Artsy Ambition

39: The Comparison Trap: Why You're Always Looking at the Wrong Timeline

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

You're scrolling Instagram. Someone's shop is sold out. Their feed looks effortless. They have thousands of followers. And you think: I should be further along. What am I doing wrong? Here's the thing—you're comparing your chapter one to their chapter twenty. And that comparison isn't just unfair. It's holding you back.

In this episode, Kathleen explores why comparison feels so inevitable (especially in the social media age), why it's almost always misleading, and how to start measuring your progress against the only timeline that actually matters: your own. You'll discover what you don't see in other people's highlight reels, why trying to skip steps backfires, and practical strategies for when the comparison wave hits.

You'll hear about:

Why comparison is so hard to avoid
The timeline you don't see
What actually matters: your own progress, not someone else's chapter
The danger of trying to leapfrog steps
What to do when comparison hits with practical strategies
Redefining success on your terms, not what you see in someone's feed

Takeaway: You're not behind. You're not failing. You're just on a different timeline. The person you're comparing yourself to was once exactly where you are now—uncertain, learning, wondering if they were good enough. But you don't see those years. You see them at chapter twenty while you're at chapter three. Stop comparing your beginning to someone else's middle. Measure yourself against your own past. Are you better than you were six months ago? That's what matters. You're running your own race.

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38: Your First Sale: What It Teaches You That Nothing Else Can

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

The moment a stranger—someone who doesn't love you, doesn't owe you anything, has no reason to be kind—looks at what you made and decides it's worth their money? That moment changes everything. It's not just about the dollars. It's about legitimacy, possibility, and what you learn about yourself and your work that no book or podcast can teach you.

In this episode, Kathleen walks through what actually happens before, during, and after your first sale—including the feeling no one warns you about (spoiler: it's not just excitement). Whether you've already had your first sale and want to revisit that moment, or you've been hovering over the publish button wondering if you're ready, this episode gives you the honest picture and the practical push.

You'll hear about:

What happens right before the first sale
What your first sale actually teaches you
What comes after (the identity shift, and the honest reality beyond the excitement)
Practical steps to make your first sale more likely to happen
Why the only way to learn what a first sale teaches is to have one

Takeaway: Your first sale teaches you things that no amount of reading, listening, or preparing ever can. It teaches you in your gut, in your body, through direct experience—that your work has value, that pricing is survivable, that your creative voice communicates across the gap between maker and stranger. The people who have first sales aren't people who feel no fear. They're people who list anyway. If you've been hovering over that publish button, maybe today is the day.

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37: What If It Works? Letting Yourself Dream Again

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

When was the last time you let yourself fully imagine what you want, without immediately listing all the reasons it won't happen? Somewhere along the way, many of us stopped dreaming. We learned to protect ourselves from disappointment by expecting nothing. But what if we flipped the script?

In this episode, Kathleen explores what happens when we let ourselves ask "what if it works?" instead of spending all our energy preparing for failure. You'll discover why we stop dreaming, what it costs us when we play it safe, and how to start letting hope back in—even when it feels scary. This is permission to want things, to dream again, to risk disappointment in pursuit of something meaningful.

You'll hear about:

When and why we stop letting ourselves dream (protecting from disappointment)
The hidden cost of playing it safe (missed opportunities, cynicism, regret)
What if it works? (Imagining success instead of preparing for failure)
The practical side of dreaming (specific, grounded, actionable)
What if it doesn't work? (Addressing the fear honestly)
Permission to want things (you're allowed to dream big)
How to start dreaming again today (small steps, five minutes, one tiny action)

Takeaway: You deserve to dream. When we stop dreaming, we don't just protect ourselves from disappointment—we cut ourselves off from possibility. The pain of trying and it not working out is different from the pain of never trying at all. Start small: what if that one thing you're quietly hoping for actually works? Write it down. Imagine the feeling. Take one tiny action. Let yourself hope again. Because sometimes just imagining what success could look like is the first step toward making it real.

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36: Side Hustle or Sanctuary: Should You Monetize Your Hobby?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600

36: Side Hustle or Sanctuary? Should You Monetize Your Hobby?

Summary

"You should sell these!" "Have you thought about starting an Etsy shop?" "You're so talented—you could make money doing this!" Sound familiar? In our productivity-obsessed culture, there's constant pressure to monetize our hobbies. But should you?

In this episode, Kathleen gets honest about what monetizing your creative hobby actually involves—not just the income potential, but what it costs. You'll discover the questions to ask yourself before you start selling, when monetizing makes sense (and when it doesn't), and how to protect the joy if you do turn your hobby into a side hustle. This is permission to keep your creativity sacred AND permission to build a business if that's what you want.

You'll hear about:

The pressure to monetize everything (and why hobbies don't need to be profitable to be valuable)
What monetizing actually means (casual selling vs. building a real business)
The honest questions to ask yourself (why, what would you gain/lose, what's your capacity)
When monetizing makes sense (and when to keep it sacred)
The middle path (you don't have to be all-in or all-out)
How to protect the joy if you do monetize (boundaries, keeping some work private)
Kathleen's honest experience with building Artsy Lyons (what it gave and what it cost)

Takeaway: Not every hobby needs to become a side hustle. You're allowed to be good at something and not monetize it. But if you want to build a business from your creativity, you absolutely can—just go in with your eyes open. Ask yourself: Why do I want this? What am I willing to trade? Can I protect the joy even when there's money involved? There's no wrong answer, only the answer that's right for you, right now. And you can always change your mind.

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🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Artsy Ambition Podcast! See you next week!

35: Creative Rhythms for Busy Seasons

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

You wake up already behind. The to-do list is longer than the hours in the day. You fall into bed exhausted and wake up to do it all again. And in the middle of all this chaos, there's this little voice saying, "I miss creating. I miss having something that's just mine." But when? How?

In this episode, recorded from a hotel room during a work trip, Kathleen shares how to maintain your creative practice when life won't slow down. You'll discover why bringing your embroidery on the road keeps you connected, how to reimagine what creativity looks like in busy seasons, and why three stitches in a hotel room is exactly enough. This is permission to adapt your practice instead of abandoning it.

You'll hear about:

What busy seasons actually feel like (and why you're not failing)
Why you need to let go of what worked before (your practice can look different now)
Creative rhythms for busy times (portable projects, micro-sessions, simple work)
What Kathleen's learning traveling for work with her embroidery project
What to protect and what to release in chaotic seasons
The unexpected gift of constraints (what busy seasons teach us)
How staying connected now makes returning easier later
Permission to do less, choose simple, and be imperfect

Takeaway: Busy seasons don't last forever, and your creative practice doesn't have to look the same all the time. Three stitches a day keeps you connected. Portable projects fit in the margins. Simple, repetitive work doesn't tax your tired brain. You're not abandoning creativity by adapting it—you're honoring it by finding a way to keep it alive even when life is chaos. Release the guilt, lower the expectations, and trust that staying connected matters more than being productive.

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🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Artsy Ambition Podcast! See you next week!

34: Crafting Through Chaos: Using Your Hands to Calm an Anxious Brain

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600

It's evening, everyone's finally in bed, and you should be able to relax. But your brain won't stop. The racing thoughts, the tight chest, the constant hum of worry underneath everything you do. If you've noticed that your anxiety quiets when you're stitching, that the repetitive motion helps you breathe again, that working with your hands brings you back to the present moment—there's actually a reason for that.

In this episode, Kathleen explores the connection between hand crafts and anxiety management, sharing both the science behind why crafting calms an anxious brain and her personal experience using embroidery as a tool for regulation. You'll discover practical strategies for using your creative practice when anxiety hits, what to do when even crafting feels overwhelming, and how to build a creative practice that specifically supports your mental health.

You'll hear about:

Why your brain won't stop (and what anxiety looks and feels like for creative moms)
The science behind why crafting calms anxiety (repetitive motion, bilateral stimulation, grounding)
Kathleen's personal story with anxiety and how embroidery became her regulation tool
How to intentionally use crafting for anxiety management (accessible, simple, sensory-focused)
What to do when even crafting feels overwhelming (lowering the bar, five-minute approach)
Creating an anxiety-soothing practice (designated projects, calming rituals)
What this practice gives you over time (confidence, evidence, healthy coping)
An important note about professional help (crafting is a tool, not a replacement for therapy)

Takeaway: Hand crafts like embroidery aren't just hobbies—they're tools for managing anxiety and regulating your nervous system. When your thoughts are racing and everything feels chaotic, sometimes the answer is as simple as picking up your needle and making one stitch, then another, then another. Crafting gives your anxious brain something concrete to focus on, interrupts the worry spiral, and grounds you in the present moment. You're not alone, and you have more tools than you think.

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🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Artsy Ambition Podcast! See you next week!

33: Rituals, Not Routines: Little Traditions That Make Creativity Stick

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

You've tried to establish a creative routine a dozen times, and every time it feels like just another thing on your to-do list. What if the problem isn't your discipline—it's that you're thinking in terms of routines when you need rituals instead?

In this episode, Kathleen explores the difference between routines (which are about efficiency) and rituals (which are about meaning)—and why that difference changes everything for your creative practice. You'll discover why lighting a candle before you stitch transforms obligation into invitation, how to create rituals that actually fit your life, and why the simple act of showing up can become the most powerful ritual of all.

You'll hear about:

The crucial difference between routines and rituals (and why it matters for creativity)
Why rituals make creativity stick when routines don't
Kathleen's personal creative rituals (evening wind-down, Sunday morning create, first stitch pause)
How to create rituals that work for you (sensory cues, transitions, presence)
Small ritual ideas you can try today (gratitude start, boundary markers, closing ceremonies)
When and how to let rituals evolve as your life changes
The difference between rituals and perfectionism (one invites, one demands)
The most important ritual: simply showing up

Takeaway: Routines are about efficiency. Rituals are about meaning. When you shift from "I should stitch for 20 minutes today" to creating sacred containers for your creativity, everything changes. Your creative practice becomes something you honor, not something you check off. Start small, make it meaningful to you, and remember: the most powerful ritual is simply showing up.

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🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Artsy Ambition Podcast! See you next week!

32: You Don't Need a Studio: Making Art in the Middle of Real Life

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

Scrolling through Instagram craft rooms with perfect lighting and organized supplies can make you feel like you need a dedicated studio to be a "real" artist. But here's the truth: some of the most beautiful, meaningful creative work happens on kitchen tables, in corners of bedrooms, on couches with kids nearby.

In this episode, Kathleen shares how she's run her embroidery business from her kitchen table for years, why creating in shared spaces actually has advantages you might not realize, and exactly how to set up a functional creative practice in whatever space you have right now. This is permission to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start creating in the middle of real, messy life.

You'll hear about:

Why the "studio myth" keeps us waiting (and why it's holding you back)
What creativity actually looks like in real life (kitchen tables, couch corners, baskets)
Practical strategies for making it work in small or shared spaces
How to protect your creative practice when your family shares your space
The surprising advantages of creating in the middle of everything else
Kathleen's actual kitchen table setup (spoiler: it's not glamorous)
How to start exactly where you are tonight—no studio required

Takeaway: The perfect creative space is the one you actually use. You don't need a dedicated studio, elaborate storage, or ideal conditions. You just need a basket, a corner, and a willingness to create in the middle of real life. Stop waiting for someday and start where you are right now—because that's exactly where the magic happens.

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more mamas who need this community.

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Artsy Ambition Podcast! See you next week!

31: Creativity When You're Touched Out and Tired

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Being touched out is real, exhausting, and rarely talked about in creative spaces. In this episode, Kathleen gets honest about what it's like to maintain a creative practice when you're physically and emotionally depleted—and why creativity might be exactly what you need in those hardest moments.

You'll discover why embroidery can actually help regulate your nervous system when you're overstimulated, what creativity looks like when you're barely holding it together (spoiler: it's messy and imperfect), and how to make creating stupidly easy on your hardest days. This is permission to show up exhausted, to make ugly work, and to believe that three stitches count just as much as a finished masterpiece.

You'll hear about:

What being "touched out" really means and why it's so depleting
Why creativity matters even more when you're exhausted (it's not what you think)
What creativity actually looks like when you're depleted (three stitches, ugly work, giving up halfway)
How to make creativity stupidly easy when you have zero energy
When you need permission to do nothing instead of forcing creativity
What this hard season is teaching you about your creative identity
The two-stitch rule and other practical ideas for touched-out mamas

Takeaway: You don't have to create anything today. But if you want to—if somewhere underneath the exhaustion there's a voice saying "I miss making things"—you can. Three messy stitches count. Ugly work counts. You showing up exhausted and trying anyway counts most of all. Your creativity isn't dependent on perfect conditions or finished products. It's part of who you are, even in the hardest seasons.

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more mamas who need this community.

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Artsy Ambition Podcast! See you next week!

30: The Quiet Power of Slow Hobbies in a Fast-Scroll World

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

The average person picks up their phone 96 times a day. We're scrolling, comparing, consuming—and wondering why we're all so exhausted. In this episode, Kathleen explores why choosing a slow hobby in our fast-scroll world is actually a radical act of self-care, and how slowing down might be the most productive thing you do all week.

You'll discover the science behind why repetitive creative practices like embroidery restore us, how to start even when you feel like you don't have time, and why reclaiming your attention from the endless scroll is one of the most important things you can do for your well-being. This is permission to slow down, mama.

You'll hear about:

Why our brains are craving slowness (and what happens when we keep ignoring that need)
Why choosing slow is a counter-cultural act of resistance against hustle culture
What slow hobbies give us that scrolling never will (hint: it's more than a finished project)
How to start with just ten minutes—no big time chunks required
Permission to do something just for you without guilt or apology

Takeaway: Choosing a slow hobby isn't opting out of important work—it might be the most important work you can do. You're not being selfish by spending time on something that's just for you. You're reclaiming your attention, protecting your creativity, and modeling for your children that it's okay to do things simply because they bring you peace.

29: Five-Minute Creativity: Tiny Practices for Busy Mamas

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Think you need hours of uninterrupted time to be creative? This episode will change your mind. Kathleen shares why waiting for "enough time" keeps you stuck, and how five-minute creative practices can transform your relationship with creativity as a busy mom.

You'll discover six practical rituals that fit into your real life—from passenger seat stitches to scribble drawing play—plus the exact strategies to make them stick. Because creativity doesn't have to be all or nothing, mama. You can be both present with your family and connected to your creative self, five minutes at a time.

You'll hear about:

Why five minutes of actual creating beats an hour of waiting for perfect conditions
Six practical creative rituals (passenger seat stitch, waiting room sketch, family time stitch, scribble drawing play, evening wind-down, Sunday planning)
How to make creativity stupidly easy to start with habit stacking
Why three messy stitches count just as much as a finished masterpiece
How tiny creative moments actually make you more present in the rest of your life

Takeaway: You don't need hours to be creative. You just need five minutes and permission to believe those five minutes matter. Your creativity doesn't have to be all or nothing—you can maintain your creative identity even in the busiest seasons.

28: Holiday Pressure vs. Handmade Joy: Redefining What 'Special' Looks Like

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Feeling the holiday pressure already? Between Pinterest-perfect expectations and everyone else's Instagram highlights, it's easy to feel like you should be doing more. But what if "special" doesn't mean elaborate or expensive — what if it just means heartfelt?

In this episode, Kathleen shares her own journey from holiday burnout to handmade joy, and gives you permission to do the holidays differently this year. You'll learn how to choose meaningful over impressive, presence over perfection, and create holiday magic without the overwhelm.

You'll Hear About:

Why the holiday pressure we feel isn't really about the holidays at all
What makes something truly "special" (hint: it's not perfection)
The difference between handmade pressure and handmade joy
5 practical strategies for choosing what to make (and what to let go)
What your people actually want from you this season
A gentle challenge to redefine the holidays on your own terms

Key Takeaway: You don't have to do it all to make it special. Handmade doesn't mean more work — it means more heart. Your calm, your presence, and your joy are the real gifts this season.

27: How to Say No to Good Things

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Feeling stretched too thin? Resentful of commitments you said yes to? This episode is about the boundaries that will change your creative life. Kathleen shares her own journey from saying yes to everything (and burning out) to learning how to protect what actually matters — including her creative time, her family, and her energy.

This isn't about being selfish or unavailable. It's about being intentional. Because every time you say yes to something that doesn't align with your priorities, you're saying no to something that does.

You'll hear about:

Why saying no feels so impossibly hard (and why it's necessary)
How to get crystal clear on your priorities
The specific boundaries that changed Kathleen's life
Practical scripts for saying no without guilt
What happens when you protect your creative time
How to handle people who don't understand your boundaries
Permission slips you might need to hear

Takeaway: Saying no isn't mean — it's necessary. You can't pour from an empty cup, and you can't show up for what matters most if you've given all your energy to things that don't align with your priorities. Start with one boundary this week and watch what shifts.

26: Turn One Skill Into Endless Gifts: My New Canva Templates for Embroidery

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

After the Sip & Stitch event, Kathleen kept hearing the same question: "How can I make more personalized embroidered gifts?" This episode is the answer. She's introducing new Canva templates designed to take the guesswork out of creating custom embroidered pieces — with seven embroidery-friendly fonts, sizing guides for different apparel sizes (newborn through 4T+), and six adorable embellishments.

But this episode is about more than templates. It's about how learning one skill — hand embroidery — becomes an endless source of meaningful, personalized gifts that people actually treasure. Perfect timing for holiday planning!

You'll hear about:

Why designing your own embroidery can feel overwhelming (and how to fix it)
What's included in the new Canva templates and how to use them
The deeper meaning behind handmade, personalized gifts
Step-by-step process for creating embroidered gifts with confidence
A free sweater embroidery tutorial to get you started
Gift ideas for every occasion (babies, kids, teachers, friends, and yourself!)

Takeaway: Once you learn embroidery, you unlock an endless source of meaningful gifts. With the right tools to simplify the design process, you can create personalized keepsakes that people will treasure for years to come.

Subscribe & Review

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more mamas who need this community.

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Artsy Ambition Podcast! See you next week!

25: Why My First Sip & Stitch Was About More Than Embroidery

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Summary

I just hosted my first in-person Sip & Stitch event at Park Cafe, and now I’m sharing all the heartwarming, behind-the-scenes moments from the experience. From the magic of watching strangers become friends over embroidery hoops, to the invaluable teaching insights she gained, to gratitude for the people who make it all possible — this episode is a love letter to community and creativity.

If you've ever thought about hosting a creative workshop or wondered what happens when you gather people around a table with thread and good conversation, this one will inspire you.

You'll hear about:

The beautiful community that formed during the event (and why people helping each other was the best part)
What teaching in person taught Kathleen about being a better educator
Why slowing down and focusing on one stitch at a time matters for beginners
Heartfelt gratitude for Sean and all the small ways he supports her creative journey
Why live events matter, even in our digital world
What's next for in-person embroidery gatherings

Takeaway: Live, in-person creative events create something online teaching can't replicate — real connection, spontaneous community, and the kind of learning that happens when we slow down and show up together. You don't have to be perfect to host or teach; you just have to be willing.

24: Start Again, Not From Scratch

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Been away from your embroidery hoop (or any creative practice) and feeling guilty about it? This episode is your permission slip to start again — without the shame, without the pressure, and without believing you're back at square one.

Kathleen shares why stopping and starting is a natural creative rhythm, not a character flaw. She explores how to make peace with the cycle of stepping away and returning, and offers a refreshing new definition of consistency that actually honors real life.

Whether you've been gone for a day, a month, or a year — you didn't start over. You continued. And that's something to celebrate.

You'll hear about:

Why the stop-start cycle is completely normal (and not a sign of failure)
The real reasons we step away from creativity — and why it's not weakness
How to lower the barrier to coming back without guilt or pressure
Kathleen's personal story of stepping away and returning to stitching
A new way to define consistency that makes space for seasons and rhythms
Why every return to your creativity is an act of courage

Takeaway: Starting again isn't starting from scratch. Every time you come back to your creativity, you're building on everything that came before. You're allowed to have seasons of rest and seasons of creating — and both are part of your creative journey.

23: The Weekend Shift: Juggling Motherhood & Career While Building a Business

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Show Notes: Monday through Friday, Kathleen works her full-time marketing job and manages early kindergarten mornings, school pickups, dinner, and bedtime routines. Her weekdays are maxed out. So when does she build her creative business? Weekends. And it's not what you might think.

In this honest episode, Kathleen pulls back the curtain on what it's really like to pursue a creative dream when you're already working full-time and raising kids. This isn't about disappearing every weekend or having superhuman energy—it's about her and her husband trading off parenting time, communicating constantly, and accepting that rest is sometimes the thing that has to give.

If you've ever thought "I'd love to start something, but I have a full-time job and kids—there's literally no time," this episode will show you it's possible. Hard, exhausting, guilt-inducing at times—but possible.

You'll hear about:

The reality of the triple juggle: full-time employee + full-time mom + business owner
Why weekends became her business-building time (and how she and her husband make it work)
The guilt that comes from every direction—work, motherhood, marriage, self
Why concentrated weekend blocks are more productive than fragmented weekday minutes
How to protect your work time, set realistic goals, and avoid resentment
What her kids are actually learning (and why it's not what she expected)
Making this sustainable without burning out
Why she's doing it anyway—even when she's exhausted

Takeaway: There will never be a "perfect time" to start. If you wait for everything to line up perfectly, you'll be waiting forever. You can be a good mom, a good employee, and still pursue your dream. It's hard, but it's possible. And the example you're setting for your kids? That's worth the tired. That's worth the weekend shift.

22: The Courage to Be Seen: Putting Your Face in Your Brand

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Show Notes: You love sharing your work, but showing your face? That's a whole different story. Kathleen gets it—she could post embroidery hoops all day, but putting herself in front of the camera makes her stomach drop. But something changed when she joined the Gary Vee x Stan Store challenge and heard one directive that shifted everything: "Nothing is more niche than you."

In this vulnerable episode, Kathleen shares her journey toward visibility and why hiding behind your work isn't protecting you—it's holding you back. This conversation isn't about becoming an influencer or posting perfectly polished content. It's about understanding that your story, your face, your voice—that's what makes you different from every other creative person out there.

If you've been hiding behind your work, afraid people won't care about you (only what you make), this episode will give you the courage to start showing up.

You'll hear about:

The Gary Vee x Stan Store challenge directive that changed Kathleen's perspective on visibility
Why "nothing is more niche than you" is the most powerful marketing truth
The real fears behind hiding (and what we're actually afraid of)
What changes when you start putting your face in your brand—deeper connection, trust, and community
Your story is your niche: why your unique journey can't be replicated
8 practical strategies for showing up even when you're terrified
What your visibility actually does (beyond marketing)—permission, legacy, and healing
A challenge to do one brave thing this week

Takeaway: You don't have to be more special or more interesting—you just have to be more you. Courage and fear can coexist, and the more you show up, the more you'll realize how much time you wasted hiding. People don't just buy products—they buy from people. Your face, your voice, your story? That's your brand's heartbeat.

21: Work Meets Play: Navigating Interruptions from Tiny Co-Workers

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

"Mommy, can I help?" Those four words can spark instant panic when you're in the middle of your creative work. Do you say yes and risk things getting messy? Or say no and feel guilty? This week while prepping boxes for a sip and stitch event, Kathleen's kids wanted to help—and she had to make a choice.

In this heartfelt episode, Kathleen shares what happened when she said yes to crooked stickers and tiny fingerprints, and explores the beautiful tension between creating and mothering. This isn't about getting it perfect—it's about finding grace in the mess and understanding what your kids are really learning when they see you work.

If you've ever felt torn between protecting your creative time and including your kids, this conversation will help you navigate both without the guilt.

You'll hear about:

The real tension between creating and mothering—and why it's not a problem to solve
When to say yes to little helpers and how to set them up for success (without losing your mind)
When it's actually okay to protect your creative time—and how to do it without guilt
Win-win strategies that honor both your work and your kids' desire to be involved
What your children are really learning when they watch you create (it's bigger than you think)
Age-specific tips for including kids from toddlers to teens
A message for the mama who's struggling to balance it all

Takeaway: Your kids don't need you to choose between being their mom and being yourself. The tension you feel isn't failure—it's proof you're honoring both parts of who you are. Some days your kids get more of you, some days your work does, and some days you find beautiful middle ground. All of those days are okay.

20: The Phone Habit That's Stealing Your Creative Time

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Show Notes: Do you automatically reach for your phone every time you have a free moment? You're not alone—and it's not your fault. In this episode, Kathleen shares a personal story from a recent road trip that completely changed how she thinks about screen time. Instead of scrolling for hours, she stitched a denim jacket—and the difference in how she felt was remarkable.

This conversation isn't about phone shame or adding one more thing to your plate. It's about noticing what actually makes you feel better and giving yourself permission to choose it. If you've been wanting to reclaim some of that scroll time for creativity, this episode will show you how.

You'll hear about:

The real psychology behind why we can't stop reaching for our phones (it's by design)
Kathleen's road trip wake-up call and what she created instead of scrolling
Why hand embroidery satisfies the same needs as scrolling—but actually fills your cup
7 practical swaps for those automatic phone-reaching moments
How to make your creative projects more accessible than your phone
The ripple effect of choosing creativity over consumption

Takeaway: You don't need superhuman willpower to break the scroll habit. You just need to replace it with something that makes you feel more like yourself. Start with one scroll session, one creative moment at a time.

19: The Lie That You're Running Out of Time

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Feeling like you're perpetually behind where you "should" be with your creative business? In this vulnerable episode, Kathleen Lyons examines the powerful stories we tell ourselves about being behind — and why they're not actually true.

From the comparison trap of social media to the myth of the straight-line path, discover why the "behind" narrative is stealing your joy and how to rewrite it. This episode will help you challenge imaginary timelines, celebrate your actual progress, and trust that you're exactly where you're supposed to be.

You're not behind. You're becoming.

You'll hear about:

The persistent feeling of being "behind" and where it really comes from
How comparison culture creates false timelines that don't actually exist
The real costs of living in the "behind" narrative (spoiler: it's stealing your joy)
Why there is no cosmic schedule for creative success
How to stop comparing your beginning to someone else's middle
Rewriting the story: from "I'm behind" to "I'm exactly where I need to be"
Why your season of life isn't making you behind — it's giving you your unique timeline
What you've actually accomplished when you stop focusing on the gap
The freedom that comes from letting go of "behind" and trusting your timing
Stories of successful creatives who started "late" and thrived

Takeaway: There is no timeline. There's no schedule. There's just your path, unfolding in its own perfect timing. You're not behind — you're right on time for your unique journey.

18: Why Slow Progress Is Actually Perfect Progress

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Show Notes: Feeling discouraged because your creative business isn't growing fast enough? In this vulnerable episode, Kathleen Lyons gets honest about almost walking away from her embroidery business because progress felt too slow — and why that would have been a mistake.

From the pressure to achieve overnight success to the hidden wisdom of gradual growth, discover why slow progress might actually be perfect progress. This episode will help you redefine success, embrace your timeline, and find joy in the journey instead of rushing toward the destination.

Your steady, sustainable growth is building something more valuable than any viral moment ever could.

You'll hear about:

Why Kathleen almost quit her business (and what changed her mind)
The hidden costs of fast growth that nobody talks about
What slow progress builds that explosive growth can't: resilience, depth, and lasting confidence
The compound effect of showing up consistently over time
How to redefine success metrics beyond follower counts and viral moments
Permission to take your time and build at your own pace
Real stories of successful slow-build creative businesses
Why comparing your month three to someone else's year three is stealing your joy
What slow progress teaches that fast growth never can

Takeaway: Your slow progress isn't a sign you should give up — it might be a sign you're building something with real staying power. The world needs what you're creating, and it's worth taking the time to build it right.

17: From Online to IRL: Fall Craft Show Experience

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Kathleen opens up about her recent craft show experience – from the nerve-wracking prep to the unexpected lessons learned when taking her online embroidery business into the real world.

What You'll Hear:

The decision to apply for her first craft show and why it felt so scary
Behind-the-scenes prep work (spoiler: lots of spreadsheets and Target runs)
Real moments from show day – both magical and challenging
How in-person selling differs from online business
Unexpected lessons about pricing, authenticity, and customer connection
Encouragement for anyone considering their first craft show

Key Takeaways:

Start small with local markets to learn the ropes
Authenticity trumps perfection in displays and interactions
In-person selling provides unique feedback and validation
The emotional aspect of sharing your creative work face-to-face
How craft shows can inform and improve your online presence

16: Fail Forward: Why Imperfection Matters

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

What if your "imperfect" work is exactly what someone else needs to see? In this encouraging episode, Kathleen Lyons challenges the myth that you need to wait until you're "good enough" to share your creative journey.

From her first wonky embroidered mushroom to the transformative power of honest creative sharing, discover why learning in public isn't just brave — it's necessary. This episode will shift your perspective on perfection and give you permission to share the messy, beautiful middle of your creative growth.

Your beginner's work might be the permission slip someone else needs to start their own creative journey.

You'll hear about:

The story of Kathleen's first "public failure" and what it taught her about connection
Why the moment you feel "ready" to share your work doesn't actually exist
What learning in public really means (and what it doesn't mean)
How imperfect work creates permission for others to begin
The unexpected ways sharing accelerates your own creative growth
Practical tips for overcoming the fear of judgment when sharing your processHow honest creative sharing creates more inclusive communities
Why your wonky stitches might be exactly what the world needs to see

Takeaway: You don't have to wait until you're good enough to matter. Your learning journey is valuable now, your imperfect work is needed now, and sharing the process creates space for everyone to grow.

15: From Kitchen Table Dreams to Real Impact

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

What if your platform isn't measured in followers, but in the sacred space where you create? In this heart-stirring episode, Kathleen Lyons reframes what it means to have influence and impact as a creative person.

From the rocking chair where she first picked up embroidery to the kitchen tables where generations of women have made beautiful things, discover why your creative space — no matter how small or humble — is a platform worth honoring.

This isn't about building bigger; it's about recognizing the profound privilege and responsibility of the creative space you already have.

You'll hear about:

Why your kitchen table is just as valid a platform as any social media account
The historical tradition of women creating beauty in everyday spaces
How to recognize the privileges that allow us to create at all
Why an audience of one (yourself) is always enough
The responsibility that comes with any platform, large or small
How small creative platforms can have profound, lasting impact
What it means to "be" a platform before you build one

Takeaway: You already have a platform. You already have influence. Stop waiting for a bigger space or more followers to honor the creative work that wants to happen right where you are.

14: Why I Post Every Day (And You Don't Have To)

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

After getting hacked and nearly losing everything, Kathleen Lyons made a commitment to post on Instagram every single day. But this isn't about hustle culture or following someone else's blueprint for success.

In this honest and encouraging episode, Kathleen breaks down the real reasons behind her daily posting practice, what it's taught her about creativity and commitment, and most importantly — why your version of creative consistency doesn't have to look like anyone else's.

Whether you create quietly in private or share boldly online, this episode will help you find a sustainable rhythm that serves your actual life, not your ideal one.

You'll hear about:

The deeper reason behind Kathleen's daily posting commitment (hint: it's not about growth strategy)
What showing up consistently has taught her about creativity, trust, and identity
Different ways to practice creative consistency that have nothing to do with social media
How to avoid the comparison trap when everyone seems more "dedicated" than you
Questions to help you find your own creative rhythm and capacity
Why consistency creates identity (and why that changes everything)

Takeaway: Creative consistency isn't about frequency — it's about reliability. Show up for your creativity in whatever way works for your life, your goals, and your season. Your way is the right way.

13: I Got Hacked and It Changed My Life (Here's How)

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

What happens when your entire business platform disappears overnight? Kathleen Lyons shares the raw, honest story of how losing her Instagram account to hackers became the wake-up call she didn't know she needed.

This isn't just a cautionary tale about online security — it's about the powerful mindset shift that transforms setbacks into setups for something better. From panic and frustration to clarity and purpose, discover how viewing challenges as happening "for you" instead of "to you" can change everything.

You'll hear about:

The exact moment Kathleen realized she'd been hacked (and her immediate reaction)
How fighting back sometimes makes things worse
The spiritual reframe that shifted everything: "for me" vs "to me" thinking
Why losing her platform revealed how much her creative work actually mattered
The daily posting commitment that emerged from recognizing privilege
How this experience clarified her "why" and legacy focus

Takeaway: Your creative work is a privilege, not a guarantee. Stop waiting for perfect conditions and start treating your gifts like they matter — because they do, and because tomorrow isn't promised.

12: Creative Burnout or Breakthrough? What If You’re Closer Than You Think?

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Show Notes

Ever feel like you’re working so hard but nothing’s clicking yet? Like your creative goals are just out of reach? This episode is your reminder that what feels like burnout... might actually be a breakthrough in disguise.

Kathleen wraps up the launch batch of Artsy Ambition with a heartfelt pep talk for the makers, the dreamers, and the moms quietly building something beautiful behind the scenes.

You’ll hear about:

Why slow progress is still progress
The unexpected signs that growth is happening
How to know if you’re measuring the wrong things
Why showing up (even imperfectly) matters
A hopeful message for anyone in the messy middle

Takeaway: You might be closer than you think. Keep going — the momentum is building, even if you can’t see it yet.

11: You Don’t Have to Monetize to Matter

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In a world that tells us to hustle harder and turn every passion into a business, this episode is your gentle permission slip to just create.

Kathleen shares how hand embroidery helped her reconnect with herself during early motherhood — and how the pressure to “make something of it” almost stole the joy. This one is personal, honest, and a must-listen if you’ve ever felt like your art isn’t valid unless it earns income.

You’ll hear about:

Why it’s okay to create just because
How hustle culture sneaks into our hobbies
The story of how Kathleen’s embroidery journey began
Why honoring your creativity is powerful, even if no one sees it
A message for the mamas doing something just for themselves

Takeaway: You don’t owe anyone an explanation for what brings you joy. Your art matters, even if it never becomes a business.

10: Beginner Embroidery Projects You’ll Actually Finish

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Feeling excited to try embroidery but not sure where to begin? This episode is your friendly starting point. Kathleen breaks down exactly what makes a good beginner project and shares her top picks to help you build confidence and fall in love with stitching — no perfection required.

Whether you’re stitching during nap time or carving out time for a new creative hobby, these projects are simple, fun, and totally doable.

You’ll hear about:

The key features of a beginner-friendly embroidery project
Kathleen’s go-to starter picks (including her Stitch Sampler Guide)
Tips for avoiding frustration and keeping your momentum
How to make embroidery a relaxing part of your day — even if you're busy

Takeaway:

You don’t need fancy supplies or hours of free time. Just start small, stitch with joy, and enjoy the process.

Resources Mentioned:

Free Stitch Sampler Guide

Connect:

Instagram: @‌artsylyons
Website: artsylyons.com

9: The Quiet Courage of Creating Anyway

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Ever felt like you’re chasing a dream no one else understands? In this heartfelt episode, Kathleen opens up about the early days of building Artsy Lyons — when embroidery was still just a side project, and polite smiles or confused stares were the norm.

She shares how she kept going when it felt like no one “got it,” and how trusting the vision on her heart made all the difference.

This one’s for the quiet creators, the hopeful mamas, and the ones building something beautiful in the background.

You’ll hear about:

The discouragement of explaining your dream (and feeling dismissed)
How to keep showing up when the support isn’t there yet
Why your dream doesn’t need validation to be worth it
The power of finding just one person who does get it
The slow, sacred process of proving it to yourself first

Takeaway: You don’t need everyone to understand. You just need to trust yourself enough to begin.

Connect:

Instagram: @‌artsylyons
Website: artsylyons.com

8: The Fear That Almost Stopped Me

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0600

If you’ve ever found yourself holding back from pursuing a creative dream — this episode is for you.

In this vulnerable conversation, Kathleen shares the fears that almost made her walk away from embroidery, the moment that made her stay, and how choosing to start anyway changed everything.

Whether you’re hesitating to share your art, launch your shop, or simply call yourself a creative — you’ll find honesty and encouragement here.

You’ll hear about:

The doubts that almost kept Kathleen from starting Artsy Lyons
The well-meaning advice that made her second-guess her niche
How one tiny embroidered onesie brought everything back into focus
Why fear isn’t the enemy — it’s proof that you care
What’s possible when you show up anyway

Takeaway: You don’t need to be fearless — just willing. Your art matters. Your ambition matters. And the first step is yours to take.

Connect:

Instagram: @‌artsylyons
Website: artsylyons.com

7: Creating in the Margins: A Mama’s Guide to Making Time

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0600

If you’ve ever said, “I’d love to be creative, but I just don’t have time,” this episode is for you. Kathleen shares how she carves out moments for stitching and creativity in the middle of motherhood, work, and everything else — no perfect schedule required.

This is a real talk guide to making time when it feels like you don’t have any.

You’ll hear about:

Letting go of the myth that creativity requires hours of free time
Simple ways to sneak creative time into your day
Kathleen’s personal routines and stitching habits
How to protect your creativity like it actually matters (because it does)
A reminder that 10 minutes of joy is more than enough

Takeaway: You don’t need a big window of time or a dedicated studio. Just a willingness to start — right where you are.

Connect:

Instagram: @‌artsylyons

Website: artsylyons.com

Freebies:

6: Why You’re More Creative Than You Think

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Think you’re not creative? Think again. In this encouraging episode, Kathleen Lyons challenges the narrow definition of creativity and helps you see how you’re already creating beauty, connection, and meaning — even if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush.

Whether you're stitching during naptime or figuring out how to make dinner with what's in the fridge, your creativity is real, valuable, and worth celebrating.

You’ll hear about:

Why creativity isn’t just about art or talent
How motherhood helped Kathleen rediscover her creative identity
Everyday examples of hidden creativity
3 practical ways to reclaim your creative confidence
Why your creativity still matters — even if no one sees it

Takeaway:

You don’t need to be a professional to be creative. If it brings you joy and makes something new possible, it counts.

Connect:

Instagram: @‌artsylyons

Website: artsylyons.com

5: It’s Not Just a Hobby — It’s Healing

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Have you ever felt guilty for spending time on something creative — especially when there’s laundry to do or emails to answer? In this heart-centered episode, Kathleen reframes the idea of creativity as “just a hobby” and explores how hand embroidery became her personal form of self-care.

This episode is a permission slip for any mama who’s ever downplayed her art, pushed it aside, or felt selfish for needing something just for herself.

You’ll hear about:

Why creativity is a form of self-care
The guilt moms often feel when we make time to create
Kathleen’s story of rediscovering art through embroidery
How small creative acts can make a big emotional impact
A reminder that joy doesn’t need to be productive

Takeaway: You don’t have to monetize your creativity or prove its worth. If it brings you peace, it already matters.

Connect:

Instagram: @‌artsylyons
Website: artsylyons.com

4: Embroidery on a Budget: What You Really Need to Start

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 03:30:00 -0600

New to hand embroidery and not sure where to begin — or what tools you actually need to get started? In this episode, Kathleen breaks it all down and shares the exact supplies you need (and which ones you don’t!) to start stitching without the stress or overspending.

Plus, she opens up about her very first embroidery project — a sweet upcycling moment inspired by her kids — and reminds us all that creativity doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful.

Episode Notes & Resources: https://www.artsylyons.com/artsy-ambition-podcast/4

Instagram: @‌artsylyons

Online Shop: artsylyons.shop

3: Start Messy, Start Small — But Start

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 03:30:00 -0600

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of starting your handmade business? You’re not alone — and you don’t need a master plan to begin. In this episode, Kathleen breaks down how to start simple, follow your passion, and take imperfect action toward your creative goals.

Episode Notes & Resources: https://www.artsylyons.com/artsy-ambition-podcast/3

Instagram: @‌artsylyons

Online Shop: artsylyons.shop

2: Redefining Success: Legacy Over Likes

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 03:30:00 -0600

What if success isn’t about going full-time or going viral — but about the legacy you leave behind? In this deeply personal episode, Kathleen opens up about the mindset shift that helped her stop waiting for permission and start creating from a place of purpose, faith, and family.

Episode Notes & Resources: https://www.artsylyons.com/artsy-ambition-podcast/2

Instagram: @‌artsylyons

Online Shop: artsylyons.shop

1: You’re Allowed to Want More: My Artsy Ambition

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 03:30:00 -0600

In this heartfelt first episode, Kathleen Lyons shares her journey from childhood creativity to corporate burnout to rediscovering hand embroidery as a mom. Learn how her creative roots, motherhood, and a need for purpose led her to launch Artsy Ambition — a podcast for mamas chasing big dreams through small, intentional steps.

This is a story about coming back to yourself, trusting your creative voice, and building something beautiful one stitch at a time.

Episode Notes & Resources: https://www.artsylyons.com/artsy-ambition-podcast/1

Instagram: @‌artsylyons

Online Shop: artsylyons.shop

Welcome to The Artsy Ambition Podcast with Kathleen Lyons

Sat, 31 May 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Welcome to Artsy Ambition — the podcast for creative moms building bold, beautiful lives alongside their little ones. I’m your host, Kathleen Lyons — hand embroidery educator, digital marketer, and mama of two — and I’m so glad you’re here.

In this trailer, you’ll get a sneak peek at what this show is all about: honest conversations, creative inspiration, and tactical tips to help you pursue your passion, grow your handmade brand, and stay grounded in the joy of making.

Subscribe and join me every week as we stitch together ambition, artistry, and motherhood — one messy, meaningful step at a time.

Artsy Ambition

39: The Comparison Trap: Why You're Always Looking at the Wrong Timeline

Summary

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38: Your First Sale: What It Teaches You That Nothing Else Can

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37: What If It Works? Letting Yourself Dream Again

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36: Side Hustle or Sanctuary: Should You Monetize Your Hobby?

36: Side Hustle or Sanctuary? Should You Monetize Your Hobby?

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35: Creative Rhythms for Busy Seasons

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34: Crafting Through Chaos: Using Your Hands to Calm an Anxious Brain

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33: Rituals, Not Routines: Little Traditions That Make Creativity Stick

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32: You Don't Need a Studio: Making Art in the Middle of Real Life

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31: Creativity When You're Touched Out and Tired

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30: The Quiet Power of Slow Hobbies in a Fast-Scroll World

Summary

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29: Five-Minute Creativity: Tiny Practices for Busy Mamas

Takeaway: You don't need hours to be creative. You just need five minutes and permission to believe those five minutes matter. Your creativity doesn't have to be all or nothing—you can maintain your creative identity even in the busiest seasons.

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28: Holiday Pressure vs. Handmade Joy: Redefining What 'Special' Looks Like

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27: How to Say No to Good Things

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26: Turn One Skill Into Endless Gifts: My New Canva Templates for Embroidery

Takeaway: Once you learn embroidery, you unlock an endless source of meaningful gifts. With the right tools to simplify the design process, you can create personalized keepsakes that people will treasure for years to come.

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25: Why My First Sip & Stitch Was About More Than Embroidery

Summary

Takeaway: Live, in-person creative events create something online teaching can't replicate — real connection, spontaneous community, and the kind of learning that happens when we slow down and show up together. You don't have to be perfect to host or teach; you just have to be willing.

24: Start Again, Not From Scratch

23: The Weekend Shift: Juggling Motherhood & Career While Building a Business

22: The Courage to Be Seen: Putting Your Face in Your Brand

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21: Work Meets Play: Navigating Interruptions from Tiny Co-Workers

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20: The Phone Habit That's Stealing Your Creative Time

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19: The Lie That You're Running Out of Time

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18: Why Slow Progress Is Actually Perfect Progress

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17: From Online to IRL: Fall Craft Show Experience

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16: Fail Forward: Why Imperfection Matters

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15: From Kitchen Table Dreams to Real Impact

14: Why I Post Every Day (And You Don't Have To)

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13: I Got Hacked and It Changed My Life (Here's How)

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12: Creative Burnout or Breakthrough? What If You’re Closer Than You Think?

Show Notes

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11: You Don’t Have to Monetize to Matter

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10: Beginner Embroidery Projects You’ll Actually Finish