Windowsill Chats

Margo is joined by the incredibly talented Leigh Standley, founder of Curly Girl Design. Lee has been making waves in the greeting card industry since 2003, creating beautifully crafted cards that resonate deeply. In this episode, Leigh opens up about the evolution of her business through the seismic shifts in technology and consumer behaviors over the past two decades. From the early days of e-commerce to dealing with the challenges brought on by the pandemic that forced a business model shift from wholesale to direct sales, Leigh shares her journey of adaptability, passion, and persistence. She also shares her thoughtful approach to business, emphasizing personal values, the importance of meaningful connections, and why she remains committed to crafting products that genuinely speak to the heart. Margo and Leigh discuss: The history of Curly Girl Design since its inception in 2003 How her personal values have influenced the decision-making process in her business Why she pivoted from wholesale to direct sales and challenges that arose during the shift Advice for creative entrepreneurs and the importance to think beyond the “just start” phase The evergreen business model Selling meaningful, consumable items that you’re proud of as a creative The importance of interacting directly with your customers Business success beyond the financial aspect Her new mystery box product offering And more! Connect with Leigh: https://www.curlygirldesign.com/ https://www.instagram.com/curlygirldesign https://www.instagram.com/leigh.standley/ Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by Aussie Surface Pattern Designer Rachael King. Obsessed with pattern from an early age, Rachael King grew up watching her talented mother making clothes not only for her and her siblings but for bridal and formal events too. While working in her mom's fabric shop, she mused over how the pattern repeated over the fabric and wondered how fabric was printed and wouldn't it be wonderful to design fabric too? It took another 23 years before Rachael was able to start a diploma in graphic design that would then lead into her dream of becoming a surface pattern designer. Represented by Nerida Hansen at Surtex in 2017 led to her first licensed collection with Spotlight stores and since then she has worked with fashion, homewares and greeting card companies, been a part owner in a print-on-demand fabric business, self-published two books, and is now teaching and mentoring in her much-loved industry. Rachael adores the connection she makes with fellow designers through her various touchpoints and feels very privileged to be able to inspire and nurture emerging surface designers. Margo and Rachael discuss: Rachael’s creative path and how her mom instilled a love for creativity in her Self-publishing her book, Pattern Pulse, after initial rejection Elizabeth Gilbert's book, Big Magic, and how it catalyzed her creative endeavors Tribulations and triumphs of women in the creative business landscape: asserting value, advocating for fair compensation, and having a network of peers and mentors The importance of physical art in a digital age Why individuality and authenticity are crucial to the art industry How artists can stay true to their unique style while also being commercially viable Challenges of building a creative community in Australia The influence and support that often comes from maternal figures in fostering creativity Thoughts and tips for artists facing low payment offers Connect with Rachael: www.rachaelking.com.au www.patternpulse.com.au www.instagram.com/rachaeldoesdesign www.instagram.com/australiansurfacedesigners www.facebook.com/rachaelkingdesignsbrisbane Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this part 2 of 2 episode, Margo is joined by founder of Lonesome Pictopia, Melanie Nead. Rooted in American tattooing, the wild spaces of the Pacific Northwest, and the belief that all work should be a force for good, Lonesome Pictopia is a woman-owned design collective creating magical worlds with original wallpapers, textiles, and murals. After fifteen years as a custom tattoo artist, Melanie turned her love of plants and pattern to creating one-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals, with an eye on releasing a house line in the spirit of historic wallcoverings. Their deeply designed wallpapers are traditionally printed in the UK by a sustainable manufacturer of some of the finest wallpapers in the world. Her work has appeared in Architectural Digest, Luxe Magazine, Casa Vogue Brazil, and the Business of Home podcast, among many others. Margo and Melanie discuss: How to manage project expectations, setting clear boundaries and communication with clients The power in systems in order to save time and costs How building in a margin of error to the cost of projects has helped her team Infusing personal values and making a social impact into her work Math and knowing your numbers as a creative business owner Positioning yourself and how it can build confidence And more! Connect with Melanie: www.lonesomepictopia.com www.instagram.com/lonesomepictopia Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by founder of Lonesome Pictopia, Melanie Nead. Rooted in American tattooing, the wild spaces of the Pacific Northwest, and the belief that all work should be a force for good, Lonesome Pictopia is a woman-owned design collective creating magical worlds with original wallpapers, textiles, and murals. After fifteen years as a custom tattoo artist, Melanie turned her love of plants and pattern to creating one-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals, with an eye on releasing a house line in the spirit of historic wallcoverings. Their deeply designed wallpapers are traditionally printed in the UK by a sustainable manufacturer of some of the finest wallpapers in the world. Her work has appeared in Architectural Digest, Luxe Magazine, Casa Vogue Brazil, and the Business of Home podcast, among many others. Margo and Melanie discuss: Her creative path and the transition from tattoo artist to surface pattern designer navigating the balance between tradition and innovation within her art How to manage project expectations, setting clear boundaries and communication with clients Infusing personal values and making a social impact into her work The difficulty that comes with shifting career paths Discovering a passion for design after tattooing The impact of design and creativity on mental health The magic that comes from authenticity and experimental drive Business systems for creative entrepreneurship and how platforms like Instagram can still be a powerhouse for business growth Balancing the need for creative mental space with the business demands of schedules and deadlines Maintaining and revitalizing historic crafts and artistic expressions Cinema as a design inspiration Connect with Melanie: www.lonesomepictopia.com www.instagram.com/lonesomepictopia Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined once again by surface pattern designer, intuitive art maker, and course creator Jessica Swift. As a child, Jessica sported a nearly-permanent Crayola marker stain on her left arm, from pinky to elbows so, naturally, she became an artist. She creates colorful, uplifting artwork and manufactures her own products in her studio in Portland, Oregon. She also collaborates with inspiring companies and publishers to create branded products such as fabric, stationery, puzzles, books, and more. She's the author of 3 books and teaches online classes on topics including pattern design, color, and intuitive art-making. Margo and Jessica discuss: The pivotal moment that changed the trajectory of Jessica’s career as an artist How she combines outer art mediums with an inner focus for healing Using art making as a portal for personal discovery and self expression How to tune out external noise in order to trust your inner voice better How engaging with art can impact decision-making Jessica’s approach in how she uses art as a vehicle for personal growth and insight rather than just an aesthetic outcome Authentic expression online Her upcoming course, Unleashed: A Creative Journey to Inner Freedom Connect with Jessica: www.jessicaswift.com www.instagram.com/jessicaswift https://www.artforselfcare.com/unleashed Windowsill Chats Episode 105 Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined once again by artist, metalsmith, teacher, creative business coach, writer, and entrepreneur Megan Aumen. Megan has built a multi-faceted business around her passion for art, design, and creativity. In addition to her eponymous jewelry line and various other creative pursuits (including textile design, painting, and sculpture), she runs Designing an MBA, where she talks and teaches about the intersection of art and business, and Artists and Profit Makers, an online mentorship program for creative business owners. She is the author of four books, including Try It & See and Permission to Be an Artist. Margo and Megan discuss: The importance of experiential art Understanding the seasonality of a business and why it’s important Her journey with both self-doubt and self-empowerment when it comes to valuing creative work Rest and relaxation for creatives and how she integrates principles into her own life to maintain a healthy creative process Traditional advice that’s often given to artists regarding problem-solving and how it can limit their creative expression and the impact of their work Generative AI: ethical considerations and its impact on creative workers Connect with Megan: shop.meganauman.com instagram.com/meganauman youtube.com/meganauman Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by book-loving, notebook-hoarding literacy teacher educator who is on a mission to change lives one book and one notebook at a time, Stephanie Affinito. Stephanie blogs about the power of leading literate lives and podcasts weekly on books and reading, writing and notebooks and everything in between. Stephanie shares about the transformative power of reading and writing and how her own personal journey of rediscovering creativity through self-expression and the joy of literature. Margo and Stephanie discuss: Reading and writing as a form of therapy Understanding restorative reading practices The science behind reading for mental and physical health The connection between literacy and emotional well-being Encouraging joyful reading habits Building a book apothecary The importance of starting with achievable goals Establishing rituals around reading And so much more Connect with Stephanie: www.alitlife.com www.instagram.com/AffinitoLit www.facebook.com/AffinitoLit www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit www.threads.net/@affinitolit www.getliterate.co stephanie-affinito-0cab.mykajabi.com/envelopesofliteratelove stephanie-affinito-0cab.mykajabi.com/workwithstephanie Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

The one and only Lisa Congdon is back in the windowsill for an honest conversation on work life balance, creating harmony and ease in life, and what she’s given up in order to have more of what she wants. Illustrator and author Lisa Congdon is best known for her colorful, graphic drawings and hand lettering. She works for clients around the world including Comme des Garçons, Crate and Barrel, Facebook, MoMA, REI, and Harvard University among many others. She is the author of ten books, including the starving-artist-myth-smashing Art Inc: The Essential Guide to Building Your Career as an Artist and her latest book Find Your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic. Margo and Lisa discuss: The notion of work life balance and Lisa’s current take on it The process of engangling herself from being a workaholic Creating a self care and wellness practice The importance of non-monetized hobbies The learning lessons that come from decision making Why she always says “every mistake is progress” The 80/20 rule when it comes to business income Print on demand How being disciplined has allowed her more freedom in her life Connect with Lisa: https://lisacongdon.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lisacongdon/ Art Inc. by Lisa Congdon Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by California photographer and retreat creator and host, Sarah Leader. Sarah received her first camera at the age of 8 and hasn’t stopped photographing since but her why and who she photographs has evolved several times over while still saying true to her own style and uniqueness. She found a passion for empowering women through the art of photography in 2010, which evolved into a retreat offering called "Persephone Unleashed.” Persephone Unleashed was born from Sarah’s belief that women are magic, as well as her fiery passion to document beautiful creatures as they break free of their chrysalis. Her approach to photographing women is founded on authenticity & self-compassion, and she practices it by showing up to that space with you, unapologetically herself — awkward, messy bits and all. Margo and Sarah discuss: Her personal journey with creativity and photography The inspiration and story behind Persephone Unleashed (stemming from her own Postpartum Depression) and how it’s evolved since its inception Using photography as a form of storytelling How she approaches photographing women with authenticity and self-compassion How she uses photography as a tool for empowering women and how self portraiture contributes to their sense of self and liberation Margo’s experience at Persephone Unleashed Creating an environment that encourages women to break free and embrace their authenticity Tips for how individuals can embrace their own unique beauty and tell their stories through photography (even if they're not professional photographers) The incredible team at Persephone Unleashed Upcoming events and more Mentioned: Exploring the Interwoven Journey of Spirituality and Creativity: Jade Chen on Shamanic Practices, the Potency of Nature, and Personal Evolution (Episode 174) Connect with Sarah: www.persphoneunleashed.com www.instagram.com/persephoneunleashed https://sarahkathleen.com/ Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by former Windowsill Chats guest, Lori Siebert. Lori, an accomplished artist with a rich background in graphic design and art licensing, shares the evolution of her creative journey, reflecting on the major shifts in her life post turning 60, from handling significant losses to prioritizing joy and self-care. Together, they share insights into recent personal health discoveries and why they’ve decided to prioritize their health now and how they hope to encourage you to do the same. Lori also shares on the shift in her career, choosing projects that resonate personally after selling her studio building and relieving financial pressures. She discusses how this pivotal decision, along with a newfound pursuit of happiness through self-care, led her to acknowledge her chameleon-like adaptability as a signature mark in her art. Margo and Lori discuss: The intersection of creativity and health and why you can’t have one without the other Discovering new creative passions that aid in wellness such as cooking Plank contests and pilates Unique art challenges and how they infuse their lives with inspiration How intergenerational relationships impact Lori’s creative process Prioritizing sleep Managing time and maintaining a healthy balance between work, self-care, and creativity Upcoming events and plans for Lori And more! Connect with Lori: http://www.instagram.com/lorisiebert.studio/ http://www.pinterest.com/lorisie http://www.facebook.com/lorisiebertstudio www.lorisiebert.com Connect with Margo: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.windowsillchats.com www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by tax expert Hannah Cole who specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she’s helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements from Florida to Alaska, and on the Sunlight podcast. She is the founder of Sunlight Tax. As artists carve their paths through various industries, they encounter a myriad of challenges, yet financial literacy is rarely addressed, leading to feelings of failure and shame. Today's conversation with Hannah sheds light on this systemic failure and turns it into a journey of empowerment and self-compassion (something all creatives should have)! Margo and Hannah discuss: The responsibilities that come with being a small business owner in the US Navigating self-employment taxes and optimizing deductions Personal struggles that Hannah faced within her own creative career and financial literacy What propelled her towards accounting education How she acts as a translator between the creative and tax worlds Simple advice artists can implement today when it comes to money management Her Money Bootcamp program and podcast How to save more money And more! Connect with Hannah: www.instagram.com/sunlighttax www.sunlighttax.com www.sunlighttax.com/podcast Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $130k in Your Savings https://go.sunlighttax.com/free Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In part two of this two-part episode, Margo is joined by illustrator, product designer, toy creator, and bookmaker of sophisticated and simple objects that inspire and delight young and old alike, Suzy Ultman. from graphic design to creating educational content for children, Suzy emphasizes the importance of infusing personal beliefs into professional projects and how hardships in her life such as her divorce and the loss of her sister played a role in her own creativity and imparting it on children. Make Time for Play is the main philosophy behind everything that she does as an artist and her signature products celebrate play, creativity, connection, and community in the world around us. Margo and Suzy discuss: Her desire to create more Jewish products to represent her culture and heritage How personal struggles influenced her creative process and approach to life The self-growth and happiness that comes alive through creativity Using social media as a creative tool Rediscovering the joy of Shabbat and what it brought back in to her life The importance in finding time for creativity, self-reflection, and relationships Her new kids stationery collaboration And more Connect with Suzy: www.instagram.com/suzyultman www.suzyultman.com Connect with Margo: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.windowsillchats.com www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

In this two-part episode, Margo is joined by illustrator, product designer, toy creator, and bookmaker of sophisticated and simple objects that inspire and delight young and old alike, Suzy Ultman. from graphic design to creating educational content for children, Suzy emphasizes the importance of infusing personal beliefs into professional projects and how hardships in her life such as her divorce and the loss of her sister played a role in her own creativity and imparting it on children. Make Time for Play is the main philosophy behind everything that she does as an artist and her signature products celebrate play, creativity, connection, and community in the world around us. Margo and Suzy discuss: Suzy’s creative path: transitioning from studying accounting to pursuing a career in graphic design Her experience of working in design for Adidas Prioritizing handwork, creativity, and inspiration in the creative process How personal identity and cultural heritage plays a role in her creative process Challenges she’s faced when integrating her Jewish identity into her work Lessons learned from finding representation and building artistic vision The importance of connection and community when it comes to doing creative work Staying true to one's story and identity Connect with Suzy: www.instagram.com/suzyultman www.suzyultman.com Connect with Margo: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.windowsillchats.com www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by fantastical and whimsical artist, Jules Gissler. Jules doesn’t color in the proverbial lines, and she is proud to create art that has a voice and a story. Over the years, my work has taken different shapes, as has she. Jules believes in being braver, bolder, and unafraid to take up space and also the important role humor and connection plays in our evolution. Jules' art is an embodiment of who she is. It’s how she lives her magic, the combination of vulnerability, attachment to nature, courage, and her voice that make her unlike any other being under the sun. She is grateful to have discovered these qualities and hopes the many layers of emotions and experiences she has, shows up in her work in a way that inspires smile-ish-ness (her Dr. Seuss made-up word) and connection. Margo and Jules discuss: Attending Montana State University to discovering her passion for art and jewelry design The significance of music and its impact on her creativity How she’s embraced new opportunities and takes initiative in business Vulnerability, connection, and natures role in her creative journey How she continually pushes forward in trying new things (artistic endeavors, life, etc.) Storytelling through her art Collaborating with a designer like Michael Grey for Birkenstock Advice for artists navigating their own creative journeys Learn the art of PROCreate with Beth Buffington by visiting https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill Connect with Jules: https://www.julesgissler.com https://instagram.com/julesAgissler https://www.facebook.com/julesGisslerArtist https://www.linkedin.com/in/jules-gissler https://www.pinterest.com/julesgissler/ https://www.amazon.com/Save-Earth-Daisy-Sleeve-T-Shirt/dp/B09NTQ2SZW/ https://www.illustratorsforhire.com/featuring/jules-gissler-illustrator-for-hire Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com/ www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by the cheeky glam ma'am behind the Champagne Fabulous brand of gifts and home decor, Mandi Blackford. Through her brand, Mandi encourages people of all ages to unabashedly be exactly who they WANT to be with her motto "Age Inappropriately.” A watercolor & acrylic artist previously selling under the brand Jetset Barbie Art, Mandi took her creative career to the next level in 2022 when she launched the Champagne Fabulous brand with her first two original products on Amazon in the US, UK, and Australia. A pool float in the shape of a champagne bottle, and a doorbell frame that says "Press for Champagne". All while maintaining her demanding full-time day job as a hotel software product manager. Mandi recently launched The Age Inappropriately Show – a weekly video podcast where hilarious content will always come back to the underlying message of encouragement to have self-love, confidence, and live authentically. Margo and Mandi discuss: Her Arkansas upbringing, Baptist background and her evolving desire to be a preacher's wife to becoming an artist The unique path and many jobs that took her to Las Vegas, Austin, Dallas, and Chicago before moving to Longview, TX What traveling taught her and how it inspired her first creative business name, Jetset Barbie Finding a new form of creativity through painting at the age of 46 Making art profitable The Amazon FBA program: learning the ins and outs to sell her products on Amazon Learning to embracing her individuality and overcome societal norms Her new podcast and video show, Age Inappropriately And more! Learn the art of PROCreate with Beth Buffington by visiting https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill Connect with Mandi: https://champagnefab.com/ https://youtube.com/@champagnefab https://www.instagram.com/champagnefabulousllc/ https://www.facebook.com/ChampagneFabulousLLC https://www.tiktok.com/@champagnefab https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/mandiblackford https://twitter.com/champagnefaboo Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com/ www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by certified and credentialed life coach and hypnotherapist, masterful speaker, and courageous communication expert Amy Green Smith. Amy uses her roles as coach, writer, podcaster, and speaker to move individuals to a place of radical personal empowerment and self-worth. With acute focus on helping people “find their voice”, she is highly sought after for her uncommon style of irreverence, wisdom, and humor. Margo and Amy discuss: Her life crisis moment that led her to leave an industry she had great success in The importance of effective communication and emotional well-being Learning to find your voice and powerfully say 'No' as an artist Combatting people-pleasing in business Finding the right words, creating boundaries, and cultivating self-worth as an entrepreneur Navigating uncomfortable conversations The science behind our four fear responses (and how they hold creatives back) Her amazing Free-sources And so much more! Learn the art of PROCreate with Beth Buffington by visiting https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill Connect with Amy: Amygreensmith.com http://amygreensmith.com/free http://instagram.com/heyamygreensmith http://facebook.com/heyamygreensmith https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyamygreensmith http://twitter.com/heyamygreen Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by listener favorite guest Beth Buffington. Beth is a licensed illustrator, and an online digital illustration instructor, creative coach, and podcaster. Like most creatives, she has been drawing since she was old enough to hold her favorite red crayon. After graduating with a degree in art and graphic design, Beth began her creative career working for “in-house” corporate art departments. After years of corporate communications, she decided to focus on her personal creative passions, by starting her own business. Her work has grown into several facets including home decor products, course creation and her latest creative outlet, adventure exploring and podcasting. Margo and Beth discuss: Beth’s creative path from in-house designer to entrepreneur The importance of making time for self-improvement and finding joy in learning something new Benefits of using technology, like Procreate, to create art anywhere Challenges of rejection and finding a supportive community in pursuing creative work How she discovered her passion for teaching Balancing creative pursuits with other responsibilities The power in consistent creativity and its effect on health Her upcoming course, free workshops and podcast And more! Mentioned in this episode: Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us by Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen Connect with Beth: https://www.bdi-create.today/windowsill https://bdi-celebrate.today/ Create Today Podcast https://www.instagram.com/b.b.buffington_celebratetoday/ https://www.facebook.com/BDIcreatetoday https://www.linkedin.com/in/bbbuffington/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFNR_jaR-CnBXIHC5RVTnQg https://www.skillshare.com/profile/Beth-Buffington/4859209 Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

Margo is joined by botanical watercolor artist, teacher and podcast host Ping He. Ping made a career change from flower consultant to botanical artist in 2019 and shortly thereafter launched a successful stationary and gift brand, Ping He Art where she turned her intricate designs into beautiful paper products. Today, her art is available in 150 stores across 12 counties. In 2021, Ping was diagnosed with breast cancer which is when she realized her need and desire to live a life with purpose and she created Thriving Women Artists, a podcast by Ping and two friends sharing their tips and knowledge when it comes to working as a freelance artist and encouraging other women in creative industries. Amongst her work, Pink is currently working on designing a creative app called Botany Works where creative expats can share their passion for botanical art as well as live a creative and fulfilled life on their own terms. Margo and Ping discuss: What it was like growing up during cultural revolution in China and what it taught her Taking charge of your own destiny and understanding what you want out of your own life and business Considering your own business risks and personal aspirations Taking baby steps and being unafraid of your own possibility and potential Navigating health challenges for herself and her child and how they affected her business How she balances motherhood and a creative business The richness of opportunities that come from collaboration Passion, authenticity and self-belief And more! Connect with Ping: www.pinghe.art www.instagram.com/pinghe.art https://www.facebook.com/pingheartstudio/ https://www.instagram.com/twapodcast/ Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

This week Margo and her sister play a bit of a role reversal and Margo is interviewed In the Windowsill! As the creator and host of the podcast, Margo rarely shares intimately about herself but she figured it was time to change that. Margo shares her experience with wire art and the moment a piece of art went from an act of creativity to monetized creativity, working in wholesale, collaborating with artists to create unique retail products, and bridging the gap between creatives and their businesses. She also discusses her love of music, the personal growth she’s experienced over the past year, and her current pursuits in silversmithing and jewelry making. With the help of Shelley, Margo explores her insights on reinvention, self-reflection, and her plans for 2024. Mentioned in this episode: Lynn Whipple’s 100 Bad Paintings Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang The Gown: A Novel of the Royal Wedding by Jennifer Robson Connect with Margo: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill See full show notes at www.windowsillchats.com/podcast

Margo is joined by Shamanic Practitioner and Spiritual Guide Jade Chen. Jade supports and assists people on their healing journey and believes everyone has the capacity to activate the healer within. Her own awakening journey began in 2016 when life took some major turns and she left both a highly financially secure career and a relationship of over 6 years. She felt she had been living her life in a dazed dream; just going through the motions and trying her best to maintain surface happiness. She began to pray a lot and then reconnect to the spirit world through those prayers, and began to receive some answers. The messages she received included to acknowledge her own experience, pain and trauma and to go inward and hold space for herself in a way that felt real. Since 2016 she’s continued to receive messages that have allowed her to grow and evolve while helping others do the same. She works with people one on one and in group settings and also leads healing retreats throughout the year. Margo and Jade discuss: Jade’s year of transformation that led her to shamanic and spiritual work What a Shamanic Practitioner is and does Use of practices like meditation and connecting with nature for healing The connection between creativity and spirituality Tapping into our inner-child through creativity The commonality of being an empath among highly creative people Overcoming imposter syndrome and anxiety in sharing creative work And more Connect with Jade: www.mudlotuslife.com www.instagram.com/jadelotuschen Illuminated Women’s Business Retreat Connect with Margo: www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.windowsillchats.com www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill