Windowsill Chats

Margo Tantau
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Windowsill Chats

Windowsill Chats is a podcast for artists and creatives who are curious about what it's like to live, work & walk a creative path. You'll find honest stories, refreshing tips, artistic business advice and real conversations with global artists & makers just like you. Host Margo Tantau, a 30+ year Creative Director, Product Designer & maker, is a cheerleader for your success. Come grab a cuppa & join her in her sunny windowsill.

  1. 23 HR AGO

    Sketchbooks, Storytelling & The Business of Illustration with Mike Lowery

    Margo is joined by illustrator, author, and sketchbook enthusiast Mike Lowery, a New York Times Best-Selling Illustrator whose work spans over 80 books, greeting cards, magazines, and even food trucks. Known for his playful, humor-infused drawings, Mike shares his creative journey and insights into the business of illustration. In addition to making books, Mike is an avid sketchbook-keeper and has taught classes worldwide, including more than 30,000 students in-person and online, and encourages others to join him in starting a daily drawing habit and in the business of illustration.   Margo and Mike discuss: How Mike’s childhood passion for drawing superheroes in a Filipino grocery store led to a career in illustration The moment he received his first check for his art (and why he still keeps it) His love for humor in art and how it shaped his path in children's book illustration The importance of maintaining a consistent sketchbook practice for creativity and career growth How to build a portfolio that speaks directly to potential clients by focusing on project-based ideas The evolving role of social media for artists and how he approaches it today Finding inspiration through travel, daily life, and keeping curiosity alive Teaching and encouraging others to start a daily drawing habit The intersection of art and business—how to navigate the industry and create a sustainable career   Connect with Mike:  www.gettingpaidtodraw.com www.mikelowery.com www.instagram.com/mikelowerystudio   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1h 15m

  2. 5 MAR

    Contentment Over Content: Brigida Swanson on Growing a Creative Business Without Social Media

    Margo is joined by Brigida Swanson, a botanical artist, product designer, and the founder of Yardia, to discuss creativity, business contentment, and forging your own path as an artist. Brigida shares her journey from teaching middle school art to building a thriving product business—without relying on social media. Her nature-inspired watercolor stationery and home goods celebrate identity, belonging, and a deep connection to place, all created from her backyard garden studio in Seattle.   Brigida opens up about redefining success on her own terms, the decision to leave Instagram and TikTok, and the unexpected creative doors that opened as a result. Whether you're an artist, maker, or small business owner, this conversation will inspire you to explore new ways of marketing and growing your work—while staying true to what brings you joy.   Margo and Brigida discuss: Leaving Social Media – Why Brigida walked away from Instagram and TikTok and how she continues to grow her business without them. Business Contentment – Shifting from a traditional success mindset to one rooted in sustainability and fulfillment. Managing Comparison – Softening the inner critic and embracing a more supportive creative process. The inspiration behind Her Plant Companion Tarot deck Her upcoming Contentment Over Content workshop, helping product-based business owners market beyond social media.   Connect with Brigida: https://yardia.co/ https://plantcompaniontarot.com/ https://contentmentovercontent.com/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1h 3m

  3. 26 FEB

    Independent Filmmaking Without Hollywood’s Permission: Courtney Daniels on Forging Your Own Path

    Margo is joined by independent filmmaker and writer Courtney Daniels to discuss the joys and challenges of creating outside the Hollywood studio system. Courtney shares her journey from writing spec scripts as a receptionist at Warner Brothers to producing her own feature films, including What Other Couples Do. She opens up about the power of not waiting for validation, making films on a budget, and turning her latest screenplay, A Blind Date in NYC, into a short novel. Together, they explore the freedom of independent creativity and why success comes from taking action rather than waiting to be chosen. Margo and Courtney discuss: The freedom of independent filmmaking outside Hollywood Why waiting for validation hinders creativity How Courtney made her first feature film on a shoestring budget Tips for affordable filmmaking and getting started with minimal resources Turning a screenplay into a book: A Blind Date in NYC Overcoming fear and embracing the creative process Film festivals as stepping stones for indie filmmakers Building daily creative habits to stay inspired The importance of manufacturing surprise in storytelling   Connect with Courtney: https://courtneydanielsfilms.com/ https://www.instagram.com/courtneydanielstoyou/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-daniels-9abb0864 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQFenMHq7I8 https://www.amazon.com/What-Other-Couples-Michael-Friedman/dp/B00QLZRLKK https://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-You-Courtney-Daniels/dp/B0CJJZ9VTG   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1h 12m

  4. 21 FEB

    Creative Current Events: Crayola Nostalgia, AI’s Creative Impact, and the Comeback of Cassette Tapes

    In this episode of Creative Current Events, Margo Tantau and creative collaborator, Abby Campbell, are back with another insightful chat exploring the latest news from the art field. From retired Crayola colors with cult followings to the resurgence of vintage art supplies and cassette tapes, they unpack why these blasts from the past still spark creativity today. Plus, they dive into how AI is influencing artists like photographer Tim Flach, Target’s fast-paced approach to trend-driven merchandise, and what color trends are set to define 2026. And if you’ve been curious about using mind mapping to unlock new creative ideas, Margo and Abby share practical tips to get started. Mentioned in this episode:  Crayola Colors Reintroduced https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/childrens-products/toy-reviews/a63653059/crayola-dandelion-limited-edition-retired-colors/ Buzz Feed dipping into Social Media? https://slate.com/technology/2025/02/buzzfeed-social-media-network-island-ai-jonah-peretti.html Ai being used to copy Atists’ Photos https://www.thetimes.com/uk/technology-uk/article/photographer-says-ai-copied-his-work-can-you-spot-the-difference-q6hr5jfs2 Midjourney’s Artist Scraping List!!! https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.cand.407208/gov.uscourts.cand.407208.129.10.pdf Luxury Social Media- Artist Driven https://alexandrarabbitte.substack.com/p/luxury-social-media-a-case-study?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web Target Shortens Go-to-Market Strategy https://www.retaildive.com/news/target-shortens-go-to-market-strategy-trends/737307/ Coloro x WGSN introduce the Key Colours for S/S 26 https://www.wgsn.com/en/blogs/coloro-x-wgsn-introduce-key-colours-ss-26 Mindmapping https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/what-is-mind-mapping?_hsmi=340884926   Connect with Abby: https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/ https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    29 min

  5. 19 FEB

    The Art of Confidence: Monetizing Creativity & Owning Your Worth with Sue Bryce (Part 2)

    In the second part of their conversation, Margo and Sue dive deeper into the mindset shifts, strategies, and creative breakthroughs that help artists and entrepreneurs build thriving businesses. Sue shares personal stories of transformation, the challenges creatives face in valuing their work, and how to create sustainable success through branding, sales strategies, and embracing new tools. This episode is packed with insights on overcoming fear, finding confidence, and stepping into your creative power.   Margo and Sue discuss: Artist sales strategy: the power of a waiting list – Why exclusivity and demand can transform your business. The value of art and validation – How to separate external validation from true creative success. Creating your personal brand – The importance of storytelling and consistency in branding. Adapting to new creative tools – Staying relevant and innovative in a changing industry. Family portraits after loss – The emotional depth of photography and capturing meaningful moments. Empowering women entrepreneurs – Encouraging women to embrace leadership and financial independence.   Connect with Sue: Download Sue’s free 3x3 Bio Guide: https://suebryce.com/write-your-3x3 Download Sue’s Timeplate Guide: https://suebryce.com/timeplates-guide Follow Sue on Instagram: @suebrycephotographer Learn more: https://suebryce.com/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    53 min

  6. 12 FEB

    The Art of Confidence: Monetizing Creativity & Owning Your Worth with Sue Bryce (Part 1)

    Margo is joined by the incredible Sue Bryce for a two-part conversation on creativity, self-worth, and business success. With over 35 years as an award-winning photographer and 25 years in business, Sue has dedicated her career to empowering creatives and solo-preneurs to step into their full potential. From overcoming fear to monetizing creativity, Sue shares invaluable insights on how artists and business owners can truly thrive.   Margo and Sue discuss: Overcoming self-worth in sales – Why self-doubt impacts pricing and success. Learning to monetize creativity – How to shift from a struggling artist mindset to a thriving business owner. Creative empowerment through online education – The power of learning and teaching in today’s digital world. Monetizing creative flow – How to align passion with profitability. Prioritizing personal creativity – The importance of making time for your own artistic fulfillment. Empowering artists to share their art – Overcoming fear and hesitation when putting work into the world.   Connect with Sue: Download Sue’s free 3x3 Bio Guide: https://suebryce.com/write-your-3x3 Download Sue’s Timeplate Guide: https://suebryce.com/timeplates-guide Follow Sue on Instagram: @suebrycephotographer Learn more: https://suebryce.com/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    49 min

  7. 5 FEB

    From Fabric Shop to Full-Time Creative Educator: Bonnie Christine on Building a Career in Surface Design

    Margo is joined by internationally renowned Surface Pattern Designer, entrepreneur, and award-winning online educator, Bonnie Christine. With a self-taught journey that began in 2009, Bonnie has built a thriving creative business, helping over 50,000 students turn their artistic passions into sustainable careers. In this episode, she shares the mindset shifts, strategies, and inspirations that have shaped her path and continue to guide her community.   Margo and Bonnie discuss: How growing up in her mom’s fabric shop shaped her approach to teaching pattern design The evolution of her vision in building a large and engaged creative community Taking big risks—like selling her car to invest in her dreams—and what she’d tell someone facing a similar crossroads Why 'action is the antidote' to imposter syndrome and a pivotal moment when this mindset made a difference The balance between creative techniques and business strategy in her upcoming nine-day workshop Helping students find their own authentic sources of inspiration, especially when feeling creatively stuck Why she firmly believes there’s room for everyone in the creative industry and how she’s seen that truth play out Challenging the notion that art doesn’t solve problems—especially in the world of pattern design   This episode is packed with encouragement, actionable insights, and inspiration for anyone navigating a creative career. Whether you're just starting or looking to take the next big leap, Bonnie's wisdom will remind you that your dreams are worth pursuing—one step at a time.   Connect with Bonnie: 2025 Workshop: Pattern Design Playbook- bit.ly/WindowsillDesignPlaybook 2025 Course: Surface Design Immersion- https://bit.ly/WindowsillImmersion www.bonniechristine.com https://www.instagram.com/bonniechristine/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    56 min

  8. 29 JAN

    Lisa Congdon on Creative Renewal: Embracing Slow Moments, Play, and Artistic Freedom

    Margo is joined by celebrated artist, illustrator, and creative powerhouse Lisa Congdon for a heartfelt and insightful conversation about what she’s learned while navigating a challenging chapter of her life. Lisa opens up about her journey through two total knee replacements and how this period of physical recovery sparked a creative rebirth.  During her recovery, Lisa embraced a slower pace of life, diving into a new sketchbook practice focused on collage and cut paper. What began as a meditative and playful exploration quickly evolved into a rich source of inspiration, reminding Lisa of the joy of creating art simply for art’s sake. She candidly shares how stepping away from client work allowed her to reconnect with her artistic roots and experiment in ways that felt healing, liberating, and transformative.  In this episode, Lisa and Margo discuss: How Lisa managed her health journey while staying connected to her creativity. Managing the guilt that arose from stepping away from her team and work commitments. How she led and supported her team while recovering from surgery. The role of play and experimentation in sustaining artistic inspiration. The importance of consistency and how even small, daily creative practices can lead to big ideas. Balancing a thriving art career with the need for personal time and self-care. How slowing down can reignite passion and open doors to unexpected creative breakthroughs.   Mentioned in this episode: Lauri Hopkins https://www.laurihopkins.co.uk/ Lisa’s 30 day art challenge w Creative Bug https://www.creativebug.com/instructors/lisa-congdon?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1p28BhCBARIsADP9HrNXhEYWUo8t0lx_kNJAOnhMMwWKu6YLgTralGQO8q3Jjg7r6sm4V90aAjHCEALw_wcB   Connect with Lisa: https://lisacongdon.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lisacongdon/# https://www.pinterest.com/lisacongdon/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1h 10m
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    About

    Windowsill Chats is a podcast for artists and creatives who are curious about what it's like to live, work & walk a creative path. You'll find honest stories, refreshing tips, artistic business advice and real conversations with global artists & makers just like you. Host Margo Tantau, a 30+ year Creative Director, Product Designer & maker, is a cheerleader for your success. Come grab a cuppa & join her in her sunny windowsill.

    Information

    • Creator
      Margo Tantau
    • Years Active
      2020 - 2025
    • Episodes
      253
    • Rating
      Explicit
    • Copyright
      © 2023
    • Show Website
      Windowsill Chats

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