Artist Academy

This week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast features Kendall Kippley, a muralist from Colorado who's built a thriving career painting in the style she loves — and getting paid for it. Kendall shares her journey into mural-making, from an early art education surrounded by nature to apprenticing under an experienced muralist who showed her the ropes. We dive into how she's cultivated her recognizable, nature-inspired style, what her process looks like on and off the wall, and how she connects with the clients and brands who appreciate her unique voice. You'll also hear her practical tips for landing the kinds of commissions you want, creating systems that make mural work easier, and keeping your creative spark alive while balancing the business side of art. If you've ever wondered how to make your mural career feel authentic and sustainable — this one's for you! Tune in and get inspired by Kendall's story and strategies for painting what you love and making a living doing it.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm giving you a peek inside the Artist Academy membership by sharing one of our core training videos—the second video you see when you join. It's a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a professional muralist (keyword: professional, also keyword: profitable). I break it all down: what to do first, how to avoid overthinking, and how to keep going when you inevitably hit those “what now?” moments. Whether you're just starting out or need a better system, this episode lays out the exact steps to grow your art business and become the go-to artist in your area. Because the journey really starts when you begin to confidently own the title artist—and build from there. Let's get to work!

This week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast features California-based muralist Hana Daly, who's been creating murals professionally for over 20 years. If you're the type of artist who just wants to show up and paint—without diving deep into the business backend—Hana's story is going to feel like a warm hug and a gentle nudge forward. We talk about how she got started without an art degree, how she built her business through word-of-mouth, residential clients, and just being a genuinely good human. She shares what it's like to paint emotionally powerful murals in pediatric hospitals (including end-of-life care spaces), and how she's become known for her “one-day murals” that deliver fast impact with heart. We also chat about charging fairly, working with donors for community projects, and why residential gigs might just be the underrated gem in the mural world. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the business side or unsure how to get started, Hana's honest, heartfelt approach will leave you inspired and ready to say “yes” more often.

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, we dive into the world of Girls Who Paint Murals—Allison and Christine, a powerhouse duo who've been painting murals together for over four years, knocking out 1-2 projects every week.They open up about how teamwork, clear communication, and leaving ego at the door keeps their workflow smooth and their murals top-notch. You'll get the lowdown on their pricing—from square footage rates to minimum charges—and hear how they find clients through word-of-mouth, social media, and more.They also share why solid contracts and job site efficiency are non-negotiable, and offer candid advice for aspiring muralists: make sure this path fits you, beyond just the paycheck.Whether you're dreaming of your first mural or looking to sharpen your business game, this episode delivers honest advice and smart strategies you can put into action. www.artistacademy.com

Heyyy Stacie In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sharing some of my favorite painting and mural hacks, many of which I've gathered from YOU—my fellow artists—and from my own studio experience.I'll let you in on clever ways to use everyday household items like coffee cans, ladles, and silicone muffin trays to make painting easier and more efficient. I'm also giving a peek into my life on the farm, juggling work and animals, and how I'm balancing it all.Tune in for some creative shortcuts and a few laughs along the way!Check out my Mural Supply List!

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sharing Chapter 2 of Mural Money—a sneak peek into my book that walks you through the early days of building my art business, back when I had more determination than experience.I'll explain how I define luck as preparation meeting opportunity and introduce the idea of the “Luck Fairy,” who only shows up when you're actively working toward your goals. You'll hear the real story behind my first paid projects, filing for an LLC, and how saying yes to a small opportunity led to a dream job painting for a major outdoor store.I'm also diving into the idea that talent alone isn't enough. It's the work behind the scenes that builds momentum and attracts the right opportunities.Whether you're just starting your mural journey or looking for that next big break, this episode is full of honest stories and insights from the path I've walked myself.Let's put in the reps—and let the Luck Fairy catch up.

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sharing Chapter 1 of my book Mural Money and walking you through my journey from business major to full-time artist. I'll talk about the importance of getting crystal clear on your ideal art career—what it looks like, how it feels, and the steps to start building it. You'll hear why a formal art education isn't always necessary, and how you can grow your skills and confidence outside the classroom. I'm also diving into the power of learning from artists you admire and how that inspiration can shape your own journey. Whether you're just getting started or looking to level up your art career, this episode is full of real talk and practical advice to help you make it happen. Let's dream big—and then get to work.

This week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast is a replay from a few years back with South Carolina muralist Randall Kane, brought to you as part of May Mural Month—a month packed with mural interviews, book chapters, and all the inspiration you need to fuel your summer painting hustle. I was actually having a bad day before I sat down to interview Randall, yet you'd never know it, because I instantly fed off his energy and turned positive. I hope this chat does the same for you today. We talked about trying many different routes to make money as a creative, a different perspective on pricing, and what it's like to paint murals around snakes. I'll let him explain. Let me know what you think of this replay episode with the one and only Randall Kane!www.artistacademy.cowww.MuralMoney.com

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sharing the behind-the-scenes struggles that come with running a mural business—specifically the stress and burnout that can sneak up on you when you're trying to do all the things. From overbooking to underpricing to saying “yes” way too often, I've been there. In this episode, I'm talking about how I learned (sometimes the hard way) to set boundaries, raise my rates, and prioritize my mental health—without letting clients down.If you've ever felt stretched too thin or afraid to say no, this episode is your reminder that protecting your peace is part of the job.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast is a replay episode featuring Cleveland, Ohio-based muralist Lisa Quine. I really enjoyed my chat with Lisa. She has this positive, honest energy that comes from someone who's just come out of the thick of building her business—having figured out so much already, while still growing and evolving. We talked about her unique pricing strategy and how it became her standard approach after years of experience. We even unexpectedly got into the topic of juggling work with new motherhood—a recent favorite of mine—when I realized she was expecting a baby at the time. I hope you enjoy this replay episode with Lisa Quine!

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sharing practical strategies to help you get started with murals and land your first job. If you're looking to build your portfolio and gain experience, here's what you need to do: Paint a mural on your wall (or a friend or family member's wall) of a design you LOVE and want to be hired for again and again. Take a well-lit photo of the finished product (with you in the photo!!) and edit it to make it as beautiful as it is in person. I often adjust the saturation, contrast, and make the whites WHITE with editing. Post that photo in 10 different niche Facebook groups with a simple caption like “I painted this today and enjoyed every minute of it.” Check your inbox—especially your spam or requests folder—for inquiries. Ask the customer to CALL you (or you call them) for details and pricing. (This step is very important.) Most artists won't even do step 1. Don't be like most artists and wait for someone to hire you for your dream job—paint your own luck. For more in-depth tips, grab a copy of my book Mural Money, where I lay out the full roadmap for turning mural art into a thriving business!

This week's May Mural Month replay episode on the Artist Academy Podcast features the social media-famous international muralist, Kiptoe. I knew this guy had a ton of Instagram followers (285k), even more fans on YouTube (823k), and plenty of experience under his belt. But what I didn't know about Kiptoe was that his hustle game is next-level—and that he started traveling the world independently in his 20s, building his brand from the ground up. He's a great example of an artist who took the time to get really good at his craft, then pitched himself (and still continues to pitch today) to clients to land the mural jobs he wants. This dude needs no further introduction—and I know you're going to feel seriously inspired by this week's episode with Kiptoe.

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about mural meetups—what they are, how I plan them, and why they've become one of my favorite ways to mix art with adventure. I'm sharing stories from recent trips to Florida, Costa Rica, Mexico, Barcelona, and St. Croix, where I teamed up with other artists to paint murals in exchange for accommodations (yes, you can trade your talent for a tropical stay :palm_tree::art:). We'll dive into how I find these opportunities—spoiler: Facebook groups are gold—and the real talk about what can go wrong, from flaky hosts to surprise logistical curveballs. Plus, I'm breaking down what I've learned from each experience to help you plan your own paint-and-travel adventure. If the idea of creating art in a beautiful location with like-minded artists lights you up, this episode is for you. Wanna join the Missouri Mural Meetup?

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast breaks down the results of my recently completed $100K in 100 Days Challenge.Saying “yes” to this challenge pushed me to think outside the box, and it paid off big time. I ended up making over twice as much as I ever have in the first quarter. I'm spilling all the details—from the unexpected wins to the strategies that actually worked.We're talking Google searches, reactivating old connections, staying consistent on social, and a whole lot of focused energy. I'll also share the mindset shifts that helped me stay on track without burning out. Listen for the final dollar amount, the work it took, and everything that happened behind the scenes. P.S. Wanna join the Missouri Mural Meetup?

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about the power of practice.I'm sharing how I've spent over 20,000 hours painting—and why that one thing has made the biggest difference in my skills and career.From my early college art classes to those 60+ hour weeks painting for Bass Pro Shops, I dive into the moments that helped me grow the fastest. I also talk about the value of guided instruction versus going it alone, and how hitting that 10,000-hour mark changed my confidence and speed with a brush.If you've ever wondered what it really takes to level up as an artist, this episode is for you.

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about working smarter, not harder, in your art business. We're diving into the power of the 80/20 principle and how focusing on a few key actions can lead to major results. I'm sharing why you don't need to post daily to stay relevant online—sometimes, one solid post a week is more than enough. I'll also break down how attending a single networking event each month can lead to unexpected mural opportunities. Then we'll get into how I pitch mural ideas to business owners using simple mock-ups that help them visualize the final result—and say yes. Let's simplify the hustle and make your efforts count this year!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about the business of live wedding painting with Stephanie Gaffney. Stephanie shares how she built a thriving career painting weddings live, charging $5,000+ per piece—far above the national average. She dives into her marketing strategies, from leveraging social media and SEO to growing her reputation through word-of-mouth.We also discuss the backend of her business, including how she uses Honeybook to streamline client communication, contracts, and payments. Let me know what you think of this week's episode with Stephanie and how her journey inspires your own art business!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're exploring the strategic approach to raising your prices as an artist. Determining when and how to increase your rates can be challenging, especially when faced with fears of losing clients or undervaluing your work. In this episode, I break down the key indicators that signal it's time for a price adjustment, the mindset shifts necessary to overcome self-doubt, and the long-term benefits of charging what your work is truly worth. Ask yourself: Are you wanting to raise your prices but you're scared of the reactions you might get? Are you consistent with your promotional efforts? Do you have somewhat consistent work coming in the majority of the year? Do you feel like you are undercharging and spending way too much time for what your current projects are worth? If these questions resonate with you, it may be time to reassess your pricing strategy. I also share my own experience in growing a six-figure art business through intentional pricing strategies and value-based confidence. Learn how to price your work with confidence, attract higher-quality clients, and position your business for long-term success.Artist Academy Mural Meetup Info

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about tackling social anxiety as an artist. If putting yourself out there feels overwhelming—whether on social media, video, or in person—you're not alone! I'm sharing my own journey of overcoming shyness and social anxiety, along with practical tips to help you build confidence and promote your work.We'll talk about the power of practice, pushing through discomfort, and how small steps can lead to big progress in your art business. If self-promotion has ever held you back, this episode is for you!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast takes a closer look at using the Apple Vision Pro for mural painting. I'll walk you through how this headset works as a projection tool, demonstrating its features with the DaVinci Eye app for image placement, resizing, and opacity adjustments.We'll also compare it to traditional projectors and other AR/VR options like the Meta Quest to see if it's worth the hefty price tag.Beyond the tech, we'll talk about where this industry is headed—will AR tools for artists become more accessible soon?Tune in to explore the future of mural-making with augmented reality!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast features UK artist Louise McNaught. Louise is an environmentally conscious wildlife artist whose passion shines through every canvas she paints. I reached out to Louise back in 2019 for her first interview on this podcast (see her first interview HERE), so this episode provides an updated look at how her art business has changed post-COVID. Louise still sells through art galleries but now primarily focuses on social media to make sales. I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with a fellow animal (cat) lover and talking about the different ways to sell canvases, which is something I rarely manage to do. For me, selling a customizable wall mural is so much easier than selling a canvas painting that comes purely from my own creativity. It's also really tough for me to push myself to be creative in my own way, with no customer insight required. Louise lends her perspective on both of these challenges, drawing from her many years of experience. Let me know what you think of this week's updated episode with Louise McNaught!

Does outreach seem scary/foreign/confusing? Let me help… This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about how I'm gaining mural customers from reaching out to businesses via email/DM and how you can get started too. Outreach can be a pain in the a$$ if you don't know what you're doing. I know, because I've been spending the past few months figuring it out. I'm pretty new to this still, but there are a few things I've come to learn that I think you'll find interesting. I couldn't do this without my VA (virtual assistant). I would get bored of it FAST and not make time. She is worth every penny because without her it would NOT get done. It's a numbers game, but personalizations double/triple conversion rates. CRM platforms like HubSpot make things both more difficult and easier. I almost expect no reply on the first email. Follow-ups are where it's at. Summarize the first email = that's your followup. You do NOT need to have some crazy impressive mural experience (pitch deck) but it helps. For those who don't have the time or the want to sit down and gather contact info of potential customers, I have something for you…Done-For-You Outreach What you get: 500 niche contacts Outreach scripts March 1-31st outreach coaching w/ Andrea Pitch Deck Template You essentially get to borrow my already trained Virtual Assistant and have her create an excel sheet with 500 contacts of companies you want to work for in your area (apartments, dentist offices, schools… any category) to then pitch to them. + 1 month of small group coaching on the subject of outreach to support you through it! We meet every Tuesday for 1 hour. Total price = $4975 spots available. DM Andrea on IG (or reply to this email) to save your spot! This is for you IF: You want to learn outreach the right way quickly with half the effort You are committed to sending 500 pitches in the month of March You have a few murals under your belt (nothing crazy, just enough to show you have done a few murals for at least friends/family)

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about pricing your art and mural projects with confidence.Figuring out how much to charge can feel overwhelming, but it's one of the most important aspects of running a successful art business. In this episode, I'm breaking down my pricing strategy—from $20 to $65 per square foot—and explaining exactly what factors go into those numbers.I'll share real examples from past mural projects, highlighting how details like surface type, complexity, and location affect the final price. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your rates, this episode will give you the knowledge to price your work fairly and profitably.Tune in for actionable insights on setting your prices, communicating value to clients, and getting paid what you're worth!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about simplifying your social media strategy as an artist. Should you create a separate account for each art niche, or is it better to keep everything under one profile? I'm sharing my personal approach and the pros and cons of both, so you can decide what works best for your brand.We'll also dive into the type of content that performs best on different platforms—how to grab attention on Facebook, what's trending on Instagram, and why high-quality, original artwork will always be your biggest asset. Managing social media doesn't have to be overwhelming, and with the right strategy, you can make it work for you instead of the other way around.Tune in for actionable insights to refine your social media presence and grow your art business!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about understanding the true cost of running a mural business. From essential tools like projectors, iPads, scaffolding, and lift rentals, to ongoing expenses such as marketing, software, and website maintenance, we're breaking down the financial side of being a professional muralist. I'll take you behind the scenes of my own business, breaking down everything from supplies like brushes, paint, and scaffolding to the recurring expenses that keep things running smoothly, such as Kajabi, Dropbox, and VA services. We'll explore what it takes to build a sustainable art business, from maintaining a website to running marketing campaigns and ensuring operations run efficiently. We'll chat about how to price your work effectively, ensuring you cover both tangible and hidden costs—such as materials, marketing, business operations, and the time you dedicate to your projects. Tune in for actionable insights that will help you price your work appropriately and avoid costly mistakes, putting you on the path to building a profitable mural career. Check out my Mural Supply List here.

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about mastering sales strategies. When pitching your mural services to potential clients, crafting the perfect pitch can make all the difference in landing the right opportunities.I'm joined by my husband Ryan, who brings his expertise from the world of insurance sales. He shares practical tips on customizing scripts, understanding client needs, and knowing when it's time to walk away from difficult clients. We'll also break down an email pitch template tailored for general contractors, discussing how personalization and brevity can dramatically improve your response rates.Plus, we dive into the best strategies for following up without feeling pushy—whether that's with a personal phone call or a Calendly link.Tune in for actionable insights on staying confident in your outreach in order to grow your art business.

On this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, we're diving into a topic that hits home for many artists—waiting for that response from potential clients. Silence can feel intimidating, and it's easy to let overthinking take over. But the truth is, a delayed reply rarely has anything to do with rejection. I'll share personal stories about how our minds often create negative narratives when we don't hear back, and how this mindset can affect our business. Plus, we'll cover how to follow up professionally without seeming desperate or undervaluing your work. Tune in for practical tips on how to keep your confidence high, navigate the ups and downs of client interactions, and stay focused on growing your art business!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're exploring the habits and practices to leave behind in the new year in order to improve your art business. It's not just about the resolutions, but about making intentional changes that will push you toward growth.In this episode, I'll share how I'm focusing on presenting a more professional appearance, setting realistic goals, and batching work to reduce stress and boost productivity. I'll also talk about overcoming self-doubt when it comes to sharing financial goals and how maintaining a healthy diet is fueling my energy for both work and relationships.Tune in for practical insights on how small changes can have a big impact on your art business and personal growth.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're breaking down the reasons your art might not have sold over the holidays—and what you can do to fix it. Selling art isn't just about creating something beautiful; it's about making sure the right people see it, connect with it, and feel inspired to buy it.In this episode, we'll talk about promoting your art in a variety of ways, growing your audience through social media and interest groups, and crafting stories that make your work more relatable. We'll also cover pricing strategies and how to create products that sell consistently instead of waiting for that one big sale.Tune in for practical tips on getting your art in front of the right buyers, building momentum, and turning your creations into reliable income. Listen now to make your next launch a success!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about creating a roadmap to success with the goal of making $50k right out of the gate! I'm sharing strategies like social media posting, applying for public art calls, and cold outreach to businesses—plus, I break down the success rates for each method. You'll also hear why having a strong portfolio, an SEO-optimized website, and high-quality photos is crucial for landing more jobs. I'll dive into the importance of motivation, accountability, and consistent implementation of these strategies, with tips on finding an accountability partner. Plus, hear from artist Grace, who shares how she's been able to increase mural sales and set projections to triple last year's numbers. This episode is packed with real strategies and success stories to help you hit your goals and build the kind of momentum that can take your art business to new heights in 2025!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about turning creative consistency into momentum with the 31-Day Challenge—starting January 1st! Whether you're painting daily, posting for 31 days straight, or experimenting with videos and mural mockups, this challenge is designed to push boundaries and open doors. In this episode, I'm sharing strategies to amplify your goals—like testing new outreach methods, building social proof, and ditching excuses (because “no time” isn't cutting it). You'll also hear how Summer Paradiso used this exact challenge to paint 31 pet portraits, build momentum, and quit her job halfway through the year. This isn't just about starting strong—it's about creating habits, testing ideas, and building the kind of momentum that can transform your art business in 2025!

This week's episode on the Artist Academy Podcast is all about using a holiday promotion tactic that I'm currently implementing in my art business, and why I think it's a strategy you should consider for your own business. Whether you're selling murals, prints, small items, or custom canvases, I'm sharing why putting in that extra effort right now—right before Christmas—can make a huge impact. We're also talking about our recent mural meetup, where I'm sharing behind-the-scenes details on what we did, what we learned, and the things I'm putting into practice right away. I invited guest artists to teach me new techniques, and I'm excited to share how I'm applying what I've learned. Plus, I'm diving into why now is the perfect time to launch a big promotion for last-minute orders and quick-to-ship gifts. Instead of just posting about your products the usual way, I'm explaining how giving away something big or adding a special offer can create more buzz, get people talking, and drive real sales. This episode is about turning creative ideas into real opportunities and setting the stage for your biggest year yet.

In this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, we welcome you to part 3 of the $100K podcast series, where we're getting real about the habits and strategies that will actually make those big goals possible. If you've been following along, you know I'm gearing up to make $100,000 in the first 100 days of 2025—but this episode is different. We're not just talking about the challenge; we're breaking down the how behind productivity and goal-setting. In this episode, I'm sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the ups and downs of my productivity: how sleep, morning routines, and phone habits play a huge role in getting things done (or not). Plus, we dive into why you can't just consume content—you've got to create and implement strategies that push you forward. Plus, stay tuned for exciting updates on my upcoming 2025 marketing plan workshop and mural meetups happening around the globe—with a $500 giveaway for one lucky listener to attend!This episode is about turning ambition into action and getting practical with how we're going to crush our goals in 2025.www.artistacademy.co/mmb

This week's replay episode on the Artist Academy Podcast features California-based muralist Morgan Bricca. I have stumbled upon the more experienced version of myself in Morgan. I could talk to her for hours. She has the confidence and positivity of an experienced artist—one who has dealt with the past trials of owning a business but happily perseveres because she knows, from years of experience, how the profits far surpass the struggles. For example, her project minimum nowadays is $7,500. Yep, I said minimum. Granted, she lives in one of the wealthier parts of the United States, where customers are happy to pay. Still, she knows her worth, sticks to what she's good at, and has built up a wealth of knowledge about murals—so much so that she wrote a book on it: The Mural Artist's Handbook. This woman needs no further introduction. Let me know what you think of this week's episode with Morgan Bricca.Morgan's Website: https://www.morganmurals.com

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm discussing a significant $8,000 investment I made in my art business and how it's set to help me 5x that amount in just six months. In this episode, I'll break down exactly what I invested in and why it's crucial for growth in 2025. I'll also explore the question of whether it's time for you to invest in external support. Whether it's a VA, coach, video editor, outreach specialist, or someone to help you create a strategic plan, I'll share how making the right investment can set you on the path to success. We'll discuss how to identify areas where you might be dropping the ball, and whether it's time to adjust your habits or bring in help to stay on track. While investing large amounts of money can be intimidating, this $8,000 commitment has been a catalyst for progress, providing the assurance that I'll stay focused and accountable to my goals. Tune in for practical insights on how investing in your business can drive real growth and elevate your art career. Join Mural Money Bootcamp (small group coaching) TODAY before spots fill up: www.artistacademy.co/mmb

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm bringing back a replay episode with Marilena Madio from 2021. It was so memorable that I had to share it again—now, over three years later. I originally reached out to Marilena to chat about her wall decal product she began creating for customers but was caught off guard by how much mural wisdom she had to share. Marilena has been in the mural game longer than I have and is such a joy to talk shop with. Last year, I watched as she had a video go mega-viral, gaining tens of thousands of followers as a result. It was so well-deserved! Lately, she's partnered with Zibra, a mural brush company, to create her own branded set of mural brushes, which she kindly sent me to try out recently. They are worth all the hype! I hope you're enjoying these old interviews I'm bringing back for the fourth quarter to give you some extra audio motivation as we all work through what's usually the busiest time of year for artists. Let me know what you think of this week's episode with Marilena Madio!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're diving into an exciting challenge: the goal of making $100,000 in 100 days, starting January 1st. It's a bold plan designed to push boundaries and inspire growth in your art business. In this episode, we'll discuss how consistent, small actions can lead to big results and explore the value of making intentional investments to boost your business. You'll hear strategies for managing your energy by focusing on tasks that inspire you and learning to delegate the ones that don't. Plus, we'll talk about recognizing areas where you can improve and finding the right support to help you grow. Tune in for fresh insights and motivation to help you take your art career to the next level.ArtistAcademy.co/coach https://www.artistacademy.co

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're featuring a replay episode from back in 2020 with Australian oil painter Wanda Comrie. Wanda shared some amazing tips for Instagram during our chat, and one that stood out to me was her practice of privately messaging potential buyers with a video of her newly completed paintings. She talks about avoiding automation and instead keeping excellent customer service at the forefront of her art business. She has full conversations with everyone who buys from her. There's no automatic checkout system or computer saying, “Thanks for your order.” It's Wanda personally typing and saying, “Thank you,” to her buyers. I love this and wanted to highlight it at the beginning of the interview because I think it's a testament to who she is as an artist and reflects the care she puts into her paintings as well. Wanda makes all of her sales through Instagram and gives us a peek into exactly how she does it. Take notes, and let me know what you think of this week's episode with Wanda Comrie.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're exploring how dealing with challenges and criticism is an essential part of growing as an artist and business owner. It's not about the situation itself but how you choose to respond to it that defines your path forward. In this episode, we'll dive into personal stories about navigating tough customer interactions, learning from mistakes, and improving processes to prepare for bigger opportunities. Tune in for insights on embracing the good and the bad, strengthening communication, and making the most of every experience to grow your art business. Listen to hear how riding the waves of a challenging year can ultimately lead to success!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast is an interview with artist John Foster, all about his lifelong career in custom lettering, pinstriping, and graphic design. I love chatting with artists who have lived through decades of the evolving art industry because they offer a completely different perspective compared to those who are just starting out. The evolution required to survive in this industry demands an open mind, constant learning, and the ability to adapt. There are so many differences between today's art world and that of 20+ years ago, and John has both lived through and thrived in those changes. We discuss how he got his start as an employee, eventually transitioned to being his own boss, and moved across multiple states—even to Europe—as a freelance artist. Let me know your thoughts on this interview with John Foster!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're exploring how small jobs can lead to big opportunities. I'm sharing my experience working on a mural for a local Mexican restaurant and how taking on a lower-paying project turned out to be a smart move for gaining exposure and expanding my portfolio.In this episode, I'll explain how shifting my mindset about these smaller gigs helped me view them as stepping stones to larger, more rewarding projects. If you're an artist wondering whether to take on lower-budget jobs, this episode is for you! Discover how approaching these opportunities with the right perspective can unlock growth and future success.Tune in for tips on how to leverage smaller jobs to build your career, gain exposure, and position yourself for bigger opportunities in the future. Listen to find out how I turned the Mexican restaurant mural into a strategic win!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast is an interview with muralist Tony Castillo. Like most of us, Tony entered the art world thinking he would go in a certain direction but ended up turning, learning, and diving into murals headfirst. I love a good chat about large-scale painting, pricing, and the hurdles that only exterior painters have to face. Topics like heights, wind, and strict deadlines are just a few of the challenges covered with Tony. His story is yet another that really began in the 2020 dip and has quickly grown into a profitable career. Listen to hear how Tony is landing these big mural jobs in today's episode!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're diving deep into the subtle but powerful ways shame can prevent us from reaching our full potential as artists. We often don't realize how feelings of inadequacy or fear of judgment can sneak into our creative process, holding us back from taking bold steps, experimenting with new ideas, or putting ourselves out there fully. Through this episode, we'll uncover how acknowledging and working through shame can actually unlock new levels of growth, both personally and professionally. From facing impostor syndrome to understanding how our inner critic influences our decisions, the conversation covers how these hidden barriers impact our work and our confidence as artists. Tune in for insights on shifting your mindset, embracing vulnerability, and using self-compassion to grow without letting shame stand in your way! Listen to hear the shameful secret that held me back for several years!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast is an interview with muralist and adventurer Emily Beaudoin. I so appreciate how real Emily is with her answers to all the technical painting and business questions I ask her. She's just like you and me, figuring it out as we go. Emily and I chat about her experience painting for Lululemon, Black Diamond, and several other name brands. She splits her time between creating murals in the Canadian summer and illustrating things like t-shirt designs in the colder months. Emily is a fantastic example of what it looks like to lean into what interests you and let that seep into the paintings you create. Listen to hear how she's navigating a business surrounded by the subjects that inspire her to live an adventurous life.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, we're talking about a go-with-the-flow marketing tactic that can be a game-changer for any mural business. Discover how adopting a flexible approach—especially when it comes to scheduling, pricing, and client communication—has helped me handle the ups and downs of running an art business.From setting appropriate prices and taking deposits to maintaining a calm, confident attitude with clients, this episode breaks down strategies that can make the whole process feel smoother and more enjoyable. The conversation also dives into how personal development and shifting priorities, like the transition to motherhood, have influenced the way I approach my business today.Tune in for practical advice on managing an art career with less stress and more flow, all while staying true to your creative vision!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast is yet another replay of an interview I did over 4 years ago with an inspiring artist who is living their unique art dream. William Jeffrey Jones is a sculptor living a little over an hour away from me in small-town Missouri. After this interview, I was so inspired by this unique human that I drove to his location to meet and create with him. We threw on the pottery wheel, and I made a really big cup. We also recorded the session and put it inside the Academy because, back then, I had no idea what kinds of content artists wanted, so I was just recording anything and everything creative. William is the epitome of an artist living out his purpose in life, the way he wants to live it out on the daily. He owns a pottery studio and coffee shop, works the odd hours he feels called to work, and creates the coolest things! Check out his Instagram to see what I mean.Let me know what you think of this week's replay with sculptor William Jeffrey Jones.

In this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, by popular demand, we dive back into the topic of a Boss Mentality vs. Employee Mentality. The discussion explores the fundamental differences between these two mindsets and how they can impact artists' careers. The boss mentality encourages ownership, initiative, and a proactive approach to challenges, empowering us to take control of our creative journeys. In contrast, the employee mentality often fosters dependency and limits growth, focusing on tasks rather than the bigger picture. Listen to hear how we can not just recognize but also cultivate a boss mentality, enabling ourselves to navigate the complexities of our artistic pursuits with confidence and autonomy. The episode also includes practical tips for developing leadership skills, setting goals, and embracing a mindset that supports personal and professional growth. Employee Mentality:Needing safety and security instead of betting on yourselfLooking for someone else to pat you on the backListening to teachersObey the rules Boss Mentality: Taking risksCelebrating your winsBeing the teacherMake the rules Tune in to transform your approach to creativity and career success!

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I am continuing the trend of bringing back some of the best, most inspiring, educational, and moving interviews from years past. This one is a look back at a chat from 2020 with Casey Langteau, all about how to find your artistic style. Casey is a New Orleans-based artist with her own beautiful gallery filled with her unique art. She has a very interesting process in which she creates her one-of-a-kind paintings. I'll let her explain it to you and share how she discovered her unique canvas style. Casey gives us actionable tips to look deep within ourselves to find a style of painting that's truly unique to each of us. Casey has a mantra she says in her head and out loud, which reflects the purpose of her creations. She has a solid "why" when it comes to putting in the work it takes to put out a heartfelt product at scale. I took a look at what Casey is doing nowadays, almost four years later, and guess what… she's still painting in this very unique style. She's in a new gallery, all her own, in New Orleans. Having recently had a baby, her painting subjects have changed (go take a look at her Instagram to see!), but her style is so unique, with such a solid color palette, that I can easily pick it out in a lineup of other artists. She paints with beautiful muted tones and textures. I've really enjoyed having her posts on my Instagram feed for the past four years, and I think you would too. Let me know what you think of this week's replay episode with Casey Langteau.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I finally let my husband take over the interviewer seat and ask questions. We polled the Artist Academy about what questions they had regarding art, business, personal life, and what it's really like living with a busy artist. My husband, Ryan Sanders, has been asking for this for a while, so I finally obliged him with some time to talk into the microphone. If you've ever met Ryan in person, you know his gift for gab. He's way more of a personality than I am, has tons of sales advice, and keeps me laughing day in and day out. You'll find this episode entertaining at the least. You'll also hear a bit more about my daily life, work habits, what it's taken to grow an art business alongside our growing family, and so much more. Let me know if Ryan should never, ever again take over the interviewer position or if you laughed at all during our conversation. Both are likely.

Take advantage of 35% off Artist Academy Memberships: https://andrea-ehrhardt.mykajabi.com/birthday In today's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I explain how I really felt painting on a roof and all the emotions that came with putting myself in an uncomfortable situation. I also touch on a subject that's been on my mind lately: the difference between a boss and employee mentality. This is a topic that's not often discussed, but it needs to be looked at from an aerial perspective. Making the shift from working for someone else—showing up and doing a job we're told to do day in and day out—to working for ourselves is no small jump. It's a mindset shift that can hold you back in your art business if you're not aware of it. Here are some examples: Employee Mentality: Listening to bad advice, then blaming that for why things didn't work out Looking for someone to tell you what to do Complaining when things don't go your way Boss Mentality: Owning up to your mistakes Making your own schedule Realizing that your efforts directly affect the outcome of your business Listen to today's episode to hear my examples and all the other details!

This week, I'm going to be going over all of the possible birthday week specials/discounts I've considered putting out this week, and which ones I've chosen & WHY. 35% off Lifetime Membership & 1-on-1 Coaching: Click here 35% off 1-Year Artist Academy Membership: Click hereNEW: ABC Coloring Book! Click here If you were to ask me, “What do you want for your birthday?” I would immediately say, “Please don't buy me something. I have an Amazon account, and I don't need any more material things, ever. What I really want is to make a $h!t ton of sales within my business.” There's something about getting that confirmation email that someone has bought something I offer. It gives such a blast of energy! I have a goal to hit $200k by Jan 1st, so when I sit back and ask myself… “What can I put out that's going to help me hit that monetary goal? But also, what do I really WANT to promote? What feels good to shout out to the world? Say somebody is going to give me extra money during my birthday week, what do I want to trade it for?” What do I offer currently? Let's make a list: Murals/Logos Artist Academy Membership (1 year - 35% discount $155 = $289) Mural Money Book (Last year = signed copy) Prints - Canvas/paper art prints, alphabet series poster, custom name prints (Past years = 35% off) NEW: Coloring Book! (Please leave me a review for my birthday! Incentive: $5 off the next book I put out - Simply send me a screenshot of your review) NEW: 1-on-1 Coaching (35% off Lifetime Membership to the Academy - Be coached by me for the entire year!) $3,500 - 35% off ($1,225) = $2,275 Frankly, these are things that I need to promote more often. So, why not give myself a reason to speak about it via a special offer during the week where I'm getting the most attention and my energy is at its highest?! Steps I need to take in order to make this successful: I've given my audience a heads-up that the birthday specials are coming (girls have booked the 1-on-1s already) Only booking 1 small mural job this week Create videos/photos (some scheduled ahead of time) to promote this HEAVILY Create a calendar of planned posts: Monday - Announce all of them, Tuesday - Promote the 1-on-1 coaching and membership option, Wednesday - Promote the coloring book, Thursday - Membership reminders, Friday - Coloring book reminders. Last chance emails! Link in my Instagram bio I know that it's only going to work if I've been showing up consistently throughout the year. Listen to today's episodes to hear all of the details!