Windowsill Chats

Margo Tantau
  • 0.0 (0)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
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. 1 DAY AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 16 OCT

    Spirits, Signs, and Sass: Spooky Stories and Paranormal Tales with Halee and Elise of Easy Bake Coven

    Margo is joined by Elise and Halee, the dynamic duo behind the Easy Bake Coven podcast, where spooky meets sass. What began on a Halloween night with a bottle of Kim Crawford wine and board games has evolved into a podcast that explores the weird, creepy, and unexplainable. Elise’s background in journalism and Halee’s experience in social work bring a unique blend of nuance and humor to their conversations about paranormal activity, true crime, and mysterious events. Known for their playful banter and easy rapport, listening to them feels like hanging out with friends as they dive into the world’s greatest mysteries—from cryptids to whodunnits—with a side of comedic relief. In this episode, Margo, Elise, and Halee discuss: The origin story of Easy Bake Coven and what sets them apart How family traditions or rituals can influence a child's understanding of spirituality or the supernatural Spooky stories about signs from passed loved ones Finding balance between humor and sensitivity when discussing heavy topics without undermining victim stories Managing burnout and streamlining podcast production as a duo The responsibilities and ethics of content creation Why children might be more perceptive to spiritual experiences Research methods for preparing in-depth historical dives for podcast episodes The importance of listener engagement and effective ways to build and maintain it How personal histories and passions shape their podcast Mentioned in this episode: The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch Watch: YouTube link Book: Amazon link Radio Rental podcast: Radio Rental Spooked podcast: Spooked The Forager’s Daughter Tarot Deck: The Forager’s Daughter The Hot Zone by Richard Preston: The Hot Zone Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth: Call the Midwife Connect with Elise and Halee: Website: Easy Bake Coven Podcast Instagram: @easybakecovenpodcast Connect with Margo: Website: Windowsill Chats Instagram: @windowsillchats Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 15m

  7. 9 OCT

    Revisiting Authenticity in Art: Kirsten Katz on Staying True to Your Creative Vision

    In this revisited episode, Margo reintroduces her thought-provoking conversation with Australian artist and surface pattern designer Kirsten Katz, highlighting the enduring relevance of authenticity in creative work. Kirsten’s journey from ballerina to surface designer showcases how following your passion can lead to a unique artistic style. Since this original conversation, Kirsten’s work continues to evolve, and her insights into creating from a place of intuition and authenticity remain as important as ever. Kirsten shares how her background in Textile Design has shaped her bold, modern, and botanical-inspired creations, which continue to catch the eye in today’s world of contemporary design. Margo and Kirsten explore: The importance of staying true to yourself and creating art that you love How to focus on your style and confidence as an artist Experimenting with mediums and techniques to stay inspired The role of intuition in honing color combinations Why commission work might not always align with your creative vision And so much more! This conversation is packed with timeless advice for creatives navigating their own artistic paths. Tune in for fresh takeaways on how to honor your authentic self as an artist, no matter the trends. Kirsten’s work can be found on: apparel, home décor, fabric, stationery, giftware, and more.     Connect with Kirsten: Website: kirstenkatz.com.au Instagram: @kirstenkatzart Facebook: kirstenkatzart LinkedIn: Kirsten Katz Design   Connect with Margo: Website: windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats Patreon: patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1 hr

  8. 2 OCT

    From Messy Studios to Magical Spaces: Exploring the Intersection of Art & Mental Health with Kayla Ackelson

    Margo is joined by versatile mixed-media artist and designer, Kayla Ackelson. Kayla holds a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts with a focus on non-traditional photography from Millersville University. After completing her studies, she gained valuable experience as a Gallery Assistant and Art Instructor in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She later worked at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, first in Visitor Services and then in the Development department. In 2021, Kayla fully committed to her artistic and interior design endeavors, turning them into her full-time career. Her passion for fostering creativity continues through her role as an instructor at ArtFusion in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, where she teaches students of all ages. Alongside teaching, Kayla actively exhibits her work in local galleries and maintains a strong online presence to engage a broader audience. She is also a mother, creator, and lover of plants, design, and nature. Margo and Kayla discuss: Her career shift to full-time artistry and interior design Claiming your power as an artist and creative The role journaling and meditation play in her art and work Insights into creating inviting, personal spaces The power of vision boards The importance of incorporating childhood inspirations and personal mementos into your environment How her book extends a decade-long journaling practice How meditation influenced her decision to share personal experiences to help others Her commitment to a flexible and evolving creative practice Her philosophy on art and perfection, and how creating daily supports mental health Embracing multiple creative roles   Connect with Kayla: Website: www.kaylaackelson.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/kaylaackelson Her new book: https://amzn.to/47wktUw Kayla’s Workshop: https://www.kaylaackelson.com/store/p85/mixedmediaworkshop.html   Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/tantaustudio Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    51 min
See All (232)

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
    232
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Windowsill Chats

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada