Shows
Windowsill ChatsThe Inner Voice of a Creative: Rebuilding, Reflecting, and Reimagining with Tina BackmanMargo is joined by Swedish designer, illustrator, and educator Tina Backman for an inspiring conversation about creativity, self-discovery, and the winding path of a creative life. From a shy childhood filled with drawing, journaling, and music, Tina shares how creativity became her truest language—and how that expression evolved into an international career in design, education, and branding. Margo and Tina explore the realities of navigating a creative career: the pressure to pursue “practical” paths, the challenges of freelance life, and the courage it takes to follow your inner voice. Tina also opens up about rebuil...2025-06-1157 minWindowsill ChatsEmpathy, Strategy, and Soul: The Art of Creative Leadership with Vince WangaIn this episode of Windowsill Chats, Margo is joined by the brilliant and multifaceted Vincent Wanga—an international design thought leader, award-winning creative executive, keynote speaker, and author of The Art of Direction. With a career spanning two decades, Vince has not only built brands but built pathways for creatives to rise into leadership, blending vision, empathy, and business acumen. Margo and Vince dive deep into the rarely talked about pivot from doing creative work to leading it—unpacking the realities behind creative direction and what it truly takes to thrive in high-impact leadership roles. Margo...2025-06-041h 09Windowsill ChatsThe Shift to a SOFT Business: Building a Life and Career That Honor Who You Truly Are with Molly BalintMargo 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 profitable—centered 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 nu...2025-05-281h 13Windowsill ChatsThe Art of Doing What You Can, When You Can: Creativity, Chronic Illness & Life-First Business with Nikita WilliamsMargo is joined by business coach and podcast host Nikita Williams in a conversation on building a business—and a life—that 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 authenticity—without burning out or hiding who you are. They discuss the real and raw journey of navigating health challenges as a creative woman of color...2025-05-141h 06Windowsill ChatsSketches of a Colorful Life: Monika Forsberg on Art, Islands, and Embracing the UnfinishedMargo 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. She’s 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 Ma...2025-04-2349 minWindowsill ChatsCreative Current Events: Crayola Nostalgia, AI’s Creative Impact, and the Comeback of Cassette TapesIn 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, Target’s fast-paced approach to trend-driven merchandise, and what color trends are set to define 2026. And if you’ve been curious about using mind mapping to unlock new creative idea...2025-02-2128 minWindowsill ChatsEmbracing Growth, Trusting Your Inner Knowing, and Rethinking Goal Setting with MargoMargo shares a personal episode, reflecting on the incredible four-year journey of the podcast and its vibrant community. She opens her heart about her own transformative experiences, the courage it takes to embrace life's uncertainties, and the magic of real connections. Whether you're a loyal listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is an invitation to celebrate growth, creativity, and the beautiful moments yet to come. Topics Discussed: Reflecting on Growth: Finding new perspectives and embracing the lessons from the journey. Trust in Connection: The value of real c...2024-12-2521 minWindowsill ChatsCreative Current Events: Navigating Social Media Setbacks, Disaster Recovery for Artists, and Making Art in the DarkIn 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 ti...2024-10-1832 minWindowsill ChatsFrom Messy Studios to Magical Spaces: Exploring the Intersection of Art & Mental Health with Kayla AckelsonMargo 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...2024-10-0251 minWindowsill ChatsCrafting Cinematic Worlds: Annie Atkins on Iconic Film Design, Creative Storytelling, and Letters From the North PoleMargo 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 Fr...2024-09-251h 00Windowsill ChatsTravel by Design: Eva Jorgensen on Crafting Global Experiences and Creative RetreatsMargo 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. ...2024-09-111h 17Windowsill ChatsFrom Law to Literary Magic: Amber Byers on Celebrating Creativity, Encouraging Authentic Voices, and Integrating Culture with Tadpole PressMargo 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 Do...2024-09-041h 21Windowsill ChatsThe Joy of Experimentation: How Kenzie Elston Balances Freelancing and Family Dynamics as a Born-and-Bred CreativeMargo 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...2024-08-211h 05Windowsill ChatsEmbracing Exploration and Aligning with Your Values: Artist Alex Cole on Inspiring Fearless Creativity in Art, Life, and BusinessMargo 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 greatl...2024-08-141h 17Windowsill ChatsExploring the World of Trends and the Ever-Changing Landscape of Color and Design With Ana BianchiMargo 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...2024-08-071h 04Windowsill ChatsTurning Passion into Paychecks, Overcoming Criticism, and Embracing Your True Self with Georgia WilliamsMargo 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...2024-07-3155 minWindowsill ChatsA Season for Change: Steve Hoffman on New Perspectives, Culture, and Finding a Sense of BelongingMargo 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...2024-07-241h 21Windowsill ChatsMastering Creative Storytelling, Brand Strategy, and Core Values for E-Commerce Creatives with Arianne FoulksMargo 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...2024-07-171h 21Windowsill ChatsCreative Confidence, Trusting Your Gut and Navigating the Thin Line Between Inspiration and Imitation With Michael SchultzMargo 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 lo...2024-07-101h 38Windowsill ChatsMarching to the Beat of Your Own Drum: Dan Checkers on The Art of Personalized Songs and Connecting with Fans in Unique WaysMargo is joined by one man band, Dan Checkers otherwise known as Dan & Drum. Releasing his debut album in 2017 with no label, connections, or many friends for that matter, he was surprised to see it get millions of streams in the first year, thanks to creators like Jenna Marbles featuring the music. Since then, he's been consistently releasing music, earning 10s of millions of streams across platforms, while touring across the US. Since COVID, he's been selling personalized songs to fans that are then publicly released later- which he finds to be his most artistically fulfilling venture to date!2024-07-0342 minWindowsill ChatsHeirloom Artwork to Inspire Creativity: Brittany DeSantis on Grief, Calligraphy, and the Power of Journaling (Part 2)In part 2 of 2, Margo is joined by calligrapher and author, Brittany DeSantis. Brittany is most well known for her focus on mindfulness and the sensory experience of writing and creating: the sound of the pen on the paper, the way the ink flows on the page, the concentration it takes to form each stroke and how to find a "flow" by doing something just beyond your comfort zone. Journaling has become Brittany’s main focus. She pairs art and writing to show others a barrier-free way of expressing themselves and feels the outcome is always less important than the ac...2024-06-2640 minWindowsill ChatsHeirloom Artwork to Inspire Creativity: Brittany DeSantis on Grief, Calligraphy, and the Power of Journaling (Part 1)Margo is joined by artist, calligrapher, and avid journaler, Brittany DeSantis. After making a big cross-country move to Alberta, Canada nearly a decade ago, Brittany fell in love with the mountains and back in love with art. This move inspired the "peak" in her business name, Peak Paper Co. Through global brand partnerships and from Brittany’s tiny home studio, she's taught the art of calligraphy, watercolor and journaling to over 50 thousand people worldwide. One of Brittany's very cool teaching roles is that of global luxury brand, Montblanc's, Inspire Writing instructor. She focuses on the "beginner" stage as she be...2024-06-1957 minWindowsill ChatsCreativity in Crisis: Paul Pape on Nurturing Creativity through PLAY, Embracing Failure and the Future of ArtMargo is joined by seasoned artist, designer, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the creative industry Paul Pape. Paul’s journey began with a passion for education stemming from a need to escape an abusive childhood. Eventually, he found his way to design and fabrication, which led to the creation of thousands of personalized products for clients worldwide as well as industry giants such as Disney, Universal, Nickelodeon and more.. In recent years, he’s pivoted to empowering Creatives, Companies and Corporations, sharing his expertise and insights to help them embrace innovation, reverse the Creativity Crisis and make...2024-06-121h 36Windowsill ChatsSinging Success to Jewelry Brilliance: Dani Paquin on Creative Fulfillment, Community Building, and Two Decades of Agapantha JewelryMargo is joined by Jewelry Designer Dani Paquin. Dani founded Agapantha Jewelry in April of 2004 after 6+ years of living as a touring singer-songwriter. While it was an incredible, dream fulfilling time, people don't love paying for music and the hustle was unsustainable. Between tours, Dani started working for a couple of designers, assembling jewelry and found that it was fun, creative, she was good at it, and people were willing to pay for it. She did music and jewelry for a while, semi-retired from music, opened an adorable vintage shop in Brooklyn, and eventually found her way into the...2024-06-051h 00Windowsill ChatsThe Art of Well-Being: Jennifer Brinley on Nature-Inspired Design and the Impact on Brain Function and HealthMargo is joined by artist and designer for the gift & home decor industry, Jennifer Brinley. Jennifer has been in the industry for over 20 years with a degree in Studio Art from UC Santa Barbara and she believes well designed products can bring moments of joy. Her creative path took her to graduate school for architecture before promptly dropping out after learning advanced math was involved to pass "structures." She then bounced around with a variety of jobs to save money to go to Europe for 3 months with a childhood friend. After Europe, came the quandary of what to do...2024-05-291h 03Windowsill ChatsFinding Beauty in Everyday Life: The Power of Creative Practice and the Art of Noticing with Mary Jo HoffmanMargo is joined by artist, photographer and author Mary Jo Hoffman. In her previous life, Mary was an aerospace engineer until one day she decided to take up a daily practice of photographing something in nature. This daily practice turned into STILL Blog, profound revelations about the connectedness of all things, the importance of place, and her own life. Her new book, STILL: The Art of Noticing, features 275 of the most stunning photographs Mary Jo has accumulated over thousands of consecutive days of daily shooting accompanied by perceptive, deeply felt, and oftentimes humorous essays illuminating the insights gained through...2024-05-221h 18Windowsill ChatsPivot, Profit, and Purpose: Emily McDowell on Reclaiming Joy in the Creative JourneyMargo is joined by friend of the Windowsill, Emily McDowell. As an advisor, thought partner, and coach, Emily McDowell helps save creative entrepreneurs’ time, money, and sanity, and helps product-based brands succeed. As founder of the stationery brand Em & Friends, she created Empathy Cards, a more honest and supportive alternative to traditional sympathy cards, which drew organic coverage by hundreds of major media outlets in 22 countries and inspired a sea change to the industry. As a writer and illustrator, her work has gone viral countless times, and for over a decade, she’s been known for creating products that make...2024-05-151h 10Windowsill ChatsThe Artist's Path to Financial Stability: IRA Insights, Maximizing Benefits, and Reaching Full Creative Potential with Hannah ColeMargo is joined again by tax expert for creatives, Hannah Cole. Hannah specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she’s helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements, and through her podcast. Margo and Hannah unpack the complex world of finances, exploring the impactful financial habits that can safeguard your future, the emotional hurdles around financial literacy, and how shifts in mindset can lead to financial empowerment. They also dive into the importance of IRA contributions and th...2024-05-081h 01Windowsill ChatsBuilding a Business that Resonates and Rewards with Leigh Standley of Curly Girl DesignMargo is joined by the incredibly talented Leigh Standley, founder of Curly Girl Design. Lee has been making waves in the greeting card industry since 2003, creating beautifully crafted cards that resonate deeply. In this episode, Leigh opens up about the evolution of her business through the seismic shifts in technology and consumer behaviors over the past two decades. From the early days of e-commerce to dealing with the challenges brought on by the pandemic that forced a business model shift from wholesale to direct sales, Leigh shares her journey of adaptability, passion, and persistence. She also shares her thoughtful...2024-05-011h 02Windowsill ChatsPattern Pulse: Fostering Creative Communities and Advocacy in the Australian Design Scene with Rachael KingMargo is joined by Aussie Surface Pattern Designer Rachael King. Obsessed with pattern from an early age, Rachael King grew up watching her talented mother making clothes not only for her and her siblings but for bridal and formal events too. While working in her mom's fabric shop, she mused over how the pattern repeated over the fabric and wondered how fabric was printed and wouldn't it be wonderful to design fabric too? It took another 23 years before Rachael was able to start a diploma in graphic design that would then lead into her dream of becoming a surface...2024-04-241h 13Windowsill ChatsFrom Tattoos to Wallpaper: The Impact of Authenticity and Creative Drive with Melanie Nead (Part 2)In this part 2 of 2 episode, Margo is joined by founder of Lonesome Pictopia, Melanie Nead. Rooted in American tattooing, the wild spaces of the Pacific Northwest, and the belief that all work should be a force for good, Lonesome Pictopia is a woman-owned design collective creating magical worlds with original wallpapers, textiles, and murals. After fifteen years as a custom tattoo artist, Melanie turned her love of plants and pattern to creating one-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals, with an eye on releasing a house line in the spirit of historic wallcoverings. Their deeply designed wallpapers are traditionally printed in the UK...2024-04-171h 05Windowsill ChatsFrom Tattoos to Wallpaper: The Impact of Authenticity and Creative Drive with Melanie Nead (Part 1)Margo is joined by founder of Lonesome Pictopia, Melanie Nead. Rooted in American tattooing, the wild spaces of the Pacific Northwest, and the belief that all work should be a force for good, Lonesome Pictopia is a woman-owned design collective creating magical worlds with original wallpapers, textiles, and murals. After fifteen years as a custom tattoo artist, Melanie turned her love of plants and pattern to creating one-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals, with an eye on releasing a house line in the spirit of historic wallcoverings. Their deeply designed wallpapers are traditionally printed in the UK by a sustainable manufacturer of...2024-04-101h 25Windowsill ChatsThe Creative Journey to Inner Freedom: Using Art Making as a Portal for Personal Discovery and Self Expression with Jessica SwiftMargo is joined once again by surface pattern designer, intuitive art maker, and course creator Jessica Swift. As a child, Jessica sported a nearly-permanent Crayola marker stain on her left arm, from pinky to elbows so, naturally, she became an artist. She creates colorful, uplifting artwork and manufactures her own products in her studio in Portland, Oregon. She also collaborates with inspiring companies and publishers to create branded products such as fabric, stationery, puzzles, books, and more. She's the author of 3 books and teaches online classes on topics including pattern design, color, and intuitive art-making. M...2024-04-031h 08Windowsill ChatsPermission to be an Artist: Valuing Art Beyond Problem-Solving and Advocating for Artists in the Age of AI with Megan AumanMargo is joined once again by artist, metalsmith, teacher, creative business coach, writer, and entrepreneur Megan Aumen. Megan has built a multi-faceted business around her passion for art, design, and creativity. In addition to her eponymous jewelry line and various other creative pursuits (including textile design, painting, and sculpture), she runs Designing an MBA, where she talks and teaches about the intersection of art and business, and Artists and Profit Makers, an online mentorship program for creative business owners. She is the author of four books, including Try It & See and Permission to Be an Artist. 2024-03-271h 19Windowsill ChatsLeading a Lit(erate) Life: Crafting a Book Apothecary, Embracing Reading Rituals, and Rediscovering Creativity Through the Power of Reading and Writing with Stephanie AffinitoMargo is joined by book-loving, notebook-hoarding literacy teacher educator who is on a mission to change lives one book and one notebook at a time, Stephanie Affinito. Stephanie blogs about the power of leading literate lives and podcasts weekly on books and reading, writing and notebooks and everything in between. Stephanie shares about the transformative power of reading and writing and how her own personal journey of rediscovering creativity through self-expression and the joy of literature. Margo and Stephanie discuss: Reading and writing as a form of therapy Understanding restorative reading p...2024-03-201h 14Windowsill ChatsUnleashing Authenticity and Baring It All: The Art of Empowerment Photography and Retreats with Sarah LeaderMargo is joined by California photographer and retreat creator and host, Sarah Leader. Sarah received her first camera at the age of 8 and hasn’t stopped photographing since but her why and who she photographs has evolved several times over while still saying true to her own style and uniqueness. She found a passion for empowering women through the art of photography in 2010, which evolved into a retreat offering called "Persephone Unleashed.” Persephone Unleashed was born from Sarah’s belief that women are magic, as well as her fiery passion to document beautiful creatures as they break free of their...2024-03-061h 11Windowsill ChatsThe Interplay of Health and Art: Prioritizing Self-Care while Discovering New Creative Passions with Lori SiebertMargo is joined by former Windowsill Chats guest, Lori Siebert. Lori, an accomplished artist with a rich background in graphic design and art licensing, shares the evolution of her creative journey, reflecting on the major shifts in her life post turning 60, from handling significant losses to prioritizing joy and self-care. Together, they share insights into recent personal health discoveries and why they’ve decided to prioritize their health now and how they hope to encourage you to do the same. Lori also shares on the shift in her career, choosing projects that resonate personally after selling her studio building an...2024-02-281h 01Windowsill ChatsPaint Brushes to Balance Sheets: Financial Literacy, Tax Knowledge and How to Break the Starving Artist Stereotype With Hannah ColeMargo is joined by tax expert Hannah Cole who specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she’s helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements from Florida to Alaska, and on the Sunlight podcast. She is the founder of Sunlight Tax. As artists carve their paths through various industries, they encounter a myriad of challenges, yet financial literacy is rarely addressed, leading to feelings of failure and shame. Today's conversation with Hannah sheds light on this systemic fa...2024-02-211h 03Windowsill ChatsInfusing Identity into Art and the Power of Personal Beliefs in Professional Projects with Suzy Ultman (Part 2)In part two of this two-part episode, Margo is joined by illustrator, product designer, toy creator, and bookmaker of sophisticated and simple objects that inspire and delight young and old alike, Suzy Ultman. from graphic design to creating educational content for children, Suzy emphasizes the importance of infusing personal beliefs into professional projects and how hardships in her life such as her divorce and the loss of her sister played a role in her own creativity and imparting it on children. Make Time for Play is the main philosophy behind everything that she does as an artist and her...2024-02-1454 minWindowsill ChatsInfusing Identity into Art and the Power of Personal Beliefs in Professional Projects with Suzy Ultman (Part 1)In this two-part episode, Margo is joined by illustrator, product designer, toy creator, and bookmaker of sophisticated and simple objects that inspire and delight young and old alike, Suzy Ultman. from graphic design to creating educational content for children, Suzy emphasizes the importance of infusing personal beliefs into professional projects and how hardships in her life such as her divorce and the loss of her sister played a role in her own creativity and imparting it on children. Make Time for Play is the main philosophy behind everything that she does as an artist and her signature products celebrate...2024-02-0753 minWindowsill ChatsColoring Outside the Lines: Inspiring "Smileishness" Through the Art of Jules GisslerMargo is joined by fantastical and whimsical artist, Jules Gissler. Jules doesn’t color in the proverbial lines, and she is proud to create art that has a voice and a story. Over the years, my work has taken different shapes, as has she. Jules believes in being braver, bolder, and unafraid to take up space and also the important role humor and connection plays in our evolution. Jules' art is an embodiment of who she is. It’s how she lives her magic, the combination of vulnerability, attachment to nature, courage, and her voice that make her unlike any...2024-01-3159 minWindowsill ChatsChampagne Fabulous: Living Unapologetically, Aging Inappropriately and Embracing Individuality with Mandi BlackfordMargo is joined by the cheeky glam ma'am behind the Champagne Fabulous brand of gifts and home decor, Mandi Blackford. Through her brand, Mandi encourages people of all ages to unabashedly be exactly who they WANT to be with her motto "Age Inappropriately.” A watercolor & acrylic artist previously selling under the brand Jetset Barbie Art, Mandi took her creative career to the next level in 2022 when she launched the Champagne Fabulous brand with her first two original products on Amazon in the US, UK, and Australia. A pool float in the shape of a champagne bottle, and a doorbell fr...2024-01-241h 01Windowsill ChatsThe Bold-Faced Truth: Deep Diving Communication, Emotional Intelligence and Self-Worth With Amy Green SmithMargo is joined by certified and credentialed life coach and hypnotherapist, masterful speaker, and courageous communication expert Amy Green Smith. Amy uses her roles as coach, writer, podcaster, and speaker to move individuals to a place of radical personal empowerment and self-worth. With acute focus on helping people “find their voice”, she is highly sought after for her uncommon style of irreverence, wisdom, and humor. Margo and Amy discuss: Her life crisis moment that led her to leave an industry she had great success in The importance of effective communication and emoti...2024-01-171h 05Windowsill ChatsConsistency in Creativity: Nurturing Confidence, Discovering Passions, and Staying Fit Creatively with Beth BuffingtonMargo is joined by listener favorite guest Beth Buffington. Beth is a licensed illustrator, and an online digital illustration instructor, creative coach, and podcaster. Like most creatives, she has been drawing since she was old enough to hold her favorite red crayon. After graduating with a degree in art and graphic design, Beth began her creative career working for “in-house” corporate art departments.
After years of corporate communications, she decided to focus on her personal creative passions, by starting her own business. Her work has grown into several facets including home decor products, course creation and her latest creative outlet...2024-01-101h 09Windowsill ChatsWhen You Believe In Yourself You Can Do Anything: Ping He on Embracing Your Own Potential, Taking Calculated Risks, and Making Room for Creative SpontaneityMargo is joined by botanical watercolor artist, teacher and podcast host Ping He. Ping made a career change from flower consultant to botanical artist in 2019 and shortly thereafter launched a successful stationary and gift brand, Ping He Art where she turned her intricate designs into beautiful paper products. Today, her art is available in 150 stores across 12 counties. In 2021, Ping was diagnosed with breast cancer which is when she realized her need and desire to live a life with purpose and she created Thriving Women Artists, a podcast by Ping and two friends sharing their tips and knowledge when it...2024-01-031h 14Windowsill ChatsThe Other Side of the Windowsill: Self Reflection, Reinvention, and Helping Other Recognize Their Potential With MargoThis week Margo and her sister play a bit of a role reversal and Margo is interviewed In the Windowsill! As the creator and host of the podcast, Margo rarely shares intimately about herself but she figured it was time to change that. Margo shares her experience with wire art and the moment a piece of art went from an act of creativity to monetized creativity, working in wholesale, collaborating with artists to create unique retail products, and bridging the gap between creatives and their businesses. She also discusses her love of music, the personal growth she’s experienced ov...2023-12-271h 06Windowsill ChatsExploring the Interwoven Journey of Spirituality and Creativity: Jade Chen on Shamanic Practices, the Potency of Nature, and Personal EvolutionMargo is joined by Shamanic Practitioner and Spiritual Guide Jade Chen. Jade supports and assists people on their healing journey and believes everyone has the capacity to activate the healer within. Her own awakening journey began in 2016 when life took some major turns and she left both a highly financially secure career and a relationship of over 6 years. She felt she had been living her life in a dazed dream; just going through the motions and trying her best to maintain surface happiness. She began to pray a lot and then reconnect to the spirit world through those prayers...2023-12-2056 minWindowsill ChatsConnecting With Your Emotions Through Art: Rukmini Poddar on 100-Day Projects, Making Space for Discomfort, and Breaking Through Resistance in CreativityMargo is joined by artist, designer, and educator Rukmini Poddar. Rukmini’s creative passion lies at the intersection of emotional wellness and creative storytelling which she helps others connect to through her new book Draw Your Feelings: A Creative Journal to Help Connect with Your Emotions through Art. Rukmini found her creative voice through participating in the #100DayProject for over 9 consecutive years and has grown her instagram community to over 100,000 followers. She is best known for her drawings that give life to her personal emotions. Margo and Rukmini discuss: Her personal and artistic jou...2023-12-131h 03Windowsill ChatsEmbracing Shadow, Spirituality, and Sacred Spaces to Become Our Most Creative and Authentic Selves with Marisa HandlerMargo is joined by writer, singer-songwriter, teacher, and coach Marisa Handler. Marisa is the author of Loyal to the Sky, which won a Nautilus Gold Award for world-changing books and her essays, fiction, and poetry have appeared in numerous publications. Her music is also streamed across large platforms such as Spotify and iTunes. Marisa earned her MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, and has received many fellowships in Creative Writing, including a Fulbright and an Elizabeth George Foundation grant. On the spiritual side, Marisa has been studying Insight Meditation in retreats and daily life since 2002, and instructing since 2012. She is...2023-12-0650 minWindowsill ChatsBreaking Barriers and Inspiring Confidence: Britta Borden-Tabor on Uplifting Women and Embracing Your Unique SelfMargo is joined by Britta Borden-Tabor, a trailblazing digital influencer and empowerment coach whose passion knows no bounds. Britta has dedicated her life's mission to inspiring and uplifting women over 40, helping them uncover their passions and turn their dreams into reality. She isn't just a coach; she's a beacon of motivation, a force of nature, and a true inspiration to countless souls. Through her powerful words and magnetic presence, Britta ignites a flame within her audience, urging them to embrace their full potential and conquer any obstacles in their path. Her infectious enthusiasm and unshakeable belief in the power...2023-11-2952 minWindowsill ChatsColors of Healing: Robyn Thayer Unravels the Art of Self-Discovery and Transforming Pain Into Beauty Through PaintingMargo is joined by fine artist Robyn Thayer. Robyn has been making the world a more appealing place as a beauty maker and storyteller since her first smile. Robyn’s art education is informal and profuse; a daily act. Her favorite artwork is large in scale and she prefers to use acrylics, water-soluble graphite and crayons, to create representational, contemporary abstract paintings. In this way she is able to convey a dreamlike quality- reflecting the innocence and grandeur of where the private inner world and the wild outside meet. Margo and Robyn discuss: How...2023-11-221h 03Windowsill ChatsCreative Pathways and Coastal Inspirations: Cass Deller on Entrepreneurship, Finding Your Unique Style, and Collaboration as the Backbone of Her CareerMargo is joined by watercolor artist and surface pattern designer Cass Deller. Most notably known for her modern, coastal art style, Cass blends the beauty of her natural surroundings and beach holiday nostalgia. Imbued with the subtle, relaxed tones of hazy beachside summers, her hand-painted watercolor artwork evokes understated luxury and effortless style. With over 10 years of experience as a designer and a passion for collaboration, Cass has worked with many Global Companies as well as some of Australia's most well-known brands to bring a fresh, modern edge to the lifestyle and fashion industry. Margo a...2023-11-151h 01Windowsill ChatsFrom Dentistry to Hand-Painted Art: Ivy Zellmer on Building Credibility, Reputation and Connection as an ArtistMargo is joined by dental hygienist turned water color illustrator, Ivy Zellmer. With a lifelong love of paper and artful entertaining, Ivy created her first stationary series at the age of nine. She bundled up the papers and shipped them across the country—an early love letter to hand-lettered correspondence. Then, in her formative years of early womanhood, Ivy traveled to France, an experience that forever influenced her artistic aesthetic. These passions artfully combined, and what started as hand-painted gift tags and a holiday card with Ivy’s signature bicycle has transformed into Napa Valley’s premier watercolor house. After...2023-11-081h 02Windowsill ChatsDrawing Digital: An Inspiring Conversation with Lisa Bardot on Procreate, the Joy of Art-Making, and Uncovering the Brush Strokes of CreativityThis week, Margo is joined by illustrator, artist, teacher, and all-around creative person, Lisa Bardot. With the iPad and Procreate as her medium of choice, she creates industry-leading digital brushes, tutorials, and art-making resources to help beginners and experienced artists alike find joy in creating. Her tutorials and classes have been viewed by millions, with high praise for her thorough, concise, and fun teaching style. Additionally, she runs Making Art Everyday, providing drawing prompts and challenges to help people overcome fears and develop an art-making practice, as well as Art Maker’s Club, a joy-filled creative community and learning hu...2023-11-0158 minWindowsill ChatsChalk Paint Revolution: A Colorful Conversation With Annie Sloan on Creative Innovation and PossibilitiesMargo is joined by renowned author, artist and designer, Annie Sloan who is one of the world’s most popular experts in the field of decorative painting. After studying Fine Art at university in the 1970s, Annie went on to write her first book, The Complete Book of Decorative Paint Techniques – which is considered to be the industry bible on the subject. Since then, she has published 26 books on paint effects, color, and interior design. In 1990 Annie invented her revolutionary no-prep Chalk Paint, which transformed the world of furniture painting. Wall Paint and Satin Paint were added to the rang...2023-10-251h 10Windowsill ChatsComing Home to Your True Self: Shelley Tantau on Liberation, Letting Go of 'Shoulds,' and Healing the HealersMargo is joined by Nurse Practitioner, mentor, guide and coach for midlife-ish women (and her sister!) Shelley Tantau. Shelley has a superpower for empowering others to see beyond their perceived boundaries in order to find healing, clarity, and incite positive change within their lives. Her journey through grief after the loss of a dear friend was the catalyst to challenging cultural and societal norms as well as the stories she told herself to find healing and joy within. Shelley believes that the world needs people that are living their most full and vibrant lives…not ones that are “just fine...2023-10-181h 05Windowsill ChatsColors of the Sun, Songs of the Moon: Melissa Lakey’s Artistic Insights, Gallery Success, and the Evolution of Creative ObservationsMargo is joined by contemporary visual artist and illustrator Melissa Lakey. Melissa is based in Joshua Tree, California, where the windows of her art studio look out into the Mojave Desert. Her colorful work celebrates the landscape and animals of the American Southwest and her love of cowboys, road trips, and summer vacations. Melissa shares on observing others and how it can inspire our own creative processes, the concept of using sketchbooks with specific themes and approaching journaling, overcoming creative obstacles and more. Topics discussed: [01:32] An introduction to Melissa [05:12] Her unique a...2023-08-2353 minWindowsill ChatsFrom Blank Pages to Extravagant Hope: Brandi Kincaid Shares Her Passion When It Comes to Creating Hope for Others and Journaling for the SoulMargo is joined by Brandi Kincaid for a chat on finding inspiration, the power of journaling, and the art of sending extravagant hope by mail. Brandy, a tiny treasure seeker and paper lover, shares her experiences as a designer, creator, and curator of monthly hope packages as they delve into the creative process behind these packages, the importance of personal connections, and the impact they have on both the sender and the recipient. Brandy's passion for journaling and her thoughtful, empathetic approach to her work shines through as she shares insights, tips, and glimpses into the art of finding...2023-08-091h 12Windowsill ChatsCreative Social Secrets: Mastering the Art of Social Media for Artists and Makers with Mackenzie JonesIn this episode, Margo is joined by her very own Social Media Manager, Mackenzie Jones. With a diverse and fascinating creative journey of her own, she has become an invaluable resource for artists and makers seeking to harness the power of social media marketing to propel their artistic careers. She dives into her own creative experience and how she became a self-taught social media expert, fostering authentic connections through different platforms, fostering authentic connections and tons of tangible tips for using social media in your own creative business. Margo and Mackenzie discuss: Understanding the...2023-08-021h 14Windowsill ChatsShared Studio Sessions: Habits that Set Successful Creatives Apart with Margo In this episode, Margo dives into the habits of successful creatives - the habits that she’s navigated herself and what she sees in the many other creatives she’s both worked with and learned from. Finding consistency in practices, embracing failure and iteration, collaborating and networking through different mediums and experiences, and building genuine relationships, explore with Margo what sets creatives apart! Learn more about Shared Studio Sessions with Margo and get on the waitlist! Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill 2023-07-2624 minWindowsill ChatsExploring Art, Mental Health, and the Power of Collaboration with Erin Drews and Leigh StandleyMargo is joined by two creative powerhouses, Erin Drews and Leigh Standley to discuss their collaboration of art, words, and working together. Erin Drews is a Michigan based artist inspired by nature and Fauvism. She loves using color to create visual excitement and play, most typically through the subject of flowers. She's been described as "pink lemonade with a shot of whiskey," and when she's not creating, you can find her laughing, connecting, collecting art, immersing herself in nature, and enjoying the people she loves. Leigh Standley is the artist, writer and owner of Curly Girl Design...2023-07-191h 10Windowsill ChatsNerding Out Over Knitting: Kim Clark and Her Family’s Inspiring Journey to Cultivate Community Through a Thriving Local Yarn StoreMargo is joined by sisters Kim and Tracy of Hearts on Fiber out of Davidson, North Carolina. Kim and her three daughters were of the belief that every small town needs a local yarn store so when the Davidson craft center closed, an empty space for fiber arts opened. The urge was so strong to try and fill the “space” that they quickly began planning a way to open a new kind of craft store. Hearts on Fiber started with little more than an idea, late nights dyeing yarn out of their kitchen which became the l...2023-06-211h 03Windowsill ChatsGoing Beyond the Lens: How Justin Hackworth’s Photography Style Captures Emotions and Evokes FeelingsMargo is joined by Utah based photographer Justin Hackworth. Working throughout the United States for a variety of wedding, portrait, corporate and editorial clients, Justin's work has been shown in galleries throughout Utah and in publications such as Parade, Glamour, American Photo, The London Times, The Wall Street Journal, along with many others. In addition to his photography work, Justin is a sought-after speaker and educator, offering workshops and events, and even teaches as an adjunct professor at Utah Valley University. Justin's unique style and engaging approach to photography have earned him a loyal following o...2023-05-241h 07Windowsill ChatsDon’t Let Fear Have All the Fun: Monique Malcolm Talks Taking Action and Owning Your FearsMargo is joined by productivity expert, author, and host of the "Take Tiny Action" podcast, Monique Malcolm. Monique helps overwhelmed women take control of their lives, one tiny action at a time. Her approach to coaching and personal development is holistic, taking into account the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. With her book "Don't Let Fear Have All the Fun" and one-on-one coaching, Monique helps clients overcome their fears and achieve their goals. Monique's larger mission is to help people see a greater possibility for their lives. Margo and Monique chat about: 2023-05-1759 minWindowsill ChatsDeveloping Authentic Connections and a Multifaceted Approach to Making and Selling Art with Tammy Smith Margo is joined by self-taught artist Tammy Smith. Tammy founded her studio in 2009 after designing gifts, giftwrap and partyware at Hallmark Cards Inc. Her first art teachers being her father and grandmother, Tammy’s first business was making large scale stained glass windows in her parents basement. After Hallmark, she began making mixed media wire and clay sculptures that she sold at art fairs around the country and the desire for stability eventually led to the online business she runs today. In the past, Tammy has also illustrated children's books for Henry Holt, designed wire garden accessories an...2023-05-101h 01Windowsill ChatsFrom Creator to Successful Artist; How to Navigate the Path to Your Ideal Customer with Julie AgerMargo is joined by art agency owner and founder, Julie Ager. Julie started her career with twelve years of consulting on consumer product buying behavior with major mass merchandisers, department stores and other manufacturers and retailers throughout the United States, as well as Mexico and South Africa. From there she started the ADG agency in 1997 in partnership with a few close artist friends. Julie knows that developing great products requires more than great art and design; it requires teamwork, collaboration and a comprehensive understanding of today’s market which is why she built ADG on the foundation of partnership, cr...2023-05-0359 minWindowsill ChatsShowing Up for Yourself and Finding Hope in the Journey. How Kelli May Krenz Lives a Creative and Positive Filled Life.Margo is joined by artist, designer, illustrator, maker, and teacher Kelli May Krenz. For Kelli, creating is like breathing, she simply must do it. She believes in creating every day and has many interests when it comes to doing so. She has a deep love for painting, stitching, graphic design, illustration and everything she can possibly make in her studio and spends her days dreaming up things that make her happy hoping that by sharing, others will fill their happy cup too. Kelli likes to use vintage materials, all things found in nature, and is a huge believer in...2023-04-121h 33Windowsill ChatsOn the Business of Being Creative. Erin Cantwell Dishes on How to Stand Out and Advance Your Creative Business Ideas.Margo is joined by graphic designer and business extraordinaire Erin Cantwell. After working at a branding firm in NYC, Erin quickly discovered she had a knack and passion for the business side of the creative industry and has since then specialized in business operations and client experience, helping to grow and run successful creative agencies. She has served in COO and Director level positions in branding and marketing agencies and today, is a partner at Clearbridge Branding Agency, an award-winning branding agency with multiple locations. Through her own company, Erin Cantwell Co., and her volunteer work, Erin c...2023-04-051h 05Windowsill ChatsArt for Everyone: How Liz Lidgett Combines Her Curiosity, Desire for Accessibility, and Storytelling to Promote Great Art.Margo is joined by art advisor, curator, and gallery owner Liz Lidgett. Liz’s passion for art allowed her to see that competent art consulting for private companies and corporations was a need that wasn’t being filled. With that in mind, she began her art consultation business, Adore Your Walls, in 2013. Since then, her business has grown and she recognized once again that online and national consulting – the type that exists for furniture and interior design – was completely absent for the world of art and has expanded her services, including a gallery space. With her developed expertise, Adore Your Wal...2023-03-291h 11Windowsill ChatsJumpstart Your Creative Journey. Shannon Christiansen on Reinventing Herself as a Creative, Channeling Her Grief, and Finding the Strength to Live Up to Her Potential.Margo is joined by stay at home mom (of nine children) turned licensed artist, creative author, and educator, Shannon Christensen. After being home with her children most of her early life, Shannon turned to creativity when grief struck which turned into a reinvention of herself and a creative career came along with it. Although her home base is in the U.S.A., she’s spent the past four years living abroad in Jordan, Sweden, and currently Montenegro accompanying her husband's career as a contractor. Shannon’s creative road trip has taken many twists (a BFA Illustration degree at 42, featu...2023-03-221h 16Windowsill ChatsWhat if We Put Creativity First? Lilla Rogers on Leaning Into Creative Passions, Thinking Outside the Box, and Being Uniquely You.Margo is joined by none other than Lilla Rogers. With a degree in fine art from San Francisco and a second degree in illustration, Lilla spent the 1980s working as a full-time, highly successful illustrator, whose art has featured in publications including the New York Times Magazine, Vogue magazine, the Grammys and many more. She then went on to found Lilla Rogers Studio, a visionary art agency that represents over three dozen artists from around the world and has sold art for products worth over $300 million. As well as representing some of the most sought-after artists worldwide, the Studio h...2023-02-151h 15Windowsill ChatsThe Compounding of Community Building: Margo Shares What You Can Expect From Windowsill Chats in 2023Margo sits down solo to chat about her favorite episodes, lessons shared, and what’s to come for Windowsill Chats in 2023. Art, business, money making, community building, and finding alignment are just a few of Margo’s passions and she aims to do even more of that in the coming months - from new workshop opportunities to potential in person meet ups, and a new surprise endeavor! Help out Margo and her team by sharing your suggestions and thoughts on what you’d like to see, hear, learn, and participate in this year. Windowsill Chats Feedback...2023-01-1135 minWindowsill ChatsHow to Break the Cycle of Overthinking and Start Creating Your Best Work With Megan AumanMargo has a conversation with artist, metalsmith, teacher, creative business coach, writer, and entrepreneur, Megan Auman. Megan has built a multi-faceted business around her passion for art, design, and creativity and in addition to her eponymous jewelry line and various other creative pursuits (including textile design, painting, and sculpture), she runs Designing an MBA, where she talks and teaches about the intersection of art and business, and Artists and Profit Makers, an online mentorship program for creative business owners. She is the author of Try It & See: How to Get Sh*t Done While Overanalyzing Everything, which is her...2023-01-041h 17Windowsill ChatsIt Goes by in the Blink of an Eye: Embracing Passions and Daring to Dream Bigger with Lori SiebertMargo is joined by friend and former guest, Lori Siebert. Lori has experienced and made some significant changes in her life over the past few years that have pushed her to go after the things she’s always dreamed of. From business changes to grief and aging, Lori is now following a new path that includes retreats, painting (and thinking) big, leaning into Instagram challenges, collaborations and more. Since her revelations, she’s grown a sincere passion for encouraging other women to embrace their own dreams and passions regardless of their age! Margo and Lori discuss: How...2022-12-281h 24Windowsill ChatsBuilding Wealth and Treating Yourself: How Cortney Cruz Creates More Freedom, Flexibility and Fulfillment With Money Management PracticesMargo is joined by Millennial Money Coach Cortney Cruz. After a decade-long career in finance, Cortney took her experience both from her corporate background and her personal financial transformation and built a business teaching women what they weren’t taught in school and empowering them to use money as a tool to create the lives they want. She is passionate about helping women take back control of their finances to create more freedom, flexibility & fulfillment in their lives and lives by the motto “You can build wealth and #treatyoself.” Margo and Cortney discuss: Cortney’s personal...2022-12-2156 minWindowsill ChatsDesigning and Making Useful Treasures That Inspire Creative Living With Margaux Kent of Peg and AwlMargo is joined by Margaux Kent, Co-Founder of Peg and Awl. Margeaux and her husband Walter created Peg and Awl without a plan but rather a fortunate pairing of two minds, different but in sync. Together with a team they create from olde things, treasures found and recovered from misfortune and neglect, relics of the unusual, the confused and the macabre, cut and pulled and built into wearable curiosities, inscribable keepsakes and usable, long-lasting treasures. Margo and Margaux discuss: How Peg and Awl began and the first product they listed on Etsy How she m...2022-12-1452 minWindowsill ChatsCreate the Work You Want to Attract. Be the You You Want to Be. Power Up Your Creativity with Rachael Taylor.Margo chats with Make it in Design Co-Founder, Art Director, Author, Mentor and Print and Pattern Designer, Rachael Taylor. Rachael is a renowned creativepreneur who is most known for her quirky style, daring use of color and unique innovation. Her style is infectious, friendly, honest, informative and motivational and as a mentor she approaches her students and clients with a sense of relatability and her services are often described as “talking to an old friend who has the answers”. Rachael has developed an educational online platform, delivered many comprehensive online design courses along with a members’ club and taught over 2...2022-11-231h 03Windowsill ChatsGetting Your Juices Flowing and Inspiration Growing: Expanding Your Creativity with Ana Bianchi PLUS an Exciting Announcement!Margo is joined once again by Ana Bianchi. First heard on episode 37 of Windowsill Chats, Ana is a designer, artist, illustrator, children book author and a maker of all kinds of things. Once tethered to keeping each of her creative worlds neatly separated, she now allows them to flow together and pour into one another all connected by her love for color. She has been drawing, painting and making colorful stuff her whole life. Ana sees each project as an art-making opportunity to make something special. Episode Highlights: Ana’s story and creative background Why...2022-11-1658 minWindowsill ChatsCreative Biz Q&A with Abby Campbell - We Answer YOUR Questions!Margo is joined once again by the lovely Abby Campbell for a Q&A session! Together, Margo and Abby answer questions submitted by listeners and discuss topics such as what to do when you struggle with sharing your art, the underutilization of LinkedIn, how to tailor your messaging to reach the right people, and more. Abby has always had a passion for photos of all kinds and the love of visual art took her to the University of Central Missouri where she received a BS in Broadcasting and Film. This is where she began to really learn the art...2022-11-0238 minWindowsill ChatsHow to Get Visible, Gain Confidence, and Grow Competence in Your Creative Business With Kelly SinclairMargo is joined by Fairy Brand-Mother and friend Kelly Sinclair. Kelly radiates a bright energy while equipping passionate entrepreneurs with the magic wand to get visibility for their business brands so they can make more impact. In a world where people work on average a third of their lives, Kelly believes it’s so important that work is a source of joy instead of drain. When entrepreneurs run successful businesses, the world is a happier place, and Kelly brings the combination of strategy and magic required to help others transform their business to the next level with confidence. 2022-10-1956 minWindowsill ChatsFinding the Balance Between a Personal Art Practice and Running an Art Business With Sarah GoldenMargo is joined by fine artist and surface pattern designer, Sarah Golden. Based out of Sacramento, California, Sarah paints abstracts, botanicals, and designs fabric for Andover Fabrics. She loves working on multiple projects and getting paint on her hands as well as the freedom and intuitive workflow of abstract painting. For her surface design work, block-printing, painting both traditionally and digitally, and pen on paper are her mediums and she has a deep love for Scandinavian design, a simple and clean aesthetic, vintage fabrics, geometrics, and low-volume prints. Sarah is a habitual maker and learning enthusiast. Her studio practice i...2022-10-051h 02Windowsill ChatsRevive, Realize, Refine, Release: The Art of Finding Your Creative Process and Celebrating the Ordinary and Extraordinary in Everyday Life With Beth Buffington (Part 2)In this two part interview, Margo is joined by licensed illustrator, adjunct college professor, and online course digital illustration instructor, Beth Buffington. Like many creatives, Beth has been drawing since she was old enough to hold a crayon. After graduating with a degree in art and graphic design, she began her creative career working for “in-house” corporate art departments.
After years of corporate communications, she decided to focus on her personal creative passions, by starting her business, BDI-Celebrate-Today, and BDI-Create-Today. Margo and Beth discuss: Wellness when it comes to working and taking care of yoursel...2022-09-0757 minWindowsill ChatsRevive, Realize, Refine, Release: The Art of Finding Your Creative Process and Celebrating the Ordinary and Extraordinary in Everyday Life With Beth Buffington (Part 1)In this two part interview, Margo is joined by licensed illustrator, adjunct college professor, and online course digital illustration instructor, Beth Buffington. Like many creatives, Beth has been drawing since she was old enough to hold a crayon. After graduating with a degree in art and graphic design, she began her creative career working for “in-house” corporate art departments.
After years of corporate communications, she decided to focus on her personal creative passions, by starting her business, BDI-Celebrate-Today, and BDI-Create-Today. Margo and Beth discuss: The necessity of understanding your clients and their pain points The imp...2022-08-3155 minWindowsill ChatsCuriosity, Consistency, and Community Within The Knack School. What It’s Like to Learn and Dream With Lisa Congdon (Plus 100 Episodes of Windowsill Chats!) Margo catches up with good friend and internationally known illustrator Lisa Congdon for episode 100! That’s right, there are now 100 episodes of Windowsill Chats. Lisa and Margo chat about consistency, coaching, podcasting, experimenting in business, and a whole lot more. Lisa is self-taught and didn’t achieve momentum in her career until she was nearly 40 years old. Despite her untraditional path, she has achieved recognition, not just as an artist, but as a leader in the industry for her work in social justice, knowledge sharing, mentoring and teaching. In March of 2021, she was named “One of the 50 Most I...2022-07-201h 04Windowsill ChatsGrowing Much More Than Flowers at 1818 Farms. Turning a Dream Into a Year-Round Business With Natasha McCraryMargo is joined by Natasha McCrary of 1818 Farms. After one of Natasha's sons became interested in raising his own sheep, she began to dream of her own plans for a small profitable farm where she could teach her children to appreciate the land and animals and to be good conservationists as well as learn the importance of sustainability and eating local "real" food. Located on three acres in the northwest corner of the historic village of Mooresville, AL (pop. 58), 1818 Farms is named for the year Mooresville was incorporated, one year before Alabama became a state. 1818 F...2022-06-1559 minWindowsill ChatsWhere does your uniqueness come from? Make your work your own. Find your story with Lucinda KidneyMargo is joined by English artist, Lucinda Kidney. Lucinda is from Surrey, UK but was born in Kenya which has shaped much of her life today. Her work is inspired by nature, the history of found objects and family heirlooms and she carries on a rich family legacy of exploration and discovery. Lucinda’s art conveys a nostalgic yet modern charm giving the viewer a certain comfort, belonging and stillness. Margo and Lucinda discuss: Her path from monotonous, digital work to drawing and painting by hand What her ideal creative work day looks like Impo...2022-04-1351 minWindowsill ChatsTerry Runyan on a Lifetime of Balancing a Fierce Inner Critic While Embracing a Successful Creative CareerMargo has a wonderful conversation with visual artist and cat lover Terry Runyan where they dig into the inner critic conversation that comes up no matter how experienced you are and granting yourself permission. For many years, Terry has lived with a very strong inner critic and tied her personal value to the art that she created but deep into her career at Hallmark she realized how greatly this affected her own well-being and her art. Today, she still has an inner critic (as we all do) but she’s learned how to navigate those negative thoughts gracefully and di...2022-03-1647 minWindowsill ChatsGive yourself permission. How intuition, self-care and awareness can shift your thoughts and quiet that inner critic with Kristen Elizabeth.Margo is switching gears this week to discuss intuitive wisdom, self-care, and wellbeing through the development and deepening of self-awareness and how it ties into your creative practice. She is joined by Kristen Elizabeth of In Wild Bloom who combines coaching strategies with elements of creative expression and yoga to help individuals create their own version of wellness. She knows through experience that a life rooted in self-care and compassion creates a foundation for a life that is meaningful and deeply fulfilling. Her work centers on supporting clients as they redefine their self-care practices, rediscover who they are, and reignite...2022-03-0940 minWindowsill ChatsEste MacLeod dives into color, why it matters, and creative ways to explore using more.Margo is joined once again by artist, designer and creator of online art and creativity courses, Este MacLeod. Este was previously on episode 16 to discuss being an authentic artist and understanding your own creative brand and this time she’s back to chat about all things color. Este’s paintings are informed by the real and the imaginary. A background in textile and ceramic design is evident in the stylised, abundant and colorful forms used in still life, landscape and floral paintings. Margo and Este discuss: Mixing colors, color creation, and learning from ‘happy acciden...2022-03-021h 02
Windowsill ChatsBlock print with us! We catch up with Bethany from Beenanza Designs, and dish on a new way to interact with Windowsill Chats guests, in our new live Workshops!Previous guest, Bethany Andrews-Nichols joins Margo once again to discuss their upcoming Windowsill Workshop event! In 2017, Bethany took a trip to Jaipur, India to learn about the ancient art of block-printing in which she was immediately hooked. Now, she’s a pattern designer and block-print artist and will be teaching others how to block print during the workshop. Windowsill Workshops has been a long time goal of Margo’s as a way for listeners to be able to interact, learn, and be in community with her and her guests so join her as Bethany walks you through the b...2022-01-1230 min
Windowsill ChatsPositivity, kindness, and the power of words. Bringing messages to life through lettering with Lynn GiuntaThis week Margo sits down with lettering artist Lynn Giunta. Lynn has been with Hallmark Cards for 37 years and discovered her fascination for cutting letters by hand during her tenured journey. She has always been drawn to positive phrases and never tires of seeing kind messages come to life. Lynn is also a graphic designer and children’s book illustrator and she and Margo discuss finding inspiration, stepping out of comfort zones when called to, and finding joy in opportunities you maybe didn’t see for yourself. Margo and Lynn also share in: Lynn’s famil...2021-12-1546 min
Windowsill ChatsGratitute and Creativity, or Creative Gratitude. Or both. Margo's thoughts...On the eve of Thanksgiving Margo goes solo to talk about her thoughts on gratitude and how they play a role in creativity. She shares some tips to help you step into gratitude such as writing a gratitude letter, shifting perspective, and avoiding comparison (aka the thief of joy) as well as some quotes and poems that are relevant to gratitude and the American holiday of Thanksgiving. Do you have a gratitude practice that’s aided in your creativity? Let Margo know by sending her a DM at @windowsillchats! Mentioned in this episode: htt...2021-11-2424 min
Windowsill ChatsMom Musings.. All about noticing the details. Plus her story! Interior Designer Sally Tantau on listening, remembering, and living a creative life.This week Margo is sitting down with her lovely mother, Sally Tantau. Sally is a former interior designer and all around creative being and instilled so much of her talents in Margo as well as many others. Sally and Margo have a fun and lighthearted conversation around sourcing creativity, how she got her start in interior design, what it was like to be an interior designer during that era (sourcing wasn’t as easy and there wasn’t a home goods right around the corner!), and the many fabulous clients she was able to work with. Sally’s big dream...2021-11-0357 min
Windowsill ChatsAn honest, important, raw and expansive conversation on creativity, and how we interact with it. With delightful award-winning art advisor, author, & curator, Maria BritoThis week’s conversation will have you holding on to your windowsill as Margo and her guest have an honest and expansive conversation around creativity - from distractions to mindset, habits, and so much more. Margo is joined by Maria Brito who is an award-winning New York-based contemporary art advisor, author, and curator. For several years, Maria has taught her creativity course in companies large and small and, in 2019, she launched “Jumpstart”, an online program on creativity for entrepreneurs based on years of research and observation in both the areas of business and art. Margo and Mari...2021-10-131h 18
Windowsill ChatsHow do you measure your own success? Margo & Nataley dig into important creative business tips.Margo sits down with community co-creator and handmade business consultant, Nataley Shepherd. Margo and Nataley co-lead a dynamic membership called Relish Your Creativity where they aim to help each member move their own creative needle, find community and clarity, and balance mindset and business goals. Both Margo and Nataley believe true wealth comes from shared growth, building an intentional business you love and the chance to shine in your creative space and today they are discussing how to measure success for you in your own unique way and then tips on how to get there. M...2021-09-2234 min
Windowsill ChatsOn finding your niche... and feeling good about it. Margo's thoughts...Margo goes solo in this episode and shares all about niching down. From practicing what you like, to understanding what you’re good at, finding success in your creative career will require a niching of some sort. Margo dives into the many challenges of feeling novice in your business and how niching can actually help you expand as well as ways to reflect growth and the old adage, practice makes ‘perfect’. Niching down is one of the many topics discussed in the Relish Your Creativity membership community which you can join today! Learn more about Relish...2021-06-3021 min
Windowsill ChatsCreative Clarity. How do we find it? How do we navigate that constant & often illusive journey? AND news about a new Creative Community! With Nataley ShepherdMargo chats with previous guest Nataley Shepherd. Nataley is a handmade brand consultant and owner of Studio Shepherd where she helps makers elevate their businesses into sought after brands through simple, intentional, and scalable practices. Margo and Nataley are discussing action taking, creative business, creative community, and the things it takes to push forward and find your success. Together, Margo and Nataley are launching Hello Chartreuse, a Monthly Creative Community, to give everyone a chance to have a vibrant vision for their own creative future. Learn more about Hello Chartreuse: www.hellochartreuse.com2021-05-1230 min
Windowsill ChatsThe Lisa Congdon Sessions - Who are the right customers and clients for your creative dreams & goals? Where are they?Margo is once again joined by Lisa Congdon to kick off a series of interviews to discuss different topics surrounding creativity, business, and life. In this episode they discuss how to get yourself in front of the right people as a creative and what that even means! Margo and Lisa chat about: Exercises Lisa gives to her creative entrepreneur students The difference between dreams and goals Having intermediary goals Lisa’s belief in two parts of self-promotion and why you need to do both Several approaches to go about finding contacts Authentic engagement and usi...2021-02-2438 min
Windowsill ChatsPutting yourself out there really WORKS! Stories, insights and Creative Biz PR scoop. A double interview with Beth Nydick & Margo.In this episode of Windowsill Chats, it’s a dual interview with go-to PR gal, Beth Nydick. Beth has spent over 10 years working as an online entrepreneur and health coach, her acumen for business had been sought out by other solopreneurs that wanted to increase their authority, but their businesses were not set up for success. Beth saw a hole in the foundations of her communities’ businesses and knew that what she had learned over the last 10 years could not only help them increase their bottom line but with a direction she could guide them to work in collaboration to i...2020-11-251h 14
Windowsill ChatsCome Sit with Me in My Sunny WindowsillIn this introduction episode to Windowsill Chats, Margo Tantau introduces herself and tells us the premise and goals behind creating it. A podcast for artists and other creatives, Margo tells stories, shares interviews, and gives a behind the scenes glimpse into real people and their creative paths!2020-08-3007 min