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Just Because It's Working Doesn't Mean You Have to Keep Doing It with Lisa Congdon
4 november 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
Longtime friend of Windowsill Chats and beloved artist, author, and creative entrepreneur Lisa Congdon is back for another heartfelt conversation. This time, Lisa is sharing a major shift in her creative career: the decision to step away from her thriving retail business and make more room for the thing that started it all—making art. Lees meer
Margo and Lisa explore what it means to let go of something successful when it no longer aligns with the life you want to live. From the emotional weight of closing a chapter and saying goodbye to a team, to questioning the idea that bigger is always better, Lisa offers an real look at the courage it takes to redefine success on your own terms.
They also dive into the joy of returning to daily creative practice, finding inspiration in painting and collage, and embracing new possibilities. Plus, Lisa shares what's on the horizon, including Made to Matter, a new course with Emily McDowell for product-based creatives, and her upcoming book with Bridget Watson Payne, The Art of Finishing Things.
Margo and Lisa discuss:
The bittersweet process of stepping away from a successful creative business
Why growth doesn't always equal fulfillment
Giving yourself permission to pivot, even when things look great on paper
Reconnecting with the joy of making art through daily practice
Creating a business and life that support your well-being
What's next for Lisa, from new artwork and exhibitions to courses and books
Previous Episodes with Lisa:
Episode 100 – July 20, 2022
Episode 186 – What It Really Means to Have Creative Freedom
Episode 241 – January 29, 2025
Lisa's 2021 Gravel Racing Episode
Mentioned in this episode:
The Jaunt – Artist Residency
Egg Press
Cargo Emporium
Connect with Lisa:
Website: lisacongdon.com
Instagram: @lisacongdon
Shop: Lisa Congdon Shop
Made to Matter Course: Greater Goods Alliance
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The Art of Figuring It Out: Permission to Pivot and Building a Creative Life at Any Age with Jennifer Smelker
28 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 34 min
Margo is joined by Jennifer Smelker, the engineer-turned-artist, product designer, and founder of Tandem For Two. Since 2013, Jen has been creating colorful, travel-inspired artwork and gifts that celebrate the places we love and the moments that make life special. But her creative journey has been anything but linear. Lees meer
From environmental engineering and graphic design to manufacturing, wholesale, and art licensing, Jen shares the twists, turns, and lessons that have shaped her evolving career. She and Margo explore what it means to embrace your identity as an artist, let go of perfectionism, and find the courage to try something new, even when you don't know exactly where it will lead.
They also dig into the realities of running a creative business, from scaling production and navigating industry changes to pitching artwork, building relationships, and discovering the power of community. Jen shares how a painting retreat in Portugal helped transform her creative practice, why she believes in sharing knowledge rather than gatekeeping it, and how curiosity continues to fuel her next chapter.
In this episode, we explore:
Finding your creative identity and overcoming perfectionism and imposter syndrome
The unexpected path from engineering to art and entrepreneurship
How community, mentorship, and creative challenges can spark meaningful growth
The behind-the-scenes realities of manufacturing, wholesale, and art licensing
Why persistence, thoughtful product presentations, and relationships matter when pitching your work
Embracing new technology, lifelong learning, and the freedom to reinvent yourself
Giving yourself permission to experiment, make imperfect art, and follow your curiosity
Mentioned in this episode:
Faire Wholesale Marketplace: faire.com
Adobe MAX (Miami, November): max.adobe.com
Atlanta Market: americasmart.com
The 100-day painting project: the100dayproject.org
Connect with Jennifer:
Website: https://tandemfortwo.com
Instagram: https://i…
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Creative Current Events: Dogs, Designer Bags & Digital Detoxes with Abby Campbell
21 oktober 2026 · 38 min
Abby is back on the Windowsill for another round of Creative Current Events! This week, she and Margo are diving into the latest headlines making waves in art, design, branding, and retail—and, as always, there's plenty to unpack. Lees meer
From collectible handbags blurring the line between fashion and art to luxury brands rolling out the red carpet for our four-legged friends, the creative world is full of surprises. They explore Polaroid's cheeky campaign encouraging us to put down our screens, the return of Bed Bath & Beyond in an unexpected form, and why Hermès is doubling down on hand-drawn illustration in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Margo and Abby discuss:
The intersection of art, fashion, and collectible handbags
Polaroid's clever push for analog experiences in a digitally saturated world
Why luxury brands are increasingly catering to dogs (and their devoted humans!)
Kirkland's transformation into Bed Bath & Beyond Seasonal Living and what it says about retail reinvention
Hermès' embrace of hand-drawn illustration and the growing value of human creativity in the age of AI
The bigger cultural shifts shaping what we buy, how we create, and what we value
Articles:
Polaroid's Analog Summer Campaign Pushes Against Digital Overload — PetaPixel
Dogs Became Luxury's Fastest Growing Customer — Art of the Brand
Kirkland's Stores to Become Bed Bath & Beyond Seasonal Living — NBC Chicago
Hermès Goes All-In on Illustration in the Age of AI — Highsnobiety
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What's Done Is Done, Or Is It?: Family Secrets, Bread Baking, and a Life in Books, with Jane Ward
14 oktober 2026 · 55 min
This week on Windowsill Chats, Margo is joined by novelist Jane Ward, author of four books, including her latest, Should Have Told You Sooner. With a lifelong love of storytelling, cooking, baking, and art, Jane has built a creative life rooted in curiosity, observation, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. Lees meer
Jane began writing her first novel, Hunger, nearly thirty years ago while living in Iceland with her Navy husband, finding space for storytelling during the long, dark winters. Since then, she's continued exploring the complexities of human relationships through fiction, often weaving together themes of family secrets, forgiveness, regret, and the things we leave unsaid. Her latest novel was inspired by something as simple as a lawn sign spotted during an early morning dog walk.
Margo and Jane discuss:
The meaning behind the question on Jane's website, "What's done is done. Or is it?" and why the past has a way of resurfacing
Writing about family secrets, forgiveness, and the complicated relationships that make us human
How Jane develops fictional characters who begin to feel like real people
Finding inspiration in unexpected places, including the lawn sign that sparked her latest novel
The creative freedom found in bread baking, photography, travel, and other everyday pursuits
Her upcoming sequel and its exploration of motherhood in all its complicated forms
The importance of making space for creativity outside of your primary artistic practice
Jane's plans for a Gothic novel set in Switzerland, inspired by her childhood love of Daphne du Maurier
Connect with Jane Ward:
Website: janeaward.com
Instagram: @authorjaneward
Threads: @authorjaneward
Facebook: @janealessandriniward
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Stop Being a Good Girl: Maps, Reinvention, and the Case for Texture, with Tania Willis
7 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 10 min
What does it look like to build a creative career that keeps evolving, without losing the curiosity that got you started? Lees meer
This week, Margo is joined by illustrator, designer, cartographer, educator, and all-around creative powerhouse Tania Willis. With a career spanning editorial illustration, advertising, pictorial maps, heritage interpretation, products, licensing, and education, Tania has spent decades finding new ways to make a living from her creativity. She's also the co-founder of The Good Ship Illustration, where she helps illustrators navigate the business side of a creative career.
Tania and Margo talk about the power of creative community, adapting as the industry changes, and why even established artists sometimes need to reinvent their work. They also explore the value of diversifying your income, following your genuine interests instead of trends, and creating supportive spaces where artists can learn without fear or shame.
Margo and Tania discuss:
Why collaboration and community can accelerate creative growth
Adapting your business as social media and the illustration industry change
Teaching, mentoring, and sharing what you've learned along the way
Reinventing your style when your work starts to feel too predictable
Following curiosity instead of what you think you "should" be making
Building a resilient career through freelance work, teaching, products, and licensing
Why relationships and unexpected opportunities often shape a creative career
The enduring value of handmade, imperfect, distinctly human work
Creating safe, encouraging spaces for artists to experiment and learn
Why sometimes you just have to fly your freak flag
Connect with Tania:
www.taniawillis.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/tania.willis
The Good Ship Illustration: www.thegoodshipillustration.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thegoodshipillustration -
How Making Art Can Become a Way of Life with Abby Jacobs (Replay)
30 september 2026 · 33 min
This week, we're revisiting a favorite conversation from the Windowsill Chats archives with artist and surface designer Abby Jacobs. Lees meer
As far back as she can remember, making art has been Abby's favorite thing to do—and some of the happiest times in her life have been when she's had a consistent creative routine. Her belief in art-making as a way of life led her to pursue a master's degree in transpersonal counseling and art therapy from Naropa University in Boulder after studying art and psychology/human services as an undergraduate.
Whenever something doesn't feel quite right in her life, Abby asks herself, "Am I making artwork daily?" If the answer is no, she usually knows where to start.
Margo and Abby discuss:
Why pattern clashing isn't necessarily a bad thing
Abby's art therapy background and how it influences her creative practice
The importance of working with clients who feel aligned
Having a creative outlet beyond paid work
Navigating client expectations and people-pleasing
Creating work that feels authentic to you
What Abby learned from completing a 100-day project
And much more!
