Shows
How To Be A Handmade Boss#99 - How to Start Selling on Etsy in 5 Simple Steps (Etsy Shop for Beginners Step by Step Walk Through)Want to start selling on Etsy but feel completely overwhelmed by SEO, fees, rules, and everyone shouting different advice at you?In this video, I’m walking you through how to start selling on Etsy in 5 simple steps, without melting your brain, overthinking your shop, or feeling like you need a business degree to get started.This is a calm, beginner-friendly Etsy setup guide for 2026 and beyond, especially if you’re:Brand new to EtsyStuck in research mode and not actually opening your shopConfused abou...
2026-01-2826 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#98 -The Etsy 2026 Trend ReportYou keep hearing people talk about Etsy trends for 2026…but what does that actually mean for your Etsy shop, your products, and your income?In this video, I’m breaking down the handmade economy in 2026 and the trends that actually matter for handmade sellers. Not vague predictions. Not Pinterest aesthetics. Real shifts in buyer behaviour and how to turn them into products, listings, and content that sell.We’ll cover:What the handmade economy really looks like heading into 2026The biggest consumer behaviour shifts affecting Etsy s...
2026-01-2121 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#97 - Future-Proofing Your Etsy Shop: Navigating 2026's Secret Unannounced UpdatesYou keep hearing rumours about Etsy updates, fee changes, algorithm tweaks and “big changes coming in 2026”… and it’s enough to make any seller panic.In this episode, I’m breaking down how to future-proof your Etsy shop without trying to predict every update or burning yourself out in the process.We’ll talk honestly about why Etsy is always changing, what you can and can’t control, and how to build a business that doesn’t fall apart every time Etsy moves a button.You’ll learn:• Why waiting for Etsy to “settle down” is...
2026-01-1426 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#96 - Etsy's Post-Holiday Slump: Strategies to Thrive After Christmas SalesJanuary hit… and your Etsy sales fell off a cliff?Before you spiral, open Indeed, or convince yourself your shop is doomed, take a breath. This episode is here to talk you down and give you a clear, calm plan for navigating the post-Christmas slump without burning everything to the ground.In this episode, Steph walks you through why January sales drops are completely normal for handmade businesses, how to read your December Etsy stats properly, and the small, practical tweaks that actually make a difference when things go quiet.You’ll l...
2026-01-0724 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#95 - BEST OF 2025 - #7 Starting a new Etsy shop or Handmade business? This is your to-do listHoliday Replay: Our 2nd Most-Popular Episode of 2025 🤶🎅 We’re rerunning the Start-Your-Shop Checklist because it helped a ton of makers stop faffing and finally launch. No waffle. No scare tactics. Just the order of steps that actually works.What you’ll learn:A simple setup that makes you want to sit down and createTarget market + niche, done without a headacheA USP that isn’t “I make it with love”Naming your shop (short, memorable, available everywhere)Legal bits + money basics without the panicYour first 10 products, priced so you actually make pr...
2025-12-3155 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#94 - BEST OF 2025 - #1 - The Beginner's Guide to the Etsy AlgorithmHoliday Replay: Best of 2025 ☃️We’re re-running our most-downloaded episode of the year - the no-fluff beginner’s guide to the Etsy algorithm. No scare tactics. No clickbait. Just how it actually works and what to do next.In this episode, you’ll learn: • The two-step search process: query matching → ranking (and why “Page 1” isn’t universal anymore) • The 7 signals Etsy uses: relevance, listing quality score, recency, customer & marketplace experience, postage price, translations, shopper habits • Why changes take 60–90 days to settle (so stop tweaking every week) • How reviews + conversion rate nudge you higher • A simple postage...
2025-12-2441 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#93 - “Your niche is your flag - plant it, own it, and never deviate.”Right. Meet Gemma from Wild & Gem – archaeologist-turned-jeweller capturing real bits of the outdoors and turning them into wearable moments. 🌿✨In this chat we get practical, not precious: • 📸 iPhone photos that actually sell – no fancy kit, just light and intention • 🎯 Your niche is your flag – plant it, own it, stick to it • 💬 Shout your standout on every listing and post • 🧭 Use envy like a compass to find what you really want • 🐢 The tortoise strategy – small, steady moves that stack • 🛍️ From first markets to gallery stock – visibility without the ick • 🤝 Why community turns lonely building into confident actionIf you’ve been hiding behind your products, second-gues...
2025-12-1740 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#92 - How To Post Consistently (Even When You’ve Got Kids, Orders, and No Brain Space Left)If you’re spinning plates, drowning in orders, and trying to post on Instagram while reheating your tea for the fourth time - this episode’s for you.Steph shares her real-life four-step system to stay consistent on social media even when life feels chaotic. No 5am alarms. No “just push through” advice. Just a simple rhythm that actually works - especially if your energy and focus fluctuate (hello, ADHD friends 👋).You’ll learn:💡 The 4P framework: Plan, Prepare, Post, Protect🧠 How to create content around your energy, not the clock📅 The five-minute monthly ma...
2025-12-1019 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#91 - How To Fix Your “No One Sees My Posts” Problem (Without Spending a Penny)If you’ve ever hit “post” on Instagram and heard crickets… this one’s for you.In this episode, Steph breaks down a simple 15-minute visibility routine that’ll wake your account back up and get your posts seen again – without spending a penny on ads. You’ll learn exactly what to do before, during, and after you post so the algorithm knows you’re alive and active, not just shouting into the void.No hacks, no fluff – just a proven rhythm that warms up your audience, boosts your reach, and brings your posts back to life (fast)....
2025-12-0312 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#90 - How To Stop Spending 2 Hours On a Post That Gets 12 ViewsIf you’ve ever found yourself spending hours in Canva, tweaking fonts and colours, only to post something that gets… crickets - this episode is for you.I’m walking you through a simple, six-step workflow to create scroll-stopping social posts in 20 minutes or less - that actually lead to sales. You’ll learn how to:✨ Pin down the exact buyer moment your post needs to speak to✨ Choose the right angle (pain, feeling, or transformation)✨ Write a hook that stops the scroll in 3 seconds flat✨ Use the REI method to write your captions faster
2025-11-2613 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#89 - Struggling to Charge What You’re Worth? Let’s Talk.Are you secretly undercharging for your handmade products or terrified to raise your prices in case sales dry up?In this episode, Steph gets real about why so many makers struggle to charge what they’re worth.You’ll learn how self-esteem and pricing are deeply connected, why handmade buyers want to pay more, and how undercharging keeps you stuck in burnout mode.Steph shares real coaching insights, simple mindset shifts, and practical next steps to help you price with confidence (and stop apologising for your worth).If you’ve ever though...
2025-11-1915 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#88 - How to Get Your First 100 Email Subscribers in Just One WeekendWhat if by Sunday night you could have 100 new subscribers on your list - real people who love your products and want to hear from you? In this episode, Steph walks you through her simple, no-tech, no-stress method to build your email list this weekend.Forget funnels, websites, or overthinking every detail. You’ll learn:✨ How to pick a freebie that your ideal customer actually wants✨ The quickest way to create a landing page (even without a website)✨ Where to share it so people actually sign up✨ Why...
2025-11-1214 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#87 - Why Handmade Sellers Who Skip Email Marketing Leave Thousands on the TableImagine waking up to new orders before you’ve even posted on Instagram or checked your Etsy stats. Sounds dreamy, right? That’s exactly what happens when your emails do the work while you sleep.In this episode, Steph dives into why skipping email marketing is one of the biggest (and most common) mistakes handmade sellers make and how even a list of 100 subscribers can become a steady income stream.You’ll learn:💌 The simple maths behind email ROI (and how it adds up fast)📉 Why relying only on Etsy...
2025-11-0517 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#86 - From Origami to Etsy: How Gillian Turned Paper into Profitable JewelleryWhat do you do when chronic illness forces you to give up the craft you love? If you’re Gillian, you reinvent everything and end up with a jewellery business as unique as the pages it’s made from. 💛In this heartwarming and inspiring episode, Steph sits down with HBSA student Gillian, the creative mind behind Paper2Pearls, to talk about the unexpected journey from patchwork quilts to paper jewellery, the challenges of crafting with arthritis, and how she’s used the Handmade Business Success Academy to bring structure, strategy, and new energy to her handmade business....
2025-10-2936 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#85 - From Stuck to Sold-Out: Real HBSA Student Success Stories You Need to HearEver wondered if the Handmade Business Success Academy actually works?In this episode, you’ll hear straight from HBSA students who’ve gone from stuck, overwhelmed, and doubting themselves - to confident, consistent handmade business owners.They share how the Academy helped them:💡 Find focus and stop “throwing spaghetti at the wall”📈 Boost conversion rates and sales (some hit 2,000+ Etsy orders!)💬 Build real confidence in marketing and SEO🤝 Join a supportive community that keeps them going when business feels toughIf you’ve ever tho...
2025-10-2213 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#84 - Why More Etsy Listings Won’t Fix Your Sales ProblemThink slow sales mean you need to add more products? Think again.In this episode, I’m busting one of the biggest myths in the handmade world: that more listings = more sales. Spoiler alert - it’s not about quantity. It’s about quality, clarity, and conversion.We’ll talk about:✅ Why uploading random new products could actually be hurting your shop✅ The real reason Etsy rewards certain listings (hint: it’s not how many you have)✅ What to do instead: smarter product variations, giftable bundles, and clarity around your niche✅ Real-life examples...
2025-10-1514 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#83 - Here's why your Etsy shop is stuck.Are you working harder than ever, but your sales graph just… won’t budge? 😩You’re not lazy. You’re not failing.You might just be stuck in what I call the Plateau of Busywork and it happens to almost every handmade seller at some point.In this episode, I’ll walk you through how to:⚠ Spot the 3 most common plateau signs📉 Understand why your to-do list isn’t growing your business🧠 Make small, strategic shifts that lead to actual progress✨ AND stop wasting time on things that feel productive, but don’t move the needle
2025-10-0821 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#82 - Etsy’s 2025 Updates Explained: What Handmade Sellers Need to KnowEtsy just dropped a whole bunch of updates for 2025 and if you’re feeling a bit lost in the jargon, don’t panic. I’ve got you. 💛In this episode, I’m breaking it all down plain and simple:→ What’s actually changed→ What you need to know as a handmade seller→ And which updates will genuinely help you save time, reduce stress, and grow your shop this holiday season 🎄From AI listing tools and post-purchase automation to real-time keyword insights and a totally redesigned dashboard, this is the update episode that helps you take action...
2025-10-0119 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#81 - Why Your Etsy Listings Aren’t Selling (and What’s Really Going On)You’ve poured time into your products, uploaded them to Etsy, and maybe you’re even getting some traffic and a few favourites… but sales? Crickets. 😬In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the real reason why your Etsy listings aren’t converting and no, it’s not just the algorithm.I’m breaking down the 3 essential layers of a high-converting listing: 1. Getting found in search (hello, buyer keywords!) 2. Getting clicked (your thumbnail matters more than you think) 3. Getting purchased (because a nice listing isn’t enough)This is a must-listen if you’ve ever said: •...
2025-09-2420 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#80 - 20 Niche Etsy Ideas with High Demand and Low CompetitionIf you’ve been scratching your head wondering what to sell or how to stand out on Etsy in 2026, this episode is your treasure map. 🎯I’m sharing 20 real Etsy niche ideas that are high in demand, low in competition, and full of opportunity - perfect for handmade sellers who want to stop blending in and start carving out their own corner of the marketplace.I’ve done the research for something I’m working on behind the scenes (👀), and let me tell you - these niches are absolute gems. From sensory-friendly fashion to grief support gifts...
2025-09-1722 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#79 - Is Your Shop Holiday-Ready? Take This 5-Minute Check (Handmade Sellers)🎄 Are you really ready for the Christmas rush... or just hoping it’ll all come together in time? In this episode, I’m walking you through a super quick 5-point checklist that’ll help you give your handmade shop a festive glow-up without the stress.We’re talking banners, giftable products, delivery cut-off clarity, festive upsells, and simple holiday promotion tweaks you can make today. If you’re a handmade seller on Etsy or your own site, this 5-minute check will help you feel more confident and less scrambled heading into the busiest sales season of the...
2025-09-1015 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#78 - Stop Comparing Your Handmade Business to Others (and Do This Instead)Ever find yourself doomscrolling through Instagram wondering why that handmade shop has more sales, more followers, or just seems further ahead?In this episode, we’re flipping the comparison trap on its head.You’ll learn how to:Spot the “highlight reel” trap before it derails your momentumTurn jealousy into a learning tool (without copying a single thing!)Set healthy boundaries around competitor stalking 😉Track YOUR growth (not theirs) and build a business that feels good to youWhether you’re a part-time maker or dreaming o...
2025-09-0312 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#77 - From Fresh Flowers to Thriving Wreath Business: Claire's Handmade JourneyRunning a handmade business isn’t always a straight line and today’s guest, Claire, proves it beautifully. 🌸After starting with fresh flowers and even pedalling around town on a trike (yes, really!), Claire found her passion and success in creating stunning artificial wreaths and arrangements through her business Jamesia Blooms. In this episode, she opens up about: • How personal loss inspired her to chase her creative dream • The shift from fresh flowers to artificial designs (and why it worked) • The behind-the-scenes process of designing wreaths and bouquets • The ups and downs of social media and growing an online sho...
2025-08-2726 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#76 - Instagram Not Converting? Here’s Why (+ How to Fix It as a Handmade Seller)Posting consistently on Instagram but still not getting sales? In this episode, I’m breaking down the three biggest reasons your content isn’t converting and how to fix it.You’ll discover:Why likes and views don’t always mean product interestHow to guide your followers from scrolling to shoppingA simple content plan that works without eating up your whole dayWhether you sell on Etsy, Shopify, or your own website, these Instagram tips are perfect for handmade sellers who want to post with purpose and actually see results...
2025-08-2009 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#75 - Instagram Reels That Sell: Step-by-Step for Handmade SellersIf your Reels are getting crickets (or you’re too nervous to even post one 🫣), this episode is for you.I’m walking you through my simple step-by-step Reels formula made specifically for handmade sellers - no dancing, no lip syncing, no pointing at floating bubbles. Just clear, doable tips to help you finally feel confident on camera and actually get your products seen 👀Inside this episode:✅ How to write a scroll-stopping hook✅ What to film if you feel awkward or unsure✅ Real-life examples for can...
2025-08-1312 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#74 - Etsy’s Latest Earnings: What It Really Means for Your Shop (And How to Respond)Feeling like your Etsy sales have dipped recently? You’re not imagining it and Etsy’s Q2 2025 earnings report confirms it.In this episode, I break down exactly what’s going on behind the scenes at Etsy, why sales are down platform-wide, and what it means for you as a handmade business owner. We’ll talk about rising fees, buyer hesitation, and Etsy’s push toward AI and personalisation... all without the corporate waffle.But more importantly, I’ll walk you through what to actually do about it. Whether you’re on Et...
2025-08-0614 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#73 - How to Market Your Handmade Products on Instagram (Step-by-Step Free Training for 2025)Sick of posting on Instagram and getting crickets? This episode is your full, step-by-step training on how to turn your handmade Instagram into a sales-driving machine - without feeling salesy or spending all day online.Steph breaks down the exact strategy that handmade business owners need in 2025, including:What to post (and why!) using the 4 Value PillarsHow to plan your weekly Instagram rhythm without burning outThe difference between “Going Wide” for growth and “Going Deep” for conversionsReal examples you can steal (whether you sell candles, mugs, or knitwear)And how to sell...
2025-07-3015 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#72 - 15 Autumn Trends for 2025 Handmade Sellers Need to Know🍁 Want to get ahead with your autumn product ideas and boost your handmade sales this season? In this trend-packed episode, I’m breaking down 15 of the biggest autumn trends set to dominate in 2025... with real, practical examples you can turn into products today. From modern rustic to miniature scenes, dupe-it-yourself decor to cosy accessories, I’m covering what’s going to be everywhere (and how to make it work for your handmade business).🍂 Whether you sell on Etsy, your own site, or at markets - this episode is your seasonal trend cheat sheet. Grab a notebook a...
2025-07-2310 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#71 - Proven Etsy Listing Tips to Boost Your Sales and Get Found in SearchStruggling to get sales on Etsy? In this episode of How to Be a Handmade Boss, Steph shares 5 powerful tips to help your Etsy listings get found, get clicked, and get bought. Whether you’re brand new to selling handmade products online or you’ve been on Etsy for a while with little traction, this episode will show you exactly how to optimise your Etsy listings for more visibility, better conversion, and sustainable growth.We’re covering:✅ Etsy SEO tips for beginners✅ How to write titles that actually get found✅ Wha...
2025-07-1629 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#70 - Building a Brand Around What You Actually Love: Fran’s StoryIn this feel-good episode of How To Be A Handmade Boss, I’m joined by the lovely Fran from Born to Shop Designs – and we’re diving into how she turned hobbies like gardening, crafting and music into a heart-led clothing brand that connects people through what they love. We chat about navigating business pivots, building a brand that feels like you, and why community matters more than ever (especially when you're not a fan of working solo).Fran also opens up about leaving behind a business that didn’t light her up, starting again with a friend a...
2025-07-0925 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#69 - Why Some Makers Stay Stuck (and How to Finally Move Forward)Feel like your handmade business is stuck in the same place month after month - no matter how hard you try? 😩 In this episode, we’re getting honest about why so many makers hit a plateau (even when they’re doing “all the right things”)… and what to do if that’s you right now.You’ll learn:🔸 The illusion of growth that keeps you treading water🔸 The real cost of DIY-ing everything alone🔸 Why your fear of investing might be costing you more than you think🔸 How to know when you’re ready to get real suppor...
2025-07-0216 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#68 - Understanding the Seasons of Your Handmade Business (And How to Thrive in Each One)Ever feel like your business is all over the place? One minute you’re buzzing with ideas, and the next… totally burnt out? You’re not doing anything wrong - you’re just in a different season of business.In this uplifting episode, I’m walking you through the 4 natural seasons your handmade business cycles through - winter, spring, summer and autumn - and exactly how to thrive in each one without forcing yourself to keep pushing all year round. You’ll learn:🌱 What each busin...
2025-06-2513 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#67 - Day 5 Affirmation: Abundance & Repeatable SuccessWelcome to Day 5, the final episode in this affirmation series! Today, we’re focusing on abundance and repeatable success because thriving in your handmade business isn’t just a lucky break, it’s the result of aligned action, consistency, and belief in your own power.These affirmations will help you step into the role of CEO with confidence, embrace systems that work for you, and welcome growth with ease (and joy!). Whether you listen once or on repeat all week, let this episode remind you that success is already in motion and you are ready to receive it.
2025-06-2009 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#66 - Day 4 Affirmation: Embracing Visibility & Magnetic EnergyWelcome to Day 4 of our affirmation series! Today we’re diving into visibility... showing up, shining bright, and calling in your dream customers with confidence and authenticity. These affirmations will help you shake off self-doubt, embrace your unique voice, and remind you that every post, story, and conversation is planting seeds of connection and impact.Whether you listen on repeat for a week or weave it into your challenge journey, let this audio help you feel more open, seen, and magnetic in your marketing. Your people are out there and they’re ready for you...
2025-06-1909 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#65 - Day 3 Affirmation: Selling with Ease and AuthenticityWelcome to Day 3 of our 5-day Affirmation Series, created to help you stay focused, inspired ✨, and energised as you move through the Sellathon.Today, we’re leaning into ease, authenticity, and creating a shop experience that feels as good to run as it does to buy from. These affirmations will help you release pressure, build genuine connections, and trust that your creativity and care naturally attract the right customers.Whether you’re tidying your workspace, packing orders, or simply sitting with a cup of tea, let these words remind you: y...
2025-06-1809 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#64 - Day 2 Affirmation: Believing in Your Products and Your WorthWelcome to Day 2 of our 5-day Affirmation Series, designed to help you stay positive, motivated ✨, and focused as you build momentum during the Sellathon.Today, we’re focusing on something so many makers struggle with: truly believing in the value of your products and in your worth as a business owner, creative, and CEO of your handmade brand.These affirmations will help you reconnect with the joy, meaning, and impact behind what you create, and remind you that your work deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated. Whether you’re rep...
2025-06-1709 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#63 - Day 1 Affirmation: Stepping Into Your Power as a Handmade Business OwnerWelcome to Day 1 of our affirmation series! This episode is your gentle reminder that you already have everything you need to succeed in your handmade business.Together, we’ll ground ourselves, release fear, and focus on the small but mighty actions that create momentum and growth. Whether you’re listening in the car, on a walk, or while wrapping orders, let this short audio set you up for a day filled with clarity, intention, and courage.You are powerful. You are ready. And your dreams are worth show...
2025-06-1609 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#62 - The Truth About Etsy Policies (And How to Stay Out of Trouble)Ever had a listing randomly vanish from Etsy with no explanation? 😳 Or maybe you’ve heard whispers about copyright crackdowns and policy changes that left you wondering if your shop is truly “safe”? 🫣In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how Etsy’s policies work in 2025 and how you can protect your handmade business without losing sleep or second-guessing every listing. 😌💻 We’ll walk through the real reasons Etsy updates its rules, the most common mistakes sellers make (yep, even without realising it), and what Etsy’s new focus on transparency means for you. 🕵️♀️✨You’ll learn:✅ What Etsy’...
2025-06-1111 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#61 - The Real Reason You're Not Getting Sales (And It's Not What You Think)😩 You’re posting on socials, updating your Etsy listings, and maybe even running the occasional sale... but still not seeing consistent orders? Let’s clear this up once and for all.In this episode, Steph breaks down the real reason you’re not getting sales and no, it’s not the algorithm, your branding, or even your prices. It’s your messaging and once you fix it, everything shifts. 👩🔧We’ll cover: • What your customer really needs to hear before they buy • The 3-part messaging fix that turns browsers into buyers • Real-life examples to help you reframe your product description...
2025-06-0415 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#60 - Etsy's Algorithm Change (Etsy Q Score) + Etsy’s Q1 Results: What Handmade Sellers Need to KnowEtsy just dropped their Q1 2025 financial report… and there’s more to it than just numbers. In this episode, I’m breaking down what the latest earnings reveal about where Etsy is heading, how it’s affecting sellers like you, and the big changes to Etsy’s search algorithm - including the now-official Q Score.If you’ve ever felt in the dark about how Etsy decides who gets seen (and who doesn’t), this episode is your spotlight. The Q Score isn’t brand new, but it’s now a named, structured part of...
2025-05-2815 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#59 - How Handmade Sellers Are Making £1k in Just 7 Days (Without a Huge Audience)🎧 If you’ve ever thought “I just need more followers to start making decent sales,” this episode is your wake-up call.Meet Sam and Lydia - two handmade business owners using the same platform, same tools, even similar products. But one made over £1k in just 5 days… with less than 400 followers. The difference? Lydia had a plan. 👏In this episode, we’re diving into: • Why engagement is the real currency on social media (not your follower count) • How to actually show up in stories and reels without sounding like a pushy salesperson • The 3-step sales content system you can use rig...
2025-05-2117 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#58 - Why Your Sales Are Inconsistent (And How to Fix It for Good)🎢 Feel like your sales are on a constant rollercoaster? One week you’re rushed off your feet with orders, the next… total crickets? You’re not alone – and the good news? It’s completely fixable.In this episode, we’re breaking down why your sales feel so up and down – and spoiler alert: it’s not your product, pricing, or even your views. It’s your lack of a proper sales system. If you’ve been winging it and hoping for the best, this one’s for you.
2025-05-1417 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#57 - How the Threads Algorithm REALLY Works (And What to Do About It)If you’ve been posting on Threads and wondering why some posts take off while others flop... you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the Threads algorithm works (spoiler: it’s NOT just a copy of Instagram’s).We’ll chat about what Threads looks for when deciding what to show people, the role of engagement (and what kind of engagement actually matters) and why posting more isn’t necessarily the answer.I’m also sharing simple, practical tips you can use right now to boost you...
2025-05-0711 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#56 - How Jen Turned Her Craft Hobby Into a Real Business – The Honest Journey of Indy Bee CraftsIn this uplifting episode, I’m chatting with the lovely Jen from Indy Bee Crafts, one of our Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) students, about her real and raw journey from craft hobbyist to small business owner.Jen opens up about:💙 How she found the confidence to start selling💙 What helped her go from “I can’t do this” to “this is actually working!”💙 The juggle of life, work, and creativity💙 Her favourite HBSA lesson (and how it changed everything)💙 Why she’s now excited for the future of her handmade bi...
2025-04-3032 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#55 - Cracking the Code: How the Facebook Group Algorithm Really Works💙 Ever feel like you’re shouting into the void in your Facebook group? You’re not alone... and it’s not your fault. 🎙️ In this episode, we break down exactly how the Facebook group algorithm works in 2025, and why your posts might not be getting the traction they deserve.👉 Here’s what we cover: • Why even your most valuable posts might get buried • The algorithm signals Facebook is actually looking for in groups • How to train the algorithm to show your posts to more members • The surprising reason engagement isn’t always what you think it is • What you can d...
2025-04-2311 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#54 - How the Pinterest Algorithm Really Works (and How to Use It to Boost Sales)Welcome back to How to Be a Handmade Boss! If you’ve been sleeping on Pinterest, it’s time to wake up because this visual search engine is a goldmine for handmade business owners who want consistent, long-term traffic and sales.In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the Pinterest algorithm works and how you can make it work for you and unlock the secrets to turning your passion into profit. We’ll cover:✨ What the algorithm actually looks for (spoiler: it’s not follower...
2025-04-1610 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss53 - How the Instagram Algorithm Really Works in 2025 (for Handmade Business Owners)Hey handmade boss 👋 Feeling like you’re doing all the right things on Instagram but still not getting the reach or engagement you hoped for? You’re not alone — and you’re definitely not doing anything wrong 💛In this episode, I’m lifting the lid on how the Instagram algorithm actually works in 2025... in simple, no-fluff terms, just for makers like you. Whether you sell on Etsy, your own website, or at markets and fairs, this is the behind-the-scenes peek you’ve been waiting for 🔍✨We’re chatting about:📌 What Instagram is focusing on...
2025-04-0914 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#52 How the Facebook page algorithm works🔐 Unlock the secrets to Facebook success for your handmade business! Are you pouring your heart into your Facebook business page only to be met with silence? 👉 This episode of the podcast dives deep into the Facebook page algorithm, specifically for handmade businesses like yours. Learn why your posts aren't reaching your audience (it's not you, it's Facebook!) and discover what actually works in 2025 to get your creations seen.🧭 We'll explore how Facebook decides who sees your posts, breaking down the four key factors: engagement, relevance, recency, and relationships. Understand why organi...
2025-04-0216 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#51 - REAL TALK Does the HBSA actually work?💙 In this episode we hear directly from students of the HBSA about their experiences and whether the course has worked for them.• Karen tells us how the course has helped her with marketing and identifying her target audience, as well as achieving a better work-life balance• Pash highlights the expertise within the HBSA and emphasises the value of investing in yourself. She calls joining the HBSA the best thing she has done this year• Eric shares how the HBSA helped him set up his business properly from the start...
2025-03-2614 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#50 - 'The perfect journey' for our HBSA Student Heather💙 'The perfect journey' for Heather and we want it to be for you too!💬 Steph chats with Heather, the creator of Arthur's Knitting Business, about knitting, teaching, and entrepreneurship.... Heather's business focuses on providing kits and educational resources to help people learn to knit. 🧶 She's on a mission to remove the misconception that knitting is too difficult by providing all the necessary tools, materials, and learning resources you need.💪 Heather's advice to new handmade business owners is to "just go for it, believe in yourself, do it" and believe in yourself. The worst tha...
2025-03-1946 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#49 The beginners guide to Pinterest for handmade business owners🤔 Have you always wanted to know how to use Pinterest effectively for your handmade business?🥳 We've got the answers, join Steph for an in-depth guide on how to use Pinterest to benefit a handmade business. 💙 This episode covers everything you need to know including setting up a Pinterest business account, creating effective pins, optimising your account for your target audience, the type of boards to create and understanding key metrics to watch. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… this is for you. 🪩 Fix Your Socials Week
2025-03-1229 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#48 - How to keep going when you're not seeing results - AMA (Ask Me Anything)👋 Welcome back to the How To Be A Handmade Boss podcast! 🎉 In this episode, we tackle a common struggle for many handmade business owners: staying motivated to complete those essential but less enjoyable tasks, like bookkeeping, PR activities, and business development.❓ Join me as I answer a listener's question from Soul Seed Jewellery about shifting mindset and maintaining motivation when the results aren't immediate. I share practical tips and strategies to help you reframe your perspective, break tasks into manageable chunks, and celebrate your wins along the way.In this e...
2025-03-0522 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#47 - Your 7-Day Affirmations Challenge👋 Welcome to the How To Be A Handmade Boss podcast! In this episode, we're diving into the transformative power of affirmations for your handmade business. If you've been feeling stuck or unmotivated, this episode is for you! Don't worry it's not too woo-woo.🙂↕️ Join us as we guide you through a series of affirmations created to boost your creativity, confidence, and resilience. Whether you're starting your day or working on your craft, these affirmations can help you shift your mindset and attract the success you deserve.☺️ What to Expect:A step-by-step guide on how to incorp...
2025-02-2613 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#46 - Learn how HBSA student Laura turned her passion into a business👋 Welcome back to another episode of the How To Be A Handmade Boss podcast!🎨 In this episode, I chat with HBSA student and fantasy artist Laura, from The Daydream Emporium, who draws inspiration from the beauty of nature and the quirky creatures that inhabit it. We discuss Laura's creative journey, her unique approach to art, and how she turned her passion into a business after gaining her degree in Technical Arts and Special Effects and a masters degree in Children's Book Illustration.🎙️ Topics of conversation:Laura's artistic process and the ins...
2025-02-1929 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#45 - Marketing has changed since 2020. Here's what's working now (backed by research)📱 Marketing as we used to know it has changed! If you've noticed a decline in sales or you're struggling to connect with your audience, this episode is for you!🛍️ Steph discusses how the pandemic has change the shopping habits of our customers and why understanding your target audience is more crucial than ever. She highlights the importance of not competing solely on price and encourages handmade business owners to explore what they are truly selling beyond the physical product... dig into your USP (unique selling point).🚀 Steph illustrates how to identify the real benefits your products of...
2025-02-1216 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#44 - The Communication Game: Should You Speak with 'We' or 'I'?🩵 In this episode Handmade Bosses founder, Steph, dives into the great "I vs. We" debate that many handmade business owners face. ❓ Should you present your brand as a solo handmade business or as a team? Steph shares talks about the pros and cons of using "I" versus "we," helping you decide which approach aligns best with your business.Join Steph as she discusses:The importance of being authentic and building personal connections through your branding How using "I" can build trust with your customersThe potential benefits of adopting "we" for a more professional imageExamples of hand...
2025-02-0521 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#43 - Unlock Effortless Social Media Growth: Proven Strategies that Work Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… this is for you. 🪩 Fix Your Socials Week starts 26th January… it’s a free challenge for handmade business owners who are fed up overthinking content and still not seeing sales. Give me 10 minutes a day for five days and I’ll help you get clear on what to post, what to stop doing, and how to show up online without it taking over your life. No fluff. No pressure. No trying to keep up wit...
2025-01-2921 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#42 - Here's how to have a calm marketing strategy for your handmade business🩵 Does social media feel heavy and something you just don't need piled on your to-do list?😤 Do you feel like you're not doing your best, you don't know what to do on social media and it's all a bit too much?🥰 Today I'm going to teach you how to grow your handmade business all whilst keeping your social media serene AF.📋 I'll help you find your right people, what content to make, why going viral isn't the key to success, clickbait isn't the answer and so much more to help you boss your social media...
2025-01-2223 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#41 - Unlock Peak Sales After Christmas: Tips to Thrive in the New Year🩵 Join me in this episode of "How to Be a Handmade Boss," as I talk about a common challenge faced by many handmade business owners: the post-Christmas sales slump. 🎄 As the holiday season winds down, many entrepreneurs notice a significant dip in sales, you're not alone in this experience.I share valuable insights and actionable strategies to combat this slump. From the importance of maintaining momentum in sales and practical tips to keep businesses thriving even after the holiday rush. Whether it's diversifying product offerings or enhancing marketing efforts, you'll find useful advice to help stabil...
2025-01-1533 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#40 - Unlock Extraordinary Business and Personal Growth with My Proven Dream Board Method🎉 Kick off the New Year with an inspiring episode of the How to Be a Handmade Boss podcast! ⚡️ In this electrifying episode, "Unlock Extraordinary Business and Personal Growth with My Proven Dream Board Method," Steph reveals how dream boarding can be a game-changer for achieving your business goals.🤫 Join her as she shares the secrets behind her impressive success, having accomplished 85-90% of her dream board goals. Discover the psychology of visualisation, including insights into the reticular activating system, and learn step-by-step how to create a powerful dream board that aligns with your aspirations.🙏 But t...
2025-01-0832 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#39 - I Failed. How Ignoring My Own Advice Led to Burnout — Lessons Learned💙 In this episode of the "How To Be A Handmade Boss" podcast, I dive deep into a topic that many of us face but often shy away from discussing: burnout and mental health. ✋ Before we get started, I offer a trigger warning for those who may not be in a place to hear about these struggles. If you're feeling overwhelmed or prefer to skip this episode, I completely understand. However, if you're interested in learning from my experiences over the past few months, I invite you to stick around.🧘♀️ I share my internal conflict about whether to rec...
2025-01-0140 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#38 - Crafting Success: Charly's Journey to Niche Mastery and Business Resilience💙 Join Steph in this episode of the "How to Be a Handmade Boss" podcast, as she chats with the inspiring Charlotte, known as Charly from Charly Bee Designs.💡 Discover how Charly transformed her passion for crafting into a thriving full-time business, focusing on personalised paracord bracelets designed specifically for men and families.💬 Charly opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, including her initial struggles with diversifying her handmade products before finding her niche. She candidly shares the challenges she faced, particularly a temporary dip in sales following her rebranding efforts, and emphasises the critical importance of aligning...
2024-12-1840 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#37 - GPSR, Is Etsy's $£ down? Instagram scams and things you need to know - The BIG Update💙 The BIG update episode - I dive into some significant updates that every handmade business owner needs to be aware of, especially as we approach the holiday season. 🎄 With Christmas orders piling up, I wanted to ensure that you have all the essential information in one place, without the hassle of sifting through misleading clickbait or lengthy articles.🚨 The episode kicks off with a crucial discussion about the General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR), which come into effect on December 13, 2024. If you are based in the EU or sell to EU customers, this is a must-listen segment...
2024-12-1126 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#36 - Unlock Your Handmade Business Potential: What’s Holding You Back?💙 Are you unknowingly standing in the way of your own success? In our latest episode of "How to Be a Handmade Boss," we dive deep into the common pitfalls that can derail your progress.🤯 Every time something amazing happens in your business, do you find yourself getting in your own way? Whether it’s splurging all your profits on shiny new materials, taking a break from social media, or disrupting your creative flow, these habits can hold you back from reaching your full potential.🚀 Join us as we explore the reasons behind this self-sabotage and share actio...
2024-12-0425 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#35 - How to succeed in your handmade business with ADHD🤔 Do you have ADHD, tendencies and traits or an inkling you might have ADHD and think that running a handmade business is impossible? Then, this podcast is for you.💙 In this episode of "How to Be a Handmade Boss," we dive deep into the unique challenges and strengths of running a handmade business with ADHD. 🙋♀️ If you've ever felt that your neurodiversity holds you back from entrepreneurial success, think again! 🎧 Join Steph as she shares her personal experiences and insights on how to leverage your ADHD traits as superpowers in your business journey and what your sabota...
2024-11-2727 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#34 - "A year ago I was listing something on Etsy, finding it wasn't selling and having a panic attack" HBSA student Tara's honest conversation about her business then and now💙 Join me in todays episode where we explore the enchanting creations made by Tara, from Fabric Sewn Beautiful, she creates lavender-scented gifts reminiscent of the romantic Regency era. 🪻 Drawing inspiration from historical charm, translating it into comforting handmade items such as wardrobe fresheners, organza bags, and dream pillows, aimed to soothe the modern soul.🚀 Tara shares her honest reflections on the move from creating children's toys to adult focused stress relief products, emphasising the importance of community support and the impact of marketing skills acquired from the Handmade Bosses network. ⚡️ Learn how the HBSA helped Ta...
2024-11-2031 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#33 - What to Do When Someone Steals Your Designs: A Step-by-Step Guide💙 This episode is all about the dreaded Copycat🫵 What you can do about them, how to stop copycats & the steps you should be taking now to protect your handmade business🧡 What Etsy can do about copycats, their role from a legal stance and the Etsy reporting tool📕 The facts about who reports copyright and Intellectual Property (IP) infringements and what an IP infringement is🙋♀️ What to do if you've been reported to Etsy for copyright🪜 A step by step guide if you've found someone copying your designs or you suspected violations of...
2024-11-1319 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#32 - Don't Give Up on Your Handmade Business Dreams – This Can Help!🛑 Stop!! Before you give up listen to this podcast.💙 We explore the challenges of monetising a handmade business, we know how hard it can be!💪 You'll get motivation and practical advice through my 4R framework: Resilience, Reflection, Reframe, and Rest. 💰 Whether you're struggling with low sales or feeling overwhelmed by your success, we'll guide you through essential strategies to persevere, adapt, and thrive. 😌 Join us to discover valuable insights, from building resilience to stress management, that can transform your handmade business. Tune in and learn how to navigate obstacles and turn your passion into...
2024-11-0640 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#31 - How to Seamlessly Take a Month Off and Keep Your Business Running💙 Have you ever wanted to take time off your business but worry that everything will fall apart? Well, I took a month long holiday and my business thrived.⛱️ Join me as I share practical steps and personal experiences from my recent month-long break from my business. 🚀 If you're a handmade business owner looking to take significant time off without affecting your sales or growth, this episode is for you. Learn how to streamline your processes, delegate tasks, automate systems, and make time-efficient changes to ensure your business continues to thrive even in your absence. 📈 Tune i...
2024-10-3028 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#30 - The BIG Ecommerce World Updates for Etsy and Instagram: Everything You Need to Know💙 This is our BIG UPDATE episode for Etsy and Instagram. 🚀 No click bait, I'm just cutting straight to the chase on what you need to know and what to take action on.⭐️ Imagine you have a store selling handmade products from hundreds of shops, you'll need products grab peoples attention and things people buy over and over again - this is exactly what Etsy do. I'm going to teach you how you can get prioritised in search results.💪 I've summarised everything that is relevant to you and your handmade business for Etsy and Instagram upd...
2024-10-2317 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#29 - How My Husband REALLY Feels About My Handmade Business💙 This is a very special episode of the 'How to be a Handmade Boss' podcast - my husband Ash is here with me and of course Phoebe our dog !!💍 Join us for an open and truthful conversation about what having a handmade business is really like and how it impacts our life together.✨ We discuss the personal and business dynamics of running a handmade business. Along with the benefits and challenges of self-employment, handling domestic tasks, managing finances, and the importance of communication in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 🚀 Explore how partners can support each...
2024-10-161h 09How To Be A Handmade Boss#28 How Joining HBSA Boosted Vicky's Conversion Rate From 0.2% to 5.4% - An interview with HBSA student Vicky👉 Join me as I chat with handmade business owner Vicky, owner of Rawsome Chocolate.💪 She shares her inspiring experiences of leaving her full time employment as a teacher and assistant head to creating an un-roasted vegan chocolate company in response to the challenges posed by her son's dairy intolerance and a commitment to ethical sourcing. ⚡️ Gain valuable insights into the craft of chocolate making, from sourcing high-quality beans to the art of chocolate tasting. Learn how Vicky transitioned from craft market sales to establishing a successful online shop on Etsy and her own website.💙 All...
2024-10-0945 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#27 - How I Built Lasting Friendships As A Handmade Business Owner💙 Join me to explore the holistic approach to growing a handmade business.🤗 As business owners we always look at the strategy and the practical business things.✨ Over the last year I've started to look at a more holistic view of everything that encompasses growing a handmade business⚡️ Why we need to focus on the importance of maintaining healthy personal and social relationships.🔎 Discover how personal weaknesses and social dynamics can impact your business growth.✅ Learn about the significance of setting boundaries, overcoming people-pleasing tendencies, and fostering mutually supportive friendships. 👯 Tune in...
2024-10-0230 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#26 - What is a social media home hub and how do you find yours?💙 In this episode of the 'How to Be a Handmade Boss' podcast, Steph introduces the concept of a social media 'home hub' for marketing your handmade business. ⚡️ Addressing the overwhelm and reluctance towards social media, Steph explains the importance of having a dedicated platform for nurturing your audience. 🔎 How to choose the right social media platform based on target markets demographics, personal preference, and ease of use. 🚀 Steph also shares practical strategies to control your social media experience by curating your feed and staying relevant while building brand loyalty. 😀 The episode emphasises the signific...
2024-09-2520 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#25 Discover Why Leigh Calls The HBSA a "Business Hug" for Students💙 We delve into the compelling story of handmade business 'Viva La Diva', a maverick brand known for its vibrant and unique handmade jewellery and accessories. 🚀 Leigh initially focused on creating ceramics, but as the brand grew it transitioned and incorporate a variety of different mediums, allowing for greater creative expression and reducing logistical challenges... igniting Leighs desire for creating handmade products even more. ⚡️ Discover her artisanal journey that prioritises passion over rigid plans, resulting in eclectic and lively pieces that are as unique as the creator's mood and inspiration.👉 Links to Viva La Diva https://ww...
2024-09-1828 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#24 Transform Your Handmade Business with Proven SEO Techniques😭 Navigating the world of handmade business can be tough, especially when it comes to monetising your creative handmade passion. 👉 The episode is all about SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). What SEO, what happens when you get it right, why you want to get to right, how to get it right and the reason we are doing it. 🚀 We dive deep into understanding and implementing SEO to boost your traffic, boost ance brand awareness, customer experience and ultimately increase conversion rates and sales. 💙 Learn about the vital aspects of SEO, including keyword research, search intents, and practical s...
2024-09-1123 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#23 Skyrocket Your Handmade Business Sales with These Proven Strategies👉 If you want to learn how to create an engaging brand presence and create meaningful connections with your audience, this is the podcast for you💙 One of my branding rules is to ... Eat, Live and Breath your tagline. So, here's mine...⚡️The Handmade Bosses it the Place to be if you want to start, scale and grow a handmade business to consistent 4 and 5 figure months on Etsy and your own website. Not only that you want to build a legacy business that's going to withstand the test of time.💪Building on our previous podcast about...
2024-09-0420 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#22 Discover Your Target Audience: Tips for Online Handmade Business Owners🚀 How hard is for you, as a handmade business owner, to identify and understand your target audience?💙 Every single part of your handmade business must be linked back to your target audience. ⚡️ Steph has you covered in this episode. Explaining why this foundation is vital for your handmade business, steps to find and understand your target audience including demographics and psychographics.👀 Methods such as self-reflection, observing the people around you and past customers, direct engagement with potential customers and leaning into attracting your target audience through social media marketing and market research. Insta CTA...
2024-08-2821 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#21 - The BIG Update - Ecommerce world update - Etsy, Shopify, Instagram, Canva & Pinterest💙 Welcome back to the Handmade Boss Podcast🚦 This is our BIG UPDATE episode for Etsy, Shopify, Instagram, Canva and Pinterest ⭐️ I'm giving you all the ecommerce updates you need to know🚀 Cutting out the confusion around what you need to know and what to take action on 💪 I've pooled together everything that is relevant to you and your handmade business Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… this is for you. 🪩 Fix Your Socials Week starts 26th January… it’s a free challenge for...
2024-08-2138 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#20 - Handmade business sales dropped? WTF is going on!?😭 Are you experiencing a sudden drop in sales, views, favourites, shares... for your handmade business? 💙 In this episode, we're looking at what's going on in the e-commerce landscape for handmade business owners and what you can do to grow your business.🚀 Including the unexpected twists and turns and uncovering the reasons behind fluctuating sales within your handmade business and what you can do about it. 👉 Tune in as we explore potential factors such as market trends, seasonal shifts, and external influences. 😀 Whether you're a seasoned artisan or just starting out, we'll help you navigate...
2024-08-1440 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#19 The HBSA "helped us get set up properly right off the bat... it's a really nice community that makes it a little bit easier to not just be stuck in business by yourself" Diversifying Your Handmade Business with Erik💙 In this episode of the Handmade Bosses podcast, Steph catches up with Erik from Mountain River Life. 🪵 Erik is a wood craftsman, who has a 6-figure business specialising in handmade mountain-inspired, premium quality wood gifts, as well as his new clothing and apparel line.🔎 He shares his experience of pivoting his handmade woodwork business to include clothing, the importance of diversifying products whilst maintaining a consistent brand true to his target audience.💪 An honest account of the challenges he faced due to economic changes and Etsy's platform adjustments. 🚀 From leveraging corporate clients to naviga...
2024-08-0733 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#18 - What should I pay myself, as a handmade business owner?💙 Wondering what you should pay yourself in your handmade business? ... it can be a tricky one 💪💸 In this episode I walk you through how I manage my finances as a handmade business owner and the steps I take to keep my personal and business finances separate⚡️ I unpack everything for you to consider, from when you should start paying yourself, your personal and business financial commitments and goals🚀 Whether you're a solopreneur or managing a team, we'll help you navigate the decision-making process with confidence🚨 Don't miss this essential guide to setting your own sa...
2024-07-3128 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#17 - How to stop overwhelm in your handmade business😩 Feeling overwhelmed and like you're doing EVERYTHING? You're not alone...I promise ❤️ 🚦 In this episode, I'll be giving you advice on how to stop overwhelm in its tracks. 🥺 Drawing from my own experience of dealing with overwhelm and health anxiety.💙 Tune in for practical strategies and actionable tips to regain control and find balance in your personal and professional life. ☮️ Whether you're juggling multiple projects or struggling to keep up with the demands of daily life, this episode is your guide to reclaiming your peace of mind.💸 This episode is perfect for any busines...
2024-07-2419 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#16 - This is why your handmade business is HARD (business lessons part 2)⭐️ Back for more handmade business help? 💪 In part two of our business lessons series, we're delving deeper into why entrepreneurship can be tough...especially if you are a handmade business owner 💙 Join us as we explore the challenges and hurdles that make running a business an uphill battle. From managing setbacks to navigating uncertainty, we're here to shed light on the realities of the handmade business owners journey. 💙 📻 Tune in for another dose of invaluable insights to help you navigate the ups and downs of handmade business ownership.💸 If you're selling online through platfor...
2024-07-1741 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#15 "Joining the HBSA was, hand on heart, the best thing I've done" Live with Handmade Bosses student Pash💙 I loved recording this episode with Pash. ⚡️ Join me as I interview Pash about her transition from a highly regulated scientific marine biology career to running her own handmade ocean-themed glass art business, 'Ocean Fusions' on Etsy. 💬 Pash discusses her nearly 30-year career, her experience with breast cancer and how it led her to discover glass fusing. As well as discovering a new species of fish 🐠 🌊 She shares her passion for the ocean, the creative process of glass fusing, the challenges she faced, and the role of the Handmade Business Support Academy (HBSA) in helping her focu...
2024-07-1029 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#14 - The HARD Handmade Business Lessons NOONE Talks About✋ Are you ready for some real talk? 💪 In this episode, we're diving into the hard business lessons that nobody talks about. 📍From failure and rejection to the tough decisions business owners face, we're uncovering the unfiltered truths of business. 💸 If you're selling online through platforms like Etsy, Amazon handmade, goimagine or have your own website this episode will help you.💙 Tune in for candid insights and valuable lessons that will help you move forward in your business journey. ⚡️ I share the mistakes and lessons I've learnt during my handmade business life from now...
2024-07-0336 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#13 - The BIG Update - Ecommerce world update - Etsy, Shopify, Instagram, etc🚀 Are you struggling to keep a track of ecommerce updates that impact your business?💙 We've done all the research, so you don't need to!!😀 We delve into important updates across popular platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and Instagram. ⚡️ Learn about Etsy's new listing form, enhancements in trust and safety, changes in selling policies, and trends for spring and summer 2024. Discover Shopify's new checkout features and shipping options, as well as Instagram's latest story stickers and updates to improve user experience and safety. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… th...
2024-06-2634 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#12 - My first LIVE episode answering your handmade business and Etsy questions🥳 Exciting news! 🗞️🔊 Get ready for our first-ever live episode where I'll be answering your burning questions about your handmade business and Etsy.🔥 Join me for an interactive session filled with insights, expert advice, and real-time Q&A to help you skyrocket sales in your handmade business. 🚀 Navigating Etsy Post-Covid Sales, Building a Strong Brand, and More⚡️ From accessing the podcast on multiple platforms to strategies for regaining sales levels post-Covid, the discussion covers essential aspects of running a successful handmade business on Etsy and your own website. 🔑 Key insights include the importance o...
2024-06-1950 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#11 "There's something about you that clicked...and I invested in myself" ... Live with Handmade Bosses student Karen💙 In this special episode I'll be chatting to one of our Handmade Bosses students, Karen.💬 We'll be talking all things business, getting to know Karen and her journey more 😀 From Accounting to Crafting: Karen's Journey with Fireside Arts LLC🥳 In this inspiring episode of the How to be a Handmade Boss podcast, Karen Podolsky, the owner and creator of Fireside Arts LLC, shares her journey from senior management in accounting to creating vibrant handmade home decor. Karen discusses her background in sewing, the foundation of her Etsy shop, and the impact of balancing her creative passion with...
2024-06-1238 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#10 - When should I start an email list?Are you wondering when to start your email list? In this episode I'll be helping you decide when the time is right for you and your handmade business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, we'll guide you through everything you need to know about starting an email list. Tune in for expert advice to help you make the most of this powerful marketing tool. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… this is for you. 🪩 Fix Your Socials Week start...
2024-06-0520 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#9 - Can you have a handmade business without social media?A question I'm asked on a regular basis is "do I have to be on social media to make sales in my handmade business?" Join us as we explore this intriguing question.From examining the reasons why you might have resistance to social media marketing, to alternative marketing strategies and discussing the pros and cons of social media presence. We'll help you determine if going social-free is a viable option for your handmade business. Remember, you're the boss - your marketing strategy needs to suit you, your life and what you want to do in y...
2024-05-2923 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#8 - When should you trademark your business?Are you wondering when to trademark your handmade business? Tune in as we break down the ins and outs of trademarking. From what a trademark is, how to trademark your business, understanding the importance of protecting your brand, and more. We've got you covered, including the pros and cons of trademarking your handmade business. We'll help you answer the question 'is it worth trademarking my handmade business?'Don't miss out on this episode packed with valuable insights to help safeguard your handmade business identity. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way h...
2024-05-2219 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#7 Starting a new Etsy shop or Handmade business? This is your to-do listStarting a new Etsy shop or handmade business? Get ready to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey with our ultimate to-do list. Tune in for essential tips and tasks to set up your shop for success from day one. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… this is for you. 🪩 Fix Your Socials Week starts 26th January… it’s a free challenge for handmade business owners who are fed up overthinking content and still not seeing sales. Give me 10 minutes a day for five days and...
2024-05-1555 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#6 - An URGENT Update On Etsy's Future.In this episode we delve into Etsy's Q1 financial results and the implications for handmade businesses on the platform. You DEFO want to listen to this.Dive in to the challenges faced by Etsy sellers, strategies being implemented by Etsy to reignite marketplace growth, the importance of differentiation in a crowded market, and the focus on improving customer experiences. You DEFO want to listen to this. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… this is for you. 🪩 Fix Your Socials Week starts 26th January… i...
2024-05-0848 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#5 - How to Get Your Products Ranking in Search ResultsStruggling to get your products noticed online? In this episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of getting your products to rank in search results.Join me as we explore actionable strategies that will breathe new life into your handmade business, reigniting sales and paving the way for a brighter future. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it should… this is for you. 🪩 Fix Your Socials Week starts 26th January… it’s a free challenge for handmade business owners who are fed up overthinking content and still no...
2024-05-0529 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#1 - The Beginner's Guide to the Etsy AlgorithmAre you tired of the guessing games when it comes to Etsy's search algorithm? Want to know what really moves the needle for your shop's visibility? In this episode, I dive deep into the mechanics of Etsy's search engine and share how you can optimise your listings for better exposure by understanding the 7 ranking factors.Wondering how to make your products irresistible to Etsy's search algorithm? I'll break down the key factors that determine how your items rank in search results, and how you can leverage these to your advantage.Do you feel like you're...
2024-05-0140 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#2 - Take the Leap from 9-5 to Running Your Own BusinessI've been right where you are, ready to leap into the world of entrepreneurship. In this episode, I'm sharing my journey from a forensic science career to crafting my successful handmade jewellery business.Ever felt like you're just not cut out for the 9-5 life? I've been there, wrestling with career choices and giving in to societal expectations. But let me tell you, the moment I embraced my passion for jewellery making, everything changed. In this episode, you'll hear the highs, the lows, and the messy in-between.Did I face challenges? Absolutely! I learned the...
2024-05-0130 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#3 - What Should I Sell?Got a bunch of product ideas bouncing around, but unsure which one to pick for your handmade business? Don't worry, I've got your back! In this episode, I share with you how to choose what to sell, and why it's so important to infuse your creations with your passion and the unique story of your brand.Are you tempted to create something that is currently trending? Wondering if you'll make more money by jumping on the trend? We'll talk about that too! While it's easy to get swept up in what's selling right now, it's crucial to...
2024-05-0125 minHow To Be A Handmade Boss#4 - How Do I Resurrect A Dead Shop?Is your shop feeling like it's stuck in a rut? Maybe it's been years since you last updated your listings, or maybe you're ready to dive back in and give things another shot. Whatever the case, there's no need to despair. In this episode, I'm tackling the question: How do you resurrect a dead shop?Join me as we explore actionable strategies that will breathe new life into your handmade business, reigniting sales and paving the way for a brighter future. Insta CTA🪩 If social media feels way harder than it shou...
2024-05-0125 minHow To Be A Handmade BossHow To Be A Handmade Boss Podcast TrailerWhether you’re a complete beginner on Etsy, or want to scale your handmade business to multi-6 figures, the “How To Be A Handmade Boss” podcast gives you actionable advice and workshop style full length episodes to grow your handmade business on Etsy and beyond.We get it. Starting or growing a handmade business can be really overwhelming, and sometimes you feel like you have an expensive hobby rather than a profitable business. If you have questions like “How can I make sales in my business?” “How do I start a handmade shop?” “How can I make this passion my...
2024-04-2403 min