The Tillage Podcast - podcast cover

The Tillage Podcast

Shirlee Fisher www.thetillagepodcast.com
The Tillage Podcast is a space I've created to help you gain clarity on your creative journey. Being a creative entrepreneur comes with its ups and downs, and sometimes it can feel like you're all on your own. I’m passionate about digging deep with you, asking the tough questions, and encouraging action that transforms your creative business and life into something you truly love. In each guest episode, you’ll hear from fellow artists who have shifted their mindsets on their path to success and gain actionable advice and strategies to move forward with purpose. Thanks for listening! 🧡🌿
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Episodes

43: Adapting to Life's Unexpected Circumstances

Unexpected circumstances can derail even the most meticulous plans in your life as a an artist and business owner. In this episode, I explore practical strategies for adapting, embracing flexibility, and finding alternative paths when life throws curveballs. My hope is to empower you to navigate these moments with resilience, grace, and take all the time you need to get back to your creative pursuits. Want to dig a little deeper? Get access to the vault of all worksheets and downloads! Get 50% O...

Jun 20, 202324 min

42: Navigating Perfectionism with Ava Wolf of Aviate Press

Join Ava, illustrator and owner of Aviate Press , as she dives deep into the topic of perfectionism in the artist's journey. In this episode, you will gain eye-opening insights that expose the sneaky grip of self-doubt and rigid expectations that come with perfectionism. Ava also shares some helpful tools and empowering encouragement that will set you free to embrace imperfections and move forward in sharing your work with the world. Join in on #JustDoItJune ⁠ ! ⁠ Get 50% OFF Your First Year of ...

Jun 13, 202335 min

41: Confronting Discomfort: Wrestling With Resistance & Procrastination

In this episode, I delve into my personal journey of starting to take steps to fight against resistance and procrastination. We explore a root cause of procrastination and walk through effective strategies to assist with getting tasks done. From understanding the emotional aspects to implementing practical tools, I'll guide you on a path towards conquering these challenges and achieving your goals. Together, let's confront the discomfort and take action! Today is the last day to register today f...

Jun 06, 202336 min

40: Discovering Your Inner Child with Meg Indy

In this episode, abstract artist, Meg Indy , explores the power of discovering and reconnecting with your inner child. Meg shares personal stories and insights, along with practical tips to reconnect with your childlike spirit. Learn how to eliminate distractions, create a supportive environment, and make with abandon, all while finding joy in the journey of self-expression. Get ready to tap into your inner child and ignite your creativity. Register today for Ashley Paggi’s Brand Photo Bootcamp ...

May 30, 202347 min

39: Comparison is the Thief of Joy

In this episode, we dive headfirst into the complex realm of comparison, a struggle that plagues many in the art world and creative entrepreneurship. Join me as I unravel the negative impact of comparison and explore how it can surprisingly reveal our deepest desires. I share how knowing our triggers is vital to craft a personalized game plan and practical tools to implement to assist with curbing comparison. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be encouraged to find joy and fulfillment in your...

May 23, 202326 min

38: Building A Better Relationship With Your Business with Lisa Jacobs

In today's episode, Lisa Jacobs discusses the crucial elements that are required for building a better relationship with your business. From building trust and separating yourself from your business to finding your rhythm and establishing routines, she shares invaluable insights to help you unlock your business's true potential. If you're ready to take your relationship with your business to the next level, this episode is a must-listen! * ⁠ Tillage Village Waitlist Get 50% OFF Your First Year o...

May 16, 202350 min

37: Ditching The Words “I’m Too Late” with Jessi McNeal

In today's episode, we hear the inspiring story of artist, Jessi McNeal, who proves that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. Despite struggling with feelings of being "too old" to start something new, Jessi overcame her doubts to pursue her music and released her first album at age 39. Not only that, she also started her successful art business, The Cheery Pet , later in life. Jessi's story is a reminder that it's never too late to follow your passions and make your dream...

May 09, 202343 min

36: Embracing the Waiting Behind the Wins

In today's episode I delve into the difficult process of waiting for something that may not be promised to us, yet we believe in it nonetheless. We explore the importance of celebrating the waiting process and not just the end result, and I offer three tips on how to wait patiently and prepare for the long season ahead. Waiting can be a growth opportunity that provides a chance to learn and refine our true selves. So, if you're in a waiting period, know that you are not alone and take comfort in...

May 02, 202332 min

35: Unlocking Solutions Through Troubleshooting

In today's episode, I explore the idea of experiencing a creative "flop" and the mindset shifts needed to overcome it. It is natural to feel frustrated and want to give up when a project doesn't go as planned. However, it's important to challenge the limiting beliefs that come with failure and to troubleshoot the situation from a strategic point of view. This episode outlines six components that need to be considered when experiencing a flop. By taking a step back and evaluating what went wrong ...

Apr 25, 202332 min

34: Taking Action Before You Are Ready with Liz Brindley

In today's episode, artist, coach, and top Skillshare teacher, Liz Brindley , unpacks the common obstacles that hold back creatives from taking action. She shares the importance of uncovering the layers behind these struggles, which are often tied to vulnerability and doubt. Liz emphasizes taking a slow and sustainable approach to building your business and also highlights how changing your mindset requires consistent effort over time. Lastly, Liz shares the impact that creating courses has made...

Apr 18, 202342 min

33: Leading With Inspiration with Sarah Rafferty of Atwater Designs

In today's episode, Sarah Rafferty, a cyanotype artist and owner of Atwater Designs , shares insights on how to stay connected to your "why" and leading with inspiration to drive your creative business forward. She talks about the importance of giving yourself permission to not always be inspired and the role that seasonality plays in her creative process. Sarah also shares how incorporating a morning routine and keeping promises to yourself can set your day up for success. Tune in for valuable ...

Apr 11, 202344 min

32: Managing the Ebbs and Flows of Creativity with Megan Fowler of Brown Parcel Press

In this episode, Megan Fowler, the owner of Brown Parcel Press , a letterpress and design company, talks about managing the ebbs and flows of creative inspiration and offers six tools to help manage those highs and lows. Megan also speaks on trusting oneself in the creative process and having a balance between passion and need to make a living. This episode is sure to add lots of tools to your toolkit to come back to when you are in a creative rut! Learn how to manufacture overseas with Rebecca ...

Apr 04, 202352 min

31: Avoiding Absolutes and Entering Into Gratitude

In this episode, we explore the power of language and mindset, and how they affect our ability to find hope and resilience in challenging situations. We discuss six "absolutes" - words like "always" and "never" - and how they can be harmful to our mindset. We also talk about the difference between victim and survivor mentalities, and the importance of cultivating gratitude in our daily lives. Tune in for practical tips on how to catch yourself when using absolutes, reframe your language, and pra...

Mar 28, 202327 min

30: Making Space For All Of Our Feelings with Marabeth Quin

In today's episode, artist, Marabeth Quin, shares her journey of exploring her creative potential as a painter after a successful music career and how art has been a powerful teacher. Marabeth emphasizes the importance of making space for all of our emotions, and shares her own story of working through her emotions and grief over her daughter's stroke. She shares tools that she has personally used to process her emotions and how she has been intentional with the process. Sign up for Genna Blackb...

Mar 21, 202345 min

29: An Open Conversation About Mental Illness with Carrie Cantwell

In this podcast episode, illustrator, surface pattern designer, and educator, Carrie Cantwell , and I have an open conversation about the stigma and assumptions surrounding mental health challenges. This episode aims to provide support and encouragement to those who have experienced mental illness and to destigmatize the conversation around mental health. Sign Up for the The Tillage Podcast Patreon Waitlist Get 50% off your first year of Flodesk! Visit www.thetillagepodcast.com for today's show ...

Mar 14, 202345 min

28: 3 Tips to Help with Perseverance

In today's episode, we dive deep into the concept of perseverance and grit and how it can be applied to various areas of our lives, from business to personal growth. We discuss the importance of being grateful for the climb, embracing challenges, and three practical tips to help you persevere through obstacles, including the power of community, practicing to build skill, and knowing your why and having a higher purpose. Get one FREE month of Skillshare ! Visit www.thetillagepodcast.com for today...

Mar 07, 202339 min

27: Liminal Space with Jenni Wingenroth of Nollie Bean

In today's episode, Jenni, a modern quilter, quilt pattern writer, and owner of Nollie Bean , shares how the concept of "liminal space" has impacted her creative process. Jenni shares how she overcame her doubts and fears while launching her virtual quilting retreat, Quilt Camp, and her tips for managing limiting beliefs in the messy middle. She also shares tools and advice for trusting oneself and dreaming big while planning for the future. This is an uplifting message about the power of growth...

Feb 28, 202335 min

26: Taking the Leap To Go Full-time with Tanya Brown

In this podcast episode, Tanya Brown, a textile and graphic designer, shares her journey of leaving a secure teaching job in New York City to pursue a full-time career as an artist. She talks about the fear and anxiety associated with leaving a steady job with benefits and pension, and the catalyst for change that led her to take the leap. Tanya emphasizes the importance of facing fear and taking risks, and the preparation and strategic financial planning that went into making the transition. Ge...

Feb 21, 202342 min

25: Growth Through Consistent Art Making with Miranda Morehouse

In this episode, artist, Miranda Morehouse, shares her journey of how she started her art practice during the pandemic. She talks about how she embraced the "good-ish-ness" of her art and her experience dedicating to creating art for 100 days. This practice of creating consistently helped her grow leaps and bounds as an artist. Miranda also shares her tips for consistent art-making and addresses the misconception that being an artist is an innate talent and provides encouragement to anyone inter...

Feb 14, 202336 min

24: Merging Motherhood and Making with Lottie Caiella

In today's episode, Lottie, a self-taught graphic designer opens her heart about raising two small children while also pursuing an MFA. She shares how motherhood and creativity go hand in hand for her, as revisiting her creative side allows her to feel more grounded. Lottie struggled with feelings of guilt when deciding to go back to school, but reframing her thoughts and finding support from other moms helped her overcome it. She believes that the value society places on art and creativity is i...

Feb 07, 202331 min

23: The Importance of Personal Development

If I could back in time and tell myself one thing it would be…"Take the time you need to work on yourself, and everything else will fall into place." I can tell you without a shadow of doubt that the big strides and waves I have made in running my business and becoming a working artist have come from working on myself, being curious about my inner critic, and changing the dialogue that my limiting beliefs have created for me. Today I pull back the curtain on my own personal development and what ...

Jan 31, 202321 min

22: The Power of Celebration with Colleen Underwood

Do you take the time to celebrate yourself? Are you celebrating the end result AND the process? In today's episode, surface pattern designer and coach for creatives, Colleen Underwood , unpacks the power of celebration, how we are worthy of celebration, and small ways we can implement celebration in our daily lives. Visit www.thetillagepodcast.com for today's show notes and more. The Tillage Village is NOW OPEN for enrollment from January 24-31. Sign up today! Follow along on INSTAGRAM Sign Up f...

Jan 24, 202342 min

21: Leading With Curiosity In Place of Fear with Genna Blackburn

What would your life look like if you approached new experiences, ideas, or your art with curiosity instead of fear? Surface pattern designer, illustrator, and educator, Genna Blackburn, opens up about all the things she has done to make money from her art and how her mindset helps her approach new opportunities. She also shares how she has worked through her fear of making bad art and gives tips and tricks to help you do the same. Level up your wholesale business with Kim Burks of Ramona and Ru...

Jan 17, 202339 min

20: Burnout and Messy Starts with Katie Leigh of Modern Magic

Are you aware of the signs of burnout? On today's episode, Katie of Modern Magic , shares her story of working her way up to a marketing director and later a marketing consultant only to be left with burnout. She vulnerably shares her healing journey, how she has found alignment in her art practice and starting her own art business, and how she is starting to embrace the messiness of starting over. Level up your wholesale business with Kim Burks of Ramona and Ruth's course " Connect and Convert....

Jan 10, 202335 min

19: Reflect On Your Year

The New Year is upon us which means many of us are stirring with new goals and many hopes for what 2023 will bring. However, before we start making resolutions and goals, let's reflect together! Download my Reflection Worksheet for Artists and Creative Entrepreneurs. Learn how to manufacture overseas with Rebecca Woolbright and Manufacture: Awesome . Hop on the waitlist today! Visit www.thetillagepodcast.com for today's show notes and more. SIGN UP FOR THE WAITLIST FOR THE TILLAGE VILLAGE! Doors...

Jan 03, 202320 min

18: Intentional Planning with Lissie Teehee

Are you planning you year and looking ahead? It can be overwhelming to place all of your ambitions and tasks on a calendar. Where do you even start? In today's episode artist, illustrator, and educator, Lisse Teehee , shares her story of leaping into her creative career with intentionality from day one. Being a single mother of three, she speaks on her time management and working in the margins. She also describes how and when she makes work with the seasons: seasons of the year, seasons of her ...

Dec 27, 202235 min

17: The Mindset Journey with Mable Tan

The artist/creative entrepreneur journey is a mindset journey more than anything. The constant stretching of oneself to have the courage to produce artwork and then sell it is one that is not for the faint of heart. In today's episode , Mable Tan , shares her story and all the twists and turns she took in becoming a surface pattern designer. She vulnerably shares her own battles with mindset and some advice on how to push through when seasons feel slow and how to keep showing up after rejection....

Dec 20, 202246 min

16: Taking Action and Stepping Into The Arena with Rebecca Woolbright

How many ideas or dreams do you have that you are still sitting on? As creatives, we are idea machines! However, sometimes we can get paralyzed by all the "what ifs" and often fear can hold us back. In today's episode, illustrator, surface pattern designer, and educator, Rebecca Woolbright , shares how she quickly took action to create small groups to teach on manufacturing overseas called, “ Manufacture: Awesome .” Rebecca also openly shares her fears and some imposter syndrome she felt as she ...

Dec 13, 202237 min

15: Self-Love During the Holiday Season with Cami Zea of Zeaink

The holiday season for creators and makers is a beast. We can all so easily succumb to the frantic scrambling not only in our businesses but also in our personal lives behind the scenes. As the demand or set expectation to produce grows, so does our perceived need to meet expectations. It can all feel so overwhelming and out of balance. On today's episode, Cami Zea of Zeaink , shares with us the reality of where she finds herself as a creative this holiday season and some ways to show yourself s...

Dec 06, 202242 min

14: 3 Things That Can Help Artists Grow

In today's episode, I share my own journey as an artist and three things that been imperative to my growth: community, accountability, and intentionality. These three things are also going to be the pillars of my membership called, "The Tillage Village" which will be opening up enrollment in January. Sign up today for THE WAITLIST FOR THE TILLAGE VILLAGE! Visit www.thetillagepodcast.com for today's show notes and more. Get one free month of Skillshare today! Follow along on INSTAGRAM Sign Up for...

Nov 29, 202229 min
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