How To Be A Handmade Boss

Steph Cole-Lewis

Whether you’re a complete beginner on Etsy, or want to scale your handmade business to multi-6 figures, the “How To Be A Handmade Boss” podcast gives you actionable advice and workshop style full length episodes to grow your handmade business on Etsy and beyond.We get it. Starting or growing a handmade business can be really overwhelming, and sometimes you feel like you have an expensive hobby rather than a profitable business. If you have questions like “How can I make sales in my business?” “How do I start a handmade shop?” “How can I make this passion my full-time gig?” or “How do I sell my crafts online” then you’re in the right place boss!I’m Steph, a multi 6-figure handmade business owner (in the top 0.1% of all shops on Etsy), bestselling author of “How to be a handmade boss”, visionary and coach behind Handmade Bosses. However, It wasn’t always rainbows and unicorns though. Today, my business(es) are bustling, but way back in 2014 when I started, it was HARD. Favourites but no sales, slow sales and low profits seemed in the beginning, like the trajectory of my business. Luckily following the system I’ve now curated, All of that changed and I went full-time in my handmade business in 2016.Let’s focus on turning your passion into profit, because the world really does need these special creations that you only bring to life.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    #84 - Why More Etsy Listings Won’t Fix Your Sales Problem

    Think slow sales mean you need to add more products? Think again. In this episode, I’m busting one of the biggest myths in the handmade world: that more listings = more sales. Spoiler alert - it’s not about quantity. It’s about quality, clarity, and conversion. We’ll talk about: ✅ Why uploading random new products could actually be hurting your shop ✅ The real reason Etsy rewards certain listings (hint: it’s not how many you have) ✅ What to do instead: smarter product variations, giftable bundles, and clarity around your niche ✅ Real-life examples of handmade sellers who scaled down to grow up Whether you’re stuck in a sales slump or constantly churning out new designs hoping something will “take off”, this episode will help you shift your focus to what actually moves the needle. 🎯 ACTION STEP: Instead of creating something brand new this week, take your top-selling product and make one thoughtful variation - a new colour, size, or giftable version. That’s how you build momentum without the burnout. FREEBIE: The “More Listings” Myth Fix Worksheet   Insta CTA If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    15 min
  2. 8 OCT

    #83 - Here's why your Etsy shop is stuck.

    Are you working harder than ever, but your sales graph just… won’t budge? 😩 You’re not lazy. You’re not failing. You might just be stuck in what I call the Plateau of Busywork and it happens to almost every handmade seller at some point. In this episode, I’ll walk you through how to: ⚠ Spot the 3 most common plateau signs 📉 Understand why your to-do list isn’t growing your business 🧠 Make small, strategic shifts that lead to actual progress ✨ AND stop wasting time on things that feel productive, but don’t move the needle We’ll cover: 1️⃣ Why “doing more” isn’t the answer 2️⃣ How to focus your energy on what actually converts 3️⃣ The real reason your shop’s stuck and how to get unstuck fast You’ll hear real-life examples from sellers who were posting daily, making products constantly, or jumping platforms… but still not growing and what changed it all. 💥 Whether you’re in full-on burnout or just feeling stagnant, this episode will give you clarity and confidence on what to fix next. Plus: I’ll give you a simple homework task to separate busywork from growth work (so you can stop doing the stuff that’s draining your energy). Insta CTA If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    22 min
  3. 1 OCT

    #82 - Etsy’s 2025 Updates Explained: What Handmade Sellers Need to Know

    Etsy just dropped a whole bunch of updates for 2025 and if you’re feeling a bit lost in the jargon, don’t panic. I’ve got you. 💛 In this episode, I’m breaking it all down plain and simple: → What’s actually changed → What you need to know as a handmade seller → And which updates will genuinely help you save time, reduce stress, and grow your shop this holiday season 🎄 From AI listing tools and post-purchase automation to real-time keyword insights and a totally redesigned dashboard, this is the update episode that helps you take action - without the overwhelm. We’ll chat through: ✔️ The 3 big themes of Etsy’s 2025 updates ✔️ Time-saving features you might be missing ✔️ Smart ways to boost visibility and connect with more buyers ✔️ Why your Shop Manager is now way more than a to-do list ✔️ How to turn Etsy’s tools into actual growth this quarter If you want to finish this year strong, without burning out, this episode is your guide. Insta CTA If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    20 min
  4. 24 SEPT

    #81 - Why Your Etsy Listings Aren’t Selling (and What’s Really Going On)

    You’ve poured time into your products, uploaded them to Etsy, and maybe you’re even getting some traffic and a few favourites… but sales? Crickets. 😬 In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the real reason why your Etsy listings aren’t converting  and no, it’s not just the algorithm. I’m breaking down the 3 essential layers of a high-converting listing:         1.        Getting found in search (hello, buyer keywords!)         2.        Getting clicked (your thumbnail matters more than you think)         3.        Getting purchased (because a nice listing isn’t enough) This is a must-listen if you’ve ever said:         •        “My views are up but no one’s buying”         •        “I don’t know what else to try”         •        “I think I’ve hit a plateau…” 💡 You’ll leave with clear examples, real-life success stories, and quick wins you can action today - even if you’re a total beginner. 🎯 Plus: I’ll share a juicy comparison between two sellers - one stuck in the Etsy spiral, and one who made 3 small changes and tripled her conversion rate. 📌 Homework included (yep, we’re doing this properly): Choose one listing and optimise it using what you learn today. Whether you’re new or just feeling stuck, this episode will help you spot what’s actually going wrong and fix it. Insta CTA If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    21 min
  5. 17 SEPT

    #80 - 20 Niche Etsy Ideas with High Demand and Low Competition

    If you’ve been scratching your head wondering what to sell or how to stand out on Etsy in 2026, this episode is your treasure map. 🎯 I’m sharing 20 real Etsy niche ideas that are high in demand, low in competition, and full of opportunity - perfect for handmade sellers who want to stop blending in and start carving out their own corner of the marketplace. I’ve done the research for something I’m working on behind the scenes (👀), and let me tell you - these niches are absolute gems. From sensory-friendly fashion to grief support gifts, plant parent accessories to zero-waste party supplies… these aren’t just ideas, they’re movements. Whether you’re in the idea stage or looking to expand, grab a pen (and maybe a brew) and settle in. ⚠️ PSA: Don’t let shiny object syndrome have you starting 5 new shops by Monday! These are only worth jumping on if they truly align with your audience and long-term goals. 🎯 Inside the episode:         •        Why micro-niches are the key to Etsy success in 2026         •        20 product ideas across handmade, digital, POD, and accessories         •        How to validate these niches with quick research tips         •        Real-life examples and products I’ve bought myself! Want to dig deeper and turn browsers into buyers? 👉 Grab my Critique Your Own Etsy Shop Toolkit (£13) and get a pro-level eye on your listings. https://www.handmadebosses.com/offers/cX4AkPyV/checkout If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    22 min
  6. 10 SEPT

    #79 - Is Your Shop Holiday-Ready? Take This 5-Minute Check (Handmade Sellers)

    🎄 Are you really ready for the Christmas rush... or just hoping it’ll all come together in time? In this episode, I’m walking you through a super quick 5-point checklist that’ll help you give your handmade shop a festive glow-up without the stress. We’re talking banners, giftable products, delivery cut-off clarity, festive upsells, and simple holiday promotion tweaks you can make today. If you’re a handmade seller on Etsy or your own site, this 5-minute check will help you feel more confident and less scrambled heading into the busiest sales season of the year. Plus, I’ll share a sneak peek into my “Get Your Shop Ready for The Holidays In One Weekend” mini course and why now is the time to take action. Let’s make this your most organised, profitable Christmas season yet! 🎄 👉 Join Get Your Shop Ready for Christmas in 1 Weekend here: https://www.handmadebosses.com/xmas Don’t leave your Christmas prep until November — get it done this weekend and go into the busiest sales season calm, clear, and ready. ⚠️⚠️GET 50% OFF THE COURSE ONLY UNTIL 12th SEPTEMBER 8PM UK TIME!:⚠️⚠️ https://www.handmadebosses.com/offers/GVL5roFG/checkout?coupon_code=XMAS2550 🚨 👀 Take a sneak peak inside the course: https://youtu.be/Jpe8sBt5bbc 🚨 👀 Get your Etsy AND Website Ready For Xmas In ONE Weekend [50% OFF UNTIL FRI 12th SEPT] - https://www.handmadebosses.com/xmas If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    15 min
  7. 3 SEPT

    #78 - Stop Comparing Your Handmade Business to Others (and Do This Instead)

    Ever find yourself doomscrolling through Instagram wondering why that handmade shop has more sales, more followers, or just seems further ahead? In this episode, we’re flipping the comparison trap on its head. You’ll learn how to: Spot the “highlight reel” trap before it derails your momentumTurn jealousy into a learning tool (without copying a single thing!)Set healthy boundaries around competitor stalking 😉Track YOUR growth (not theirs) and build a business that feels good to you Whether you’re a part-time maker or dreaming of full-time freedom, this episode is your pep talk and practical guide to staying focused on your path – not someone else’s. 📓 Grab a pen – there are actionable tips and mindset shifts you can start using today. If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    13 min
  8. 27 AUG

    #77 - From Fresh Flowers to Thriving Wreath Business: Claire's Handmade Journey

    Running a handmade business isn’t always a straight line and today’s guest, Claire, proves it beautifully. 🌸 After starting with fresh flowers and even pedalling around town on a trike (yes, really!), Claire found her passion and success in creating stunning artificial wreaths and arrangements through her business Jamesia Blooms. In this episode, she opens up about:         •        How personal loss inspired her to chase her creative dream         •        The shift from fresh flowers to artificial designs (and why it worked)         •        The behind-the-scenes process of designing wreaths and bouquets         •        The ups and downs of social media and growing an online shop         •        Her hopes for the future - including her dream of opening a cosy little flower shop Claire's story is inspiring, honest, and a reminder that it’s never too late to pivot and find the handmade business path that truly lights you up. 👉 Find Claire online: Website: https://www.jamesiablooms.co.uk/ Instagram: @jamesiablooms_andoccasions If you’ve been dreaming of turning your handmade shop into a thriving business, this is for you! Right now, doors to the Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) are open until 8pm on 23rd October – your step-by-step system to grow consistent sales, feel confident in your marketing, and finally know what to focus on next. Inside the HBSA, you’ll: ✨ Learn the proven system that takes you from stuck to scaling ✨ Get lifetime access to all 5 phases of training, plus templates and coaching ✨ Build a business that feels as good as it grows 👉 Join before doors close at 8pm on 23rd October: handmadebosses.com/hbsalist Not sure if it’s the right fit yet? Book a free Shop Clarity Call with Team HB – we’ll help you spot what’s holding your shop back and map out your next steps. 📅 Book your call here: https://zcal.co/t/teamhb/hbsalist It’s time to stop guessing and start growing. Let’s get your handmade business moving forward with purpose!

    26 min

Trailer

About

Whether you’re a complete beginner on Etsy, or want to scale your handmade business to multi-6 figures, the “How To Be A Handmade Boss” podcast gives you actionable advice and workshop style full length episodes to grow your handmade business on Etsy and beyond.We get it. Starting or growing a handmade business can be really overwhelming, and sometimes you feel like you have an expensive hobby rather than a profitable business. If you have questions like “How can I make sales in my business?” “How do I start a handmade shop?” “How can I make this passion my full-time gig?” or “How do I sell my crafts online” then you’re in the right place boss!I’m Steph, a multi 6-figure handmade business owner (in the top 0.1% of all shops on Etsy), bestselling author of “How to be a handmade boss”, visionary and coach behind Handmade Bosses. However, It wasn’t always rainbows and unicorns though. Today, my business(es) are bustling, but way back in 2014 when I started, it was HARD. Favourites but no sales, slow sales and low profits seemed in the beginning, like the trajectory of my business. Luckily following the system I’ve now curated, All of that changed and I went full-time in my handmade business in 2016.Let’s focus on turning your passion into profit, because the world really does need these special creations that you only bring to life.

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