Connect with Abby:
www.abbyjacdesigns.com
Instagram: @abbyjacdesigns -
Full Circle: Reinventing Your Creative Identity Later in Life, with Nosheen Ahmed
23 september 2026 · 1 uur 26 min
Margo is joined by hand-drawn book cover illustrator Nosheen Ahmed for a conversation nearly a decade in the making. Margo first met Nosheen about nine years ago through portfolio reviews, when Nosheen was working as a dentist, raising her children, making art, and trying to find where she fit creatively. After more than 20 years in dentistry, Nosheen has built a career in illustration—bringing together her love of drawing, books, storytelling, and human connection. She and Margo talk about creative reinvention, letting go of the feeling that you're "behind," and realizing that none of the experiences along the way are wasted. They also explore the pressure to find a signature style, how motherhood and dentistry shaped Nosheen as an artist, and why work made by human hands matters in an increasingly AI-driven world. Lees meer
Margo and Nosheen discuss:
Reinventing yourself creatively later in life
Why your past experiences aren't wasted
Finding your voice without forcing a signature style
Creativity as a way of living, not just a career
The importance of empathy and human connection in art
Why hand-drawn work still matters in an AI-driven world
Connect with Nosheen:
Website: nosheendesigns.co.uk
Instagram + LinkedIn: @nosheendesignsWork 1:1 with Margo:
Looking for personalized support in your creative practice or business? Sign up for 1:1 coaching with Margo for focused guidance, clarity, and support tailored to where you are and where you want to go next. https://margotantau.com/coaching-with-margo -
You're Not Alone: Melissa Moore and Michele Matrisciani on the Hidden Costs of Loving Someone the World Hates
16 september 2026 · 1 uur 20 min
Margo is joined by Melissa Moore and Michele Matrisciani, co-authors of Killer in the Family: The Hidden Costs of Loving Someone the World Hates. Lees meer
Melissa grew up in Spokane, Washington, and was sixteen when she learned that her father, Keith Jesperson, had been arrested for murder. He was later convicted as the Happy Face Killer. Melissa went on to become a New York Times bestselling author with her memoir Shattered Silence, a domestic abuse prevention advocate, and an Emmy-nominated investigative correspondent for Crime Watch Daily. She hosts the true crime podcast Life After Happy Face and is the real-life inspiration behind the Paramount+ drama series Happy Face, starring Annaleigh Ashford.
Michele is a New York Times bestselling coauthor, a Pushcart Prize nominee, and an editor with more than twenty years in publishing, with an MFA from Stony Brook University. She spent fifteen years as an acquisitions and developmental editor at houses including Macmillan, Hyperion, and McGraw-Hill Trade before founding Bookchic LLC, and her collaborations span Hachette, Penguin, Hay House, and HarperCollins, most recently including Gypsy-Rose Blanchard's memoir My Time to Stand. She has collaborated with Melissa across four books.
For Killer in the Family, Melissa and Michele spent six years with nine families who share something nobody chooses: someone they loved was responsible for something horrific. The book moves the focus away from the crimes themselves and onto the parents, children, siblings, and spouses left to carry the aftermath.
Margo, Melissa, and Michele discuss:
What it was like for Melissa's story to become public, and the years of shame that came before that
Why so many people reached out to Melissa afterward with the same message: I'm just like you
How they chose which families and relationships belonged in the book
How Michele earned enough trust with nine families to get material this personal
What Michele could see as an outsider that Melissa, so…
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Enough, Not More: Redefining Financial Freedom for Creatives, with Dan Scott
9 september 2026 · 1 uur 14 min
Margo is joined by Dan Scott, co-founder and CEO of Spotlight Advisory Group, musician, lawyer, and longtime advisor to creatives. After decades spent both making art and advising some of the world's wealthiest individuals, Dan came to a powerful realization: having enormous wealth and experiencing financial freedom are not the same thing. Lees meer
Today, Dan helps artists, musicians, actors, entrepreneurs, and other creatives use money as a tool to support their purpose rather than a scoreboard for measuring success. His forthcoming book, The Experience of Financial Freedom, explores what it looks like to build a life around creativity, fulfillment, and a deeply personal definition of "enough."
Margo and Dan discuss:
Why purpose (not money) is the starting point for designing a fulfilling creative life
What working with the ultra-wealthy taught Dan about the difference between wealth and true financial freedom
Defining what "enough" looks like instead of constantly moving the goalposts
Why budgeting can actually be a tool for greater creative freedom
The tension between making meaningful art and navigating industries built to monetize it
Letting go of society's default definitions of success, status, and achievement
Becoming the architect of your own experience through intentional choices
Thinking about legacy as something you create through the way you live—not just what you leave behind
Connect with Dan:
https://www.theexperienceoffinancialfreedom.com/
https://www.spotlightadvisorygroup.com/
https://www.spotlightadvisorygroup.com/blog -
My Creativity Is My Talent: Louie Loops on Turning a Crochet Hook Into Games, Stories, and a Creative Empire
2 september 2026 · 1 uur 24 min
Margo is joined by Louie, better known as Louie's Loops, a self-taught crochet artist, designer, game creator, and founder of Club Crochet. For nearly 20 years, Louie has been turning his love of crochet into an ever-expanding creative world of amigurumi, tutorials, games, characters, and stories—all rooted in curiosity, play, and community. Lees meer
Margo and Louie discuss:
Following curiosity and asking "what if?" as a creative practice.
Turning a self-taught crochet hobby into a career and creative business.
Challenging the idea of crochet as simply a "craft" rather than an art form.
Using play and experimentation to stay inspired and avoid burnout.
Building community through tutorials, storytelling, and shared creativity.
Expanding ideas beyond one medium into games, characters, animation, and more.
Creativity and handmade art in an increasingly digital and AI-driven world.
Bringing 20 years of ideas together through Crochet Goomis and Battle Goomis.
Connect with Louie:
www.TheGoomis.com
www.ClubCrochet.com
www.instagram.com/LouiesLoops
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From Death of an Artist | Petra Mathers and Her Michael
26 augustus 2026 · 41 min
I'm bringing you a preview of the new series of Death of An Artist. In February 2024, celebrated children's book author and illustrator Petra Mathers and her husband, photographer Michael Mathers, mailed letters to dozens of friends and family members to let them know they had died by suicide. Petra and Michael were by all accounts healthy, happy, and in love. Why did they choose to die together? And what did that decision do to the people left to mourn them? Journalists Leon Neyfakh and Alice Gregory set out to interview everyone who got one of Petra and Michael's letters—as one married couple trying to understand another. Through intimate conversations with Petra and Michael's friends and family about their own relationships to aging, grief, death, and the friends they thought they knew, Death of an Artist weaves together a portrait of a community grappling with the Mathers' deaths and the final words they left behind. Done entirely in recordings, Death of an Artist is as much a love story as one about death. Listen to Death of An Artist wherever you get podcasts. And if you want to hear the full story right now, ad-free, you can binge the entire season with a Pushkin+ subscription—sign up on the Death of an Artist show page on Apple Podcasts or at pushkin.fm/plus. Lees meer
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More Than an Heirloom: Daniel Boettcher on Meaning, Memory, and Jewelry Making
26 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
Margo sits down with Daniel Boettcher, founder of The Intrepid Wendell, to explore the intersection of storytelling, craftsmanship, and legacy—and how the most meaningful creative paths are rarely the most straightforward ones. Daniel's journey has taken him through music, law, aspirations of diplomacy, and ultimately, bespoke jewelry design. After a life-changing experience shifted the trajectory of his career, he found his way toward work that allowed him to combine creativity with something he has always been drawn to: people and their stories. Lees meer
Margo and Daniel discuss:
Daniel's unexpected journey from music and law to diplomacy aspirations and, ultimately, bespoke jewelry design.
How a life-changing experience redirected his career.
Why deep listening and personal connection are at the heart of Daniel's design process.
The stories behind a few deeply personal pieces.
The idea of an "instant heirloom" and how jewelry can carry family history, memory, love, and meaning across generations.
Daniel's move from Washington, D.C. to Puerto Rico and how the community and culture of Old San Juan have influenced his creativity.
What happens when a client feels truly seen and understood by the person creating for them.
The charming story behind The Intrepid Wendell
Connect with Daniel:
www.theintrepidwendell.com
www.instagram.com/theintrepidwendell -
When Your Joy Becomes Your Job: Protecting the Magic in a Creative Career with Andrea Campos
19 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 16 min
Margo is joined once again by New York Times bestselling illustrator, artist, and now author Andrea Campos, the creative force behind DreasDoodles. Since her first visit to Windowsill Chats, Andrea's creative career has continued to evolve—from a pandemic doodling practice that began simply as a source of joy to collaborations with Target, Jimmy Fallon, and Jennifer Lopez, and now the release of her very first picture book as both author and illustrator, Tis' the Season for Tamales. Lees meer
In this conversation, Andrea and Margo get candid about what happens when something you love becomes your livelihood. Andrea shares the deeply personal process of finally telling a story that is entirely her own, inspired by the beloved Latin tradition of gathering for tamaladas, while also opening up about the vulnerability, imposter syndrome, and pressure that can accompany creative success. Together, they explore how artists can protect the joy that brought them to their work in the first place—even while being asked to wear the hats of artist, marketer, content creator, entrepreneur, and everything in between.
In this episode, Margo and Andrea discuss:
Andrea's evolution from pandemic doodling to becoming a full-time artist, illustrator, and author
What it felt like to move from illustrating other people's stories to writing and illustrating one that is entirely her own
The inspiration behind Tis' the Season for Tamales and sharing the tradition of tamaladas through a bilingual picture book
The reality of imposter syndrome—even alongside major milestones, high-profile collaborations, and public recognition
Accidentally building a creative business and learning to navigate the good, hard, and complicated parts along the way
The pressure on today's artists to also be content creators, marketers, editors, and personal brands
Finding ways to show up and share your work that feel natural to you rather than forcing yourself into someone else's formula
Using joy as a creative com…
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Building the Invisible Infrastructure for a Sustainable Creative Life with Kim Robinson
12 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 25 min
Margo is joined by Kim Robinson, founder of 3pts and a longtime contributor to and advocate for creative communities. With more than 15 years of experience at cultural platforms including The FADER, Complex, Red Bull, and the American Museum of Natural History, Kim has worked alongside artists like Solange, Kendrick Lamar, Spike Lee, Erykah Badu, and Tyler, the Creator. Raised within underground punk, hip-hop, electronic music, and art scenes, Kim eventually founded 3pts to put his experience directly in service of makers and creative entrepreneurs, helping them build sustainable careers on their own terms. Lees meer
Kim and Margo explore what working behind the scenes in music and culture taught him about what artists actually need, why he continues to approach his work as a fan first, and the role community plays in building a sustainable creative life.
Margo and Kim discuss:
How growing up in DIY punk, hip-hop, electronic music, and art scenes shaped Kim's approach to creativity and community
What working with major artists and cultural platforms taught him about the realities of building a creative career
Why Kim leads with a "fan first" mentality and how genuine curiosity has guided his career
Why community is the invisible infrastructure behind so many successful creative careers
Moving beyond the myth of the self-made artist and recognizing the people, resources, and relationships that help us grow
Defining success on your own terms rather than following someone else's blueprint for a creative business
The value of practical support—from sharing opportunities and resources to having someone a few steps ahead show you what's possible
Connect with Kim:
Website: www.3pts.co
Instagram: www.instagram.com/3ptsco
Substack: 3pts.substack.com
A monthly newsletter dedicated to sharing opportunities for makers such as grants, residencies, open calls, markets and more. https://us7.campaign-archive.com/home/?u=eb522373216e8266b4805a156&id=45f83f7c19Connect with Margo:
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The Stories We're Wired to Tell: Abbie Emmons on Creative Instincts, Overcoming Self-Doubt, and the Power of Storytelling
5 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 9 min
Margo is joined by author, creative writing coach, and video creator Abbie Emmons for a conversation about the power of storytelling and why our ability to tell meaningful stories is more instinctive than we might think. Abbie is the author of three novels and YouTube's most-watched creative writing coach, with a community of more than half a million writers worldwide. Margo and Abbie explore storytelling as something fundamentally human, why compelling stories begin with internal conflict, and how we can move beyond rigid rules, perfectionism, and self-doubt to reconnect with our natural creativity. Abbie's nonfiction debut, Make Your Story Matter, releases August 11, 2026. Lees meer
Margo and Abbie discuss:
Why storytelling is fundamentally human and helps us make sense of life
The three pillars of relatable characters: desire, fear, and false belief
Why internal conflict drives compelling stories and meaningful transformation
How rules, expectations, and self-doubt can disconnect us from our natural creative instincts
What neuroscience and creativity research reveal about losing—and rebuilding—creative confidence
Creating from joy and curiosity rather than trends or external validation
Moving through perfectionism, overwhelm, fear, and other creative blocks
How to trust your instincts, reignite your storytelling spark, and create work that matters
Connect with Abbie:
www.youtube.com/abbieemmons
www.abbieemmonsauthor.com
www.makeyourstorymatter.comConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
The Stories We Carry: Three Artists on Collaboration, Legacy, and the Objects That Shape Us
29 juli 2026 · 1 uur 47 min
Margo is joined by Amy Wilderson, Brenda Olson, and Katy St. John—three artists whose distinct creative practices come together in Objects Through Time: Connection, Story, and Legacy, an exhibition exploring memory, heritage, and the unexpected stories hidden within everyday objects. Lees meer
Amy is a multi-media visual artist whose metalsmithing and wirework transform forgotten treasures into meaningful jewelry and sculpture. Brenda is an illustrator, mixed media artist, and founder of Blueberry Road Cards, whose work celebrates storytelling, community, and creative connection. Katy is a Minneapolis-based photographer whose imaginative images blend artistry and narrative to capture what lies beneath the surface.
Together, the three discuss how collaboration across disciplines has challenged, inspired, and transformed each of their creative practices. They share how family heirlooms, found objects, and personal histories became the foundation for this exhibition, why vulnerability is essential to meaningful collaboration, and how art can preserve stories that might otherwise be forgotten.
Margo and Amy, Brenda, and Katy discuss:
How three artists from different creative backgrounds came together to build a shared exhibition.
Why ordinary objects often hold extraordinary stories of family, identity, and legacy.
The role of trust, vulnerability, and honest conversation in successful creative collaboration.
How working across different artistic mediums expanded each artist's perspective.
The balance between honoring the past while creating something entirely new.
Why taking small creative risks often leads to the biggest breakthroughs.
How they hope visitors will reflect on their own treasured objects and personal histories.
The power of art to spark conversation, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the stories we all carry.
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsillConnect with Katy, Brenda…
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Art for Everyone: How Liz Lidgett Combines Her Curiosity, Desire for Accessibility, and Storytelling to Promote Great Art (Replay)
22 juli 2026 · 1 uur 9 min
In this re-aired episode Margo is joined by art advisor, curator, and gallery owner Liz Lidgett. Liz's passion for art allowed her to see that competent art consulting for private companies and corporations was a need that wasn't being filled. With that in mind, she began her art consultation business, Adore Your Walls, in 2013. Since then, her business has grown and she recognized once again that online and national consulting – the type that exists for furniture and interior design – was completely absent for the world of art and has expanded her services, including a gallery space. With her developed expertise, Adore Your Walls has evolved into her new brand: Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design. Within the rebrand, Liz continues to consult, partner with artists and regularly contribute to design publications across the country. She represents 50 unique artists from around the world—with a commitment to always represent at least 50% women and/or BIPOC artists. Although her gallery is located in Des Moines, Iowa, they have an international reach, shipping 80% of the work they sell, and have sold to clients in 45 states and 7 countries. Lees meer
It was important for Liz to create a gallery that operated in a way she felt galleries should operate, where artists were paid fairly and quickly, and where an approachable, non-pretentious experience is created for clients. Her mission is "Art For Everyone." Although they represent some very well-known artists like Hunt Slonem, Liz wants people to know that you don't have to be a millionaire to be an art collector. Liz has gained a huge following on social media by showcasing the art in her gallery, the artists, and fun facts about art.
Margo and Liz discuss:
What led Liz to start her own gallery
The important of creativity and adorning your walls with art
How she has changed the landscape of Des Moines and surrounding cities with murals
Why art collecting can be accessible for anyone, not just millionaires
How to find your persona…
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Curiosity Over Talent: Reigniting Artistic Joy in The Kindest Corner of the Internet with Lisa Bardot
15 juli 2026 · 58 min
Margo is joined by Lisa Bardot, an illustrator, author, and Procreate educator who has spent the past decade helping people discover the joy of drawing digitally. She's the founder of Art Maker's Club, a thriving online membership for Procreate artists, creator of the Making Art Everyday drawing challenge, and the artist behind Bardot Brush, known for its popular Procreate brushes and tutorials. Lisa is making her second appearance on Windowsill Chats, and this time she's digging into what she's learned after years of building online creative communities — and why consistency and connection matter more than raw talent. Lees meer
Margo and Lisa discuss:
What Lisa has learned after years of running Making Art Everyday and Art Maker's Club, two of the most active creative communities in the Procreate space
Why people join Art Maker's Club thinking they're there to learn Procreate — and why they actually stay for the consistency, encouragement, and friendships
Why so many adults stop making art as they get older, and what it takes to reconnect with that creative side of themselves
How small, sustainable creative habits can have a bigger impact than sporadic bursts of inspiration
Why curiosity is often more valuable than talent when it comes to building a lasting creative practice
Reflections on Founder's Month and four years of Art Maker's Club — what's changed, what's stayed the same, and what Lisa's most proud of
Practical encouragement for anyone who's been wanting to try Procreate but doesn't know where to start
A look at what's coming up during Art Maker's Club's Founder's Month celebration, including live tutorials, community events, and creative challenges
Connect with Lisa Bardot:
Art Maker's Club: https://artmakersclub.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/lisabardot
Procreate Brushes: https://bardotbrush.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@BardotBrush
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsi… -
The Continuous Evolution of Creativity: Reese Emry on Growth Over Perfection, Finding Your People, and Never Settling for One Story
8 juli 2026 · 1 uur 9 min
Margo is joined by artist and entrepreneur Reese Emry for a heartfelt conversation about creativity, resilience, and following the unexpected twists of life. From humble beginnings in Spokane, Washington, through adventures in Waco, Round Top, and Austin, Texas, then North Carolina and Connecticut, Reese has woven creativity into every chapter of her life—flipping a "hoarder house," opening an antique shop, building a candle business, and ultimately finding her way to ceramics. Reese shares how she's learned to trust her own timing, embrace imperfection, and let her art evolve slowly and honestly, even when it doesn't fit a tidy narrative. Lees meer
Margo and Reese discuss:
How raising kids in a creatively infused home shapes their resilience, adaptability, and creative spirit
The leap from the Pacific Northwest to Texas, opening (and later closing) a beloved antique shop in Waco to prioritize family
Falling in love with ceramics, building a practice around what sells and what inspires, and living in a camper to keep the dream alive
The courage to pivot, move, and explore without apology—including gap years and creative breaks
Taking a chance on a booth at the Round Top Antique Show and the joy of finally connecting with the right audience
Pushing back against the pressure for fast, algorithm-driven art in favor of slow, intentional creative evolution
The influence of artists like de Kooning and Joan Mitchell, and finding inspiration in local makers and unexpected encounters
Trusting your gut over outside perceptions of what a "clean" creative story should look like
Connect with Reese:
ReeseEmry.com
www.instagram.com/reeseemryConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
Creativity Machine: Building Better Ideas Through Practice, Process, and Play with Scott Dikkers
1 juli 2026 · 1 uur 14 min
Margo is joined by comedy writer, creator, and entrepreneur best known as the founder of The Onion, Scott Dikkers. Scott served as editor-in-chief and co-owner during its first two decades, helping shape one of the most influential satire publications of all time. In this episode, Margo sits down with Scott to explore the surprising mechanics behind creativity and why inspiration isn't something you wait for—it's something you build. Drawing from decades of experience creating successful entertainment, Scott shares practical insights on developing creative habits, embracing constraints, overcoming self-doubt, and creating work that connects with people. Lees meer
Margo and Scott discuss:
Why creativity is less about talent and more about building repeatable systems and habits.
How constraints, deadlines, and structure often produce stronger creative work than unlimited freedom.
The importance of creating lots of ideas instead of waiting for the perfect one to appear.
How humor can become a powerful tool for resilience, connection, and making sense of difficult experiences.
Practical strategies for quieting your inner critic and separating the creative process from the editing process.
Why sharing your work, seeking honest feedback, and surrounding yourself with a creative community are essential ingredients for long-term growth.
His new book, Creativity Machine
Connect with Scott:
https://www.instagram.com/itsscottdikkers/
https://scottdikkers.substack.com/
Creativity Machine: How to Innovate, Brainstorm, and Hatch Great Ideas on CommandConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
The Art of Beginning Again: Lessons in Healing, Growth, and Horses with Jade Chen
24 juni 2026 · 1 uur 9 min
Margo is joined once again by Jade Chen, a healer, guide, and space-holder whose work centers on helping people navigate transformation, uncertainty, and growth. With over a decade of experience in somatic and lineage-based healing practices, Jade helps others reconnect to their inner voice and creative resilience. Living on Hawai'i Island, her work is deeply inspired by the rhythms of nature, the wisdom of ancestry, and the quiet courage it takes to begin again. Lees meer
In this returning conversation, Jade shares the profound changes that have unfolded since her last appearance on the podcast, including her move to the island, her work with a herd of horses at a healing sanctuary, and the unexpected ways life can transform when we learn to trust our intuition.
Margo and Jade discuss:
The concept of the "dreams behind the dreams" and how unexpected opportunities emerge when we follow our intuition
Why beginning again often requires letting go of identities, comforts, and plans that no longer fit
The role of courage in both life-changing decisions and everyday choices
Simple practices for reconnecting with your inner voice through breath, mindfulness, and intention
What living on Hawai'i Island has taught Jade about change, surrender, and transformation
How horses became an unexpected part of her healing work and what they teach about presence, empathy, and connection
Why discomfort is often a necessary part of growth and creating space for what's next
How nature, water, and stillness can help us reconnect with our own wisdom
Connect with Jade:
www.mudlotuslife.com
www.instagram.com/mud.lotus.lifeConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
Stitched in Memory: Symbolism, Color, and the Hidden Stories in Greek Folk Art with Ariadne Kritonos
17 juni 2026 · 1 uur 21 min
Margo is joined by designer and storyteller Ariadne Kritonos, whose work brings centuries-old Greek folk motifs into contemporary life. Drawing inspiration from historic embroideries, textiles, and museum archives, Ariadne shares how studying the creative traditions of the past has shaped her approach to design, color, and inspiration today. Together, they explore the hidden stories embedded in traditional folk art, the value of looking beyond digital culture for creative inspiration, and what we can learn from the women whose stitches carried meaning across generations. Lees meer
Margo and Ariadne discuss:
How Greek folk embroidery became the bridge between Ariadne's love of art, design, and cultural heritage
The hidden symbolism and storytelling woven into traditional textile motifs
Why researching archives, museums, and historic objects offers a different kind of inspiration than online algorithms
The remarkable women behind these textiles and what their work reveals about creativity, community, and everyday life
What traditional embroidery can teach us about imperfection, resourcefulness, and finishing our work
The bold use of color in historic Greek textiles and why modern creatives should be less afraid to experiment
How Ariadne is reimagining centuries-old motifs through contemporary design and wearable art
Why preserving cultural traditions isn't about nostalgia, but about creating meaningful connections between past and present
Connect with Ariadne:
Website: https://ariadnekritonos.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariadnekritonos/
Newsletter: https://ariadnekritonos.com/newsletter-sign-upConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
Coming Home to Tradition: Sashiko, Storytelling, and the Art of Preservation with Atsushi Futatsuya
10 juni 2026 · 1 uur 1 min
Margo is joined by Sashiko artisan, educator, and storyteller Atsushi Futatsuya for a conversation about creativity, cultural heritage, and the stories carried through handmade work. Born into a family deeply rooted in the Japanese tradition of Sashiko, Atsushi shares his journey from resisting the craft he grew up around to becoming one of its most passionate advocates and teachers. Through his work with Sashi.Co, Sashiko Story, and Upcycle Stitches, he helps people understand that Sashiko is far more than a stitching technique—it is a living cultural practice woven together by history, community, and care. Lees meer
Margo and Atsushi explore the role of rhythm, repetition, and mindfulness in creative practice, as well as the challenges of preserving cultural traditions in a rapidly changing world. They discuss the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation, the responsibility that comes with sharing inherited knowledge, and why stories matter just as much as skills.
Margo and Atsushi discuss:
What Sashiko is and the cultural history behind the traditional Japanese stitching practice
Growing up in a Sashiko family and why Atsushi initially resisted the craft
How the 2011 earthquake in Japan became a turning point in his relationship with his heritage
The importance of sharing cultural traditions so they can continue to evolve and survive
Why rhythm, repetition, and handwork can become powerful forms of mindfulness
The distinction between visible mending and the deeper cultural context of Sashiko
Navigating conversations around cultural appreciation, appropriation, and acknowledgment
The stories, values, and human connections woven into every stitch
How creativity helps us connect with history, identity, and community
Why letting go of control is often an essential part of both stitching and life
Connect with Atsushi:
Website: https://sashikostory.com
Instagram: @sashikostory
Instagram: @upcyclestitchesConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.co… -
The Case for Curiosity: Creativity, Awe, and Lifelong Learning with Lauren Henkin
3 juni 2026 · 1 uur 21 min
Margo is joined by Lauren Henkin, founder of The Humane Space, a mindfulness and lifelong learning app designed to boost wellbeing and reduce stress by sparking curiosity, wonder, and awe. In this conversation, Lauren shares her journey from architecture and fine art photography to tech founder, and how following her own curiosity led her to create a platform built on the belief that wonder, awe, and lifelong learning are just as essential to our wellbeing as physical health. Lees meer
Together, they explore the role curiosity plays in creativity, personal growth, and human connection. They discuss how our environments shape the way we think, why many modern systems discourage curious thinking, and what we lose when we outsource our voices and ideas to technology. Lauren also shares the values that guide The Humane Space, including intellectual integrity, collaborative creativity, and a commitment to creating content made by humans, for humans.
