Art + Audience

In the second half of this rich and wide-ranging conversation, Stacie and Andy unpack the often unseen tension between creative expression and strategic thinking. They dive into what it means to be a “whole-brain” artist, someone who thrives in both creative exploration and structured planning, and why that's not a contradiction but a powerful gift. Andy shares his love for storytelling structure, the metaphor of crockpots for creative timing, and the concept of having a “main band” and a “side band” to stay creatively flexible. Meanwhile, Stacie gets real about balancing artistry with business, why structure doesn’t mean selling out, and how teaching became the career she never expected to love. Today on Art + Audience: Whole-brain creativity: Stacie and Andy discuss flipping between business strategy and artistic flow. Plotters vs. pantsers: The balance between creating from intuition vs. structure, and how both are essential for long-term success. Redefining authenticity: Why resistance to structure is often just fear in disguise. Crockpot creativity: How putting ideas “on low” instead of trashing them can lead to surprising breakthroughs. Main band vs. side band: A powerful metaphor for pursuing multiple creative paths without burnout. Building creative careers with intention: Why starting slow, dabbling, and removing pressure can actually accelerate growth. Connect with Andy J. Pizza: Website: andyjpizza.com Instagram: @andyjpizza Podcast: Creative Pep Talk Podcast Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this first part of a powerful two-part conversation, Stacie sits down with the creative and deeply introspective Andy J. Pizza, illustrator, speaker, and host of the beloved Creative Pep Talk podcast. They dive headfirst into the personal side of creativity, exploring how neurodivergence, mental health, and family background shape the way we show up in our art. Andy and Stacie share candid moments about their diagnoses (ADHD and OCD), how their creative rhythms differ from traditional productivity models, and why embracing your authentic self is the first step to making art that truly matters. From deep dives into therapy and self-compassion to reflections on parenting and redefining success, this episode is a masterclass in building a creative career that honors your whole self. Today on Art + Audience: The origin of “Andy J. Pizza”: Why Andy chose this name and how it became unexpectedly perfect for his work with kids. Navigating neurodivergence: A candid look at how ADHD and OCD influence both Andy’s and Stacie’s creative lives. Strengths-based psychology: Andy explains how shifting focus to what works (instead of what’s broken) changed his outlook. Self-expression and self-love: Why Andy believes you can’t make meaningful art if you don’t like yourself first. Redefining productivity: Letting go of rigid systems and learning to work with your brain instead of against it. Rethinking success and permission: Is creative freedom something you earn, or something you allow yourself to have? Connect with Andy J. Pizza: Website: andyjpizza.com Instagram: @andyjpizza Podcast: Creative Pep Talk Podcast Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this special episode, Stacie brings together a panel of alumni from her signature program, Leverage Your Art. These artists, from illustrators to surface pattern designers to product-based business owners, share their honest experiences, big “aha” moments, and how the course helped them grow thriving creative businesses. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your art career, this conversation is packed with encouragement, practical advice, and powerful stories from artists who have walked the path before you. Today on Art + Audience: “Does this work for me?”: Alumni answer the most common questions, Can this course help traditional artists, non-digital artists, or international artists? The Mindset Shift: Why rethinking how you view your art, and how it can live in the world, is the first step to building a sustainable business. One Idea, Many Products: How alumni learned to maximize one piece of art across multiple income streams. International Success Stories: Why location isn’t a barrier in art licensing, and how artists from Canada, Australia, and beyond are thriving. When You Don’t Have a Big Portfolio Yet: Why you don’t need hundreds of pieces to start, and how design briefs inside the course can help build a powerful portfolio. Confidence, Pitching & Cohesion: Alumni share how they tightened their brands, gained the confidence to pitch, and landed licensing deals and wholesale accounts. Life-Changing Takeaways: Each alum shares their biggest “why this course changed everything” moment. Connect with the LYA Alumni: Ashley Paggi (Ash Cascade Design): ashcascade.com Kelsey Weigl: kelseyweigl.com Laura (Laura Sevigny Design):  laurasevignydesign.com Mable Tan: mabletan.com Megan Stringfellow: @stringfellowart Shirlee Fisher (Quiet Lines Design): quietlinesdesign.com Tiffany Grimes (Posterity Paper): posteritypaper.com   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this enlightening episode, Stacie sits down with surface pattern designer Juliana Tipton to talk about launching a creative career in your 40s, navigating art licensing, and staying grounded through the highs and lows of the design world. From graphic design and higher education to licensing with top retailers like Target and Barnes & Noble, Juliana shares how she pivoted careers, learned to trust her gut, and built a successful business centered around authenticity and perseverance.   