Brush & Banter | A Zibra Podcast

Brie Hansen, Annie Bolding, & Lauren Cooper

Welcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project.  Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio.

  1. 4D AGO

    When “No” Becomes the Business Plan | Furniture, Boundaries, and a Creative Business Built with Intention with Jen Talley from Perfectly Imperfect Furniture Restoration

    Furniture flipping looks dreamy from the outside: paint, pretty pieces, a tidy before-and-after, but Jen Talley pulls back the curtain on what actually makes it sustainable. This conversation sits in the quiet middle between passion and burnout: learning when to say yes, when to say no, and why boundaries are just as creative as brushstrokes. Jen shares how her business evolved from late-night hobby energy to an intentional, values-led rhythm; choosing better pieces, protecting her time, letting simplicity sell, and honoring the very human reasons this work matters. It’s grounded, honest, and deeply reassuring for anyone trying to turn “I love this” into “this actually works.” Jen Talley is a furniture artist known for her timeless, perfectly imperfect approach and a business built on intention over hustle. Her work blends classic design, thoughtful boundaries, and a deep belief that furniture, and creativity, can hold real meaning. Connect with Jen: IG FacebookYouTubeCreative Finds: Melange Paints - Jen’s discount code mentioned: JEN10Golden Brush Awards 2025 - Public voting opening February 13In this episode, we discuss: When no becomes the most important business skill you can learnHow intention, boundaries, and simplicity create longevityWhy furniture doesn’t need more – it needs better (and simpler)The human stories behind the pieces we make and sellWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    40 min
  2. JAN 21

    Painter Turned Inventor | Repaint Tray’s Shark Tank Story with Billie Asmus of RePaint Studios

    Billie Asmus was tired of plastic paint liners, half-used trays drying out overnight, and trying to save paint with foil and plastic bags, so she started messing around in her basement to see if she could make something better. That curiosity turned into a reusable paint tray, a lot of Google searches, a year of prototyping and manufacturing, and eventually a moment standing in the Shark Tank longer than expected, fighting for the right partners. In this conversation, Billie walks through what it actually looked like to build the RePaint Tray from scratch, what surprised her most about running a product-based business, and how listening to everyday painters shaped both the product and the community that grew around it. Billie Asmus is the founder of RePaint Studios and the creator of the RePaint Tray, a reusable paint tray designed to make painting less wasteful and easier to pick back up. She comes from a furniture flipping and marketing background and built the product by testing it herself and listening closely to the people using it. Connect with RePaint Studios: WebsiteIGTikTokFacebookCreative Finds: Zibra Edger Series Brush - use code BANTER10 for 10% offIn this episode, we discuss: The $50 basement prototype that proved the idea was worth chasingWhat no one warns you about when you start manufacturing a physical productWhy Billie stayed in the Shark Tank longer than expected, and how she decided who to fight forThe design choices that came from real painter feedback, not trendsHow a paint tray unexpectedly helped people return to painting againWhat it looks like when a product becomes a communityWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    40 min
  3. JAN 7

    Besties in Business | Building a Creative Company with Friends with Caroline & Tianna of Off the Walls Murals

    Running a small business is hard. Running one with a friend can be even harder… and also incredibly rewarding. In this episode, Annie and Lauren sit down with Caroline and Tianna of Off the Walls Murals to talk about what it really looks like to build and grow a creative company together. From navigating money, pricing, and workload to handling conflict, communication, and long-term vision, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the systems, trust, and honesty required to protect both the business and the friendship.   Caroline and Tianna are the co-founders of Off the Walls Murals, a community-driven mural company known for bold, thoughtful designs and large-scale transformations. Working as a creative duo, they’ve built a full-time mural business rooted in trust, aligned values, and a shared commitment to giving back.  Connect with Off the Walls Murals: IGTikTokFacebookWebsiteCreative Finds: Zibra Edger Series Brushes – use code BANTER10 for 10% offSherwin-WilliamsRooted Creative Conference Make-A-Wish FoundationUnited WayChildren in CrisisIn this episode, we discuss: How to run a creative business with a best friend without damaging the friendshipThe systems, communication habits, and trust that keep a partnership healthy as it growsNavigating money, pricing, and big decisions together with confidence and alignmentWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    41 min
  4. 12/17/2025

    What This Year Really Looked Like | Community, Growth & Letting Go

    Think of this as a creative yearbook you didn’t have to sign: the three of us looking back at 2025’s biggest lessons, strangest pivots, messy moments, and unexpected joys. We unpack how Rooted reshaped our year, how podcasting shifted our sense of community, what’s changing for us as artists and business owners, and the habits we’re absolutely not dragging into 2026. Add in your “Spilled Paint” chaos, our words for the new year, and a rapid-fire Brie takeover, and you get a cozy, reflective, slightly chaotic episode that feels like a warm reset for creatives everywhere. Episodes Mentioned: The Glow-Up of a Creative Life | Style Evolution, Brand Collabs & Paid For With Art with Multidisciplinary Artist Kyle MosherLanding Paid Art Projects with Major Brands & Finding Your Creative Voice with Cyn of Chalk & BrushYear-End Creative Finds: Zibra Holiday Shop – use code BANTER10 for 10% offZibra Gift CardsIn this episode, we discuss: The moments from 2025 that shifted our creative direction, from Rooted to unexpected collaborationsWhat podcasting taught us about community, connection, and creative lonelinessThe difference between saying “yes” out of excitement vs. scarcityWhat we’re intentionally leaving behind before stepping into 2026How our artistic styles, processes, and identities evolved this yearWhy structure, boundaries, and self-trust matter more than a perfect planWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    34 min
  5. 11/26/2025

    The Glow-Up of a Creative Life | Style Evolution, Brand Collabs & Paid For With Art with Multidisciplinary Artist Kyle Mosher

    What happens when you stop trying to be the “right” kind of artist and start becoming the truest version of yourself? This week, Annie and Brie sit down with Charlotte-based multidisciplinary artist and illustrator Kyle Mosher to talk about artistic evolution, trusting the long game, and the surprising places a creative path can take you. From studying fine art in Italy to designing sneakers at Puma to building a community-powered brand, Kyle shares the pivots, risks, and revelations that shaped his signature style, and the way preparing for fatherhood is shifting everything he thought he knew about success. Kyle Mosher is a full-time artist, illustrator, and founder of Paid For With Art. Known for his collage-inspired style that blends fine art, culture, and graphic design, Kyle has collaborated with brands like Porsche, HBO, Forbes, and Dunkin’. Through his work and creative community, he champions the value of artistry and the belief that every creator deserves to get paid for what they love. Connect with Kyle: IGWebsitePaid For With ArtResources mentioned: Zibra Holiday Shop – use code BANTER10 for 10% offIn this episode, we discuss: How Kyle discovered his artistic voice by blending fine art, streetwear, and lived experienceThe real work of shifting from “I make art” to “I run a creative business” (and the mistakes that taught him everything)Why resilience, authenticity, and believing in your perspective matter more than perfection in a creative careerWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    42 min
  6. 11/12/2025

    Turning DIY, Motherhood, and Mess Into a Creative Business with Alyssa Vilardi of The Things We Built

    What happens when “making do” turns into making magic? This week, Annie and Lauren sit down with DIY designer and content creator Alyssa Vilardi of The Things We Built to talk about transforming everyday spaces (and everyday chaos) into something beautiful, functional, and full of heart. From painting nurseries in military housing to running a thriving content business, Alyssa shares how she built a brand rooted in authenticity, family, and the courage to take imperfect action. The trio dives into all things DIY, design, motherhood, and the art of creating joy right where you are, mess and all. Alyssa Vilardi is a DIY designer, content creator, mom of three, and military spouse behind The Things We Built. She’s known for her approachable projects, honest storytelling, and knack for turning rental spaces into reflections of real life and creativity. Through her work, Alyssa proves that creativity and authenticity can make any house feel like home. Connect with Alyssa: @the_things_we_builtFacebookWebsiteCreative Finds: 2” Palm Pro Artist Brush – use code BANTER10 for 10% off.The Disco Day Desert House Zibra’s Holiday ShopIn this episode, we discuss: How a simple DIY project sparked a full-time creative businessLetting go of perfection to make room for joy (and chicken tenders)The juggle between motherhood, mental health, and creative driveDesigning spaces that feel like you – EVEN in a rentalWhy authenticity is the most sustainable business strategyWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    38 min
  7. 10/29/2025

    Landing Paid Art Projects with Major Brands & Finding Your Creative Voice with Cyn of Chalk & Brush

    What does it really mean to find your style, and your voice, as an artist? This week, Annie and Lauren sit down with muralist, lettering artist, and creative entrepreneur Cyn (“Cynno”) to talk about the messy middle of building a creative identity. All of the doubts, pivots, and dopamine hits that come with evolving your art and your business. From her early days painting chalkboards to designing murals for Starbucks, Virgin Voyages, and local Miami landmarks, Cyn shares how she found confidence in color, clarity in process, and joy in community–all while staying true to her roots (and her flamingos). Cinthia Santos is the muralist, lettering artist, and creative powerhouse behind Chalk and Brush Design Co. – the Miami studio turning blank walls into sunshine. Since 2013, she’s brought color, confidence, and community to brands and neighborhoods alike, proving that art really does change everything. Connect with Cinthia: Website@cynno @chalkandbrushResources mentioned: 2-inch Palm Pro Artist Brush – use code BANTER10 for 10% off.In this episode, we discuss: How to evolve your style without losing your essenceThe mental tug-of-war between client vision and creative freedomWhy professionalism and process are the secret sauce to landing big clientsBuilding community with other women artists (and why competition is out, collaboration is in)Oh, and yes – painting on a cruise ship.Welcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    43 min
  8. 10/15/2025

    The Messy Middle of a Project... And Your Career as an Artist | Reflecting on Creative Beginnings with Olga Muzician & Lauren Hull

    You know that part of a project where it looks like total chaos and you start questioning all your life choices? Yeah… that part. We’re going there. In this episode, muralist & lettering artist Olga Muzician and furniture flipper-turned-content creator Lauren Hull join hosts Annie and Lauren to talk about the not-so-glamorous side of creative beginnings; the flops, the freak-outs, and the surprisingly sweet moments that come from sticking it out. If you’ve ever cried mid-project, painted over something five times, or stared at your work thinking “what am I even doing?” - this one’s for you. Olga Muzician – Muralist and lettering artist behind Olga Muzician Studio, known for bold color, natural elements, and large-scale work that brings walls and spaces to life. Follow: Instagram, TikTok Lauren Hull – Creator of Furniture Flipping Teacher, where she turns everyday pieces into teaching moments and helps others build confidence (and income) through creative flipping and DIY design. Follow: Facebook, YouTube, TikTok,  Instagram Zibra’s New “Bundle & Save” Sets:  Zibra just launched three curated brush bundles designed for real-world creators, whether you’re refinishing furniture, cutting trim, or painting large-scale walls.  Detail Bundle - Precision for edges and fine workWalls & Trim Bundle - Coverage and control for big projectsFurniture Flipping Bundle - Every refinisher’s essential toolkitExplore them at enjoyzibra.com and use code BANTER10 for 10% off. In this episode, we discuss: The ugly phase every artist goes through (and why it’s actually essential)Why tears, frustration, and fear are part of the creative process - and how to push through themThe small wins and big breakthroughs that happen when you don’t quitAdvice they wish they had when they were just getting startedWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

    35 min
4.7
out of 5
77 Ratings

About

Welcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We’re here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project.  Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It’s a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio.

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