas/id1727143437
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Margo is joined by middle-aged Minnesotan, Author, creative, and Tax Preparer Steve Hoffman. Steve who has always been in love with France, both the country and the idea of it as a place where he can be a better version of himself moved together with his family to the small village of Autignac in southern France, where he quickly realized life there was far from his romanticized expectations. Through cooking what the local grocer suggested and learning winemaking from a neighbor, he discovered the true beauty of a culture deeply connected with its landscape. Steve is a Minnesota tax preparer and award-winning food writer, with his work published in Food & Wine, The Washington Post, and The Minneapolis Star Tribune. His memoir, A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France, will be published in July 2024. He shares one acre on Turtle Lake, in Shoreview, Minnesota, with his wife, Mary Jo, their elderly puggle, 80,000 honeybees, and a pair of sandhill cranes
Margo and Steve discuss:
Steve’s creative journey and the inspiration that found him
The transformative aspects of his family's extended stay in the Languedoc Region of Southern France
Impact of working in the vines and a village winery on perspective towards wine and winemaking
Changes in travel philosophy after the experience in France
The challenges and rewards of parenting both abroad and at home
How he inspires and encourages his kids in their creativity
Sneak peek of upcoming appearance on The Splendid Table on July 18
Where to find Steve’s work, follow his journey, and purchase his new memoir
Connect with Steve:
www.sjrhoffman.com
https://www.instagram.com/sjrhoffman/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Catching up on all things creative current events and highlighting some fun and interesting articles, Margo is joined by friend and current event co-host Abby Campbell. This week they are discussing the growth challenges Cara has been facing and how we can give grace, Etsy’s updated stance on AI, Sticker Mule's political controversy, how a baseball hit made a beer company millions, and finding inspiration outside of our own online algorithm.
Have a topic or article you want to hear about in a creative current events episode? Send us a DM on Instagram!
Mentioned in this episode:
Cara Facing New Challenges
https://www.fastcompany.com/91157162/the-cara-app-went-viral-now-it-faces-new-challenges
Etsy’s stand on AI from their Handbook
https://www.etsy.com/seller-handbook/article/1275449912004
More on Etsy & New Naming Categories
https://www.fastcompany.com/91153074/etsy-is-using-humans-to-stand-out-in-an-ai-obsessed-world
Etsy’s Ad
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUFvwHBZOgo
A Dramatic Reading of a Small Business Customer Service Email
Leigh Standley of Curly Girl Cards
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9nJezDON6E/
Ariadne Kritonos on Instagram!
Thanks for the thoughtful discussion, Ariadne.
https://www.instagram.com/ariadnekritonos/
Coopers Light - Coors Light’s OUT Campaign
Unintentionally started by Angels Player Shohei Otani
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5GQvqfqRSU
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
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Margo is joined by Arianne Foulks. Arianne is the founder of Aeolidia, a Shopify development agency that's been working with creative shop owners since 2004. Her team blends strategy and design to create super-effective Shopify sites, email marketing, and branding. She is also a popular educator and small business enthusiast. As a champion for creative brands, she has a 17+ year reputation for thoughtful redesigns that help businesses level up. She loves having a problem to solve, and has focused throughout her career on building online homes for fascinating people. She is also a mom of two teenagers, enjoys walking, and always has a pile of books by her bed.
Margo and Arianne discuss:
Arianne’s creative history of crafting beaded jewelry and zines in her childhood to transforming the online presence of creative e-commerce businesses
How she cultivated her niche in the e-commerce industry
The challenges of selling unique products in a market flooded with mass-produced items
The power of storytelling in e-commerce.
Core values and how they guide Aeolidia
the significance of having a minimum viable product
continuous evolution of brand voice
How and why her team switched to a four day work week
how to avoid scope creep and set good expectations when working with clients
Using the Entrepreneurial Operating System to run a business
Connect with Arianne:
https://aeolidia.com/
https://www.instagram.com/aeolidia/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariannefoulks/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
- Visa fler
