In this episode, Tammy Honaman speaks with Robert Lopez, a multifaceted artist and metalsmith, about his creative journey, the importance of originality, and the risks involved in artistic expression. Robert shares his evolution from lapidary to jewelry making, the significance of community support, and how his art reflects his personal experiences. They discuss the challenges of balancing life and art, the innovative tools Robert has developed, and his aspirations for the future.
Apr 24, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 24
From trade shows to TV studios, beading to business—Julianna Avelar has done it all. In this heartfelt episode, she shares how the Jewel Loom came to life, why pricing your work is essential, and the emotional rollercoaster of creative entrepreneurship. Real talk, inspiring insights, and a whole lot of love for the maker community.
Apr 03, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 23
Katie Hacker joins Tamara Honaman to share her insights on authenticity, managing creative businesses, and embracing imperfection in your artistic journey. Tune in to rediscover joy in your creative practice! Actionable Takeaways: • Give yourself permission to explore creatively without pressure to monetize every hobby. • Prioritize mental health and well-being, especially in times of professional transition. • Embrace imperfection—authenticity resonates more deeply than polished perfection....
Mar 20, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 22
Explore how beads bring people together with Jan Carlson and Rochelle Peterson from the Upper Midwest Bead Society. Celebrating 35 years of creativity, connection, and more! Join us as we discuss: • The society’s pivot to virtual meetings during COVID-19 and its new digital offerings. • Monthly programming like "Let’s Bead Live" and retreats designed to foster creativity and connection. • The incredible network of bead artists, including 18 published members and founder Diane Fitzgerald. • Celeb...
Feb 20, 2025•53 min•Season 1Ep. 21
Brenda Schweder is a recombobulator of found objects into wearable sculpture and objet d’art. A queen of the coldest of cold connection techniques, her schtick is combining disparate stuff and quasi-trash into wacky new works with whimsical and joyous narratives. In this engaging conversation, Tamara Honaman and Brenda Schweder explore the significance of art in our lives, the evolution of Brenda's creative journey, and the impact of social media on artistic expression. They discuss the challeng...
Jan 20, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Jewelry expert Wyatt White joins Tamara Honaman to discuss his inspiring creative journey, lessons in humility, and the art of empowering others through making. Discover how resilience, innovation, and mentorship can shape a remarkable career.
Jan 10, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 18
In this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker , host Tamara Honaman sits down with Claudia Chase and Elena Kawachi of Mirrix Looms. Claudia, the visionary founder and inventor behind Mirrix, shares her journey from tapestry weaver to creating the first Mirrix loom in her Wisconsin barn. Joined by her daughter Elena, who took the reins in digital marketing and community building, they discuss the evolution of their family business, the joys of working together, and the impact of weaving on crea...
Nov 20, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 17
Discover the inspiring journey of Brandi Tracey, founder of NET Creative Designs, on this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker . From her career as a paralegal to becoming a passionate metalsmith, Brandi shares how she turned personal loss into creative empowerment. Hear about her experiences navigating grief, learning the craft, and building a supportive community. Perfect for anyone seeking motivation, insights on starting a creative business, and the value of resilience in the face of chal...
Nov 06, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 16
In this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker , host Tamara Honaman interviews renowned jewelry artist, author, and teacher Loretta Lam. Loretta shares her inspiring journey from her early love of jewelry making to discovering polymer clay, which transformed her career. With over 25 years in the craft industry, Loretta opens up about her experience building a successful jewelry business, the challenges of writing her book Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design (Schiffer Publishing), and her pas...
Oct 17, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 15
In this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, host Tamara Honaman interviews Jill MacKay, an acclaimed jewelry designer and digital content creator. Jill shares her creative journey, overcoming challenges, navigating fear, and building a successful art career. Discover insights on resilience, mentorship, and embracing change as a modern artist. Listen now for inspiring advice on turning your passion into a thriving business!
Oct 03, 2024•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 14
In this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, jewelry expert and business owner Kierston Aiello shares her creative journey and how community, authenticity, and collaboration shaped her success. Kierston opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of finding your niche, and her exciting plans for her new foundry. Tune in for inspiring insights on following your heart and surrounding yourself with supportive, like-minded people. A little about Kierston: Born and raised in...
Sep 17, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 13
Join us on Heart & Hands of a Maker as Carrie Story, a talented metal clay artist and entrepreneur, shares her journey from hobbyist to founder of Clay Revolution. Discover the challenges and triumphs of starting a business in the metal clay industry, the importance of self belief, and the art of mastering your craft. Tune in for inspiring insights and practical advice on turning passion into a thriving business.
Jul 16, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 12
Join us as we chat with Jessica Coté, a metalsmith from NC, known for her bold jewelry brand, Rosy Revolver. Discover her journey in metal fabrication, teaching experiences, innovative products, and future plans. Learn from her insights on business challenges, social media impact, and creating an inspiring space for artists. Perfect for jewelry artists, creatives, and anyone inspired by entrepreneurial stories.
Jul 02, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In this Heart & Hands of a Maker episode, Tamara Honaman and Cat Kerr delve into the challenges of valuing and monetizing creative work. They discuss balancing joy and financial reward, Cat’s early online career strategies for wider reach, and the healing power of art. Cat highlights the importance of focus, goal-setting, supporting others, and discipline for success in the creative industry.
Jun 11, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 10
Discover how Handcraft Nation is empowering artists and makers across the United States. Learn about this innovative platform connecting consumers with local artisans, promoting sustainability, and supporting local economies. With over 60 makers listed, Handcraft Nation helps creators overcome social media challenges and thrive online. Tune in to hear more about their mission and future plans to become a hub for all things handmade including jewelry, personal care items, and clothing.
Jun 04, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 9
In this conversation, Tamara Honaman and Allie Perry discuss the challenges and roadblocks faced by jewelry makers and small business owners. Allie emphasizes the importance of taking action and not waiting for the perfect time to start. She also highlights the value of community and finding support from like-minded individuals.
May 28, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 8
In this episode, Tammy interviews Sandra Lupo, a jewelry artist, educator, and inventor. They discuss Sandra's creative journey, the invention of her tool Conetastic, and the importance of collaboration and bringing personal talents into the DIY and jewelry making space. Sandra shares her insights on navigating the business side of being a maker and offers advice on dealing with self doubt and negative feedback. They also emphasize the importance of having fun and staying true to oneself in the ...
May 06, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 7
In this episode, Francesca Watson shares insights from her personal maker journey, emphasizing the intrinsic value of creativity and making. Aspiring entrepreneurs will receive invaluable advice from Francesca, highlighting the imperative of seeking professional guidance and crafting robust business strategies. Francesca shares her passion for teaching and creating a safe space for students to learn and grow. She recommends taking classes from different teachers to gain different perspectives an...
Apr 30, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 6
Dive into the transformative power of self-care, boundary setting, and embracing imperfection in this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker podcast. Join host Tamara Honaman and guest Jen Cushman who challenges cultural norms, discusses the essentiality of art, and emphasizes the importance of mutual support on our creative journeys. Tune in for insights on prioritizing authenticity and navigating the evolving landscape of creativity.
Apr 23, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 5
Discover the inspiring journey of Chris Anderson, the creative force behind Lion Punch Forge. From jewelry design to tool making, Chris shares invaluable insights on building a thriving business in the maker community. Learn about the importance of networking, embracing failure, and nurturing a supportive customer base. Tune in for expert advice and upcoming projects!
Apr 13, 2024•1 hr 33 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Tammy interviews Milagros Rivera, a mixed media artist and instructor living in Puerto Rico. They discuss Milagros' creative journey, her business evolution, and the challenges she has faced, including hurricanes and the pandemic. Milagros shares the importance of being adaptive in business and finding inspiration in her surroundings. She also emphasizes the power of giving and sharing, as well as taking risks and embracing mistakes. Milagros encourages artists to be unique and authentic in thei...
Jan 04, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 3
Jill Bartlett has been working in the eLearning space for over 20 years. She translates that experience into her dog wear designer business, where she is also teaching others to make their own dog wear. She shares lessons learned and tips we can all apply to our practices, no matter where you are in your maker and creative journey.
Dec 15, 2023•42 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Ann Tudor is a lampworker, knitter and educator - we discuss all the twists in her creative journey, explore her business evolution and hear what she has coming up next!
Dec 05, 2023•52 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Heart & Hands of a Maker: the Creative Journey trailer, with a taste of what's to come. Tammy Honaman is your host. Production by Ryan Honaman.
Nov 16, 2023•1 min