Today on Art + Audience: Juliana’s Unconventional Start: How she launched her surface design career in her early 40s after two previous careers. Leveraging Graphic Design: How her background gave her a solid foundation but also revealed the challenges of working solo. Licensing Lessons: From being ghosted by a fabric company to finding better partnerships—what she learned and would do differently. Pitching and Portfolios: The importance of following up, crafting one-sheets, and using classes from Bonnie Christine and Shannon McNab to hone her process. Navigating Red Flags: How Juliana discerns between fear and instinct when evaluating licensing deals—and why good communication is non-negotiable. The Truth About Money: Why licensing isn’t always lucrative at first and how Juliana balances surface design with graphic design work. Honest Talk About Contracts: What Juliana looks for in licensing agreements and how she scrutinizes the fine print.   Connect with Juliana Tipton: Website: julianatipton.com Instagram: @jultipdesign   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this inspiring episode, Stacie chats with Carrie Cantwell, a graphic designer turned licensed artist, Skillshare top teacher, podcast host, and creative coach. Carrie opens up about her transformative journey from the high-pressure world of film graphics to finding her artistic voice through art licensing. Her story is one of courage, reinvention, and learning to lean into the things that come naturally. Together, Stacie and Carrie dive deep into the realities of self-doubt, the power of creative bravery, and the freedom that comes with not needing external validation. Today on Art + Audience: From Film to Freelance: Carrie opens up about leaving a prestigious film career to pursue art that reflects her true creative vision. Discovering Her Artist Identity: Through trial and error, and a little spaghetti-throwing, Carrie found her style and embraced life as an artpreneur. Bravery Grows With Age: Carrie explains how courage isn’t innate, but something that builds with life experience, perspective, and choosing to show up anyway. Rejection and Resilience: A ghosted agency deal became a pivotal lesson in honoring boundaries, feeling disappointment, and choosing self-compassion. Confidence Is a Learned Skill: Stacie and Carrie discuss how confidence grows through repeated action, not through waiting to feel “ready.” Comparison and Social Media: A powerful story about Stacie’s daughter reveals how early artists can navigate self-worth in a digital world. What’s Next for Carrie: She’s setting her sights on editorial illustration, art that reacts, uplifts, and brings meaning to current events.   Resources: Book: Don't Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen   Connect with Carrie Cantwell: Website: carriecantwell.com Instagram: @carriecantwellart Podcast: Two Cranky Creatives Carrie’s Editorial Portfolio: carrie-cantwell.cargo.site/editorial-illustration-portfolio   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561

In this episode, Stacie reveals the system behind her two creative companies generating a combined $5 million in annual revenue: the STAR Productivity Method. Drawing from humble beginnings at her dining room table to leading a powerhouse team, Stacie shares the weekly rhythm that has guided her journey. Whether you're a side hustler or full-time creative, this episode provides an actionable framework to gain clarity, stay focused, and make meaningful progress even with limited time. Today on Art + Audience: The Origins of the STAR Cycle: How Stacie developed the method during her early side hustle days with only five focused hours per week. A Peek into Her Themed Work Week: Discover how Monday through Friday is structured to maximize creativity and minimize chaos. The STAR Framework Explained: S – Strategize: Set goals and dream big. T – Think & Create: Dive into the creative process. A – Adapt: Refine, polish, and prepare. R – Reach Out: Share, launch, and gather feedback. Real-Life Examples: How Stacie used the STAR cycle to plan product launches and build a new mini course. How to Apply STAR to Your Own Projects: Implement the cycle on a personal project, complete with a free printable worksheet.   Resource: Download the printable STAR Cycle worksheet at staciebloomfield.com/blog Pre-Order Bonus: Get two copies of The Artist’s Side Hustle and receive Art That Works, Stacie’s flagship art critique course. Just email your receipts to bonus@gingiber.com   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this episode, Stacie answers real listener questions and dives into how artists can move from feeling overwhelmed by possibilities to finding strategic clarity. She offers empowering advice on balancing multiple passions, making smart licensing choices, and evolving your artistic style without confusing your audience. Whether you're at the start of a creative pivot or deep into the licensing world, Stacie's thoughtful insights will help you take confident, intentional steps forward.   Today on Art + Audience: Overcoming Creative Overwhelm: Sarah, a graphic designer, dreams of transitioning to a business that includes pattern design and needle felting. Stacie shares how to focus: Keep the steady income source, choose one creative passion to grow first, and use a newsletter to build community. The power of speaking to your future self and building one revenue stream at a time with intention. Licensing Wisdom – Finding the Right Markets: Mackenzie asks about the most profitable markets for art licensing. Stacie outlines top licensing markets: home decor, fabric, gifts, stationery, apparel, and big box retail. Key deal terms to watch: royalty rates, exclusivity, territory, and brand fit. Why licensing is just one slice of your business pie—and not the whole pie. Creative Expansion – Managing Multiple Styles: Hachiko, an illustrator, wonders how to present and market two different art styles. Stacie encourages embracing creative range: distinguish collections, tell your audience your story, and focus on the through line that ties your work together. Reassurance that your audience can follow your growth, and your art can hold more than one style. Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

Today on the show, Stacie is joined once again by her long-time business partner and sister, Angie Classen. Together, they pull back the curtain on how consistent email marketing helped grow their handmade brand, Gingiber, from a $100k Etsy shop to a multimillion-dollar enterprise. This episode is a deep dive into ditching the fear of self-promotion, showing up authentically, and embracing email as your most powerful marketing tool. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your product-based business, Stacie and Angie break down actionable strategies and candidly share the mindset shifts that made all the difference. Today on Art + Audience: The Myth of "Annoying Emails": Why creatives need to let go of the fear of bothering people—and start showing up consistently. The 5-4-3-2-1 Strategy: A simple and wildly effective email campaign that boosted Gingiber's sales around Mother's Day. Email is for Everyone: How indie makers, not just big brands like Anthropologie, can win with email marketing. Work Once, Use Often: How Angie turned one blog post into five effective sales emails. Product vs. Education: The critical difference in strategy when selling physical products vs. online courses. Facing Unsubscribes: Why it’s okay when people opt out—and how it helps you refine your ideal audience. Slow Growth = Strong Business: A refreshingly honest look at building a profitable business without debt, flash, or burnout.   Resources: Ideal Customer Avatar Generator: A brand-new tool available exclusively inside Leverage Your Art. It walks you step by step through identifying who your art is for based on your unique style and generates a detailed customer profile to guide your marketing, product development, and more. Available when the course reopens in August 2025.   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this episode, Stacie is joined by fine artist and educator Emily Jeffords for a deep, transparent conversation about building an art career that honors both creativity and sustainability. Emily shares her journey from selling her first paintings for just a dollar to creating a thriving business centered on fine art and artist mentorship. Together, they explore the emotional and practical realities of showing up authentically online, navigating burnout, and learning how to align personal values with business decisions. Today on Art + Audience: Emily’s early pricing model missteps: Hear how her unorthodox approach shaped her understanding of value and pricing. Starting small: Emily explains why having a tiny audience at the beginning is actually a gift, offering creative freedom and space to find your true voice. Voice over volume: Discover why developing a clear, authentic message matters more than chasing followers and how the algorithm often rewards that clarity. Surviving burnout: Emily opens up about the personal cost of success, including a health crisis and divorce, and the steps she took to rebuild from the inside out. Content strategy for creatives: Learn Emily’s method for defining core content pillars, making it easier to share consistently and with purpose online. Reclaiming creativity through pleasure: Why embracing joy, play, and new experiences is essential for long-term creative and emotional sustainability. Reinvention and resilience: Stacie and Emily share how they’ve redefined their brands after major life and business changes and what they’ve learned in the process.   Connect with Emily Jeffords: Instagram: @emily_jeffords Website: emilyjeffords.com | emilyjeffordslearn.com The Creative Stability Workbook: how to sell your art in any market and season The EJS (free) Resource Library: all of our top recommended resources for creatives  Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August 2025. Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this solo episode, Stacie opens up about a hard truth many creative entrepreneurs face but few talk about: what to do when your art business hits a plateau. Sharing a vulnerable and candid story about a product launch that flopped, Stacie reframes business stagnation not as a failure, but as a signal for evolution. With practical steps and heartfelt encouragement, she walks you through how to diagnose the root of business slowdowns, how to reignite momentum, and why a plateau might just be the push you need to evolve into your next chapter.   Today on Art + Audience: Facing the Quiet After the Launch: Stacie shares the story of launching a candle line that didn’t meet expectations, despite all efforts. What felt like failure was actually vital feedback. Understanding Business Plateaus: Why stagnation isn’t punishment, but an invitation to rethink and grow. Step-by-Step Through the Stuck: Step 1: Diagnose the real issue – is it the product, audience, or messaging? Step 2: Make a bold move – shake things up, even in small ways. Step 3: Recommit with a sustainable rhythm – avoid burnout with intentional action. Personal Evolution: How pivoting into teaching reignited Stacie’s passion, showing that evolving roles can breathe new life into your business. The Five-Hour Week Framework: A balanced approach for creatives to move forward without overwhelm. Call to Action: Encouragement to reflect, try something new, and trust that you haven’t peaked—you're just getting started.   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this dynamic season two opener, Stacie is joined by her sister, business partner, and fellow creative force, Angie Classen, to talk about all things business at Gingiber. The duo dives into what’s actually working in today’s economy for product-based art businesses. Sharing the strategic pivots they made during their Mother’s Day sale, Angie and Stacie reveal how they grew sales and profits—despite fewer transactions and a tricky retail climate. From discount fatigue to smarter ad spend, and why knowing your numbers might be the most creative move of all, this is a must-listen episode packed with tactical advice and heartfelt entrepreneurial truth. Today on Art + Audience: Real Talk on Revenue: How Gingiber increased gross sales with fewer orders by raising their average ticket price. Smarter Sales Strategy: The pivot from a flat 20% discount to a minimum-spend model—and why it worked. Ideal Customer Deep Dive: Meet "Charlotte," their model buyer, and learn how defining an ICA changed everything. Organic Traffic Wins: Angie shares her SEO and Pinterest strategies for driving high-quality, unpaid traffic. Learning from the Past: The indigo ink disaster, flopped sea creature towels, and the lessons that shaped future launches. Email Marketing & Funnels: Why their 60% new customer rate matters and how they plan to keep those buyers coming back.   Resources: Your Profitable Art Launchpad: Free email course with pricing calculators and business strategy tools. Leverage Your Art: Stacie’s signature course, opening again this August. Ideal Customer Avatar Generator: A brand-new tool available exclusively inside Leverage Your Art. It walks you step by step through identifying who your art is for based on your unique style and generates a detailed customer profile to guide your marketing, product development, and more. Available when the course reopens in August 2025. Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this special season finale, Stacie sits down with someone very close to her heart—her sister, Angie Classen. Many people know Stacie as the face of Gingiber and Learn with Stacie Bloomfield, but behind the scenes, Angie is an essential part of the team. Together, they share the journey of working as sisters, growing a thriving art business, and the lessons they've learned about trust, resilience, and navigating the challenges of running a company with family. This heartfelt conversation is filled with wisdom for creatives looking to build sustainable businesses—especially those who may be hesitant to ask for help or delegate. If you've ever wondered what it’s like to mix family and business, this episode is full of honest insights, personal stories, and valuable takeaways.   Today on Art + Audience: Season One Finale: Stacie reflects on the journey of this podcast and why taking seasonal breaks is important for creative growth. Meet Angie Classen: Stacie introduces her sister, Angie, who plays a critical role in the business. They share how their careers unexpectedly became intertwined. The Importance of Asking for Help: Many creatives hesitate to delegate. Angie highlights how Stacie's ability to invite others into her business helped scale Gingiber into a seven-figure brand. Balancing Strengths: Stacie and Angie have complementary skills—Stacie’s quick decision-making and creative energy meet Angie’s methodical approach and organizational strengths. Together, they make the perfect team. Navigating Conflict and Growth: Family businesses come with unique challenges, but open communication, trust, and knowing when to push through difficulties have been key to their success. Scaling Gingiber: How Stacie took a big swing by trusting Angie to take on a leadership role in product management—despite conventional business advice warning against family in leadership. Making Space for Others: The power of hiring team members who bring new talents to the table, and how letting go of control creates space for even greater success. Sisterhood & Support: Beyond business, Stacie and Angie share how their bond has deepened over time, creating a foundation of support in both work and life. The Power of Creative Community: Why finding “pace setters” in business—whether a sister or a mastermind group—is essential for growth. Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this special episode, Stacie records live from the bustling Atlanta Market alongside her team members Amanda and Jessica. They share behind-the-scenes insights into preparing for a wholesale trade show, the highs and lows of the event, and what it takes to pull off a successful booth. From budgeting tips to unexpected hiccups, this episode offers a raw and informative look at the trade show experience and why it’s worth the investment for artists and entrepreneurs.   Today on Art + Audience: Trade Show 101: Stacie and Amanda explain what wholesale trade shows are, why Atlanta Market is a must-attend event, and the months of preparation that go into participating. Budget Breakdown: Amanda walks through the costs of attending, including booth fees, travel, lodging, and materials, emphasizing that while expensive, it’s a valuable marketing investment. Hiccups and Hustle: From a canceled IKEA order to a gas-leaking Airbnb, the team recounts the challenges they faced during setup and how they pivoted to overcome them. The Power of Touch: Why trade shows are crucial for showcasing products in person and getting valuable customer feedback. Expanding the Gingiber Line: Jessica shares insights on product development, including the introduction of table runners and napkins, and how customer requests are shaping future designs. Building Relationships: Stacie reflects on the joy of meeting buyers, licensing contacts, and fans in person—a reminder of the power of connection in a digital world. Resource: Atlanta Trade Show booth tour video: Coming soon!   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this reflective and inspiring solo episode, Stacie invites you into her recent journey, which spans creative self-discovery, a transformative trip to Scotland, and an exciting new chapter as she reveals her second big secret. Stacie shares heartfelt lessons about slowing down, rediscovering creativity, and living an artful life—all while balancing the demands of running her art business, Gingiber.   Today on Art + Audience: A Transformative Trip to Scotland: Stacie recounts her solo journey, a rare opportunity to connect with herself and focus on her well-being. From long walks and journaling to writing her upcoming book, The Artist’s Side Hustle, she shares how this experience reignited her creativity and energy. Rediscovering Herself Amidst the Noise: The Scotland trip offered Stacie the gift of solitude and introspection, helping her navigate feelings of burnout and reconnect with her authentic self. The Bloom House: Returning from Scotland, Stacie closed on an old church building that she’s affectionately named the Bloom House. She opens up about her vision for this space as a community hub for creatives to gather, connect, and be inspired. Living Artfully and Attracting Your Audience: Stacie explores the power of living a vibrant, creative life and how sharing personal, authentic stories can magnetize an audience. A Call to Action for Artists: Encouraging artists to embrace authenticity, Stacie emphasizes that building a meaningful art career isn’t just about creating; it’s about living creatively and sharing that journey with others.   Resource:  See a tour of the church Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

In this insightful and inspiring episode, Stacie chats with illustrator Brooke Glaser. Brooke shares her journey from handmade greeting cards to becoming a professional illustrator with her work featured in major retailers like Target. She discusses how failures—like an expensive trade show with no immediate sales—became powerful lessons that propelled her career forward. This episode is packed with practical advice on refining your art, navigating uncertainty, and growing your creative business with intentionality and resilience.   Today on Art + Audience: Meet Brooke Glaser: Brooke’s path to becoming a sought-after illustrator and online educator who has empowered over 270,000 artists through her classes. Starting Small: The early days of Brooke’s career selling handmade greeting cards and the challenges of scaling a product-based business. The Expensive Trade Show Failure: What Brooke learned from an unsuccessful trade show and how curation and quality trump quantity in art. Strategic Thinking in Art: How Brooke shifted her mindset to create targeted, meaningful work that resonates with clients and their audiences. Creative Problem Solving: The importance of reworking and reusing art strategically for different opportunities without compromising artistic integrity. Finding Your Flow: Embracing uncertainty and focusing on what truly aligns with your goals and values. Advice for Beginners: Surround yourself with a supportive community and seek constructive feedback to grow as both an artist and entrepreneur.   Connect with Brooke Glaser: Instagram: @paperplaygrounds Website: brookeglaser.com Brooke’s free resource for aspiring artists: The Beginner’s Guide to Drawing Anything   Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561 Get the free 5-day email course at artlicensingplaybook.com  

