The Creative Chronicles

Brush Strokes Pottery
  • 5.0 (15)
  • CRAFTS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to The Creative Chronicles, a podcast hosted by Courtney Joyner that delves into the stories of creators and their crafts. Our goal is to introduce you to unique makers and art forms, providing insights and inspiration for both creators and appreciators of art. In each episode, we explore the journey of our guests, from their beginnings to their motivations, while also highlighting small businesses and their one-of-a-kind offerings. Join us in celebrating creativity, passion, and artistry, and discover the world of talented makers waiting to captivate you.

  1. 06/27/2025

    Lessons in Leadership: From Chaos to Clarity

    Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on a season that’s tested my leadership, my health, and my patience. This episode is all about what happens when things don’t go as planned—when bringing on help creates more friction than relief, when old triggers resurface, and when slowing down feels impossible. I’ll be sharing the tools that are helping me navigate the mess, the clarity I’ve found in unexpected places, and why getting uncomfortable might just be the invitation to grow. If you’ve ever felt like the chaos is too loud, or like you're creating in the middle of your own storm—this one’s for you. Takeaways: We need to get a little uncomfortable to make change happen.Triggers are invitations to explore deeper emotions.It's okay to slow down and honor the season you're in.Chaos can attract more stress; calmness leads to clarity.We are stronger and more resilient than we give ourselves credit for.You are allowed to change and create something beautiful from a messy place. LINKS  Watch on YouTube: Coming Soon Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on ⁠Instagram ⁠ Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠⁠ **use code Podcast for 15% off**

    17 min
  2. A Scent-imental Journey: Crafting Candles with Slow North

    06/06/2025

    A Scent-imental Journey: Crafting Candles with Slow North

    We’re slowing things down—in the best way possible. I’m joined by Michelle Simmons, founder of Slow North, a natural lifestyle brand born in Austin and built on intention, creativity, and calm. What started in her garage with a pot, hot plate, and a vision for clean-burning candles has grown into a thriving business rooted in sustainable practices, handcrafted products, and community connection.  We talk about the messy middle of entrepreneurship, the value of listening to your gut (and your customers), and how to build a brand that truly reflects who you are. Whether you’re a maker, a dreamer, or somewhere in between, this conversation is a warm hug and a gentle nudge to keep going. So grab your favorite candle, take a deep breath, and let’s dive in. TAKEAWAYS Started Slow North after becoming more conscious of the products in her home.Slow North's mission is rooted in transparency and sustainability.Starting at farmers markets provided valuable feedback for product development.Investing in a business coach can provide necessary guidance and accountability.Sustainability in packaging is a priority for modern businesses.Balancing family and business requires intentional time management.Lifelong learning is essential for personal and professional development. LINKS  Listen on Apple:  Listen on Spotify:   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OdZ-UOmyyJ8 Follow Slow North on Instagram Shop Online  -⁠⁠ https://www.slownorth.com Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on ⁠Instagram ⁠ Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠⁠ **use code Podcast for 15% off**

    49 min
  3. Color Me Obsessed: The Story behind A Brighter Year

    05/09/2025

    Color Me Obsessed: The Story behind A Brighter Year

    What started as a side hustle turned into a viral mental health tool with simple, bite-sized coloring books for adults—designed to reduce stress, support neurodivergent users, and bring daily joy. This week, I sit down with A Brighter Year's Founder Shanti Grossman to talk creativity, calm, and building a business that matters. Shanti shares her journey from a musical upbringing and music industry career to launching three different product-based businesses. Her honest reflections on business pivots, viral TikTok success, and learning to scale are full of wisdom for creatives and entrepreneurs alike. Plus you'll definitely hear the spark when two extrovert creatives catch up. Whether you're looking for a laugh or creative inspiration, this ones's a good one! TAKEAWAYS Shanti has always been creative, influenced by her musical family.She transitioned from the music industry to entrepreneurship to avoid a cubicle job.Her first businesses taught her valuable lessons about scaling and marketing.A Brighter Year started as a creative outlet and evolved into a mental health tool.The design philosophy focuses on simplicity and accessibility for busy individuals.Listening to customer feedback is crucial for product development.TikTok success and how it's played a significant role in her business growth.Future partnerships and programs to help people feel more joyful! LINKS  Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/454yCci Listen on Spotify:  https://spoti.fi/4dgLkqG Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/99TxxzmyWns Follow A Brighter Year on Instagram Shop Online  -⁠ https://abrighteryear.com Freebies and More Fun! Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠ **use code Podcast for 15% off**

    56 min
  4. Rejection Reframed: Finding Strength in the "No"

    04/11/2025

    Rejection Reframed: Finding Strength in the "No"

    In this episode, I’m opening up about something we all face but rarely talk about—rejection. I recently went through an experience that shook me, but instead of letting it define me, I chose to learn from it. I'm sharing how I shifted my mindset, found power in reflection, and discovered that a "no" can actually open doors to something even better. I’ll talk about the importance of pressing pause—especially if you’re constantly in go-mode—and why self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. I’m also encouraging you to do something simple but powerful: make a list of your wins. Sometimes, we need that reminder of who we are and what we’ve already overcome. This episode is for anyone navigating a setback, looking for clarity, or just needing a little boost to keep going. I’ve been there—and I want you to know, you're not alone, and the journey ahead is still yours to claim. LINKS  Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/4ltDKN0 Listen on Spotify:  https://bit.ly/4j11ExC Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ljkg_JEQXUo Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram Shop Ceramic Cactus - ⁠https://brushstrokespottery.com⁠ **use code Podcast for 15% off** NOMINATE AN ARTIST: If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at info@brushstrokespottery.com Keywords: artist, ceramics, social media, creative journey, positive mindset, community, entrepreneurship, overcoming rejection, small business, female entrepreneur, small batch ceramics, art podcast, artist journey

    10 min
  5. The Art of Vintage: The Creative Journey of Sunroom Ceramics

    02/21/2025

    The Art of Vintage: The Creative Journey of Sunroom Ceramics

    Jessica Bubnich of Sunroom Ceramics is a ceramicist whose path from the corporate world to full-time artist is nothing short of inspiring. We talk about the struggles of calling yourself an artist, the thrill of problem-solving through clay, and the ever-present challenge of balancing creativity with business. Jessica also shares why ‘done is better than perfect’ might just be the best advice for any artist trying to grow their audience. As she has found success by embracing authenticity, learning to post even when it feels scary, and using social media as a tool rather than a source of stress. If you’ve ever doubted your creative identity or felt stuck between passion and profitability, this episode is for you. So grab a cup of coffee and settle into wherever you are listening and let’s get started… CHAPTERS: Introductions & Quick Fire Question Game 02:40 The Journey to Embracing the Artist Identity 05:25 Always Creative?  07:04 A degree in Hamburger-ology from McDonald's 15:17 Problem Solving in Ceramics 16:50 The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Molds 19:50 Favorite Ceramic Piece Made 20:52 The Evolution of Content Creation 22:36 Overcoming Social Media Anxiety 27:58 Small Batch Production: A Business Model 32:36 Navigating Work-Life Balance as a Business Owner 37:23 Building Community Through Authenticity 44:58 Building a Creative Workspace at Home 49:58 Where to find Sunroom Ceramics  TAKEAWAYS: Embrace your identity as an artist.Transitioning from corporate to creative can be challenging but rewarding.Social media can be a powerful tool for artists.Finding a community of like-minded individuals is crucial.Work-life balance is a continuous journey for entrepreneurs.It's okay to not have everything figured out.Done is better than perfect when it comes to content creation.Building connections with others in the art world can enhance your journey. LINKS  Watch on YouTube: COMING SOON Follow Sunroom Ceramics on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sunroomceramics Shop Online  - https://www.sunroomceramics.com Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on instagram -   / brushstrokespottery   Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com **use code Podcast for 15% off** Listen on Apple: ⁠https://apple.co/3EOipgq⁠ Listen on Spotify:  ⁠https://spoti.fi/4icjBsp⁠ NOMINATE AN ARTIST: If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at info@brushstrokespottery.com ceramics, slip casting, art podcast, artist journey

