Windowsill Chats

Margo Tantau
  • 4.9 (305)
  • 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. 4 DAYS AGO

    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

  2. OCT 18

    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

  3. OCT 16

    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

  4. OCT 9

    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

  5. OCT 2

    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

  6. SEP 25

    Crafting Cinematic Worlds: Annie Atkins on Iconic Film Design, Creative Storytelling, and Letters From the North Pole

    Margo is joined by Annie Atkins, a graphic designer and legendary prop maker for film and television. She is known for her work with Wes Anderson on The Grand Budapest Hotel, which won the Academy Award for Best Production Design at the 87th Academy Awards. Since then, she has worked again with Wes Anderson on Isle of Dogs and The French Dispatch as well as on Steven Speilberg's West Side Story and Bridge of Spies. Annie’s first book, Fake Love Letters, Forged Telegrams, and Prison Escape Maps, was published in 2020 by Phaidon. In her first children's book, Letters From The North Pole, five children from all around the world write to Santa Claus with ideas for Christmas gifts and are amazed when he writes back! Through five letters from Santa that children can pull out and read, the hidden world of the North Pole is revealed, from how reindeer can sleep standing up to what snacks Santa would like left out on Christmas Eve, and how he gets round the world so quickly. This is a nostalgic and festive tale, reminiscent of the classic The Jolly Postman and Annie's iconic work on such films as The Grand Budapest Hotel.   Margo and Annie discuss: How Annie’s upbringing in a creative household influenced her decision to pursue graphic design and the pivotal moments that led her into the film industry Her impressive portfolio working on films and specific challenges and joys she encountered while working with distinctive styles of directors Hand-lettering vs. digital design Film prop details and some of the various intricate props she crafted Learning through mistakes, how using a 50-star flag instead of a 48-star flag in Bridge of Spies taught her to ensure historical accuracy Personal Projects vs. Commissioned Work What the job of a graphic designer on a film set typically involves and how it contributes to the overall storytelling in a movie Her captivating and interactive new children's book, Letters from the North Pole   Connect with Annie: www.instagra.com/AnnieAtkins www.annieatkins.com   Connect with Margo: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.windowsillchats.com www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 1m

  7. SEP 18

    Creating Space for the Life You Want: Time-Saving Strategies, Monetizing Creative Talents, and Productivity with Chelsea Wessman

    In this previously aired episode, Margo is joined by (former) Productivity Coach & Online Business Consultant Chelsea Wessman. Chelsea is a popcorn obsessed, mom of 3, living next to the Utah mountains and is passionate about empowering ambitious mompreneurs to take back their time, make more money without putting in more hours, and create a life that aligns with their values. She helps ambitious women to optimize time, money, and mindset without sacrificing sanity through systems, financial freedom, and time management hacks.   They discuss: The difference between productivity and being busy and how to figure out which one you’re spending more of your time being Why you don’t have to time block or map out your entire day, week, or month to be productive When you should have a template or system for certain things in your life or business How she helps creatives and other business owners map out online product and service promotional launches  Reverse engineering goals The importance of clarity and structure How mindset plays into productivity   Chelsea is passionate about inspiring others to see more for their life, do more of what matters most, and be more of who you’re meant to be because you’ll never regret investing the time and effort required to reach your potential.    Resources Mentioned: The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendon Burchard   Connect with Chelsea: https://view.flodesk.com/emails/63caebcf75888582c8c6b579 www.instagram.com/chelseawessman Chelsea’s Jumpstart Checklists Resource   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    53 min

  8. SEP 11

    Travel by Design: Eva Jorgensen on Crafting Global Experiences and Creative Retreats

    Margo is joined by travel designer, leader of design trips & retreats, and the author of Paris by Design: An Inspired Guide to the City’s Creative Side, Eva Jorgensen. Eva is also a 17 year design industry veteran with an MFA degree who has taught art, ran an artisanal stationery company for a decade, curated an independent gift shop, and worked as a freelance creative director. Eva grew up in California and lived in France, Belgium, and Ohio for much of her 20s. She now lives in the Utah mountains with her husband, Kirk, and their 2 kids.   Margo and Eva discuss: Eva's upbringing in California and early artistic inspiration. How both her Mother’s stories and influence and her Father’s entrepreneurial background guided her creative path. How she went from operating a letterpress business to organizing exclusive creative retreats. Her exciting plans for upcoming design-focused trips to Belgium and the Cotswolds. Balancing artistic dreams with family life. Her Ambition to one day write and direct an independent feature film. Finding inspiration through nature, travel, and being offline. How writing a magazine turned into a book.  The importance of connection and how her retreats bring people together. Eva’s upcoming retreats.   Connect with Eva:  https://www.evajorgensen.com/ https://www.evajorgensen.com/letters-from-eva www.instagram.com/evajorgensentravel   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 18m
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4.9
out of 5
305 Ratings

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
    229
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Windowsill Chats

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