A Culture of Inspiration

Is your audience drawn to you for more than just your art? Maybe you have cultivated a community through more than just your knowledge of epoxy. In this episode, Mindy DaPrato or Minderella Creations shares how her bloopers and life struggles have helped her connect with her audience and lean on them during difficult times. If you are ready to become an influence for more than your pure talent, this episode is for you! Top reasons to listen to the entire episode: Be inspired by Mindy’s authenticity that created a community that supported her in a time of need.Find out how Mindy used bloopers and blemishes to maximize her influence in the tumbler space.Discover how you can use your platform to influence others. Connect with Mindy: LinkTree Connect with Counter Culture: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining us on A Culture of Inspiration podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review on Apple and Spotify to help us reach even more creators who need a little inspiration. Keep creating!

Are you constantly talking about your art dreams? Maybe you have dabbled in resin art but haven’t had enough faith to step out and create the big projects you dream about. In this episode, Rory Nicholson, founder of Eye Candy Resin Art, shares how he stopped talking about his river tables and finally started creating them! If you are ready to push past your fears and trust the process of creating big projects, get ready to quit talking and start making! Let's jump right into our conversation with Rory! Introducing Rory Nicholson (1:33)Taking action and getting started (4:22)What Rory wishes he would have known when first starting (10:32)The timing expectations for each project (16:46)Sourcing large slabs of wood (21:34)Cultivating a supportive online community (24:23)What’s next for Rory (26:48)You can do anything you set your mind to (33:12) Once you gain the confidence to trust yourself to try something new, it’s that simple to succeed! Feel free to DM me on Instagram and let me know how this episode resonated with you. Keep creating! Connect with Rory: Facebook Instagram Connect with Counter Culture: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining us on the A Culture of Inspiration podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more creators who need a little inspiration. Keep creating!

Do you feel like you are trying to create a name for yourself in an oversaturated art world? The arts and crafts world has become flooded with sellers over the past couple of years, and it can be really hard to stand out. As someone who knows what it takes to run a small business, I have done a lot of research and I combined that with my own personal knowledge to dig in and talk directly to those of you who are trying to grow your art business. If you are ready to stand out in a crowded market, this episode is for you. I truly hope that something I've said today will resonate with you, perk up your ears and spark an idea you can try with your business that you haven't done yet. Feel free to DM me on Instagram and let me know how this episode resonated with you. Keep creating! Connect with Counter Culture: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining us on the A Culture of Inspiration podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more creators who need a little inspiration. Keep creating!

Is your fun hobby turning into a lucrative side hustle? Maybe you can't wait to see how far your business can go. In this episode, Deana Tomas, founder of Tumbler Tutors, shares how she went from playing around in unknown territory to turning her business into a community of crafters who want to help each other learn and grow. If you're like most tumbler crafters and started your business with a lot of excitement and little guidance, this episode is for you! Deana is a Tumblr artist, teacher, content creator, and founder of the Tumblr Tutors Facebook group. In addition to her passion, she is a full-time flight attendant who travels across the globe every day. Deana has cultivated a community of over 30,000 like-minded crafters by sharing her struggles and victories. Let's jump right into our conversation with Deana! Getting started in crafting without guidance (2:23)The trials and errors in the early tumbler days (5:03)The birth of Tumbler Tutors (8:12)Keeping an online group vibrant and alive (17:25)Pivoting in your tumbler making passion (28:38)The power of using products that work (39:24)The appreciation of a custom gift (48:52) I've said it a million times, the big attraction to tumbler making for artists is that artists and crafters love to share what they make with others and be able to share that knowledge and passion. Feel free to DM me on Instagram and let me know how this episode resonated with you. Keep creating! Connect with Deana: Instagram Tumbler Tutors Put TumblerCon on your Christmas list, and come take my class!! 🎁 You can save 5% off your class ticket by using code DEANA2023TC at the check Out! Connect with Counter Culture: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining us on the A Culture of Inspiration podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review on Apple and Spotify to help us reach even more creators who need a little inspiration. Keep creating!

Have you always dreamed of turning your crafting hobby into a full-fledged business? You have the passion, you have the drive, and you definitely have the skills; but what's stopping you from making that jump? If you are ready to take on the passion you have been drawn to, this episode is for you! This episode is a little peek into how it feels right before you take that big giant step you're scared of taking! Let's jump right into our conversation with Meg! Back in your ears with Meg Epps (0:46)Being willing to try something new (6:52)Cultivating Curious Crafters (11:30)A love for teaching and creating a Patreon (15:41)Creating a positive and unique environment for crafters (18:08)What’s next for Meg (23:23) Are you passionate about teaching others? Meg is such an inspiration to our groups and others, and I know I am excited to see what she has up her sleeve next. Feel free to DM me on Instagram and let me know how this episode resonated with you. Keep creating! Connect with Meg: Instagram Curious Crafters Facebook Group Website Connect with Counter Culture: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining us on the A Culture of Inspiration podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more creators who need a little inspiration. Keep creating

Culture Con was more than we could have ever imagined. We went in to learn and meet fellow artists, but we didn't know that we would each leave there with new skills, friendships, and drive to keep going in our businesses. In today's episode, I will be talking to a few artists who attended our first Culture Con and how this experience inspired them in their art and businesses. "I came home and unpacked more than just projects. I brought home new skills, friends, and the courage to keep going to keep creating. I kept telling other classmates and even myself, you never know unless you try, and I am ever so thankful that I did." - Jackie Mortenson Experiences shared in this compilation: Angela Bostek shares how she stepped out of her comfort zone (2:29)Unexpected hospitality from attendees (6:04)A spontaneous decision led to lifelong friendships with Thespoena McLaughlin (8:38)Our vision behind Culture Con (14:18)Meeting a local customer at the convention (18:19)Dubraska Hancock shares her experience with the classes and presenters (21:18)Shanita came with no expectations but left with plans (25:05)Karen Carroll shares her experience with meeting her art idol, Rick (34:04) How did it inspire you in your business if you attended Culture Con? Were there any new skills you were glad you learned that you had never tried before? We would love to hear from you and look forward to planning for an even better event one day. If you have any questions or want to share your experience, please DM us on Instagram! Don't forget that this episode concludes Season 2, and we will be back in the fall for all-new episodes! You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining me today! If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify, give me a 5 star, and leave a review to help me reach even more artists. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

Have you ever been so swamped with making products that you wished you could create a tool or a subsequent product to help you get the job done quicker? Whether you're a seasoned tumbler creator or just starting, there are always new ways to improve your process and create even more beautiful tumblers. Ashley Lee is an OG tumbler artist who took her love for creating and decided to start making products to help other creators become more efficient in their businesses. From physical products to training techniques, Ashley has taken her passion for creating to the next level, and today she's ready to share the behind-the-scenes of her evolution with us. "…it was mostly about being able to help other artists and show them what they can do…It was about giving back to the community that helped me get into the crafts in the first place." - Ashley Lee Highlight from my chat with Ashley Lee: Introducing Ashley Lee (0:45)Getting into the resin world (4:14)Monetizing making tumblers (7:12)The first product created for creators (11:38)From making cups to helping others make their cups (13:17)Trials of creating for creators (15:56)Putting together Craft Crates (20:02)Rebranding a business with a big following (30:48)What you should know about Craft Crates (39:28) It has been amazing to see Ashley's journey from an artist who creates to an artist who helps others create. It is also inspiring to know someone who is an OG tumbler creator and is still learning about the business each day. I know there are so many more lessons to be discovered. If you are interested in following Ashley's company or are even just curious about what goes into making a product, please check out the links below. If you have any questions for Ashley, please DM her on Instagram! Connect with Ashley Lee Facebook Instagram You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining me today! If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify, give me a 5 star, and leave a review to help me reach even more artists. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

As artists, we often feel alone in our creative endeavors. We can get lost in our heads, and it can be hard to find others who understand the artist's life. It's important to remember that we're not alone. There are others out there who understand us and our need for creativity. In today's episode, we will be diving into creating and building a community of like-minded artists and friends who support and encourage each other to continue making art. "There are so many opportunities to connect with other artists to find people who share your ideas, your values, your interests, and so many different ways to network with others to be introduced to new artists through the ones you already know. It's a flower that can bloom over and over again, for you." - Sarah Brown. Topics covered in today's episode: The sincere meaning of community (2:28)Cultivating a community (3:27)A heartwarming example of community support (6:26)What is a community (9:06)Building a value-based community beyond common interests (11:12)Avoiding negativity in your community (16:59)What kind of community member are you? (17:52)Reevaluating and realigning your communities (20:20)Being bold and speaking up in your community (23:27)Thriving in an online community (27:36) Being an artist can feel isolating at times, but I hope this episode inspires you to connect more in an existing community or go out and cultivate your own! Do you have an existing community? What does community mean for you? Feel free to DM us on Instagram to share! You can find more information about Culture Con online! I can't wait to see everyone this week! You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining me today! If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify, give me a 5 star, and leave a review to help me reach even more artists. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

Have you ever heard the saying, "Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach."? I don't believe that is true. Today, I am introducing you to Misty Leonard, the perfect example of someone fantastic at doing AND a phenomenal teacher. Misty is the owner and operator of MDLeonardDesigns and Misty Leonard Exclusives. Misty is also a longtime partner of ours at CCDIY. She's someone whose work ethic is unmatched in our community, and her willingness to teach has inspired countless artists. "You have to…be your own advocate, and believe in yourself, and just push those naysayers and push those negative commenters aside and just be proud of what you've created and what you've done." - Misty Leonard. Highlights from my chat with Misty include: Introducing Misty Leonard (2:05)Finding a mission in the art community (3:14)Discovering an artistic outlet (3:55)Finding a selling platform that works (7:13)Partnering with Counter Culture DIY (8:31)Generosity with knowledge and skill (11:54)Being led to teaching (16:08)Setting up a Patreon group (19:33)Final words of encouragement for the side hustle artist (24:48) Do you have a dual passion for teaching and doing? Is this something you hope to explore in the future? We hope Misty has inspired you to get out there and share your gifts and skill with the world. We would love to hear how online courses or memberships have changed your business. Feel free to DM us on Instagram to share! Connect with Misty Leonard: Website Facebook Misty Leonard Exclusives Instagram You can find more information about Culture Con online! You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining me today! If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify, give me a 5 star, and leave a review to help me reach even more artists. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

Have you ever thought about doing something big for the artists' community, and you didn't know where to start? Or maybe you just wanted to join an event of makers like yourself. Today I'm talking with Alisa, Dianelsie, and Jennifer of the Craft Night Trilogy. These ladies teamed up to create a successful virtual craft fair that promoted artists and crafters of all kinds. "…I might watch someone do the same thing that I do, but they're doing something a little bit different that might make my process faster, and why wouldn't I want to learn that?" - Jeniffer Duvall. Highlights from my chat with Craft Night Trilogy include: Introducing Jeniffer, Alisa and Dianelsie (3:11)Inspiration to start an event (4:52)Finding quality makers (5:48)Behind the scenes of planning a crafting event (8:41)Using the event fee for good (11:06)The next Craft Night Trilogy event (15:47)Tips to run a multivendor event on Facebook (16:57)Practices from those who succeed on online events (26:54) Have you joined an online makers event? I hope this has inspired you to try something new to get your product and business out there! We would love to hear how virtual events have changed your business. Feel free to DM us on Instagram to share! Connect with Craft Night Trilogy: Facebook Alisa's Linktree Jeniffer's Linktree Dianelsie's Linktree You can find more information about Culture Con online! You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining me today! If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify, give me a 5 star, and leave a review to help me reach even more artists. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

Are you someone who enjoys constructive feedback? Or does it make you want to pack up your supplies and never create again? Today we are visiting with CaTyra Polland, the CEO/Founder of Love for Words, an editing boutique for writers and authors, a 9x published author, editor, poet, speaker, and instructor. CaTyra works with her clients to provide feedback to help them align more with their visions for their business and work, and she is chatting with us today to share how we can use feedback to help us grow too! "…but they're not willing to pay for it, and you have to have the confidence to stand your ground. Because if you feed into that, and every time someone tells you, they can't pay that, or they won't pay that you're offering a discount, you're really doing yourself a disservice." - CaTyra Polland Highlights from my chat with CaTyra include: Introducing CaTyra (4:13)Handling feedback without feeling discouraged (5:45)Recent negative feedback CaTyra received (9:36)Being confident in your prices (11:05)Benefits of tough feedback (14:08)CaTyra shares the final benefits of embracing criticism (18:52) After listening to this episode, I hope you can unpack your art supplies and start creating again! What was the most beneficial advice for you in this episode? We would love to hear how you handle feedback! Feel free to DM us on Instagram to share! Connect with CaTyra: Website Facebook Instagram Twitter You can find more information about Culture Con online! You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Thanks for joining me today! If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify, give me a 5 star, and leave a review to help me reach even more artists. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

Do you run your business on social media, or do you aspire to start using social media to acquire new customers? Today we are visiting again with Ann Upton, a highly successful artist who runs her business exclusively through social media, primarily Instagram, and she's sharing with us how to use the algorithms to your best advantage. She'll share pitfalls to avoid and talk about how the platform has changed in a few short years. If you've been wondering how to use Instagram to grow your business, Ann is an expert whose advice you're going to enjoy! "But right now, whether you're a brand new account, or you're an established account, I don't think it's ever been easier to grow, the way the algorithm works. It doesn't favor the size of the account. It favors the content, and there's no greater time to be sharing your work." - Ann Upton. Highlights from my chat with Ann include: How Ann uses social media in her business (3:17)The first step to using social media in your business (5:25)The first step to tandemly growing a business and following (6:32)Monetizing with a small social media following (8:52)Becoming friends with the algorithm (15:35)Ann's advice for using social media right now (25:05)Demystifying the technical side of social media (26:51)Protecting your mindset as an artist on social media (31:14)Diversification of social media platforms (36:44) Ann's advice is just what we needed to jump into social media and take advantage of the current features! Sometimes it can be easy to get lost in trying to stand out, but the ability to grow is in the flow! Do you use Reels or TikTok to promote your art? We would love to connect with you! Send us a DM or tag us in your next post sharing your art! Connect with Ann: Instagram Previous episode: Healing in Growth with Ann Upton You can find more information about Culture Con online! You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

Do you consider yourself a multi-passionate entrepreneur? Do you feel confident cohesively representing each passion in your brand online? Janet Van Wyck is a brand and content strategist who coaches multi-passionate entrepreneurs to develop their brand identity and create a content strategy that showcases their passions. Janet is incredibly insightful, and I can't wait to dive into this conversation with you! "You know the saying that it takes a town to raise a child. And it's not because you need so many people to watch them and baby, it's what these people bring that's unique." - Janet Van Wyck Highlights from my chat with Janet include: Introducing Janet Van Wyck (3:13)What is a brand strategy (3:41)Bringing your brand online (5:45)Catapulted into the future of online shopping (7:05)What your customers want from you (7:34)Making a connection when you can't see your audience (8:51)Understanding your attraction funnel (9:53)Finding your home online (11:05)Creating content to attract (13:30)Headshots and consistency (16:37)Branding for the multi-passionate (21:55)It takes a town to raise a child (31:02)Distracted vs. intentional artists (34:19)Separating passion from stress (38:02) Have you already headed over to your social media accounts during this episode? I also had to refrain from redoing some of my bios during this chat! Janet was so amazing, and I hope you are walking away with advice to showcase all you are passionate about but also find something you would like to keep near and dear to you to relieve stress during the hustle and bustle of your entrepreneurial and artistic journey. Connect with Janet: TikTok Instagram Facebook LinkedIn YouTube You can find more information about Culture Con online! You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

In today's episode, we get to share a magical conversation so you can experience the power of Hope for the Holidays with us! One of our customers and listeners reached out to us to share her daughter's business and goals, and I think you will appreciate the deal we came up with for her and her family! Star's daughter has chosen to go down the path of entrepreneurship and decided to start her own resin business to save up money to buy herself an iPad. She has already saved up quite a bit of money with her earring business! Today, we were able to get more insight into Angel Girl's business, learn more about what her brothers want for Christmas, and offer a little hope for the holidays. Is your heart bursting like ours is? We would love to hear what you thought about our deal with Star, her daughter, and her sons. Be sure to follow us on our social channels to receive more information on Hope for the Holidays and watch the videos of those who are selected! You can also find more information about Culture Con online! Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook Group Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms never to miss an episode. Keep creating!

As artists, we've used art to help us through something hard. In today's episode, my guest is the very epitome of that. Ann Upton is an extraordinary resin artist that does acrylic pouring, traditional painting, and ceramic art. Her story is incredibly inspiring, and you will not want to miss this episode. Ann is a mom of five kids, a classically trained pastry chef, a homeschool mom, and an all-around fantastic person! Highlights from my chat with Ann include: Watercolor, bedbound, and a full-time career (3:21)Unintentionally inspiring others online (5:08)The best and worst of social media (7:01)The opportunity to present what you want to present (9:42)Where did the inspiration from the beach originate? (12:24)Healing in growth (14:37)Meet Your Makers Showdown and Discovery+ (15:26)New kits coming out Christmas Day (18:11)Ann bought a kiln and picked up ceramic art (19:04)Not giving up is most important (20:44)Mom of 5, creating beautiful art, homeschooling - how does she keep it all together? (22:52)Homeschool, creating, cooking - it's all a different type of art (24:37)Ann and CCDIY growing up together (26:49)Resin art kits that are approachable (29:23) Isn't Ann just an amazing superwoman? I love how she used her trial and discomfort to learn something that has led her down some incredible paths. Make sure to check out her social media and mark your calendar not to miss the Meet Your Makers Showdown on Christmas! You can also find more information about Culture Con online! Connect with Ann: Instagram Facebook YouTube You can also follow us on: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. Don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms never to miss an episode. Keep creating!

One of the core values in our business is to strive for excellence and share in its rewards. One of the greatest ways we have been able to give back during the holiday season is through our Hope for the Holiday event. Today, I have a special guest joining us to share what this holiday event means to our business. You don't want to miss this episode! Here are all the details covered in today's episode: How Hope for the Holidays began. (3:59)The goal for Hope for the Holidays. (6:14)A few ways we were able to give back last year. (7:26)How to nominate someone for Hope for the Holidays (8:45)Creative ways we were able to give back. (10:04) I hope you are all as touched by this event as we are. Be sure to follow us on our social channels to receive more information on Hope for the Holidays and watch the videos of those who are selected! You can also find more information about Culture Con online at www.counterculturediy.com! Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. You can also follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook. Join our Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group, and don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

Art, to many, is an avenue to express emotions and a form of healing. Today we get to chat with Sandra Lett, who has used art as a way to positively impact her life and keep her sane through many years of trial. Sandra has expanded her reach and has made it a mission of her own to encourage giving back through art — and we can't wait to dive in and explore how she is doing that! As the granddaughter of a fabulous oil painter, art chose me by divine creation. She has been self-taught for over 20 years. Either with the gentle stroke of a paintbrush, a beautiful puddle of paint, inks, or the glorious depth of resin; the creation of beauty in art can be extremely therapeutic and inspirational for all! Sandra embraces a passion for color, love, and positive energy through her artwork. The colors and beauty of nature speak a deep and uplifting language. She enjoys multiple styles of art, be it realism, whimsy, or the pure freedom of an abstract or beautiful resin art piece. She loves being an artist; and loves pouring her heart & soul into others. Art truly has the power to heal and touch us in a life-giving way. Inspiring topics we covered today: Being able to chat with Sandra was so amazing! No part of our business compares to the relationships we have built, and Sandra is a perfect example of an artist who aligns with our mission to make the world a more positive place through art. Make sure to check out her social media as well as pop into the auction! You can also find more information about Culture Con online at www.counterculturediy.com! Connect with Sandra: Facebook Art Healing Hearts Auction Instagram Facebook Group YouTube Art Healing Hearts Auction Website Website Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. You can also follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook, all @CounterCultureDIY. Join our Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group, and don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms, and never miss an episode. Keep creating!

If you are trying to get back to your childhood creativity or miss the ability to sit down to craft without thinking about responsibilities, this episode is for you! You will love Meenal’s story, and I can’t wait for you to listen to the conversation we had today! Inspiring topics we covered today: An introduction to Meenal (2:18) How Meenal went from a corporate job to a full-time artist (5:55) Meenal shares the struggle of changing her role as a corporate mom (14:48) How Meenal was introduced to resin art (17:14) Meenal’s experience with commissions (23:16) More insight on transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship (31:04) How social media has helped artists (34:52) Meenal shares two more valuable pieces of information (41:21) I still can’t believe Meenal hasn’t been doing art her whole life! I hope this inspires you to get started if you haven’t already! Are you thinking about transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship or in the beginning phases of it? Please send us a message and share your experience with us! Connect with Meenal: Instagram Facebook Etsy Shop Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. You can also follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Come join us in our Facebook Community: Counter Culture DIY Artists Support Group and don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode. Keep Creating!

Have you ever had something planned so perfectly that it had no choice but to succeed….but it still felt like it failed? Oh boy! Do I have the show for you today! It has been a week that has tried to stop me, but I am here with an encouraging message for the Counter Culture DIY community! Here are some of the uplifting topics covered in today’s episode: Why today’s episode almost didn’t happen. (0:40) What could be keeping us from creating? (4:13) How criticism could have stopped me....but didn’t. (5:32) Don’t let one negative comment set you back. (12:24) My mission and why you need to stick with yours. (16:49) I hope listening to this episode helped you as much as it has helped me! I feel even more peace after revisiting these trying times with you today! It is so important to give it a little gas when you come across a speedbump, but never doubt your drive and hit the brakes (Okay, if you are in a lowrider, you might want to give the brakes a little tap, but don’t turn around!). What is standing in the way of your mission today? Doubt, fear or lack of support? I want to hear from you! Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. You can also follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook, all @CounterCultureDIY. Join our Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group and don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms so you never miss an episode. Keep creating!

I am excited to speak with Shay Livensparger in this episode and share with you how her art spreads kindness like wildfire. I must warn you, listening to this episode will make you want to drop what you are doing and start creating art to inspire others! I don’t want to delay that any longer, so let’s go! Here are some of the amazing stories and ideas shared in this episode: A touching story about Pa Clem (0:42) How Shay incorporates kindness in her own life and business (6:23) How a stranger's kind act manifested into more kindness (9:28) Small rocks make a BIG impact (16:25) Hug Bug rocks come back full circle (20:40) Do your friends smuggle anything from your house? (24:14) How to get involved with other local artists (27:23) Shay shares one last kind gesture with us (38:18) Can you believe how amazing Shay is?! In just a short amount of time, Shay shared so many ways we can give back to our families, friends and even strangers! The best part is, the community of artists, creators and children are growing, learning and being rewarded as well! I would love to hear how this episode has inspired you to give back to your community! Feel free to leave a review and let me know how this episode resonated with you. You can also follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook, all @CounterCultureDIY. Join our Facebook community, Counter Culture DIY artists support group and don't forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting platforms so you never miss an episode. Keep creating!