In this solo episode, Stacie shares an exciting personal milestone—she’s writing a book! Stacie pulls back the curtain on the journey of how her upcoming book, The Artist’s Side Hustle, came to fruition, including moments of serendipity, setbacks, and sheer determination. Reflecting on her creative path, Stacie offers inspiration for artists chasing big dreams, even in the face of self-doubt.   Today on Art + Audience: A Major Announcement: Stacie reveals her secret project—The Artist’s Side Hustle, a book to help artists build their creative businesses in the margins of their lives. The Power of Vision Boards: How a Vision Board from 2018 planted the seed for Stacie’s book-writing dreams. Facing Setbacks: Stacie opens up about how her first book, Give Yourself Margin, wasn’t the commercial success she had hoped for—and how that nearly derailed her future publishing aspirations. Doors That Opened Unexpectedly: The serendipitous connections and bold actions that led to her signing with Hay House, with distribution by Penguin Random House. A Scottish Escape for Creative Focus: Why Stacie is flying to Edinburgh to focus on writing, and how this creative retreat ties into her artistic growth. A Reminder to Dream Big: Stacie reflects on overcoming criticism and doubt to chase a dream she once thought impossible.   Resources: Vision Board Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561 Get the free 5-day email course at artlicensingplaybook.com  

Today, Stacie is joined by Mable Tan, a surface designer from Melbourne, Australia, who transitioned from photography to art licensing. Mable candidly shares her journey through major career pivots, the impact of closing her successful Etsy shop, and the painful yet invaluable lessons she learned about managing finances as an artist. Their discussion dives into overcoming tax-related missteps, vetting accountants, and the critical need for structure in a growing art business. This episode serves as an empowering reminder for artists to take themselves seriously and build strong business foundations.   Today on Art + Audience: Meet Mable Tan: From her early days as a photography enthusiast selling prints on Etsy to becoming a surface designer with work featured in major retailers like Target and Nordstrom. The Costly Mistake: Mable recounts the devastating experience of being hit with an unexpected $80,000 tax bill due to a poorly vetted accountant during lockdown. This moment shifted her approach to finances and sparked growth. Resilience in Action: How Mable tackled her financial setback, found a reliable accounting partner, and restructured her business to prevent future issues. Lessons in Business Growth: Advice for emerging artists on when to hire professionals, maintaining separate business accounts, and treating an art career as a true enterprise. Stacie's Own Accounting Struggles: Stacie shares a personal anecdote about a similar experience with financial mismanagement, reinforcing the need for careful selection of financial advisors.   Connect with Mable Tan: Instagram: @mabletandesigns Website: mabletan.com Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Get the free 5-day email course at artlicensingplaybook.com

In this episode, Stacie welcomes the vibrantly passionate Shelly Kim, the artist behind Letters by Shells. Shelly shares her incredible journey from discovering art as a stress-relief hobby to building a thriving business that has embraced a multitude of creative outlets, including lettering, digital art, and DIY projects. Discover how Shelly navigated periods of burnout, found joy in artistic exploration, and learned the invaluable lesson of outsourcing to sustain her passion.   Today on Art + Audience: Shelly’s Art Origin Story: How art transformed from a simple hobby into a full-fledged career. Initially, Shelly began lettering to unwind from work stress and found joy in creating without constraints. The Evolution of Craft: Shelly explains how experimenting with various art mediums, from watercolors to digital iPad drawings, helped rejuvenate her love for creativity, especially during the pandemic. Authenticity Over Niche: Insights into why Shelly chose not to confine herself to a single artistic niche, allowing her work to evolve organically and leading to unexpected opportunities like press-on nail collaborations and partnerships with major brands like Michaels. Outsourcing and Support: Shelly candidly shares the turning point when she realized the necessity of asking for help to prevent burnout. She highlights her initial struggle with accomplishing tasks  and how hiring a video editor and virtual assistant has positively impacted her workload and creativity. Lessons from Mistakes: The importance of not overloading oneself and learning to delegate effectively—crucial takeaways for any creative entrepreneur. Advice for Artists: Shelly’s encouragement for artists to celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and to stay connected to the joy that sparked their creative journey.   Connect with Shelly Kim: Instagram: @lettersbyshells Website: lettersbyshells.com Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Join the Creative Powerhouse Society and build a profitable art business with Stacie Bloomfield, visit leverageyourart.com/membership or email classes@gingiber.com

Black Friday is just around the corner! In this solo episode, Stacie takes us behind the scenes of her journey through Black Friday successes—and some not-so-successful moments. Sharing candid stories about her early days selling on Etsy, Stacie highlights the lessons she learned from a disappointing Black Friday and offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs preparing for the holiday shopping season. Whether you’re a seasoned seller or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you strategize, promote, and maximize your Black Friday sales.   Today on Art + Audience: A Black Friday Wake-Up Call: Stacie reflects on her early business missteps when an unprepared Black Friday left her anxiously refreshing her Etsy page—learning the hard way that effort and strategy are essential. The Power of Early Advertising: She emphasizes the importance of promoting Black Friday sales weeks in advance using email newsletters, social media, and ads to build anticipation. Email Marketing is a Must: Stacie shares her passion for newsletters and urges listeners to overcome their hesitation about self-promotion. She explains that sending frequent newsletters is key to staying top of mind, especially during the holiday season. Discount Strategies That Work: Drawing from her experience with Gingiber, Stacie offers advice on pricing your products strategically—whether with 20-30% off discounts, free shipping, or bundled deals. Consistency Builds Connection: Through personal anecdotes, Stacie explains how consistently showing up online has cultivated a loyal customer base for her brand. What If You’re Just Starting? Practical suggestions for new entrepreneurs—such as offering custom artwork or leveraging scarcity tactics like countdown timers to create urgency. Post-Event Evaluation: Stacie encourages listeners to reflect on what worked (and what didn’t) after the holiday season to refine their approach for next year.   Resources: Sign up on Shopify using Stacie’s affiliate link Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561 Get the free 5-day email course at artlicensingplaybook.com  

In this special episode, Stacie joins Shirlee Fisher for a presentation within The Tillage Village Membership. In her talk, Stacie delves deep into the intricacies of procrastination, exploring how to turn it from a foe into a powerful ally. She shares her personal journey with procrastination, distinguishing between negative and positive procrastination, and emphasizes the transformative potential of structured delay. Through candid stories and practical advice, Stacie provides listeners with strategies to embrace procrastination intentionally, boosting productivity and creativity in the process.   Today on Art + Audience: Introduction to Positive Procrastination: Stacie explains the concept of positive procrastination, which involves postponing non-urgent tasks to make space for more fulfilling and meaningful activities. She describes how this approach can help creatives harness their natural tendencies for better outcomes. Stacie’s Personal Anecdote on Podcast Launch: Stacie recounts her struggle with launching her podcast. After months of feeling pressured and uninspired, she chose to delay the launch. Once she relieved herself of the rigid deadline, her creativity flowed, and she was able to record the podcast with renewed energy. The Difference Between Negative and Positive Procrastination: Stacie discusses the characteristics of negative procrastination, such as avoidance and unintentional delays, and contrasts them with the intentional nature of positive procrastination, where tasks are postponed for strategic reasons. Harnessing Structured Procrastination: Drawing from Dr. John Perry's research, Stacie shares how structured procrastinators get more done by completing smaller, less urgent tasks while delaying bigger projects—without guilt or shame. Setting Up for Success with Intentional Delays: Stacie advises on how to plan tasks effectively, allowing ideas to mature over time. She emphasizes the importance of aligning deadlines with personal work rhythms, rather than forcing early starts that may lead to unnecessary stress and subpar work. Practical Tips for Overcoming Negative Procrastination: Stacie offers actionable steps, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps, setting "smarter" goals, and integrating rituals that can help shift from negative to positive procrastination.   Resources: Dr. John Perry's Work on Structured Procrastination Book: Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz Arthur C. Brooks' Insights on Positive Procrastination   Learn more about The Tillage Village: The Tillage Village is a community membership hosted by Shirlee Fisher for artists and creative entrepreneurs who desire support, mentorship, and professional development on their journey.  Shirlee Fisher is an illustrator and owner of the stationery brand, Quiet Lines Design, where she sells her products in over 250 shops in the US and Canada, including Paper Source and Anthropologie. She also hosts the beloved show, "The Tillage Podcast, " which has become a place providing mindset shifts, self-development, and encouragement to the creative entrepreneur.    Connect with Shirlee Fisher: Instagram: @quietlinesdesign  Website: quietlinesdesign.com Podcast: thetillagepodcast.com | @thetillagepodcast    Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Get the free 5-day email course at artlicensingplaybook.com