Margo and Lauren discuss:
Lauren's unconventional path from architecture and photography to founding The Humane Space
Why curiosity is a lifelong practice that supports wellbeing, creativity, and resilience
How physical and digital spaces can be designed to inspire wonder and exploration
The mission behind The Humane Space and its alternative approach to social media and technology
The role of intellectual integrity, collaboration, and human-made creativity in an AI-driven world
Practical ways to cultivate more awe, wonder, and curiosity in everyday life
Connect with Lauren
The Humane Space App: https://www.thehumane.space/
Lauren Henkin: https://www.instagram.com/laurenhenkin/
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
Creative Current Events: Beige Backlash, Unique Marketing Trends & The Most Valuable Place a Brand Can Be Right Now
27 mei 2026 · 53 min
Margo is joined by Abby for another edition of Creative Current Events—the series where they unpack the stories, launches, trends, and internet conversations shaping the creative world right now. This episode covers everything from the rise (and critique) of the "beige epidemic" in interiors to unexpected retail collaborations, bold beauty marketing, shifting brand landscapes, and artists doing interesting work outside the algorithm. Along the way, they discuss what these moments reveal about creativity, originality, accessibility, and where culture seems to be headed next. Lees meer
Mentioned in this episode:
The Beige Epidemic – House Beautiful
https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a71336893/the-next-issue-beige-epidemic/Colorful interiors and inspiration – The House That Lars Built
https://thehousethatlarsbuilt.com/Jonathan Adler collection at Michaels
https://www.michaels.com/shop/jonathan-adlerReview video of the Jonathan Adler collection
https://www.instagram.com/reels/DXkZqF7kvtv/GIMP's redesign: Photoshop familiarity without the subscription
https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/open-source-gimp-reskin-gives-it-a-familiar-photoshop-look-without-the-hefty-fee/Explore GIMP
https://www.gimp.org/Create! Magazine – Call for Art Submissions
https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-artGarden & Gun Magazine
https://gardenandgun.com/Cover artist feature – Brian Steely
https://www.instagram.com/p/DYe7ldUx2YO/The Bitter Southerner
https://bittersoutherner.com/The Ordinary's skewered beauty marketing approach
https://www.creativereview.co.uk/the-ordinary-markup-marche-pop-up-supermarket-uncommon/"The Most Valuable Place a Brand Can Be Right Now Isn't Online"
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWZzckqEYuM/Shein acquires Everlane discussion
https://www.instagram.com/p/DYfcq7Ik49Y/The "tone deaf" commencement speech conversation
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYNfbyEP82q/Wylie Welling × Carhart
https://wyliewelling.com/blogs/journalArtist & list…
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Beyond Beautiful Spaces: Turning Creative Passion Into a Meaningful Career with Rebecca Ward
20 mei 2026 · 1 uur
Margo is joined by interior designer, mentor, and entrepreneur Rebecca Ward for a conversation about creativity, career pivots, and the impact our homes have on daily life. As the CEO and Principal Designer of Rebecca Ward Design, Rebecca has spent more than 20 years creating contemporary spaces that help families live beautifully and function intentionally. She shares how her love for interiors started in childhood and eventually evolved into a thriving design career and mentorship platform. Margo and Rebecca explore the many paths into interior design, including second-career transitions and turning creative passions into sustainable businesses. They also discuss the psychology behind our environments, the realities of running a design business, and why mentorship and boundaries matter so much for creatives. It's an honest and inspiring conversation about building a creative career that supports both artistry and real life. Lees meer
Margo and Rebecca discuss:
Rebecca's early creative influences and path into interior design
Why interior design is often a second or third career for creatives
The emotional and psychological impact of our homes
How thoughtful design improves everyday life and wellbeing
The realities of running a successful interior design business
Setting boundaries and managing client expectations
The value of mentorship for aspiring designers
Encouragement for creatives considering a career pivot or side hustle
Connect with Rebecca:
Website: Rebecca Ward Design
Mentorship & Bootcamp: My Design Mentor
Instagram: @rwarddesign
Podcast: Design Curious Podcast
Connect with Margo:
https://www.windowsillchats.comhttps://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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The Magic of Letting Go: Motherhood, Illustration, and Redefining the "Successful Artist" with Natalie Lundeen
13 mei 2026 · 1 uur 12 min
Margo is joined by illustrator and children's book artist Natalie Lundeen for a candid conversation about creativity, motherhood, burnout, and redefining what it means to be a "successful" artist. Based in Clearwater, Florida, Natalie specializes in children's books, greeting cards, and licensed artwork, with illustrations spanning indie publishing, Etsy products, and now traditional publishing through Flamingo Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Her newest books, Dear Mom and Dear Dad, were released this spring. Lees meer
Natalie shares the winding path that led her from fine art and gallery work into illustration, how becoming a mother completely reshaped her creative process, and the surprising timing of landing a two-book publishing deal just days after deciding to step away from illustration professionally. Margo and Natalie explore the freedom that can come from releasing pressure, the realities of balancing creative work with financial stability, and why having a part-time job outside the art world doesn't make someone any less of an artist. It's an honest and refreshing conversation about building a creative life that actually supports your wellbeing—not just your résumé.
Margo and Natalie discuss:
Natalie's transition from oil painting and gallery work into children's book illustration
How motherhood reshaped both her artistic style and creative priorities
Building early illustration opportunities through Etsy, Instagram, and indie authors
The realities of self-publishing projects, client boundaries, and revision expectations
Landing a traditional publishing deal after deciding to step away from illustration full time
Why returning to part-time cleaning work helped her enjoy art again
Redefining success outside of the "full-time artist" narrative
The importance of flexibility, creative friendships, and sustainable creative cycles
How personal projects and experimentation can open unexpected doors
Why artists shouldn't feel shame around taking outs…
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Embracing the Messy Middle: The Twisty, Turny Path to a Creative Life with Nicki Traikos
6 mei 2026 · 1 uur 21 min
Margo is joined by artist, author, and educator Nicki Traikos for a conversation on creativity, perfectionism, and building a life rooted in art. Known for her approachable watercolor teaching style and the global community she's built through life i design, Nicki shares the winding journey that took her from a corporate career and makeup artistry into the world of watercolor, online education, and publishing. Lees meer
Margo and Nicki explore the realities of creative growth—the messy middle, the pivots, the comparison traps, and the courage it takes to keep showing up for your art. Nicki opens up about balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, the pressure artists face in the age of social media, and why embracing imperfection is often where the real breakthroughs happen. They also discuss her newest book, Watercolor Made Simple Workbook, and how approachable creativity can transform not only artistic confidence, but overall wellbeing.
Margo and Nicki discuss:
Nicki's unexpected path from corporate work and makeup artistry to becoming a full-time artist and educator
The importance of embracing a "twisty, turny" creative journey instead of chasing overnight success
How comparison and curated social media can hold artists back from starting
Why messy sketchbooks and imperfect practice are essential to creative growth
Letting go of perfectionism and learning to enjoy the tactile experience of making art
The evolution from artist to teacher and building an online creative community during COVID
The pressure to "find your style" and why multi-passionate creativity deserves space
Practical ways to restart a creative practice and make art feel approachable again
Connect with Nicki:
Website: https://www.lifeidesign.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeidesign
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeidesign
Substack: https://lifeidesign.substack.comConnect with Margo:
https://www.windowsillchats.comhttps://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
https://www.patre…
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Rhinestones, Reinvention & the Art of Embracing Your Multi-Passionate Mind with Kim Bloomberg of Studio Art Beat (Replay)
29 april 2026 · 1 uur 7 min
In this replay episode, Margo is joined by multi-passionate creative Kim Bloomberg, the joyful force behind Studio Art Beat. A fine artist, educator, and self-proclaimed art supply nerd, Kim brings a refreshing perspective to the creative journey—one that's less about staying in your lane and more about following curiosity wherever it leads. With a background in both fine art and education, over two decades of teaching experience, and years running her own jewelry business, Kim shares how she ultimately found fulfillment by embracing her ADHD-fueled love for switching mediums and diving headfirst into new materials. Lees meer
After leaving behind the New York hustle for the artistic charm of Chicago's North Shore, Kim launched Studio Art Beat as an inclusive space to demystify art and make creativity accessible to all ages. She now leads workshops, partners with brands like Gelli Arts, and teaches online courses—including one that brings rhinestone bedazzling to the masses. Through her story, Kim reminds us that freedom, play, and experimentation are not distractions—they're the path.
Margo and Kim discuss:
Growing up in an art-loving family and the creative influence of her parents and grandfather.
Letting go of a long-term jewelry business and the guilt that came with that decision.
How embracing her neurodivergent brain led to business clarity and personal joy.
Turning her natural desire to switch mediums into a strength rather than a struggle.
Building an online art education platform that's welcoming, inclusive, and non-intimidating.
Why sharing her process openly (rather than gatekeeping) has helped her business grow.
Collaborating with brands while maintaining authenticity and community connection.
The value of playful creativity for both kids and adults—and why it's never too late to start.
How she's made rhinestones cool again with her Cricut-powered online course.
The beauty in allowing your creative identity to evolve—and giving others permission to do…
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More Play, Less Perfection: Embracing Experimentation and Finding Your Creative Rhythm with Lisa Solomon
22 april 2026 · 1 uur 4 min
Margo is joined by artist, author, and educator Lisa Solomon to discuss her newest book, Art, Craft, Color—a thoughtfully curated collection of essays, reflections, and creative projects designed to inspire a more playful, hands-on approach to making. Lisa's work explores the intersection of art, craft, and personal history, often blending unexpected materials and techniques to challenge traditional boundaries. Alongside her studio practice, she teaches at the college level and has authored several books on color and creativity. Lees meer
In this conversation, Lisa offers a behind-the-scenes look at her process while reflecting on experimentation, perfectionism, and the power of community.
Margo and Lisa discuss:
The origin story behind Art, Craft, Color and how the project came to life
The collaborative process of curating artists, materials, and color palettes
Blurring the lines between art and craft, and why that distinction matters less than we think
Embracing experimentation and stepping outside your creative comfort zone
Letting go of perfectionism and focusing on process over outcome
The impact of social media on creativity—both the inspiration and the pressure
Why working with your hands is more important than ever in today's world
Building community and connection through shared creative practices
Connect with Lisa:
Website: www.lisasolomon.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lisasolomonConnect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill -
Paint Brushes to Balance Sheets: Financial Literacy, Tax Knowledge and How to Break the Starving Artist Stereotype With Hannah Cole (Replay)
15 april 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
In this replay episode, Margo is joined by tax expert Hannah Cole who specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she's helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements from Florida to Alaska, and on the Sunlight podcast. She is the founder of Sunlight Tax. As artists carve their paths through various industries, they encounter a myriad of challenges, yet financial literacy is rarely addressed, leading to feelings of failure and shame. Today's conversation with Hannah sheds light on this systemic failure and turns it into a journey of empowerment and self-compassion (something all creatives should have)! Lees meer
Margo and Hannah discuss:
The responsibilities that come with being a small business owner in the US
Navigating self-employment taxes and optimizing deductions
Personal struggles that Hannah faced within her own creative career and financial literacy
What propelled her towards accounting education
How she acts as a translator between the creative and tax worlds
Simple advice artists can implement today when it comes to money management
Her Money Bootcamp program and podcast
How to save more money
And more!
Connect with Hannah:
www.instagram.com/sunlighttax
www.sunlighttax.com
www.sunlighttax.com/podcast
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
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Three Good Things: A Practice in Perspective, Hope, and Everyday Joy with Emily Gaines Demsky
8 april 2026 · 1 uur 11 min
Margo sits down with artist, writer, and creator Emily Gaines Demsky for a conversation centered on creativity, perspective, and the quiet power of noticing what's good. Emily makes vibrant floral paintings (symbols of hope and possibility), and is the founder of Tell Me 3 Good Things, a Substack community practice centered on noticing, naming, and sharing simple moments of goodness each day. Through her work, she invites others to shift their perspective in meaningful, life-giving ways. Lees meer
Emily's approach blends art, writing, and daily ritual into a powerful reminder: even in difficult seasons, we have the ability to choose where we place our attention. From her father's lasting influence to the organic growth of her community, this conversation explores how small, intentional practices can create profound change.
Margo and Emily discuss:
How perspective is a daily choice—and how it shapes both creativity and resilience
The origin and impact of the "Tell Me 3 Good Things" practice
The role of grief, joy, and life transitions in shaping creative work
How authenticity fosters deep, meaningful community
The symbolism of flowers as hope, possibility, and light
Toxic positivity versus building resilience
How noticing and naming goodness can shift the way we experience our lives
Connect with Emily:
Website: www.emilygainesdemsky.com
Tell Me 3 Good Things on Substack: emilygainesdemsky.substack.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/emilygainesdemsky
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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What's the Best That Could Happen? Madison Phipps on Building an Art Business in the Margins
1 april 2026 · 52 min
Margo is joined by artist and illustrator Madison Phipps, the creative force behind Madison Phipps Studio. Known for her feminine, timeless botanical artwork rooted in nostalgia and storytelling, Madison shares how she's built a growing art business while balancing motherhood and a full-time job. From painting in the quiet margins of her day to landing dream collaborations and launching collections, this conversation is a refreshing and honest look at what it really takes to pursue creativity in the "messy middle." Lees meer
Margo and Madison explore the mindset shifts, practical strategies, and courageous decisions that helped her turn a personal creative practice into a thriving business, without waiting until everything felt "ready."
Margo and Madison discuss:
Using the question "what's the best that could happen?" as a roadmap for growth and decision-making
How sharing her journey on TikTok helped her grow a community and gain visibility
Pitching yourself before you feel ready—and how cold outreach led to major opportunities
The inspiration behind her nostalgic, botanical artwork rooted in childhood memories
Launching and sustaining a snail mail print club as a recurring revenue stream
Lessons from collaborations, including her botanical collection with Paloma & Co
Balancing ambition, creativity, and family life without burning out
Connect with Madison
Madison Phipps Studio: https://www.madisonphippsstudio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madison.phipps.studio/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madisonphippsstudio
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Creative Current Events: The Future of Licensing & the Reinvention of Retail
25 maart 2026 · 55 min
Margo is joined once again by Abby Campbell for a Creative Current Events catch-up episode, and this one is packed. After a short hiatus, the two dive right back into the ever-evolving world of art, design, and creative business—starting with Margo's firsthand experience exhibiting at the Birmingham Spring Fair's new Licensing Lab. She shares what stood out, from booth design trends to the shifting landscape of licensing and wholesale in a post-SurTex world, offering a behind-the-scenes look at where the industry is heading. Lees meer
From there, Margo and Abby broaden the conversation into a curated mix of resources, trends, and cultural observations shaping creative work right now. They explore everything from artist-friendly AI tools and art competitions to trend forecasting, retail evolution, and immersive brand experiences.
Mentioned in this episode:
https://www.entrythingy.com/blog/best-art-calls-2026
https://business.pinterest.com/pinterest-predicts/
https://www.fastcompany.com/91504420/claude-can-turn-your-handwriting-into-a-font https://www.powderartfoundation.org/
http://southernliving.com/michaels-fresh-flowers-11920325
https://www.retaildive.com/news/aritzia-acquires-fred-segal/812686/ -
Draw Your World: Samantha Dion Baker on Sketchbook Diaries, Everyday Inspiration, and Letting Go of Perfection
18 maart 2026 · 1 uur 11 min
Margo is joined by artist, author, and teacher Sam Dion Baker for a conversation about creativity, sketchbook practice, and finding meaning in the everyday. Originally from Philadelphia and now based in Brooklyn, Sam spent over two decades as a graphic designer before returning to drawing in her forties—ultimately building a deeply personal and widely loved sketchbook diary practice. Through her books, teaching, and artwork, Sam encourages others to slow down, observe their lives, and express themselves in their own unique way. Lees meer
Margo and Sam discuss:
How a lifelong exposure to art shaped her creative path (and why it didn't follow a straight line)
The transition from graphic design to a personal, sketchbook-based art practice
Why sketchbooks can act as a form of therapy, reflection, and emotional processing
Finding beauty and inspiration in everyday moments, not just big adventures
Letting go of perfection and embracing messiness as part of the creative process
Simple exercises to loosen up creatively (like continuous line drawing and using your non-dominant hand)
How to develop your own unique creative voice through observation and consistency
Sam's books and upcoming projects, including her new coloring book Color Your World
Connect with Sam:
Website: www.sdionbaker.com
Substack: www.samanthadionbaker.substack.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sdionbakerdesignConnect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Following a Good Idea: Salli Swindell on Illustration, Creative Community, and Finding Joy Beyond Client Work
11 maart 2026 · 1 uur 14 min
Margo is joined by illustrator, creative community builder, and industry champion Salli Swindell, who has spent nearly five decades in the illustration world. Salli began her career at American Greetings before co-founding several beloved platforms with her brother Nate Padavick—including They Draw, The Illustrator's Circle, and Illustrators For Hire—all dedicated to celebrating and promoting illustrators around the globe. Margo and Salli explore Salli's creative evolution, from decades of client-driven illustration work to embracing a more personal, self-directed creative practice. Lees meer
Margo and Salli discuss:
The power of starting small and following curiosity instead of waiting for a master plan
How Salli and her brother Nate built global platforms from the ground up
Why partnerships with people who have different strengths can open unexpected doors
Salli's shift from decades of client-driven illustration work to developing a personal creative practice
The origin story of Snack + Sketch, a gathering that blends creativity, food, and meaningful connection
Why community, creativity, and shared meals can be powerful pillars of wellness
How simple gatherings around your kitchen table can spark inspiration and lasting creative friendships
Connect with Salli:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sallistyle/
Website: https://freshfoodillustration.cargo.site
Illustrators For Hire: https://illustratorsforhire.com
The Illustrator's Circle: https://www.illustratorscircle.com
They Draw: https://www.they-draw.com
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Get Paid to Draw: Mike Lowery on Building a Portfolio That Gets You Hired
4 maart 2026 · 1 uur 29 min
Margo is joined once again by celebrated illustrator, author, and educator Mike Lowery for a lively conversation about the realities of building a creative career. Mike is the New York Times bestselling illustrator of more than 80 books for children and he's spent decades navigating the ups and downs of freelance illustration and publishing. Lees meer
In this episode, Margo and Mike pick up where their first conversation left off—diving into the lessons Mike has learned over twenty years as a working illustrator, what it actually takes to build a portfolio that attracts clients, and why being "good at drawing" isn't always the same as being hireable. They also talk about Mike's new course, Get Paid to Draw, designed to help illustrators create strategic portfolios, understand what art directors are really looking for, and turn their creative skills into real opportunities.
Margo and Mike discuss:
What Mike's younger self would think of his career today
The behind-the-scenes work of running a creative business
Why a strong portfolio matters more than raw talent when it comes to getting hired
Portfolio tips to help art directors understand how your work fits their needs
The difference between creating art for yourself versus creating work that attracts clients
The power of community in a freelance creative career
Mike's Get Paid to Draw course and how it helps artists build portfolios that actually lead to work
The upcoming Portfolio Challenge starting March 11 and how creatives can participate
Connect with Mike:
Join the Illustration Portfolio Challenge: https://bit.ly/illoportfoliochallengeWebsite: https://www.mikelowery.com/
Course: https://www.gettingpaidtodraw.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelowerystudio/
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Creativity's Edge: Skill Over Talent & the Case for Creating Before You Consume with Susan Riley
25 februari 2026 · 1 uur 14 min
Margo Tantau is joined by educator, researcher, and national leader in creativity, arts integration, and STEAM education, Susan Riley. As the founder of the Institute for Arts Integration and STEAM and author of Creativity's Edge, Susan brings a refreshing, deeply human perspective on creativity — not as an artistic gift or innovation buzzword, but as a decision-making skill essential for navigating uncertainty, complexity, and an increasingly AI-influenced world. Lees meer
Susan shares her journey from growing up as a self-described "farm girl" in Pennsylvania to becoming a pioneer in arts integration. She reflects on the early creative influences that shaped her, the role of music in her life, and the challenges of forging a nontraditional career path.
Margo and Susan discuss:
Why creativity is a cognitive skill rather than a personality trait or talent
How uncertainty and complexity actually activate creative thinking
The hidden cost of optimization, efficiency, and "best practices"
What "Create Before You Consume" looks like in everyday life
How curiosity becomes a uniquely human advantage in the age of AI
The connection between creativity, judgment, and human agency
Susan's path from educator to national thought leader
Connect with Susan:
susanmriley.comConnect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Credibility, Point of View & Relevance: Gloria Chou's No-Gatekeeper PR Approach
18 februari 2026 · 45 min
Margo is joined by award-winning PR strategist, community builder, and host of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou. Known for disrupting traditional PR by helping creatives, founders, and small business owners land top-tier media using AI tools instead of big budgets or insider connections. In this episode, Gloria joins Margo to unpack how PR now fuels AI search visibility, why press and podcasts act as modern trust signals, and how artists, makers, and small brands can use accessible tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity to pitch with clarity, credibility, and relevance. Lees meer
Margo and Gloria discuss:
Why visibility—not talent—is often the biggest hurdle for creatives
Reframing PR as relevance-driven storytelling (not self-promotion)
Gloria's CPR Method: Credibility, Point of View, Relevance
How cold pitching works—even without contacts or PR experience
Using AI tools to research angles and draft pitches in minutes
Press & podcasts as critical trust signals in AI-driven search
The shift from traditional SEO to AI shopping and discovery
Mindset shifts to overcome imposter syndrome and "not newsworthy" thinking
Connect with Gloria:
Website: www.gloriachoupr.com
Instagram: @gloriachoupr
YouTube: @smallbusinesspr
LinkedIn: in/gloriaychou
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Creative Paths Without a Blueprint: Building Art Programs, Practices, and Possibility with Ashley Lohr
11 februari 2026 · 1 uur 24 min
Margo is joined by Ashley Lohr, an artist, educator, and community builder based in Petersburg, Alaska—a small fishing island town where she has taught art for nearly two decades. Working across painting and enamel jewelry, Ashley has built a creative life rooted in place, curiosity, and long-term commitment. From sustaining robust school art programs to teaching workshops far beyond the classroom, her path is a testament to what can unfold when artists design lives that support both their work and their values. Lees meer
Ashley shares how moving to Alaska at 23 shaped her identity as both a teacher and artist, how she continues to grow her own practice alongside full-time teaching, and what she learned from intentionally stepping away during a self-created sabbatical.
In this conversation, we discuss:
Moving to Petersburg, Alaska for a teaching job—and how place can deeply shape creative alignment
Teaching art in ways that feel authentic, expansive, and student-centered
How Ashley builds, sustains, and evolves art programs within a school setting
Maintaining a personal art practice alongside full-time teaching and family life
Taking a self-designed sabbatical and what it revealed about community, creativity, and pace
Teaching outside the classroom: workshops, travel, and non-gallery ways to share work
Finding and proposing workshop opportunities—locally and farther afield
Trusting a slow, steady creative path and allowing your work to change over time
Connect with Ashley:
Website: https://ashleylohrart.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/ashleylohrart
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Creating a Career Without Labels: How Jill Labieniec Cultivates Creative Satisfaction in Multiple Mediums
4 februari 2026 · 1 uur 17 min
Margo is joined by Jill Labieniec, an illustrator, designer, and endlessly curious maker living on Vashon Island in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Working primarily with watercolor, Jill's whimsical illustrations and patterns have found homes on everything from fabrics and home goods to books, stationery, and editorial projects. Alongside her illustration practice, she has a deep love for working with her hands—sewing dresses, making shoes, and shaping clay—guided by a belief that art should help people create spaces where they can rest, daydream, and grow. Lees meer
In this episode Jill reflects on her winding creative path—from a homeschooled childhood centered on making, through art school and freelance work, to building a creative career that prioritizes curiosity, balance, and day-to-day happiness over rigid labels or prestige.
In this conversation, we discuss:
Jill's creative beginnings and how family life and early making shaped her career
Moving through art school, freelance work, and product-focused creative paths
What it really means to build a sustainable creative career over time
Letting go of fancy titles and external validation in favor of daily fulfillment
Balancing freelancing, creative freedom, and personal happiness
Jill's thoughtful, intuitive approach to social media and sharing work online
Working both digitally and analog—and the joy of seeing art come to life on physical objects, especially ceramics
Embracing curiosity, trusting the creative process, and tuning out the noise
Connect with Jill:
Website: https://www.jill-labieniec.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jill.labieniec/
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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What 300 Episodes Has Taught Me About Creativity, Confidence, and Staying the Course
28 januari 2026 · 52 min
In this 300th episode of Windowsill Chats, Margo sits down for a special solo conversation—answering thoughtful listener questions that span creativity, confidence, career longevity, leadership, and the magic that keeps artists going. Lees meer
With over two decades of experience in the creative industry, Margo reflects on how her relationship with art has evolved, what she's learned from running The Foundry, and the advice she returns to again and again when mentoring artists.
Margo shares:
How she makes space for her own creativity—and what her personal art practice looks like now
Ways to quiet imposter syndrome and trust decades of lived creative experience
The artistic work she'd most love to take to marketplace and why
Her favorite and most challenging parts of creative work and leadership
How the rise of AI has shifted client interest in traditionally created artwork
The advice she gives artists most often—and what truly matters day to day
Lessons from trade shows, licensing, and running The Foundry
What keeps her going, where she finds creative magic, and why it's never too late to begin
Mentioned in this episode:
Get 50% off your first month of The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/offers/XVKbuygV/checkout
www.homeawaystudio.co
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Aging Out Loud: Caregiving, Creativity, and the Power of Beginning Again with Judith Henry
21 januari 2026 · 1 uur 4 min
Judith Henry joins Margo for a deeply honest and life-affirming conversation about caregiving, creativity, and what can unfold when we stay open to possibility at every age. A writer, artist, and podcaster, Judith shares how caring for her parents in the final chapter of their lives became the unexpected catalyst for an expansive creative journey—one rooted in humor, grit, color, and connection. Lees meer
At 61, Judith wrote The Dutiful Daughter's Guide to Caregiving, a practical and compassionate resource born from lived experience. In her late 60s, she picked up her mother's paintbrushes and fell in love with visual art. And at 71, she launched One Mouthy Dame, a podcast empowering women to embrace aging with honesty, gratitude, and good humor.
Margo and Judith discuss:
How caring for aging parents became a powerful (and unexpected) creative catalyst
The emotional realities of caregiving, including grief, guilt, humor, and deep connection
Writing The Dutiful Daughter's Guide to Caregiving as both memoir and practical support
Using humor as a survival tool during difficult seasons
Transitioning from writing into painting and mixed media later in life
Letting go of judgment and reclaiming creativity at any age
Launching a podcast in her 70s to speak honestly about aging, anxiety, and visibility
Falling in love with Kawandi-style quilting and how stitching, mending, and making can be deeply healing
Connect with Judith:
Book & Writing: https://www.JudithDHenry.com
Creative Work: https://www.JudithHenryCreative.com
Podcast: https://www.JudithHenryCreative.com/One-Mouthy-Dame
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Reframing Creativity as a Necessity: How the Arts Heal, Connect, and Sustain Us with Daisy Fancourt
14 januari 2026 · 1 uur 1 min
Margo is joined by Daisy Fancourt—Professor of Psychobiology & Epidemiology at UCL and a globally recognized leader in understanding how creativity and social connection influence our health. From her early days designing arts programs inside hospitals to directing major WHO initiatives and publishing over 250 papers, Daisy has spent her career documenting the profound, measurable impact of creative engagement on stress, aging, recovery, cognition, and community wellbeing. In a world that often treats the arts as extra or a luxury, Daisy reframes them as essential—showing how even the simplest creative rituals can foster joy, resilience, health and a deeper sense of belonging in our everyday lives. Lees meer
Margo and Daisy discuss:
How Daisy's early work in hospitals revealed the power of creativity as a health tool
What research shows about the arts reducing stress and supporting cognitive resilience
Why we're conditioned to see creativity as a luxury—and how to reframe it as necessity
The role of music, movement, and environment in emotional and physical healing
Innovative approaches like dance for Parkinson's and creative play for children with disabilities
How small, accessible creative habits can improve daily wellbeing
Why talent doesn't matter—process is what delivers the benefits
Mentioned in this episode:
https://sbbresearch.org/Connect with Daisy:
https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/44526-daisy-fancourt
Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Transform Our HealthConnect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Nourishing Creativity: Building a Ritual-Based Creative Practice for the New Year
7 januari 2026 · 21 min
In the first episode of 2026, Margo invites listeners to join her in a conversation about beginning the year with intention—rather than pressure. Inspired by a recent Substack article by writer Suleika Jaouad, Margo reflects on themes of release, gentleness, and honoring the creative process over rigid resolutions and why this approach is so important for creatives. She also shares real responses from the Windowsill Chats community about what they're letting go of this year, from comparison and self-doubt to perfectionism and "shoulds." Margo explores why finite, manageable containers—like daily sketching, journaling, or mindful walks—can create scaffolding for a sustainable and supportive creative life. Lees meer
Mentioned in this episode:
The Isolation Journals (Suleika Jaouad's Substack): https://theisolationjournals.substack.com/
Against resolutions - Suleika Jaouad on ritual, repetition, and the fantasy of starting over: https://post.substack.com/cp/182964621Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Getting Out of the Screen and Into Your Life: A Heartfelt Conversation With Sarah Walsh on Dream Projects, Self-Sabotage, and Creative Ruts Part 2 (Replay)
31 december 2025 · 51 min
Margo is joined by Sarah Walsh for part two of their heartfelt conversation where they discuss finding inspiration, committing time and energy to yourself, slowing down, and Sarah's Domestika class amongst more. Sarah is an illustrator, painter and designer with home goods, children's books, socially conscious based projects, nature and loves tapping into mystical subject matter as the mainstays of her work. She is also the co-proprietor of the illustrative product based brand Tigersheep Friends. She collects books, new and old, plants, adores folk art and also loves cooking, thrifting, listening to records, haunting coffee shops with her sketchbook and spending time with her favorite humans. Lees meer
Connect with Sarah
www.sarahwalshmakesthings.com
https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tigersheepfriends
www.instagram.com/sarahwalshmakesthings
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Getting Out of the Screen and Into Your Life: A Heartfelt Conversation With Sarah Walsh on Dream Projects, Self-Sabotage, and Creative Ruts (Replay)
24 december 2025 · 1 uur 25 min
Margo is joined by Sarah Walsh in this two part conversation where they go in-depth on finding motivation, leaning into intuition, how you can work on your true dream project today, by taking ahold of your time, and your yeses. Sarah is an illustrator, painter and designer with home goods, children's books, socially conscious based projects, nature and loves tapping in to mystical subject matter as the mainstays of her work. She is also the co-proprietor of the illustrative product based brand Tigersheep Friends. She collects books, new and old, plants, adores folk art and also loves cooking, thrifting, listening to records, haunting coffee shops with her sketchbook and spending time with her favorite humans. Lees meer
Margo and Sarah discuss:
Her creative upbringing and the influence her mom and grandma had on her
How having a child at a young age impacted her creative journey
Why creative ruts are actually important to our process and story
Being led intuitively
Having compassion for ourselves and giving grace
How to slow down and learning to say NO
Social media and self sabotage
What defines a dream project to Sarah
Learning what we could accomplish if we treated ourselves like we do our clients
Mentioned in this episode:
I Didn't Do the Thing Today: Letting Go of Productivity Guilt by Madeleine Dore
I Just Like to Make Things: Learn the Secrets to Making Money while Staying Passionate about your Art and Craft by Lilla Rogers
Connect with Sarah
Www.sarahwalshmakesthings.com
https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tigersheepfriends
www.instagram.com/sarahwalshmakesthings
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Taxes for Humans: Hannah Cole on Self-Employment, Creativity, and Money Without Shame
17 december 2025 · 1 uur 6 min
Margo Tantau is joined by artist, tax expert, and founder of Sunlight Tax, Hannah Cole, for a refreshingly human conversation about money, creativity, and her new book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You're Self-Employed. Lees meer
Hannah brings compassion, clarity, and humor to a topic many creatives carry shame, fear, or confusion around—and reframes taxes as something that can actually support creative, mission-driven work rather than stifle it.
Margo and Hannah discuss:
Why creative work is economically vital and plays a real role in shaping culture
How the tax system is designed for humans—not perfection—and includes room for forgiveness
Simple, realistic systems that make taxes easier for self-employed creatives
Tax incentives that actually exist to support artists and independent workers
How money shame shows up for creatives, and why it's completely normal
Why making mistakes with taxes doesn't mean you're "bad at money"
How compassion and clarity can coexist with practical financial systems
Connect with Hannah:
Book + Workbook: https://www.sunlighttax.com/book
Website: https://www.sunlighttax.com
Instagram / YouTube / LinkedIn: @sunlighttax
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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The Pull to Paint: How Juliene Sinclair Built Confidence, Color Skills, and Creative Joy as a Watercolor Artist & Muralist
10 december 2025 · 1 uur
Margo is joined by watercolor landscape artist and muralist Juliene Sinclair, a creative whose passion for color runs as deep as the mountains she paints in. Juliene is dedicated to helping painters finally understand color—why it behaves the way it does, how to mix it with intention, and how mastering it can completely transform artistic confidence. She believes that once you grasp how color truly works, your entire creative world opens up. Juliene lives in the mountains with her husband, son, and two cats, and when she's not painting, she's likely geeking out about color theory or hiking steep trails with bear spray in hand. Lees meer
Together, they explore the emotional and technical layers of color, the courage it takes to follow your creative curiosity, and why making art—imperfect, vibrant, deeply human art—is essential to feeling whole.
Margo & Juliene Discuss:
Juliene's winding path to watercolor and murals, and how she found her creative voice
Why color feels intimidating for so many artists—and how to move from confusion to confidence
The power of intentional mixing and creating palettes that feel authentic to you
How limiting your palette can actually expand creativity and harmony
The emotional side of color—self-doubt, breakthroughs, and trusting the process
Creativity as essential human expression, not just a career path
Painting with her young son, and what kids teach us about fearless creativity
Submit Your Questions for Margo Tantau & Emily McDowell
Connect with Juliene:
Website: www.julienesinclair.com
Instagram: @juliene.sinclair
YouTube: @julienesinclair
Connect with Margo:
Website: www.windowsillchats.com
Instagram: @windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
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Creating Joy on Purpose: Kate Smith on Reinvention, Creative Courage & Making People Smile
3 december 2025 · 1 uur 4 min
Margo is joined by artist and joy-maker Kate Smith, the creative force behind Kate Smith Co.™, a brand dedicated to finding "the happy that's already here" in everyday moments. Kate has built a thriving career in greeting cards and art licensing, working with beloved partners in the U.S. and U.K. to create products that make people smile. From early success with her first brand, From Frank, to a full reimagining of her creative path, Kate's journey is filled with bold decisions, reinvention, and a commitment to following what feels joyful. She also spent seven years living and working full-time in an Airstream, a chapter that deeply shaped her artistic voice and philosophy. Lees meer
Margo and Kate discuss:
Kate's early beginnings—from advertising to accidentally launching a greeting card line that landed in Target within a year
The rise of From Frank, her wildly popular first brand inspired by her French bulldog, and what it taught her about licensing, growth, and creativity
The pivotal decision to sell everything, hit the road in an Airstream, and shift her business fully into licensing
How travel, imperfection, and "found letters" influenced her signature design style and approach to joyful, approachable art
Navigating the fear phases of a creative career and learning to make decisions from hope instead of worry
How she thinks about long-term partnerships in licensing, staying authentic, and evolving her brand without losing its heart
What reinvention looks like now—new art prints, new mediums, and giving herself permission to embrace being an "artist"
Submit Your Questions for Margo Tantau & Emily McDowell
Connect with Kate:
www.katesmithcompany.com
www.instagram.com/katesmithcompany
Connect with Margo:
www.windowsillchats.com
www.instagram.com/windowsillchats
www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry