Craft to Career

Meet Darrin Stern, the visionary leader behind H+H Americas and the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival. In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell sits down with Darrin to uncover how these two powerhouse events came to life, and why they are transforming the fiber, fabric, and crafting industries. While some claim the quilting or fabric industry is "dying," Darrin shares a very different story. His work proves that creativity, community, and craft are thriving more than ever. H+H Americas has quickly become one of the most exciting annual events for makers, brands, designers, and businesses alike, drawing global attendees to Chicago each year. At this dynamic multi-day gathering, you'll find: Runway shows featuring fabric and fiber artistry Ice-cream socials, happy hours, and community meet-ups Live podcast recordings Classes, panels, and hands-on demos Retail opportunities for customers (Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival) Wholesale and business-focused exhibits (H+H Americas) Although the event is young, just three years old, it continues to grow rapidly as word spreads about the uniquely vibrant energy it brings to the crafting world. Whether you're a quilt pattern designer, a shop owner, a fabric lover, or simply curious about what a major industry event looks like, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what makes these shows so special. What You'll Learn in This Episode How H+H Americas began and how Darrin Stern brought the vision to life Why the fiber and fabric industries are thriving , not declining The difference between H+H Americas and the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival What attendees can expect at the Chicago event —from runways to networking How the show has evolved over its first three years Why these events are becoming must-attend gatherings for both customers and business owners How creators, designers, and brands can benefit from participating Why this is the place to be for anyone in the quilting or fiber world Episode Highlights Darrin's personal journey and what led him to the craft industry A look at how events like these shape the future of quilting and crafting Behind-the-scenes stories from past H+H Americas shows Opportunities for business owners, educators, and influencers The growing excitement around the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival (the consumer show held the day before H+H Americas) If You've Ever Wondered… Should I attend H+H Americas as a business owner? What is the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival and who is it for? Is the quilting industry shrinking—or growing? What happens at a major fiber and craft trade show? What opportunities exist for designers, makers, or shop owners? …this episode will answer all of that and more. Tune In Whether you are planning to attend, dreaming of attending, or simply curious about what a world-class craft event looks like, you won't want to miss this conversation. Darrin shares the heart, strategy, and passion behind an event that is shaping the future of our industry.

If you've ever dreamed of building a thriving longarm quilting business—or you're looking to grow the one you already have—this episode is packed with valuable insight. Elizabeth Chappell sits down with longarm expert Tia Curtis , a sought-after quilter known for her artistry, efficiency, and strong client relationships. Tia has grown her longarm business into a full and flourishing creative career. In this conversation, she shares her journey, the lessons she's learned, and the business strategies that have helped her stand out in a growing and competitive industry. Whether you're a brand-new longarmer, a seasoned quilter, or a pattern designer looking to add longarm services, you'll walk away with practical guidance and inspiration. What You'll Learn in This Episode 1. How Tia Got Started in Longarm Quilting Hear how Tia first discovered longarm quilting and what drew her to the craft, and how this is the most lucrative part of her business. 2. Pricing and Profitability Tips Tia breaks down how she prices her work, how she sets boundaries, and what it takes to run a sustainable longarm business. 3. How to Build Strong Client Relationships Great longarmers don't just deliver beautiful quilting. They deliver a great experience. Tia shares her approach to communication to create loyal (and happy) repeat clients. 4. Mistakes New Longarmers Should Avoid Tia offers honest, encouraging advice on what to watch out for, what to prioritize, and how to grow confidently. Who This Episode Is For New longarm quilters looking for guidance Quilt pattern designers wanting to expand into longarm services Seasoned longarmers wanting to grow their client base Makers who want to turn quilting into a profitable business Anyone who is curious about the longarm quilting industry Why You'll Love This Episode Tia's approach to longarm quilting is both artistic and strategic. She is generous with her knowledge and transparent about what it really takes to grow a thriving business. This episode will leave you inspired, encouraged, and equipped with actionable steps you can apply immediately.

In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell sits down with Cindy Cloward, owner of Riley Blake Designs , one of the largest and most influential fabric manufacturers in the world. Riley Blake is known for its high-quality quilting cottons, stunning designer collaborations, notions, patterns, and its iconic Garden of Quilts event. Cindy shares the inspiring story behind the company's beginnings, how it has grown into a global brand, and what exciting things are on the horizon for Riley Blake. From manufacturing insights to brand-building, this conversation offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a powerhouse in the quilting industry. What You'll Learn in This Episode How Riley Blake Designs began Hear the origin story of the company, why it was created, and how the Cloward family stepped into the world of fabric manufacturing. Behind-the-scenes insights into fabric manufacturing Get a peek into what it really takes to run a large-scale fabric company that serves quilters and sewists around the world. What makes Riley Blake unique Learn about the products, designers, and events, such as the beloved Garden of Quilts, that set the company apart. Exciting new things coming to Riley Blake Cindy shares upcoming launches, innovations, and future plans. How Cindy turned her craft into a thriving career Be inspired by Cindy's business journey and her passion for creativity, community, and quality. Why You'll Love This Episode If you've ever wondered who makes the fabrics you adore, how the quilting industry operates behind the scenes, or what it takes to build a company that supports thousands of makers, this episode is a must-listen. Cindy's insights into entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership will inspire any craft-lover dreaming of growing a creative business.

In this inspiring episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell chats with Kimberly Jolly , founder and CEO of Fat Quarter Shop , one of the most recognized quilting retailers in the world. Kimberly shares her journey from running a small eBay fabric store out of her home to leading a thriving business that serves quilters across the globe. She opens up about how the company began, what fueled its rapid growth, and the strategies that helped it stay strong in a changing industry. Whether you're a fabric lover, pattern designer, or entrepreneur in the creative space, this conversation is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice. What You'll Learn in This Episode The Origin Story: How Fat Quarter Shop started as a small home-based business and grew into one of the world's leading online quilting retailers. The Evolving Quilting Industry: Kimberly's perspective on how the quilting landscape is changing—and what trends are shaping its future. What Fat Quarter Shop Looks For: As one of the top buyers in the quilting world, Kimberly shares what makes a product truly stand out. What's Missing in the Industry: Insight into the gaps Kimberly sees in today's market and opportunities for creative entrepreneurs to fill them. Words of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs: The key lessons Kimberly wishes she had known when she first started—and how you can apply them to your own business journey. About Kimberly Jolly Kimberly Jolly is the founder of Fat Quarter Shop , a leading online quilt and fabric retailer known for its vast selection, YouTube tutorials, and beloved community of quilters. With her deep love for quilting and dedication to exceptional service, Kimberly has built a brand synonymous with creativity, quality, and innovation in the quilting world. SHOW LINKS FloDesk – Save 50% on your first year of using my favorite email marketing provider. Code: QUILTERSCANDY Kajabi – Teaching a course or starting a membership? Kajabi is THE platform I use and love! Try it for free with my affiliate link.

Meet Jessica and Aiden , the creative duo and owners of Thimtec, a company that's redefining how quilters protect their fingers! Thimtec's signature fabric thimble has quickly gained attention in the quilting world for its comfort, innovation, and thoughtful design. Jessica and Aiden share how their year-old company came to life — from the spark of an idea to a thriving small business. You'll hear about the challenges and wins of developing a physical product, their strategies for growing an audience and boosting sales, and what they wish they'd known before starting out. Whether you're an inventor, a creative entrepreneur, or a curious quilter, you'll love this inspiring story of perseverance, innovation, and community connection. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How the idea for the Thimtec fabric thimble was born What it takes to bring a physical product to market The marketing and social media strategies that helped Thimtec grow fast How they handle production, fulfillment, and customer feedback The biggest lessons learned during their first year in business Jessica and Aiden's best advice and biggest warning for makers who want to sell physical products Connect with Thimtec Website: Visit here Instagram: @thimtec Shop the Thimtec Fabric Thimble: Click Here SHOW LINKS FloDesk - Save 50% on your first year of using my favorite email marketing provider. Code: QUILTERSCANDY Kajabi - Teaching a course or starting a membership? Kajabi is THE platform I use and love! Try it for free with my affiliate link.

Discover how to mentor new quilt pattern designers, run a Halloween-themed sew-along, and navigate going viral on Instagram. Featuring Maggie Reno of Snug and Stitch on the Craft to Career podcast. In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell of Quilters Candy interviews Maggie Reno of Snug and Stitch , an experienced quilt pattern designer and mentor. Maggie, along with Michelle Corless of Compass and Wildflower , has led a group of alumni from the Quilt Pattern Writing Course in creating the Nocturnal Soul Stitchery Sew Along — a collaborative, Halloween-themed event for quilters. Maggie shares valuable insights on: Mentoring new quilt pattern designers and helping them confidently bring their first patterns to market Choosing collaborators for creative projects (and why it's never an easy decision!) The unique challenges and joys of running a themed sew-along from concept to completion Going viral on Instagram — the unexpected benefits, hidden challenges, and strategies for sustainable growth Whether you're a quilt pattern writer, a quilting enthusiast, or someone interested in growing your creative business online, this episode offers practical tips and inspiration from someone who's been there. Links & Resources Mentioned: Nocturnal Soul Stitchery Sew Along Free 3-Day Event: Learn How to Become a Quilt Pattern Writer — happening early September 2025 Kajabi — Create courses and memberships like a pro FloDesk — My favorite email marketing platform — save 50% off your first year

✨ Episode Summary: I'm diving into a topic that's close to my heart and essential for long-term success: how to make business friends . We often hear about marketing strategies and growth plans—but what about the relationships behind the scenes? Business friends can offer support, accountability, and even joy in a journey that can sometimes feel isolating. But making those connections isn't always easy. 🎧 What You'll Learn: The surprising benefits of having friends in business (spoiler: it's not just about networking) Why it can feel hard to make business friends—and why you're not alone in that feeling Simple, proactive steps you can take to build genuine connections What to do when a business friendship doesn't work out Real-life stories of how I've met some of my closest friends through business—and how you can, too 💛 Whether you're just starting out or feeling a little lonely on your entrepreneurial journey, this episode will give you hope, ideas, and encouragement to find your people. 🔗 Helpful Links from This Episode: Kajabi – My favorite platform for building online courses and memberships. It's what I use to run my business, and I can't recommend it enough! FloDesk – Beautiful, easy-to-use email marketing. Get 50% off your first year with the code QUILTERSCANDY . 💡 Pro tip: These are the exact tools I use and love—only sharing what I truly stand behind!

🧵 Episode Summary / Intro: Ever wonder how to get thousands of people excited about your event—without burning out in the process? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on my most recent Quilt Along that brought in over 5,000 sign-ups . Whether you're hosting a virtual event, workshop, or course, you'll learn practical strategies for planning, promoting, and delivering a high-impact experience that grows your audience and your income. 🔑 What You'll Learn in This Episode: What inspired me to host this quilt along and how the idea evolved How I planned and structured the event for maximum engagement and ease The behind-the-scenes details that most people never see—but matter so much What worked incredibly well (and what I'll definitely do again) What I'd do differently next time to make it even smoother Why doing less , but doing it with focus and intention, leads to more impact—and more income 💡 Whether you're a creative entrepreneur, course creator, or just curious about running your own event—this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you do it with confidence and clarity. 📌 Links & Resources: Try FloDesk - my email marketing of choice. My 'Email Marketing Made Easy' course. Learn how to create an opt-in page, collect email addresses, and automate emails. Use my free Canva calendar template to stay organized and on track! You can use it as-is for your own event, or simply as a guide to create a custom version that fits your needs.

What happens when you walk away from a dream career in fashion to pursue a life of freedom, creativity, and true joy? In this episode, I chat with Christine Lindebak , a talented garment sewist, pattern designer, and upcycling advocate who left the high-end retail world of Rodeo Drive to build a more meaningful creative business—on her own terms. Christine shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from luxury fashion to sewing and teaching full-time. Now living in Spain, she works where and when she wants, creating one-of-a-kind pieces and encouraging others to sew boldly and sustainably. We talk about: Why she walked away from a picture-perfect career The unexpected things that helped her find success How upcycling fuels her creativity and purpose What it really takes to build a creative business you love Encouragement for anyone considering a big leap into their passion If you've ever dreamed of starting a creative career—or wondered if it's worth the risk—this episode is a must-listen. Christine is proof that the hard work is real, but the reward is so worth it. 🎧 Tune in now and get ready to be inspired! 🎧 Resources & Links: Christine's Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/ sewingandthecity/ Fit Clinic : https://www.sewingandthecity. co/fit-clinic47934425 📧 FloDesk – My favorite email platform! It's beautiful, beginner-friendly, and one of the most affordable options for creatives. Try it for 50% off your first year. 👉 Click here to check it out 🎓 Kajabi – The all-in-one platform I use to host my courses and memberships. It's powerful, intuitive, and perfect for creators who want to build and scale with ease. 👉 Click here to start your free trial

Do you love quilting and dream of teaching others—but feel unsure about where to start or whether you're even qualified? You're not alone, and today's guest is here to guide you through it all! In this episode, I'm joined by my friend and fellow quilterpreneur, Shannon Brinkley . Shannon has built a thriving career around teaching quilting, and she's passionate about helping others do the same. Whether you want to teach in-person workshops, partner with quilt shops or guilds, or offer your own online courses, Shannon shares how you can turn your love for quilting into a meaningful (and profitable!) teaching business. You'll hear: How Shannon got started as a quilting teacher What opportunities are out there for quilting instructors today Common myths and doubts about teaching—and how to overcome them Details about her free 3-day event that shows you exactly how to teach what you love and start earning from it If you've ever thought about teaching quilting or sharing your skills in a bigger way, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Resources & Links: Sign up for Shannon's FREE 3-Day Event: [CLICK HERE] 📧 FloDesk – My favorite email platform! It's beautiful, beginner-friendly, and one of the most affordable options for creatives. 👉 Click here to check it out 🎓 Kajabi – The all-in-one platform I use to host my courses and memberships. It's powerful, intuitive, and perfect for creators who want to build and scale with ease. 👉 Click here to start your free trial

What started as a college assignment turned into a viral business success. In this episode, I sit down with Monique Rapier of MMR Beauty, the powerhouse behind a hair oil brand that keeps selling out—again and again. After years of struggling with hair that wouldn't grow, bald spots, and breakage, Monique dove into research and trial-and-error to create a formula that completely transformed her hair. Once she cracked the code, she began hand-making her product in small batches and shipping them herself. Fast forward to today—Monique now partners with fulfillment centers to keep up with demand, and her business has taken on a life of its own. Once she cracked the code and after constant questions from her followers asking, "what product are you using?" Monique finally started her own company. She began selling the product, doing it all on her own in a small apartment. Fast forward to today - she now has a warehouse and fulfillment team to keep up with demand. Her business has taken a life of its own. In this inspiring and practical conversation, Monique shares what it really takes to grow a product-based business from scratch. From her formulation process to her fulfillment journey, she's an open book. She also dives into the characteristics she's had to embrace—like vulnerability, consistency, and building trust—to grow an audience that keeps coming back. In this episode, you'll learn: How Monique formulated her own hair oil from scratch The steps she took to move from kitchen batches to fulfillment centers What it really takes to have a product that sells How she grew (and keeps growing) on TikTok and social media The key traits that helped her build trust and loyalty with her audience If you're dreaming of launching your own product or want a behind-the-scenes look at building a brand that connects and converts, this episode is a must-listen. Links: MMR Beauty - Monique's hair oil mask that helps you grow long, healthy hair. Kajabi - Build online courses and membership with the BEST platform out there! FloDesk - Use code QUILTERSCANDY and save 50% off your first year.

In this heartfelt episode, I join Will Rogers, the editor of The Quilters — a Netflix short film that tells the moving story of incarcerated men in a Missouri prison who sew quilts for children in need. Will shares how he landed this unique editing role, the behind-the-scenes challenges and beauty of shaping such a powerful narrative, and what he discovered about the human spirit along the way — both from the quilters and the prisoners. This episode is a beautiful reminder of the transformation that comes from creating with purpose and the unexpected places where hope and art intersect. Whether you're a quilter, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will leave you inspired to look at your craft — and your purpose — with new eyes. Kajabi - My go-to for online education, courses, and memberships. FloDesk - Start your email marketing with the best provider!

In today's episode, I'm joined by Tori McElwain, quilter, educator, and author of Workshops Unleashed. We dive into Tori's journey into quilting and teaching, how she transitioned into leading workshops, and why sharing your skills with others can open amazing doors for your business. Links Mentioned: Workshops Unleashed Book by Tori McElwain Tori's Website: The Quilt Patch by Tori Kajabi - My go-to for online education, courses, and memberships. FloDesk - Start your email marketing with the best provider!

Let's talk about email lists—why you need one, how to grow it, and what to actually send. I'll walk you through my best-performing opt-ins (including the one I keep sharing even though I think everyone already has it), ideas for what to say in your emails, and how to sound like a real human being—not a robot. Plus, I'll share the #1 rule when it comes to building your list: be kind to yourself. Small steps matter. In this episode, you'll learn: Why email is more powerful than social media (when done right) How to pick an opt-in that attracts the right people The real secret to writing emails people actually enjoy My go-to email content ideas when I'm not sure what to say How to get started with my course, FloDesk Made Easy Resources mentioned: FloDesk Made Easy – My course to help you create opt-ins and send emails with confidence Free Gingham Quilt Pattern – My most popular opt-in! Kajabi Course - My FREE course teaching how to use Kajabi for selling online courses and memberships

If you're running a business—or dreaming of starting one—there's one thing that can make or break your success: solving a real problem. In this episode, I'm diving into why identifying the specific problem your business solves is so powerful, and how it shapes everything from your marketing to your products. We'll talk about: Why a "nice idea" isn't enough How to figure out the actual problem you solve (hint: it might not be what you think) What happens when you get crystal clear on your audience's pain points Simple ways to test if your offer is truly meeting a need Whether you're just starting out or feeling stuck in your current offer, this episode will help you get back to the root of what makes a business thrive: solving a problem people actually care about. 🎧 Tune in and let's uncover the heart of your business together. LINKS: FloDesk – Try my email marketing platform and save 50% off your first year! Kajabi – Looking for a platform to create and sell courses or a membership? Try Kajabi with my affiliate link here, and I will share my free Kajabi course, on how to use Kajabi to set up your courses and/or membership. 👉 Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! It helps more creative entrepreneurs find the show, and get great guests for you to enjoy!

Have business questions? You're not alone! In this episode, I'm sharing the most essential business tips that will help you streamline, grow, and succeed . Top Business Tips Covered in This Episode: ✅ Solve a problem – The foundation of a successful business starts with identifying and addressing a real need. ✅ Focus on ONE product – Selling multiple things at once can be overwhelming. Start with one strong offer. ✅ Create quality content that captures interest – I'll share strategies on how to create content that truly engages your audience. ✅ Build an email list – Social media is great, but you need to bring your audience off the platform and into your own space. No matter what stage of business you're in, it's always a good idea to pause, evaluate, and ensure you're focusing your time and energy where it makes the biggest impact. Links & Resources Mentioned: 📩 FloDesk – My go-to email marketing platform ! Use code QUILTERSCANDY to save 50% off your first year . 👉 Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review for the Craft to Career Podcast ! Your feedback helps more entrepreneurs like you grow their dream business. Got a business question? Email me at [email protected] —I'd love to hear from you!

If you've ever struggled with saying yes to new opportunities, this episode is for you! Tune in to hear how Christina Lee, of Sweet Potato Quilts, leans into her passions while balancing a busy, fulfilling creative life. 📢 Listen now and get inspired to embrace your own creative journey! Links From This Episode: Sweet Potato Quilts Website - CLICK HERE FloDesk – Try my email marketing platform and save 50% off your first year! Kajabi – Looking for a platform to create and sell courses or a membership? Try Kajabi with my affiliate link here, and I will share my free Kajabi course, on how to use Kajabi to set up your courses and/or membership. 👉 Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! It helps more creative entrepreneurs find the show, and get great guests for you to enjoy!

Ever wondered what it takes to turn a creative passion into a thriving business? In this episode, I chat with Mike from Legit Kits , a Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) company that was recently featured on Shark Tank ! Mike shares his journey—from balancing his day job to scaling his FPP business and landing a spot on national television. He offers invaluable insights into growing a creative business, overcoming challenges, and staying true to your vision. We dive into: ✨ Mike's career outside of quilting and how it influences his business ✨ The evolution of Legit Kits and what's driven its success ✨ Behind-the-scenes of Shark Tank —what the experience was really like ✨ Practical tips for creatives looking to build and expand their own businesses ✨ The mindset shifts that helped Mike push past obstacles and keep growing Mike is real, down-to-earth, and full of motivation for entrepreneurs and makers alike. Whether you're just starting or looking for fresh inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom you won't want to miss! 🎧 Listen now and get inspired to take your creative business to the next level! 🔗 Links & Resources: Legit Kits Website Follow Mike on Instagram Watch the Shark Tank Episode FloDesk - Try my email marketing platform and save 50% off your first year! Kajabi - Looking for a platform to create and sell courses or a membership? Try Kajabi with my affiliate link jere, and I will share my free Kajabi course, on how to use Kajabi to set up your courses and/or membership. 👉 Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! It helps more creative entrepreneurs find the show.

Struggling to keep your goals? In this episode, we'll break down the SMART goal method and share practical tips to help you set and achieve goals that stick. Stop comparing your progress to others and start making small, sustainable changes that lead to big results. Takeaways from this episode: Don't beat yourself up about seasons : There are times in life when goal setting just isn't the right season. If that's where you are, that's okay! Focus on one thing : Choose just ONE goal at a time. Trying to juggle too many can overwhelm you and derail your progress. The SMART Goal Method : We'll break down this proven system that will help you set goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. LINKS: Free SMART Goal Tracker FloDesk - Save 50% off your first year using FloDesk with code QUILTERSCANDY. Kajabi - Access my free course on how to use Kajabi to create your online courses and memberships. Quilters Candy Podcast Website - see all podcast episodes here.

Have you ever thought about becoming a fabric designer? For years, that was a dream of mine, but I just couldn't seem to make it happen. I struggled to learn Adobe Illustrator in a way that made my designs look more polished—like something other than a kindergartner's doodles! 😅 That all changed when I discovered Bonnie Christine's Immersion Course . It was THE course that completely changed the trajectory of my business—for so many reasons. Thanks to this course, I not only became a fabric designer, but I also learned how to use Adobe Illustrator effectively and was introduced to an entirely new way of running my business. I'm thrilled to introduce you to Bonnie Christine , the instructor behind the Immersion Course. She shares the ins and outs of Surface Pattern Design (which, by the way, is so much more than just fabric design!). You'll also hear her expert tips for success and get a sneak peek at her FREE COURSE that's available right now. I'm also offering something super special for those of you who decide to join the Immersion Course through my affiliate link . If you sign up, you'll get a one-on-one coaching call with me , which I don't offer anywhere else. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity! Listen to learn how you can take the first step toward becoming a fabric designer and a successful Surface Pattern Designer. LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE (These are affiliate links): Bonnie's FREE Course on Surface Pattern Design 2025 Immersion Course Enrollment

Do you wonder if it's really possible to earn money as a quilter or creative entrepreneur? You're not alone! I recently came across this question in a Facebook group, and the answers shocked me—most people believed you could make a little money, but not a real income. Well, I'm here to tell you that's simply not true. Not only do I make a great income as a quilter, but so do many others in this industry—an industry, by the way, that's worth over a billion dollars and continues to grow every year! The real question isn't if you can make money, but how you can do it. In this episode, I break down the tangible steps you need to take to turn your creative passion—whether it's quilting, sewing, cooking, or art—into a profitable business. In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✔ Why the idea that "quilters can't make good money" is a myth ✔ Key steps to start (or grow) your creative business ✔ How to shift your mindset and see the real opportunities in front of you If you've ever dreamed of making a full-time income (or even just extra cash) doing what you love, this episode is for you! Resources & Links: FloDesk - Save 50% off FloDesk Email Marketing for your first year with code QUILTERSCANDY. Sign up today and start creating emails that your audience actually wants to read! 👉 Loved this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review—it helps more creatives like you find the show!

Now that you've learned about the thoughts holding you back (part one), you are ready to dive into part two, practical tips that will help you reshape your thoughts, navigate challenges, make tough decisions, and seek clarity on your creative journey. Learn actionable skills to quiet the thoughts that are hurting your success. Tap into what's called your inner sage. If you feel like the words 'inner sage' sound a little woo, I hear you. I felt the same at first. But don't let that keep you from learning more. Think of the inner sage as your conscience. It's another word for your brain, or your mind. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What is the Inner Sage? Understand the concept of the Inner Sage and how it contrasts with the inner saboteurs. (These come from Shirzad Chamine's Positive Intelligence framework). The Five Sage Powers: Explore the 5 powers of your inner sage: 1. Empathize 2. Explore 3. Innovate 4. Navigate 4. Activate. How to Recognize and Connect with Your Inner Sage: Simple techniques and practices to silence self-doubt and strengthen your connection to your Inner Sage. Real-Life Benefits of the Inner Sage: Examples of how connecting with your Inner Sage can lead to better decision-making, creativity, and resilience in life and business. Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Learn how to reframe obstacles and setbacks using the Sage Perspective. Why This Matters for Entrepreneurs and Creatives: Tap into your Inner Sage to unlock greater confidence, focus, and purpose in your career. Replace negative self-talk with empowering thoughts and actions. Create a business and life that aligns with your true values and vision. Actionable Takeaways: A 2-minute practice to quiet your inner saboteurs and tune in to your Inner Sage. Questions to ask yourself to activate the Sage Perspective in challenging situations. How to incorporate Positive Intelligence practices into your daily routine. Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine Craft to Career Podcast archives for more episodes on mindset and entrepreneurship FloDesk - This episode is brought to you by FloDesk. Use the code QUILTERSCANDY and save 50% off your first year of using this email marketing provider.

In this insightful episode, Elizabeth Chappell shares the invaluable lessons she learned from her business coach, Lindsey White. These life-changing concepts, inspired by Shirzad Chamine's Positive Intelligence , reveal how our thoughts can sabotage our success and happiness—and how to regain control. Elizabeth delves into the 10 mental saboteurs that can undermine entrepreneurs and individuals alike, explaining how to: Recognize these saboteurs in your daily life. Reduce their power to create more mental clarity and peace. Harness the Sage mindset to approach challenges with creativity and positivity. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply looking for tools to improve your life, this episode offers practical wisdom and actionable takeaways to help you thrive. Key Topics Covered : What are the 10 saboteurs, and how do they show up in our lives? Why recognizing and naming your saboteurs is the first step to disarming them. The transformative power of building mental fitness and strengthening your inner Sage. Tune in for an empowering conversation and start breaking free from the mental barriers holding you back! Turn your CRAFT into a CAREER! Did you find this podcast helpful? Find more creative business takeaways, tutorials, courses, plus much more below. SHOW NOTES: Take Shirzad's Test: Take the Saboteur Assessment https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Running a business is no easy task, but when you add depression into the mix, it can feel overwhelming. In this episode of the Craft to Career Podcast , I open up about my personal journey as an entrepreneur living with depression. Depression looks different for everyone, and I share what it looks like for me. I discuss why I decided to take medication, my experience trying to go off it, and ultimately why I've chosen to stay on depression and mood-stabilizing medication. Sharing such a personal and sensitive topic wasn't easy, and I questioned whether I should go this deep. But I know there are other business owners who have faced—or are currently facing—similar challenges. You are not alone. Coping with Depression as a Business Owner One of the key takeaways from this episode is that you can run a successful business, even while managing depression. I share practical tips that have helped me structure my business to accommodate those times when I feel low. These strategies include: Outsourcing tasks to lighten the load. Automating processes to keep things running smoothly. Prioritizing self-care , even when it feels like there's no time. By making adjustments to my workflow and mindset, I've found ways to navigate both the demands of entrepreneurship and the challenges of depression. Seeking Support I want to emphasize that I'm not a doctor, and this episode isn't about offering medical advice. Instead, it's a candid account of my personal experience. If you're dealing with depression or mood disorders, I encourage you to seek help from a qualified medical professional. This episode is for anyone who's ever felt the weight of running a business while managing their mental health. My hope is that it helps you feel seen, heard, and supported. Listen to the Episode Tune in to this week's episode of the Craft to Career Podcast for an honest conversation about managing depression while running a business. You are not alone. You can run a business—even with depression. Did this episode resonate with you? Share your thoughts and join the conversation by leaving a comment or review. Let's support each other on this journey of entrepreneurship and mental health. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

In this honest and heartfelt episode, I'm sharing the real reasons I decided to step away from fabric design and what's next for my business. If you've ever dreamt of designing or selling fabric, or if you're just curious about my journey, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at why I made this decision and what I've learned along the way. Key Takeaways: In this episode, I break down the top six reasons I decided to leave the fabric design world: The Art Process – Why fabric design no longer sparked joy for me. The Pay – A candid look at whether fabric design is worth the time and effort. The Marketing Overload – How managing multiple brands stretched me too thin. Artistic Freedom – How designing fabric limited my creativity as a quilt pattern designer. Lifestyle Priorities – Why I chose family and joy over business obligations. Environmental Impact – Wrestling with the realities of contributing to environmental issues. I'll also share what's next for my business and how I'm now focusing on the areas that truly light me up. Why You Should Listen: This episode is for anyone considering fabric design or interested in hearing about how priorities can shift in business. Whether you're dreaming big or just reflecting on your own career, my story shows how it's okay to evolve and make decisions that align with your values. Tune in for an honest, vulnerable conversation that I hope will inspire you to follow your own path and know that your dreams—whatever they may be—are always valid. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy