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. 4 HR AGO

    Flying High, Diving Deep: Capturing Culture and Storytelling Through Photography and Other Creative Outlets with Matt Jacob

    Margo is joined by Matt Jacob, a photographer, educator, and former pilot whose journey has taken him from flying private jets to capturing the world’s most compelling human stories through his camera lens. Matt’s work focuses on celebrating cultures and traditions, with a deep commitment to authenticity and respect, particularly when documenting Indigenous communities. Based in Bali, Matt’s love for storytelling extends beyond photography; he also hosts The MOOD Podcast, where he dives into the lives of creatives, exploring their artistic journeys and insights. With a recently released ebook and an upcoming video course, Matt is dedicated to helping others develop their visual storytelling skills while building a meaningful connection with their craft. Margo and Matt discuss: Matt’s transition from commercial pilot to cultural photographer. How travel has shaped his artistic vision and personal growth. The challenges and ethics of documenting cultures authentically. Navigating imposter syndrome and finding creative confidence. The role of photography in preserving and celebrating global traditions. Matt’s move from Hong Kong to Bali and its impact on his lifestyle and career. The creative process behind his new ebook and video course.   Connect with Matt: www.mattjacobphotography.com www.instagram.com/mattyj_ay https://www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay   Connect with Margo: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 16m

  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    Creative Current Events: AI and Confidence, Mindful Shopping, and Boosting Creative Productivity

    Margo and Abby are back with the latest and diving into the intersection of creativity, technology, and community in this episode of Creative Current Events. They share surprising insights, like how 35% of leaders feel most creative early Monday mornings, and explore how routines like the "4 AM club" or late-night bursts can impact productivity. They also discuss Blue Sky, an emerging, community-driven alternative to Twitter, and the fascinating rise of AI art (we’re sensing a theme!), including a million-dollar painting created by a humanoid robot. Lastly, they highlight the value of community in creative work, featuring initiatives like the Foundry (by Margo, herself), a membership program designed to inspire, how to shop mindfully this holiday season, branding with agencies like Outline, and why gifting Steve and Mary Jo Hoffman's books is a must this season. Mentioned in this episode: https://www.fastcompany.com/91227308/the-surprising-time-of-day-youre-most-creative   https://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/article295604429.html   https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-12/robot-painted-artwork-soethbys-million-dollar-auction/104585102   https://claude.ai   https://gemini.google.com/   https://www.printmag.com/type-tuesday/positype-declares-independence-with-a-refreshed-website-new-typefaces/   https://www.positype.com/   https://www.creativeboom.com/inspiration/outline-ky-allport-of-the-south-carolina-studio-on-xxx/   https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200634843-a-season-for-that   https://www.amazon.com/Season-That-Found-Southern-France/dp/0593240286   https://www.amazon.com/STILL-Noticing-Mary-Jo-Hoffman/dp/1580936334/ref=sr_1_1?crid=BMZ1AKZFDR2W&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xjtLqEK7CzKM2l-zl3yeLanI1o8KaUW_f6v7vq10V6vwAHA3N06_uB0HqF3NgnuCm73kDgVprJolpL7tLD3lxqAHolkGAgLQAgd2ULsGPxCm_A1AitP3AVS7nqmRWAa6yiKzykBGb5opB-ZZ8OwzEw.4Pr0khKk13_eVTTAWJKo3xJEDqB2gcIth_FgiFPmyfA&dib_tag=se&keywords=still+the+art+of+noticing&qid=1732062346&s=books&sprefix=still+the+art+of+noticing%2Cstripbooks%2C141&sr=1-1   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

    45 min

  3. 20 NOV

    From Law School to Creativity: Defying Expectations and Building a Fulfilling Life with Shinah Chang

    Margo is joined by calligraphy artist and educator Shinah Chang. Shinah spent her life following the "proper" path: attending an Ivy League college, graduating from a prestigious law school, and working tirelessly at a top international law firm. However, after countless uninspiring days and sleepless nights under her desk, she decided to reclaim her life. Shinah left her legal career and explored various creative outlets—knitting, woodworking, drawing, and graphic design—until she fell in love with calligraphy. Over the past nine years, she built Crooked Calligraphy into a million-dollar business, only to intentionally scale it back to create a simpler, more spacious life. Shinah has collaborated with brands like Disney, Anthropologie, and Johnson & Johnson and taught thousands of students how to master calligraphy and launch their own creative ventures.   In this episode, Margo and Shinah discuss: Shinah's journey from corporate law to founding Crooked Calligraphy. How burnout shaped her decision to leave a high-powered legal career. The structured yet expressive nature of calligraphy as an art form. Tools she used to challenge societal expectations and reclaim her joy. Her innovative teaching philosophy, which prioritizes strategic creativity over technical perfection. The pressures of scaling a creative business and why she chose to simplify. The importance of mindfulness, self-kindness, and collaboration in personal and professional growth. Lessons on balancing practicality with creativity and the power of authentic connections.   Connect with Shinah: Website: https://www.crookedcalligraphy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crookedcalligraphy Free "How to Become a Calligraphy Pro" Workshop: https://crookedcalligraphy.lpages.co/register/   Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1h 19m

  4. 13 NOV

    The Power of Determination in Art: Embracing Failure, Recognizing Potential, and Overcoming Setbacks with Sarah Helen More

    Margo is joined by Sarah Helen More, a Seattle-based artist and designer with a vibrant, kaleidoscopic style rooted in her personal history and love for textiles. Originally from Portland, OR, and Houston, TX, Sarah grew up surrounded by her mother’s handmade quilts—a key inspiration in her colorful work today. She studied textile design at the Rhode Island School of Design and has had a varied creative career, including roles as an art history teacher, studio assistant for Takashi Murakami, and more. In 2023, Sarah received her first public art commission with the Port of Seattle, set to debut at SeaTac International Airport in 2025.   Margo and Sarah discuss: Taking on big challenges before feeling “ready” Sarah’s creative process: from digital sketches to final painting Using change as a creative catalyst Finding joy and inspiration, even during difficult times The role of nature in her creative process Overcoming creative blocks and learning new skills for public art Influences of the Pattern & Decoration movement and folk art traditions Maintaining joy in creativity during tough times   Take your creativity to new heights and turn your passion into a purpose-driven path by joining The Foundry, a monthly membership for creatives. Visit yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry today to lock in the Foundry Member rate!   Connect with Sarah: www.sarahhelenmore.com www.sarahmore.com www.instagram.com/sarahhelenmore   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 33m

  5. 6 NOV

    After the Storm: Hannah Cole on Surviving Asheville’s Floods and Supporting Creatives in Crisis

    Margo is joined by friend of the pod, Asheville, NC resident, artist and tax expert Hannah Cole to bring a powerful story of survival, community, and the unwavering support for artists affected by recent devastating floods in Asheville. Together they explore the harrowing events that led to severe flooding, destroying homes, businesses, and cherished creative spaces. They also touch on the importance of financial strategies, particularly for creatives, with insights from Hannah at and how her expertise has been a beacon of hope for many small business owners navigating the treacherous waters of disaster recovery (and those outside of the flood zone).   Margo and Hannah discuss: What it was like to experience Hurricane Helene first hand Support efforts and challenges post hurricane The loss of Hannah’s art studio in Asheville Campaigns and efforts to support those in and around Western North Carolina The need for increased grant funding in the River Arts District Managing tax liabilities and leveraging deductions. "1% for Asheville" support grants Hannah’s offering, Money Boot Camp for creatives and how she makes financial education non-intimidating.   Connect with Hannah: https://www.sunlighttax.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sunlighttax/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    58 min

  6. 30 OCT

    The Art of Resilience: Mindset, Wellness, and Rediscovering Creativity with Kay Wolfersperger

    Margo is joined by designer and illustrator Kay Wolfersperger, based in Savannah, GA. Known for her lively, colorful work infused with humor and positivity, Kay’s designs have appeared in advertising, stationery, branding, children’s books, and surface design. She has extensive experience partnering with brands to craft unique, memorable campaigns. When not at her desk, Kay enjoys strength training, running, traveling, and catching up on films. In this episode, they explore Kay’s journey from a young art enthusiast to a respected creative professional, reflecting on the importance of experiential learning, maintaining physical and mental wellness, and using positive affirmations to navigate both personal and professional challenges. Margo and Kay discuss: Kay's early artistic influences, including her stepmother, an art teacher Her transition from graphic design to fibers and screen printing at SCAD The challenges and autonomy of running a small business vs. corporate roles Creative practices for overcoming creative block in daily routines The role of mind-body wellness in enhancing creativity Using therapy and affirmations to manage anxiety and build a positive outlook Collaboration in creative projects, balancing personal vision with teamwork Embracing imperfection with the mantra, "done is better than good" Kay's upcoming wholesale collection and the key moments that inspired its development   Connect with Kay: https://www.kaywolfersperger.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kaywolfersperger/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 10m

  7. 23 OCT

    Aging in the Digital Age: Lisa Murphy on Mindset, Nervous System Balance and the Impact of Technology on Health and Wellness

    Margo is joined by Lisa Murphy, a guest with an inspiring story of reinvention and resilience. Raised in small-town Iowa, where her family grew their own food, Lisa followed a traditional path—earning a degree in Actuarial Science and securing a lucrative corporate job. But life shifted when she left her career to travel the world, study Eastern philosophy, and teach yoga, even to members of the royal family in Dubai, while supporting her now-ex-husband. After her divorce at 47, Lisa realized her best years were still ahead. Now, at 57, she’s a healthy aging expert and has been running her own successful business since 2013. Her mission is to help women and business leaders move away from common health fears and adopt proactive habit changes. Through her signature RAV protocol, Lisa empowers professionals to optimize their health, allowing them to live vibrant, active lives while reaching their biggest goals. Lisa and Margo discuss: Lisa’s life in Asheville and the impact of Hurricane Helene How the wellness industry can better incorporate mental awareness and balanced nervous systems into mainstream narratives The four pillars of healthy aging: food, mood, rest, and movement Lisa’s critique of the Standard American Diet Strengthening community support systems to better cope with natural disasters The power of mindset in the aging process Holistic health practices that have worked for Lisa Device addiction, digital detoxes, and maintaining a balanced nervous system for well-being   Connect with Lisa: https://www.lisamurphyllc.com https://www.instagram.com/lisamurphyllc/ https://www.facebook.com/lisa.murphy.kc/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-murphy-health-coach/ https://www.youtube.com/@LisaMurphyLLC   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 11m

  8. 18 OCT

    Creative Current Events: Navigating Social Media Setbacks, Disaster Recovery for Artists, and Making Art in the Dark

    In this episode of Creative Current Events, Abby and Margo tackle the ups and downs of navigating social media as a creator. Margo opens up about her recent Instagram suspension and the ripple effect it’s had on her business, leading to a bigger conversation about algorithm frustrations, lack of transparency, and how social media companies fall short in supporting creators. They also discuss the devastating impact of natural disasters on our global community, focusing on how Florida-based artists are recovering from Hurricane Helene and Milton and how listeners can help from afar. Abby and Margo then share practical tips for diversifying communication outside of social media, dig into recent tech updates from Apple and Microsoft, and explore how creativity can thrive in even the most challenging conditions—like making art in the dark.   Mentioned in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/@dewintonpaperco https://tantaustudio.com/windowsillchat219/ https://www.annieatkins.com/ https://www.melissaweisspottery.com/ https://www.sunlighttax.com/ Microsoft’s Notepad gets spellcheck and autocorrect 40 years after launch Use Zoom’s AI Companion to Take Notes and Summarize Meetings Why Make Art in the Dark? 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

    32 min
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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 - 2024
  • Episodes
    235
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Windowsill Chats

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