    52 min
  6. Word of the Year: Setting the Vibe for 2025

    01/31/2025

    Word of the Year: Setting the Vibe for 2025

    Resolutions? Overrated. But a single word to guide your year? That’s where the magic happens. In this episode of I'm helping you brainstorm the perfect word to set the tone for 2025—whether you’re craving growth, creativity, or a fresh start. I'll share insights from my own journey as a small business owner, why intentional goal-setting actually works, and how choosing the right word can fuel your mindset all year long. Tune in for inspiration, creative brainstorming, and a fun approach to making 2025 your best year yet! TAKEAWAYS: Choosing a word for the year can guide your intentions. Thoughtful relationships are crucial for personal growth. Embracing challenges can lead to significant growth. Setting goals should be meaningful, not just a checklist. Creativity is a powerful tool for self-expression. Engaging with your community can inspire new ideas. Reflecting on past experiences can inform future choices. LINKS  Listen on Spotify:   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bU63GzH2s4c Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on instagram -   / brushstrokespottery   Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com NOMINATE AN ARTIST: If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at info@brushstrokespottery.com

    12 min

  7. 10/25/2024

    Holiday Market Success: 5 Essential Sales Strategies for Small Business Artists

    Want to boost your holiday market sales this season? Duh, who doesn’t! Join me as I dive into five essential sales strategies that small business artists can easily implement to turn curious shoppers into loyal customers. From simple actions like getting people to stand up, to sharing the unique process behind your art, and meeting customers where they are, these tips have a proven track record of boosting booth sales. We’ll also cover the power of seeing and recognizing each person, ditching judgments, and leveraging QR codes to connect visitors directly to your online world. Tune in to discover how you can make your holiday market booth a magnet for sales! Side note...this is also applicable to retail shops and boutiques. LINKS: Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com NOMINATE AN ARTIST: If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at info@brushstrokespottery.com

    19 min
  8. 3 Tips for Reclaiming Your Identity as an Artist

    09/06/2024

    3 Tips for Reclaiming Your Identity as an Artist

    I’ve been thinking a lot about my identity as an artist lately and where I want to go next in my life and career and how that has left me feeling restless. I shared briefly on Instagram stories how I was struggling and the 3 key things I did to reconnect and reset. So many of your resonated with that message and wanted to hear more so I recorded this quick episode expanding on what I learned and discovered with the hopes that it can help you too. Enjoy! I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: I would absolutely loved to hear what you took away from this episode (or any others). It would mean the world to me if you could take 2 minutes to leave a quick review on the podcast. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! TAKEAWAYS: Trust your gut and listen to your intuition Ask others to describe you to gain valuable insights Take a break from social media and focus on being present Practice self-acceptance and self-love LINKS: Follow Brush Strokes Pottery on Instagram Shop Ceramic Cactus - https://brushstrokespottery.com and use code PODCAST for 10% off! NOMINATE AN ARTIST: If you’d like to nominate an artist (can be yourself) send us an email at info@brushstrokespottery.com

    14 min
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Trailer

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About

Welcome to The Creative Chronicles, a podcast hosted by Courtney Joyner that delves into the stories of creators and their crafts. Our goal is to introduce you to unique makers and art forms, providing insights and inspiration for both creators and appreciators of art. In each episode, we explore the journey of our guests, from their beginnings to their motivations, while also highlighting small businesses and their one-of-a-kind offerings. Join us in celebrating creativity, passion, and artistry, and discover the world of talented makers waiting to captivate you.

Information

  • Creator
    Brush Strokes Pottery
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Brush Strokes Pottery
  • Show Website
    The Creative Chronicles