CRAFTCAST

Ready for a heart-to-heart about the real creative life?
Perfectionism? Too many tools? Feeling stuck? We've been there. 
This time, we're sharing what we're learning, what we're loving, and what we're finally letting go of in our creative lives.

#CraftcastPodcast #SoulfulMaking #CreativeLife #MakersGonnaMake #ArtistsOfInstagram #CreativeJourney #HandmadeWithLove

craftcast.com

Today on the podcast, Patrik and I are catching up on everything, life, work, and the beautiful chaos in between. We're sharing what we're creating, what's coming up next, and a few holiday traditions that keep us grounded (and laughing). Please grab a cup of something warm or fuzzy and join us!

A little life, a little art, a little holiday magic 🎄✨
Patrik and I are catching up on EVERYTHING in today's episode!

#Craftcast #CraftcastPodcast #CreativeLife #CreativeCommunity #ArtistsOfInstagram #MakersGonnaMake #ArtLife #StudioLife #HolidayVibes #CreativeConversations

craftcast. com

Feeling fried? Creatively crispy? We've all been there. In this episode, Patrik and I share our favorite quick-fix tips to reboot your mojo and bring some balance back into your creative life.

Think:
✨ Fresh-eyes
✨ Mini studio cleanups
✨ Brain breaks that actually work
✨ Little rituals that spark big joy

Grab a snack, hit play, and let's unfrizzle that creative brain together! 🎨💛

craftcast.com

Feeling fried? Creatively crispy? We've all been there. In this episode, Patrik and I share our favorite quick-fix tips to reboot your mojo and bring some balance back into your creative life.

Think:
✨ Fresh-eyes
✨ Mini studio cleanups
✨ Brain breaks that actually work
✨ Little rituals that spark big joy

Grab a snack, hit play, and let's unfrizzle that creative brain together! 🎨💛

craftcast.com

In this episode, I'm sharing 5 quick creative tips that keep me inspired and in motion:

1. It's a circle, not a line.
Creativity loops and wanders—not knowing is part of the process.

2. Rest and return.
Stop at night, come back with fresh eyes in the morning.

3. Set up easy re-entry.
Tidy the studio, leave something ready so you'll want to dive back in.

4. Find balance.
Balance brain work with hand work—keep both sides happy.

5. Show your work.
Share what you...

craftcast.com

Join Patrik and I for a fascinating conversation with award-winning polymer clay artist Loretta Lam as we explore one of the biggest questions in any creative journey: What makes up your artistic voice?

If you've ever wondered how to identify and define your creative identity, this episode will inspire you to listen more closely to your own artistic voice.

This week Patrik and I sat chatted with Boomer Sassman, founder of Big Boom Design, for a fascinating (and sometimes funny) conversation about AI — the good, the bad, and the ugly.
craftcast.com

This week, Patrik and I sat down with the wonderful Wendy Moore from Australia, a polymer clay artist known for her work with the women of Samunnat Nepal. Through jewelry making, Wendy has witnessed firsthand how lives can be transformed and how communities thrive  when women are given resources, skills, encouragement, and a voice.

Together, we explored the true meaning of craftsmanship and what it means in your creative practice and why it's so important not to confuse it with perfectionism. It's about pride in the process, honoring the handmade, and letting your unique touch shine.

Patrik is back from this month's Metal Clay Artists Symposium (MCAS) and he's spilling all the stories! From the excitement of meeting up with old friends to discovering fresh ideas in metal clay, Patrik shares his behind-the-scenes adventures with plenty of laughs along the way.
craftcast.com

#MetalClay #MetalClayJewelry #JewelryArtists #CreativePodcast #StudioStories #MCAS2025 #CraftyCommunity #MakersGonnaMake #ArtInspiration #JewelryCommunity

https://craftcast.com/  Feeling stuck creatively? In this inspiring CRAFTCAST episode, Patrik and I talk with Anna Annette from Edelweiss Academy about removing mental and creative blocks so you can feel happier, freer, and ready to make your best art. Discover simple mindset shifts, creative self-care tips, and ways to spark your artistic flow again. Perfect for artists, makers, and anyone ready to reconnect with their creativity.

#HowToBeMoreCreative #OvercomingCreativeBlocks #FindYourCreativeFlow #BoostYourCreativity #CreativeWellnessTips #HappyCreativeLife #ArtistInspirationIdeas #UnlockYourCreativity
#CreativeMindsetShift #MakeArtAndBeHappy
#FindingArtisticInspiration #MindsetForArtists #CreativeSelfCare

What do great designs have in common? They've got The C's. We're not talking about grades.

In this episode, Patrik and I break down the essential elements that make a piece of art, a design, or a jewelry line successful. From Curiosity and Concept, to Creativity and Craftsmanship, and even courage to listen to critiques, it's all about what brings your creative work to life!

Listen in to laughs, real-talk examples, and a few "aha!" moments.
craftcast.com

#CRAFTCAST #DesignTips #CreativeProcess #ArtTalk

Waiting for the perfect moment to create?
But it never seems to happen?

Stitch by stitch, bead by bead, clay piece by clay piece. Progress happens in the doing.
Real progress comes from taking baby steps. Don't listen to the naysayers in your brain.

Start small.
Stay messy.
And let momentum keep you on track.
Patrik and I share how we maintain forward momentum in our creative lives.

Real progress comes from taking baby steps. Don't listen to the naysayers in your brain.

Don't Quit Your...

This episode of CRAFTCAST, the podcast, is perfect for any artist or maker wondering:

"What is a creative experience? And how do we have more in our lives?"

Listen in and give yourself permission to pause.
Because sometimes, the most creative thing you can do… is take a break.
Patrik and I share stories about the importance of taking creative breaks, how to get over burnout, and why stepping away from your art can actually reignite your inspiration.

CRAFTCAST.com

#Podcast #CreativeLife #RejectionIsRedirection #ArtistsLife #Craftcast #Makerslife

This episode's a little different—because it's personal! Patrik and I chat with my son, actor Erich Bergen (you've seen him on TV in Madam Secretary or on stage in Jersey Boys, Waitress, or Boop on Broadway) as he shares the hilarious and heartfelt journey of transitioning from actor to producer. It's a funny, inspiring conversation about taking big creative leaps, embracing change, and exploring new passions.
Come for the behind-the-scenes stories, stay for the mom-son banter.

#Podcast #CreativeLife #RejectionIsRedirection #ErichBergen #ArtistsLife #Craftcast #ErichBergenMarried

Time thieves are real—and no, we're not just talking about social media!

In our latest podcast, Patrik and I try to solve the mystery of where the heck all our time goes and how to actually get stuff done when you're a creative person with a million tabs open (in your brain).

🎧 Listen in if your to-do list is starting to look like a scroll. 
Make sure and check out all the crafting tutorials at: CRAFTCAST.com

We chat about a lot of fun stuff on the CRAFTCAST podcast, but today we went a  little deeper. The question I brought up that we seem to be going through lately is  "What part of your creative spirit feels most alive right now, or is it feeling under the weather?"

I chatted with the always insightful (and always inspiring) Patrik Kusek about what it means to find our way back to our creative mojo, listening to that inner creative thought process, and acknowledging whatever stage we're in. Plus our best advice for what to do when yo...

"That looks like your work!"
The best compliment? Maybe.
Patrik and I are exploring what it takes to create a style that feels like you and why that matters.

Listen in for real talk, creative truths, and a laugh or two.

#CRAFTCASTThePodcast #PersonalStyle #CreativeJourney #FindYourVoice #ListenAndCreate #PolymerClayArtists #MetalClayJewelry #JewelryMakers #MixedMediaArtist #HandmadeCommunity

In this episode, Alison Lee and artist extraordinaire Patrik Kusek swap stories about the projects that made them step back, smile, and think, "I made that!"

From accidental masterpieces to the ones that took forever but were totally worth it, we chat about what it really means to feel proud of your work (and why that feeling is so important for creatives).

Expect laughs, a few "a-ha!" moments, and maybe even a little creative therapy.

What's your proudest piece? Listen in and get inspired to celebrate your own wins, big or small.

In this episode, Patrik and I have a heart-to-heart chat about what it really means to become an artist, not just making art but shifting your mindset from "I'm just a [fill-in-the-blank]" to "I am an artist."

We talk about the mental roadblocks we put in our own way, how to start seeing yourself as a creative professional, and why that shift changes everything.

Plus, we share stories of the first time we sold something and the surprising emotions that came with it.

#WhereSoulMeetsCraft #CreativeInspiration #PodcastForCreatives #MakerLife #ArtisticSoul #CRAFTCAST #HandmadeWithLove #PodcastRecommendations #Polym...

Join me, Alison Lee, and Patrik Kusek as we chat about how to maintain a healthy and happy creative mindset. Lots of inspiration and laughter is shared. Make sure and check out all our video tutorials at craftcast.com

Today I talk with Robin Kramer from Flourish & Thrive Academy, where jewelry designers go to get business savvy. You'll love hearing the insights Robin shares about the ins and outs of having a successful jewlery design business.

Plus what’s new in the CRAFTCAST studio, some techie stuff and my favorite new book.

For today’s bonus question, I ask Ms. Kramer the most important thing you can do before showing your jewelry to a buyer.  You’re not going to believe her answer!

Today I talk with artist, writer and publisher of The Polymer Arts, Sage Bray. You'll love hearing what inspires her to create and her passion for all things polymer.

Plus some updates on how 2016 is unfolding in the CRAFTCAST studio and some other crafty goodies I think you'll love.

For today’s bonus question I ask Ms. Bray for her best advice on how to get your work or an article published in a magazine.

You can listen to the bonus here on the CRAFTCAST APP. 

You’re not going to belie...

Today I talk to actor Erich Bergen. You can see him on CBS's Madam Secretary and the movie Jersey Boys.
Oh so fun! Plus, all kinds of news.
And guess who got married??? Today's bonus question I ask Mr. Bergen for his best advice on how to enter the professional world of acting and entertainment.

You can listen to the bonus question by getting the

Today I talk with, Marney K. Makridakis, the author of Hop, Skip, Jump and founder of the online community ArtellaLand.com. You will love hearing her ideas on how to add more play into your life. 

Also, some apps and software I love and a song from the talented Beth Hirch. 
Topics covered: paper by 53, evernote, creative play 

Get all the links under the podcast sections at: www.craftcast.com

Today I talk to author and Ted Talk speaker Jonathan Tilley about how make the career switch to freelance. Jonathan gives great advice on how to make a successful transition from 9-5.
Also class news updates and reviews of some great new craft products. 
Get all the links at: www.craftcast.com  

Back from summer vacation and starting off the fall talking with attorney, Denise Gosnell. 
Plus lots of new LIVE ONLINE classes and exciting news here at craftcast.com!
Get all the info and links at: www.craftcast.com 

Today’s guest is Carol Allen, a Vedic Astrologer and Relationship Coach. Such a fun talk and I learned, among other things, all about “highly sensitive people”. I bet a lot of you will relate! Also, some great craft books to share and an app that’s a must have.

For all of today's links go to www.craftcast.com 

Today I talk with Bruce Metcalf. We dive into some pretty touchy subjects. You’ll want to hear Bruce’s opinion on the state of craft in todays market. Also, I have some books, tools and apps I’ve discovered that I think you will enjoy! 

Check out all the links at craftcast.com

Yes, you read right.

DAY DREAMS are messages right from the heart.
We all have them.
They’re the ideas and pursuits we should be doing but have let other stuff get in the way.

I know the stuff that gets in the way. Things like not enough MONEY or not enough TIME or what if it doesn’t WORK or I don’t know HOW. UGH

Just taking that first step can be so confusing and scary that it stops us right there.

But

We keep thinki...

Today I talk with Sam Bennett, author of "Get It Done" and the creator of The Organized Artist Company. Lots of great tips and ideas for getting done what is most important to you instead of leaving last on the list. Plus lots of news about the new craftcast website. Make sure and get the CRAFTCAST app with special BONUS material so you can hear Sam’s top 3 tips on how to get that project started!

Today I talk with Matthieu Cheminee, jeweler, teacher and author. Matthieu has some interesting stories to share that you won’t want to miss. 
Plus lots of product reviews.
Get all the links at: craftcast.com 

Today I talk with Merrie Buchsbaum. Merrie a self-taught polymer artist.
Plus lots of tech and book reviews you'll want to know about. 

Find all the links you need at: www.craftcast.com/podcasts

Today’s guest is Ms. Rachel Carren, an artist and art historian. Plus lots of news about the new craftcast website.

Make sure and get the CRAFTCAST app so you can hear Rachel’s BONUS advice on how to get your art work seen by museum curators. 

Today I talk with photographer and artist, Susan Tuttle. For all of today's shownotes visit: craftcast.com

Today I talk with Cynthia Tinapple from polymerclaydaily. 

Get links to all of today's resources at: www.craftcast.com

Today I talk with artist Harriete Estel Berman who uses post consumer recycled materials to construct artwork and jewelry with a social commentary. She is currently writing an ongoing series of PROFESSIONAL GUIDELINES for artists to help and promote  practical solutions for recurring issues in the art and craft community.

Please go to www.craftcast.com for all the show notes.  

Today I talk with Kristen Rask, the proud owner of SCHMANCY in downtown Seattle.A store with a mission to provide quirky toys, collectibles and original art work to the world.
Also today music by Jill Stevenson, plus some new favorite books, apps and movies to share.
Get all the links you need at: www.craftcast.com 

Today I talk with Arthur Hash. 

Arthur is a metal artist as well as the Instructional Support Technician, Metal Program

State University of New York, New Paltz, New York. 

Interesting title for a fascinating job, plus Arthur is incredibly generous sharing his knowledge. 

Also, a crafting book I passed over at first and then took a second look, and so glad i did. Plus an App I love. 

I love Grace Mclean’s music and you get to hear her new song; Cabbie Landlord

Use the link t...

Today I talk with Marthe Le Van. After eleven years as an editor for Lark Books, Marthe set off on a new adventure and started her own retail jewelry store called Mora, located in Asheville North Carolina. Listen in as Martha shares her journey from editor to shop owner, and the challenges and rewards she found along the way.  

Make sure and visit www.craftcast.com for all the links talked about on today's show. 

Today I talk with Jena Coray, aka Ms.Modish.

Jena shares important information on how to find your ideal client. 

Plus, I review a knitting book, an app I love and a movie you don’t want to miss. 

Check out all the links at www.craftcast.com

Today I talk with Abby Kerr from abbykerrink.com. She has lots of great advice to tune up your website and start the fall off right. Also,I have some books, apps and tools to share, plus the latest news from the craftcast.com studio. 

Today I talk with Mary Hettmansperger, multi-media fiber artist and author.
Spoiler alert: Lots of laughing and good times. 
I also have a perfect summer app you'll want and a great new fiction read to enjoy, plus lots of news to share with you from the CRAFTCAST studio. 
Come to www.craftcast.com for all the notes and links talked about on today's show.  

Today I talk with Allison Arden, publisher of Advertising Age and author of a new book called; The Book of Doing

You will love to hear what she learned about staying in the creative flow!

Plus make sure and get the CRAFTCAST app so you can hear Allison’s best tip on getting unstuck from your creative rut!

Get all the shownotes at: www.craftcast.com 

Today I talk to Monica Lee from smartcreativewomen.com 
Listen in and get some insight into starting your own business. Plus, I talk about some new books and apps I love. 
Remember to “Get your butt in the chair and keep crafting!” xo Alison

www.craftcast.com

Today I talk with Alan Revere, the founder and director of Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts. 

Mr. Revere shares his thoughts and expertise on the craft of metal smithing plus what went into producing his new book, Professional Jewelry Making. 

If you have the CRAFTCAST app, listen to the bonus file as Alan shares his best advice for making your way into juried shows and competitions. 


Also today I talk about a few of my favorite new craft books and mobile apps.

Today I talk with award winning metal clay expert Gordon Uyehara. He shares with me what it's like being an artist in Hawaii and how it influences his work. Make sure and get the CRAFTCAST app so you can also hear Gordon’s share with you his must have tool in the studio. It will surprise you!

I also review some an exciting new fiber book, perfect for spring, plus info on a few crafting tools and websites that I know you’ll love.
Check out craftcast.com for all the new crafting video downloads. 

Today I talk with photographer and collage artist, Susan Tuttle. 

Susan shares lots of photography and photoshop resources, plus don’t miss listening to the bonus file where she shares her favorite photoshop secret technique. 

Also in today’s show I have a new polymer book you’ll want to check out and some fun new apps to download. 

Today’s music is by Jenny Mayhem. 

Come to www.craftcast.com for all the links.

Today’s guest is jewelry artist and author of Hot Connections Jewelry, Ms. Jennifer Chin. We talk all about soldering, creating, and everything in between. 

Also, I have my favorite new website and viewing obsessions to share. Plus make sure you buy the craftcast app so you can watch the bonus video. I show you how to make a simple tool you’ll want to have in your jewelry tools stash. 

Music today is by Mike Doughty.

Today I talk with Stuart Kestenbaum, the director of Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. If you have ever thought of traveling to Maine to attend a session, you will want to listen, as Stuart shares about the magical place called Haystack. 

Also today, some reviews of my favorite new addictions, plus information on an upcoming FREE webinar February 8th, called “I Love Tools” Register for it here.
www.craftcast.com

Today I have a fun chat with polymer clay artist and blogger, Ms. Cynthia Tinapple. She talks about her trip to Nepal where she taught polymer clay techniques to a very receptive audience of female artists. 

Plus, some new books and websites to share with you, and the latest classes at www.craftcast.com. 

Today I talk with Nikki Hardin, Founder and Publisher of Skirt! Magazine. She is a writer, editor, and blue Kentucky girl exiled in South Carolina. Listen in on our talk about living the creative life and how she started her magazine.

Also, a fabulous new how-to jewelry making book you will love and a new wordplay interactive website I'm addicted to.

Today's musical guest is Katie Pearl singing, I'll Be Waiting

Plus, make sure and come over to www.craftcast.com for your FREE invite to our Online Virtual Book Signing Party. We...

Today I talk with editor of Art Jewelry Magazine, Hazel Wheaton. Also, some new books you'll love and lots of www.craftcast.com news.

Today I talk with Mr. Bruce Pepich, Executive Director and Curator of Collections at the Racine Art Museum. Listen to his exciting news and hear all about the boundary breaking exhibition of polymer art that opens this month.

Today I talk with baker and author, Julia Usher.
 Plus a fun visit to O magazine I want to tell you about, and a new craft book I love.
Check out all the show notes at www.craftcast.com
To hear what Julia had to say about her must have tools in the kitchen, purchase the CRAFTCAST app available for both iPhone and Droid.

Today I talk with public works artist, Janet Echelman. Don't miss what Janet has to say about one's imagination.

Also, a fun little app and some great books to share, plus an update on upcoming classes and a "hold the date" announcement.

www.craftcast.com

Today I talk with Todd Henry, author of 
"The Accidental Creative: How to Be Brilliant at a Moment's Notice". Lots of great information about how to get your personal creative process one you can count on.
Also 2 fun apps I love and a book you will want to hear about.
Come over to www.craftcast.com for information on craft classes and craft class recordings.

Today I talk with "When I Grow up Coach", Michelle Ward. Plus a few new apps to talk about and a fabulous new knitting book. Get all the show notes at www.craftcast.com, plus information on upcoming LIVE classes and class recordings.

Today I talk with illustrator and metal clay artist, Terry Kovalcik. Plus, two new books I love, and updates on the new LIVE classes from the CRAFTCAST studio. Get all the show notes at: www.craftcast.com

Today I talk with Jo Packham, one of the most established and notable figures in the how-to publishing industry. Plus a book review, and my trip to Vermont to study with Celie Fago.

Get all the show links at: www.craftcast.com
Download a craft class recording here

Today I talk with head spy Jessie Oleson from cake spy.com, who promotes seeking sweetness in everyday life with sugary confections.
Music by Chris Ayer.
For all of today’s showlinks come to:www.craftcast.com

Listen to my talk with Ms. Holly Becker, from Decor8.com. We talk about decorating your home, writing a blog, plus all the dates and places where you can find Ms. Becker on her book tour.
Find all the links for today’s show at: www.craftcast.com
Plus, check out all the new CRAFTCAST class recordings here.

Today's theme is marketing, and not at Whole Foods, but how to market your art. I am fortunate to have Mr. Bruce Baker as today’s guest. Bruce has been teaching marketing, explaining all the in’s and out’s, and the do’s and don’ts for years.

Bruce is passionate about how to market your art. He knows and understands it all.
It’s great to learn from one that is successful at what they do.

Get a pen and paper and listen in.

For all the show notes go to: www.craf...

Today I talk with Michael Orland and Peisha McPhee, song and voice coaches on American Idol. Hear what goes on behind the set each week getting contestants ready to go LIVE in front of millions! Also learn how YOU can get coached by these experts!
Plus, lots of other CRAFTCAST news, including a "don't miss" movie, an inspiring new "decore" book, and where to get "Parisian Romance Fruit Tea".
Get your butt in the chair, and keep CRAFTING!

Subscribe to the CRAFTCAST feed.

Today I talk with artist Harriete Estel Berman who uses post consumer recycled materials to construct artwork ranging from jewelry and teacups to entire lawns and sculpture with social commentary.
Come to www.craftcast.com and get all the links for today's show.

Today I talk with Eric Maisel, America’s foremost creativity coach, and author of the new book, Mastering Creative Anxiety.
Also, news and reviews of apps and books. Make sure to get all the links for today’s show at www.craftcast.com

Today I talk with Tim Adam about his new book, "How to Make Money Using ETSY".
Tim shares his expertise on how to be successful with your ETSY store.
Also, all the news here in the CRAFTCAST studio including information on upcoming classes and new recordings for sale.

Sorry everyone, the last file of this show got corrupt. This should fix that. :)

Today I talk with Jennifer Lee, author of the book; The Right Brain Business Plan. Listen in as Jennifer makes the concept of writing a business plan seem fun, creative and totally doable.
App, books, and movie reviews plus all the news here in the CRAFTCAST studio.
New classes and recordings available.

Today I talk with Jennifer Lee, author of the book; The Right Brain Business Plan. Listen in as Jennifer makes the concept of writing a business plan seem fun, creative and totally doable.

App, books, and movie reviews plus all the news here in the CRAFTCAST studio.

New classes and recordings available.

Today I am talking with Ms. Christine Kane, creative coach and inspirational speaker.

Christine and I talk about the entrepreneurial spirit, and how to stay focused on your creative path.

Also, a few new books I love and some LIVE class info update.
Plus, make sure and check out the new class recordings available to download.
www.craftcast.com