Shows
Heart and Hands of a MakerRobert Lopez: The Bold and Creative JourneyIn this episode, Tammy Honaman speaks with Robert Lopez, a multifaceted artist and metalsmith, about his creative journey, the importance of originality, and the risks involved in artistic expression. Robert shares his evolution from lapidary to jewelry making, the significance of community support, and how his art reflects his personal experiences. They discuss the challenges of balancing life and art, the innovative tools Robert has developed, and his aspirations for the future.2025-04-241h 01Heart and Hands of a MakerThe Creative Force of Nature: Julianna Avelar on Passion, Product, and PurposeFrom trade shows to TV studios, beading to business—Julianna Avelar has done it all. In this heartfelt episode, she shares how the Jewel Loom came to life, why pricing your work is essential, and the emotional rollercoaster of creative entrepreneurship. Real talk, inspiring insights, and a whole lot of love for the maker community.2025-04-031h 02Heart and Hands of a MakerEmbracing Imperfection and Creative Evolution with Katie HackerKatie Hacker joins Tamara Honaman to share her insights on authenticity, managing creative businesses, and embracing imperfection in your artistic journey. Tune in to rediscover joy in your creative practice!Actionable Takeaways:• Give yourself permission to explore creatively without pressure to monetize every hobby.• Prioritize mental health and well-being, especially in times of professional transition.• Embrace imperfection—authenticity resonates more deeply than polished perfection.2025-03-201h 02Heart and Hands of a MakerCelebrating Creativity and Connection with the Upper Midwest Bead SocietyExplore how beads bring people together with Jan Carlson and Rochelle Peterson from the Upper Midwest Bead Society.Celebrating 35 years of creativity, connection, and more!Join us as we discuss:• The society’s pivot to virtual meetings during COVID-19 and its new digital offerings.• Monthly programming like "Let’s Bead Live" and retreats designed to foster creativity and connection.• The incredible network of bead artists, including 18 published members and founder Diane Fitzgerald.• Celebrating 35 years of creativity and innovation, featuring crowns, sashes, and collaborative projects.• Fundraising efforts that keep membership accessible and programming vibrant.2025-02-2053 minHeart and Hands of a MakerBrenda Schweder: The Vital Role of Art in SocietyBrenda Schweder is a recombobulator of found objects into wearable sculpture and objet d’art. A queen of the coldest of cold connection techniques, her schtick is combining disparate stuff and quasi-trash into wacky new works with whimsical and joyous narratives.
In this engaging conversation, Tamara Honaman and Brenda
Schweder explore the significance of art in our lives, the evolution of Brenda's creative journey, and the impact of social media on artistic expression. They discuss the challenges of balancing personal passions with responsibilities, the importance of self-expression, and how art can serve as a healing tool. The di...2025-01-201h 10Heart and Hands of a MakerJewelry Maker, Instructor, Inventor: Wyatt White's Jewelry JourneyJewelry expert Wyatt White joins Tamara Honaman to discuss his inspiring creative journey, lessons in humility, and the art of empowering others through making. Discover how resilience, innovation, and mentorship can shape a remarkable career. 2025-01-101h 10Heart and Hands of a MakerThe Mirrix Looms Story — A Journey Through Creativity, Family, and BusinessIn this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, host Tamara Honaman sits down with Claudia Chase and Elena Kawachi of Mirrix Looms. Claudia, the visionary founder and inventor behind Mirrix, shares her journey from tapestry weaver to creating the first Mirrix loom in her Wisconsin barn. Joined by her daughter Elena, who took the reins in digital marketing and community building, they discuss the evolution of their family business, the joys of working together, and the impact of weaving on creativity.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation, craftsmanship, and the power of artistic passion.2024-11-201h 10Heart and Hands of a MakerFrom Loss to Legacy: Brandi Tracey's Journey in Crafting and ResilienceDiscover the inspiring journey of Brandi Tracey, founder of NET Creative Designs, on this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker. From her career as a paralegal to becoming a passionate metalsmith, Brandi shares how she turned personal loss into creative empowerment. Hear about her experiences navigating grief, learning the craft, and building a supportive community. Perfect for anyone seeking motivation, insights on starting a creative business, and the value of resilience in the face of challenges. Tune in for practical advice, heartfelt moments, and Brandi’s unique story of growth and artistic discovery.2024-11-0633 minHeart and Hands of a MakerCreative Journey with Jewelry Artist Loretta Lam: Discovering Polymer Clay, Design, and TeachingIn this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, host Tamara Honaman interviews renowned jewelry artist, author, and teacher Loretta Lam. Loretta shares her inspiring journey from her early love of jewelry making to discovering polymer clay, which transformed her career. With over 25 years in the craft industry, Loretta opens up about her experience building a successful jewelry business, the challenges of writing her book Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design (Schiffer Publishing), and her passion for teaching design principles to help other makers find their artistic voice.
This episode is a must-listen for jewelry designers, polymer clay artists...2024-10-1758 minHeart and Hands of a MakerFrom Struggles to Success: Jill MacKay’s Creative Journey & ResilienceIn this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, host Tamara Honaman interviews Jill MacKay, an acclaimed jewelry designer and digital content creator. Jill shares her creative journey, overcoming challenges, navigating fear, and building a successful art career. Discover insights on resilience, mentorship, and embracing change as a modern artist. Listen now for inspiring advice on turning your passion into a thriving business!
2024-10-0359 minHeart and Hands of a MakerKierston Aiello: Artist, Metalsmith, Business OwnerIn this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, jewelry expert and business owner Kierston Aiello shares her creative journey and how community, authenticity, and collaboration shaped her success. Kierston opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of finding your niche, and her exciting plans for her new foundry. Tune in for inspiring insights on following your heart and surrounding yourself with supportive,
like-minded people.
A little about Kierston:
Born and raised in sunny California, Kierston Aiello is a metalsmith and designer with a passion for American craft. While getting her B.A. i...2024-09-1746 minHeart and Hands of a MakerCarrie Story: Inventor, Manufacturer, InstructorJoin us on Heart & Hands of a Maker as Carrie Story, a talented metal clay artist and entrepreneur, shares her journey from hobbyist to founder of Clay Revolution. Discover the challenges and triumphs of starting a business in the metal clay industry, the importance of self belief, and the art of mastering your craft. Tune in for inspiring insights and practical advice on turning passion into a thriving business.
2024-07-161h 01Heart and Hands of a MakerJessica Coté: Metalsmith, Artist, MentorJoin us as we chat with Jessica Coté, a metalsmith from NC, known for her bold jewelry brand, Rosy Revolver. Discover her journey in metal fabrication, teaching experiences, innovative products, and future plans. Learn from her insights on business challenges, social media impact, and creating an inspiring space for artists. Perfect for jewelry artists, creatives, and anyone inspired by entrepreneurial stories.
2024-07-021h 17Heart and Hands of a MakerCat Kerr: Mixed Media Artist ExtraordinaireIn this Heart & Hands of a Maker episode, Tamara Honaman and Cat Kerr delve into the challenges of valuing and monetizing creative work. They discuss balancing joy and financial reward, Cat’s early online career strategies for wider reach, and the healing power of art. Cat highlights the importance of focus, goal-setting, supporting others, and discipline for success in the creative industry.
2024-06-1154 minHeart and Hands of a MakerSandra Barnidge & Handcraft NationDiscover how Handcraft Nation is empowering artists and makers across the United States. Learn about this innovative platform connecting consumers with local artisans, promoting sustainability, and supporting local economies. With over 60 makers listed, Handcraft Nation helps creators overcome social media challenges and thrive online. Tune in to hear more about their mission and future plans to become a hub for all things handmade including jewelry, personal care items, and clothing.2024-06-0445 minHeart and Hands of a MakerAllie Perry-Custom Jewelry DesignerIn this conversation, Tamara Honaman and Allie Perry discuss the challenges and roadblocks faced by jewelry makers and small business owners. Allie emphasizes the importance of taking action and not waiting for the perfect time to start. She also highlights the value of community and finding support from like-minded individuals.
2024-05-281h 01Heart and Hands of a MakerSandra Lupo-Jewelry Designer, Instructor, Tool InventorIn this episode, Tammy interviews Sandra Lupo, a jewelry artist, educator, and inventor. They discuss Sandra's creative journey, the invention of her tool Conetastic, and the importance of collaboration and bringing personal talents into the DIY and jewelry making space. Sandra shares her insights on navigating the business side of being a maker and offers advice on dealing with self doubt and negative feedback. They also emphasize the importance of having fun and staying true to oneself in the creative process. Sandra encourages continuous learning, staying relevant, and being mindful of sustainability in the DIY space.
2024-05-0648 minHeart and Hands of a MakerFrancesca Watson, Jewelry Designer and InstructorIn this episode, Francesca Watson shares insights from her personal maker journey, emphasizing the intrinsic value of creativity and making. Aspiring entrepreneurs will receive invaluable advice from Francesca, highlighting the imperative of seeking professional guidance and crafting robust business strategies. Francesca shares her passion for teaching and creating a safe space for students to learn and grow. She recommends taking classes from different teachers to gain different perspectives and techniques and mentions several notable artists in the jewelry making community who helped her to be where she is today.
2024-04-301h 14Heart and Hands of a MakerJen Cushman - Soul Stir MagicDive into the transformative power of self-care, boundary setting, and embracing imperfection in this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker podcast. Join host Tamara Honaman and guest Jen Cushman who challenges cultural norms, discusses the essentiality of art, and emphasizes the importance of mutual support on our creative journeys. Tune in for insights on prioritizing authenticity and navigating the evolving landscape of creativity.
2024-04-231h 01Heart and Hands of a MakerChris Anderson, Lion Punch ForgeDiscover the inspiring journey of Chris Anderson, the creative force behind Lion Punch Forge. From jewelry design to tool making, Chris shares invaluable insights on building a thriving business in the maker community. Learn about the importance of networking, embracing failure, and nurturing a supportive customer base. Tune in for expert advice and upcoming projects!
2024-04-131h 32Heart and Hands of a MakerMilagros C. Rivera, Mixed Media Artist and InstructorTammy interviews Milagros Rivera, a mixed media artist and instructor living in Puerto Rico. They discuss Milagros' creative journey, her business evolution, and the challenges she has faced, including hurricanes and the pandemic. Milagros shares the importance of being adaptive in business and finding inspiration in her surroundings. She also emphasizes the power of giving and sharing, as well as taking risks and embracing mistakes. Milagros encourages artists to be unique and authentic in their work and highlights the value of in-person connections at shows and events.2024-01-0456 minHeart and Hands of a MakerJill Bartlett Dog Wear Designer and eLearning ExpertJill Bartlett has been working in the eLearning space for over 20 years. She translates that experience into her dog wear designer business, where she is also teaching others to make their own dog wear. She shares lessons learned and tips we can all apply to our practices, no matter where you are in your maker and creative journey. 2023-12-1541 minHeart and Hands of a MakerAnn Tudor - glass and fiber artistAnn Tudor is a lampworker, knitter and educator - we discuss all the twists in her creative journey, explore her business evolution and hear what she has coming up next!
2023-12-0552 minHeart and Hands of a MakerHeart & Hands of a Maker trailerHeart & Hands of a Maker: the Creative Journey trailer, with a taste of what's to come.
Tammy Honaman is your host.
Production by Ryan Honaman.2023-11-1601 min