Afleveringen

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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 link

    Radio 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 Design

    Connect with Margo:

    Website: windowsillchats.com

    Instagram: @windowsillchats

    Patreon: patreon.com/inthewindowsill

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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 Workshop

    https://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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • Margo is joined by friend and former guest, Michael Schultz. Michael is the co-owner and creative eye of Cursive New York, which operates 2 stores in New York City. Cursive is a tightly focused concept with the simple mission of cultivating joy. Michael, along with his husband, Douglas Duncan, have established Cursive as a strong and forward voice in the industry where they offer gift, stationery, home and lifestyle products and is constantly evolving. Cursive operated in New York City’s iconic Grand Central Terminal for 11 years and within ABC Carpet & Home for 15 years, until the Covid-19 pandemic upended those long runs. Making lemonade out of lemons, Schultz and Duncan doubled down on New York and opened 2 shops in New York’s West Village neighborhood, 4 blocks apart. One shop is true to the original Cursive vision, while Cursive Home is the brand's extension into home goods.

    Margo and Michael discuss:

    Going all in on yourself, trusting your gut and having confidence in your creativity

    The thin line between inspiration and imitation within the digital landscape

    The risks of looking too closely at others' work and what it can lead to

    The importance of developing a unique point of view

    The patience and vulnerability required to pave your own path in the creative industry

    Maintaining confidence in one's original work even if it isn't immediately recognized

    Strategies that artists and designers can use to cultivate their own original ideas

    Setting yourself apart as a leader and visionary by thinking two steps ahead

    Connect with Michael:

    www.instagram.com/cursivenewyork

    www.instagram.com/curisvenyhome

    Connect with Margo:

    www.windowsillchats.com

    www.instagram.com/windowsillchats

    www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill