Pattern Shift
Pattern Shift is a podcast hosted by Saskia de Feijter, aimed at overwhelmed small business owners in the fiber and needlecraft industry. It offers guidance on setting up and organizing businesses for growth and personal well-being, while promoting sustainable practices as a counterbalance to fast fashion. The podcast encourages makers to craft garments and accessories slowly and sustainably, and to make a profit in the process.
Episodes
#115 - Stop Treating Your Website Like Your Magnum Opus
Send us Fan MailWe talk about how high standards and perfectionism can freeze momentum, especially when you are building something big like a new website. We share a practical way to choose a deadline, define a baseline, and ship a first version that helps people find you and pay you. • why big ideas turn into start stop progress • how Parkinson’s law makes long deadlines drag • choosing a baselin
#114 - No Script, No Filter
Send us Fan MailWe trade perfection for a real-time chat about how our brains and bodies shape creative work, from travel calm to the need for negative space away from screens. Along the way we unpack neurodivergence, boundaries, and why coaching can be the container that helps you hear yourself think. • letting go of perfectionism and choosing honesty over polish • finding calm through slower inp
#113 - The honest truth about what's waiting on the other side of that free call button
Send us Fan MailYou’ve seen the button. “Book a free discovery call.” And something about it feels a little prickly — like clicking it means you’re walking into a lion’s den with no way out. I used to feel exactly the same way. Now I’m on the other side of it, and I want to invite you in properly.In this short episode I walk through what a discovery call actually is — and what it isn’t. It’s not a
#112 - AI for Creatives: Where to Use It and Where to Stop
Send us Fan MailSupport the show☆ other ways to SUPPORT THE SHOW ☆If you appreciate the free content and the work we put into this podcast, consider showing your support in a way that feels right to you. This could be by sharing episodes with friends, signing up for our newsletter, or making a small monthly contribution by clicking the Support the Show link. Your support keeps the podcast going an
#111 - Building From the Roots Up: PDA, Curiosity, and Running a Business Your Way
Send us Fan MailI'm getting personal in this episode of Pattern Shift — recorded from my brand new praktijk in Rotterdam. I trace why I bootstrapped from 300 euros, refused investors, never built a conventional team, and kept rebuilding the brand. I name Pathological Demand Avoidance directly and connect it to my lifelong distrust of the ready-made — in business, fashion, and a painting I fou
#110 - Your Audience Didn’t Ignore You; They Just Didn’t Hear You Yet
Send us Fan MailWe share a clear, kinder way to do marketing: repeat your message with integrity so the right people can finally hear it. From the mere exposure effect to mini campaigns across platforms, we turn silence into timing and boredom into a positive signal.• owning the creative life and business coach identity• why one-off posts fail to reach people• the wedding metaphor for attention an
#109 - Using Intentions as your Creative Compass for 2026
Send us Fan MailIn this cozy year-end episode, I guide you through a gentle intention-setting practice inspired by wishes shared inside the Business Circle. This isn’t about goals or productivity — it’s about creating an inner compass for 2026 that feels supportive, spacious, and doable. If you’re craving more ease, courage, stillness, or time to create, this episode will help you clarify what you
#108 - Branding Isn’t A Logo; It’s How People Decide To Choose You
Send us Fan MailAm I my brand? And does branding even matter when I’m a tiny, one-person creative business?In this episode, I untangle the belief that branding is mostly fonts, logos, and pretty photos, and I lean on Brand the Change to explore branding as direction – a compass for how you show up, what you say yes to, and how people experience your work.I share examples from the knitting world, s
#107 - Planning Doesn’t Kill Creativity — It Protects It
Send us Fan Mail- How I separate ideas from tasks, plan by energy, and keep marketing simple - Planning doesn’t have to kill creativity. In this episode, I share how I plan with a neurodivergent, creative brain—lightly. Using examples from some of my clients, I separate ideas from tasks, choose one daily priority, and use soft time blocks guided by energy instead of the clock. I talk about how Bul
#106 - Why Smart, Creative People Avoid Coaching — and Why They Shouldn’t
Send us Fan MailI’ve noticed that many smart, creative people avoid coaching because they think it’s only for people who are lost, unsure or corporate CEO's. In this episode of Pattern Shift, I challenge that idea. I share my own stories as both a coach and a client, from working with ADHD and lifestyle coaches on my weightloss journey to helping my clients rediscover joy in their creative wo
#105 - New Season, New Chapter: Weaving a Creative Ecosystem at Ja, Wol
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYSeason 2 kicks off with a fresh perspective: I’m reflecting on how my work has evolved from selling yarn to coaching creative business owners—and how all the different parts of my ecosystem now align. This episode introduces the Business Clarity Quiz, YouTube expansion, and what’s next for the Pattern Shift podcast.FULL SHOW NOTES WITH TAKEAWAYS + LINKS🔗 patternshift.fmBEST
#104 - BuJo by the Sea – A 6-Week Summer Journal Challenge
Send us Fan MailClarity, confidence, and calm… one bullet at a time.Summer tends to shake things up — especially if you’ve got kids at home, your routine is out the window, or you’re simply craving a break from the usual hustle. That’s why I’m hosting a gentle 6-week journaling challenge, right inside the Ja, Wol Community.BuJo by the Sea is a relaxed, Bullet Journal–inspired journey.Each day, fro
#103 - "Freedom Within the Structure: How I Use My Bullet Journal in Business"
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYIn this episode, I share how I uses the Bullet Journal Method to run my creative business with more clarity, focus, and freedom. I explains how daily logs, weekly spreads, and project collections help me stay grounded, intentional, and flexible—without pressure or perfectionism. If you're curious about using your journal to support your business, this episode offers my
#102 - "Paper, Pen, and Possibility: My Bullet Journal Journey"
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYIn this mostly unscripted episode, I share how Bullet Journaling helped me move from burnout to clarity. Before it became a tool in my business, it was a lifeline in my personal life. This is not a tutorial—it’s a story of how I found my footing again, and why I still use this method today. And I announce an exciting challenge I'm working on! FULL SHOW NOTES WITH TAKEAW
#101 - “My Deepest, Darkest Limiting Belief: I Can’t Help Others if My Business Isn’t Thriving”
Send us Fan MailIn this super honest solo episode, I unpack a limiting belief that’s followed me for years: “I can’t help others with their business if mine isn’t thriving.” As I deepen my coaching journey and reflect on what true success means, I’m realizing how deeply ingrained this belief is—and how untrue it actually is. I share the honest behind-the-scenes of my work, money mindset, slow grow
#100 - This is how one person, a mic, and a messy creative mind made it to 100 episodes 🥳
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYIt’s a special one—episode 100! In this celebratory and cozy episode, I take you behind the scenes of how Pattern Shift came to be, how it has evolved, and what I’ve learned over five years of podcasting. From awkward beginnings and unexpected pivots to heartfelt listener stories and slow growth reflections, this episode is full of gratitude, reflection, and a few eclairs.If
#99 - Launch - Sharing your work with connection, not pressure
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYIn this episode, we dive into the final step of the Ja, Wol framework—Launch. Sharing your work with the world can feel scary, vulnerable, and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Launching isn’t about hype or hustle; it’s about connection and care. I talk about why launching feels so hard (especially for neurodivergent brains), how to rethink launching as a slow rhythm
#98 - Organize – Making Space for What Matters
Send us Fan MailSupport the show☆ other ways to SUPPORT THE SHOW ☆If you appreciate the free content and the work we put into this podcast, consider showing your support in a way that feels right to you. This could be by sharing episodes with friends, signing up for our newsletter, or making a small monthly contribution by clicking the Support the Show link. Your support keeps the podcast going an
#97 - Wayfinding – Rediscovering Your Why – How to reconnect with your purpose when your business starts to drift
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYWhen your business starts to feel off, it’s often a sign that you’ve drifted from your “why.” In this thoughtful and gently playful episode, I talk about reconnecting with your purpose—what lights you up, what matters to you, and why you started in the first place.Whether you’re feeling stuck in the daily swirl or just getting started with your business, this episode is your
#96 - Big Life Changes, Small Business Shifts
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYWhen big life changes come along—like, say, getting a new puppy—our business rhythm often needs to shift too. In this warm and reflective episode, I talk about how I’m preparing for a new season that will require more flexibility and care.I share what went into the decision to welcome a Finnish Lapphund puppy into our home, and how I’ve been mentally and practically adjustin
#95 - Road Trip Diaries: Weaving Linen, Slow Marketing & Crafting a Brand
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, recorded on the go, I take you through a fiber-filled weekend, exploring the world of weaving with linen, learning about its rich history, and navigating the craft of slow marketing at a creative fair. From her experience in a weaving workshop with Eva Klee at Clay Handwoven to networking with fellow business owners at Crea Weekend, she shares insights on learning
#94 - Navigate Around the Creeps - Why Your Business Needs an Email List More Than Ever
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYSocial media keeps shifting, but email? It’s still one of the most reliable ways to connect with your audience—without fighting algorithms or creepy tech billionaires. In this episode, I talk about how I’m simplifying my own email strategy and how you can make email work for you. From essential sequences to making email feel fun instead of overwhelming, this is your permissi
#93 - How to Use the Business Model Canvas to Grow Your Creative Business
Send us Fan MailThe Business Model Canvas is a creative, visual tool that helps makers and indie business owners gain clarity and structure in their business. In this episode, I explore how yarn dyers, pattern designers, and shop owners can use it to grow sustainably. Tune in now and start crafting your business with confidence! 🚀Go to full show notes and download a Business Model Canvas Template
#92 - Scaling up Without losing your Creative Spark - ‘Handwerkbeurs Edition'
Send us Fan MailTextile crafting is not just a creative outlet; it’s a growing industry filled with passionate entrepreneurs navigating sustainability and market challenges. From unique yarn offerings to balancing day jobs, these makers share their stories of perseverance and ambition. • Importance of sustainability in textile crafts • The journey from hobbyist to business owner • Challenges in co
#91 - A Year in Business and Craft; my Tools for Reflection
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYHi friends! I’m wrapping up the year with a heartfelt reflection on growth, creativity, and intentional living. I share how tools like Bullet Journaling and the Year Compass help me process my year, lessons I’ve learned about overcoming self-doubt, and the joy I’ve found in crafting as therapy. Looking to 2025, I’m excited (and a little nervous!) to start a “no-buy year” to
#90 - Show Yourself: Elevating Your Brand with Professional Photography
Send us Fan MailDOWNLOAD the Photoshoot Checklist HERE!! SUMMARYIn this episode, I’m diving into why professional photos are a must-have for your business, how to prepare for a successful photo shoot, and how to overcome any nerves you might have about being in front of the camera. If you’ve been thinking about having a photo shoot but don’t know where to start, I’ve got you covered with practical
#89 - Is the Fiber Advent Craze Worth It for Small Businesses?
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we explore the enchanting yet complex world of fiber advent calendars. These holiday treasures bring joy and nostalgia to makers, but they also pose challenges for small fiber businesses creating them. We discuss the potential for overconsumption among buyers and the heavy production burden on sellers, all while asking: Is the excitement worth the cost? I share ins
#88 - From Trachtenjakke to Ski Pants: Making what you need AND want
Send us Fan MailAutumn's gentle embrace brings both warmth and wistfulness, a duality that mirrors the journey through age and identity. As the leaves change, so too does our perspective on self-image and creativity. Join me as I share my personal reflections on maintaining authenticity while confronting societal norms. From reconsidering bold hair colors of my younger days to finding solace
#87 - Wundersie's Impact: Eco-Friendly Creations and Market Transformation with Anna Allers
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how a small business can disrupt an entire market? Anna pulls back the curtain on how Wundersie is shaking up the knitting accessory scene with sustainable products, including eco-friendly needle cases made from vegan "leather paper." Her personal brand on Instagram is a vibrant showcase of these unique creations and a lesson in conscious consumerism. Listen
#85 - From Full InstaGram Breakup to Reconnection - Pt 1. The Experiment
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I delve into my personal journey with social media, particularly Instagram.This is the first of a two part episode that introduces my reasons for leaving InstaGram, my reasons for coming back and my conclusions after 7 months.I discuss my decision to step away from the platform two years ago due to its impact on my health and well-being. I've decided to return
#86 - From Full InstaGram Breakup to Reconnection - Pt 2. The Execution
Send us Fan MailWhat if taking a break from Instagram could actually transform your business strategy? Join me as I share my personal journey of stepping away from Instagram for two years, only to return with a strategic vision and a clear purpose. SUMMARYIn this episode, I discuss my experiences with Instagram as a marketing tool for my business. I emphasize the importance of cultivating genuine
#84 - Learning by Doing: Insights and Stories from Textile Entrepreneurs at Berlin's Wedding Wool Weekend
Send us Fan MailCan you imagine turning your passion for textiles into a thriving business? On this episode of the Pattern Shift podcast, we transport you to the lively Wedding Wool Weekend festival in Berlin’s Wedding neighborhood. Joined by my friend Angela, we had the pleasure of talking with several brilliant textile business owners. Thanks to Ruta from Wollen Berlin, who organized this remark
#83 - Practical Exercises for Better and Holistic Time Management
Send us Fan MailHey everyone, Ever feel like your day is a whirlwind and you wonder where all your time went by bedtime? In this episode, we're diving into the secrets of mastering your time with a holistic approach. Reflecting on my journey running an indie yarn shop, I realized the chaos of constant busy work and the importance of focused, mindful time management.I'll walk you through
#82 - Casually chatting about travel, craft projects and current obsessions
Send us Fan MailI'll discuss balancing my craft business, personal health, and self-care. Venturing into video podcasting deepens my audience connection. COVID-19 reminded me to prioritize health over productivity. Crafting remains a source of relaxation and creativity amidst running a small business. I emphasize sustainable crafting and integrating it into my marketing. Join me as I share my
#81 - You Need a Mindset Shift! - Let’s Talk Change, Comfort Zones and Taking Action
Send us Fan Mail I have been running the Business Circle for a few years now and one topic stood out in the most recent Wins + Woes meeting. From this I feel the need to emphasize the importance of a mindset shift. So we talk about why a mindset shift is necessary to encourage you to get out of your comfort zone while still taking care of yourself. Because… if you don’t change anything, nothing wi
#80 - Sewing the Seeds of Love - Set Business Goals to Match Your Values
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I discuss the importance of goal setting for creative entrepreneurship. Drawing parallels between goal setting and preparing soil for a garden, I emphasize the need for alignment with personal values and decision-making to drive business success.I introduce a step-by-step approach to goal setting, starting with personal goals before transitioning to business goals.
#79 - Behind the Filter: The Reality of Creative Entrepreneurship, a Roadmap to Navigate Challenges
Send us Fan MailI wanted to do an episode about Etsy and if it is worth starting your own website, when I went to Threads to do a callout for craft business that have ideas about this, I saw a post by a printmaker. This post inspired my episode. Sometimes you don't know where to start and the business roadmap is completely unclear. I hope that I can make it a bit more simple with this basic r
#78 - How to Sell Your Products Without Feeling Gross
Send us Fan MailHey lovely listeners! Today's episode is all about shifting the mindset in selling. I've got some nuggets of wisdom to share on making the whole process feel authentic and, dare I say, enjoyable! Stick around for tips, personal anecdotes, and a sprinkle of humor.I spill the tea on transforming your approach to selling. It's not about pushing for money; it's abou
#77 - Unraveling your Business Identity pt 2. Your Customer’s Identity
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYIn this episode, we explore the intricate world of establishing a unique business identity in the textile craft market. The key, I emphasize, is standing out authentically amid saturation.I advocate aligning personal values with business ethos and guide listeners through the transition from crafter to successful business owner. We focus on two vital aspects: your identity a
#76 - Unraveling your Business Identity - pt 1. Your Identity
Send us Fan MailSUMMARYHey, it's Saskia de Feijter, your guide on Pattern Shift. In this episode, I share my 16 years of experience in textile crafts and marketing, taking you on a journey from crafter to empowered business owner. We dive deep into the importance of standing out authentically in the market, steering clear of trends, and embracing your unique identity. I highlight the need to
#75 - Threaded Intentions: A 3 Step Plan to Launch Your Year with Focus
Send us Fan Mail SUMMARY In this episode, I'll be taking you through my three-step process to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the upcoming one. We'll delve into both personal and business aspects, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach.I'll be sharing insights into my use of the Year Compass, a practical tool guiding a deep dive into significant events and
Bonus episode - Why I'm Returning to Instagram after breaking the chain 2 years ago...
Send us Fan MailReturning to Instagram after a two-year hiatus was no easy task. Let me, Saskia de Feijter, guide you through my journey of finding my social media footing again, and how I managed to balance business goals with personal values. I'll share my reasons for initially disconnecting and the enlightening course that sparked my decision to experiment with Instagram again. Ever though
#74 - Fun Funds Framework; Quick Cash Hacks for Crafting a Growth Budget in the New Year
Send us Fan Mail FUN FUNDS FRAMEWORK + COUNTDOWN TRACKER - FREE DOWNLOAD SUMMARY Ever wondered how much your business could save by adopting some simple yet super effective strategies? Well, I've got the lowdown for you in our latest episode, where we unravel the art of freeing up cash for your business in just three months. Trust me, it's a game-changer!In this episode, we're all
#73 - Crafting Revolution: A Conversation with Betsy Greer on Craftivism and Intentional Business
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when crafting collides with activism? Craftivism. Join Saskia de Vaiter and author Betsy Greer as we unravel this powerful concept and its effect on creative entrepreneurs. We dive into how craftivism is not only transformative for individuals but a vehicle for fostering sustainable connections and growth on both personal and business levels. We share real-life experie
#72 Reframing Your Marketing with Simon Batchelar: Ethical and Unconventional Approaches for Crafters
Send us Fan MailWhat if marketing wasn't about pushing sales, but about engaging and empowering your audience? Ponder that as you join Simon Batchelor and myself on this riveting journey down the road less taken in marketing strategies. Together, we'll uncover the secrets of ethical and effective marketing, painting a picture of a world where marketing is not only authentic and fun but a
#71 From Hobbyist to Professional: Embracing Your Weirdness for Creative Growth with Mark Steadman
Send us Fan MailReady to unlock the secrets of optimizing creativity and productivity in your business? Brace yourself for a transformative journey with our special guest, Mark Steadman, the mastermind behind Creative Workflows. Together, we'll explore the labyrinth of the creative process, highlighting the challenges faced by creative entrepreneurs and shedding light on how they can thrive s
#70 Crafting Connections: The Power of Content Creation for Small Businesses
Send us Fan MailImagine being able to transform your small business into a powerhouse of engaging content, easily and without stress! This week, we dive into the world of content creation for small businesses, unraveling the mysteries of storytelling and its role in establishing a deeper connection with your customers. We'll walk you through the labyrinth of emails, blogs, and podcasts, coach
#69 - Prioritise You: Crafting a Healthy Business with Personal Intentions
Send us Fan Mail"In my daily life, I play numerous roles, including that of a mom, spouse, entrepreneur, friend, student, teacher, and patient. Each of these personas demands specific attention and care. Without a clear plan of action, I would often feel overwhelmed, struggling to prioritize tasks effectively.I vividly recall a time when my daily routine left me feeling drained and unexcited
#68 - Creatively Navigating Storms: Managing Small Business Stress
Send us Fan MailEver been left picking up the pieces after chaos struck your business? Listen in as I, Saskia, share firsthand experiences of weathering the unpredictable storms of podcasting and running a business. From managing a bustling yarn shop to juggling multiple newsletters and a thriving community, I'm here to reveal the systems and strategies I've devised to navigate these hec
#67 - Striking the Perfect Balance: Business and Personal Life in the Summer Season
Send us Fan MailTake Notes for Next SeasonHey there, it's your host Saskia, and I'm back with another episode of Pattern Shift. Today, I'm excited to share some valuable insights from fellow creative entrepreneurs about how they approach their businesses during the summer months. Summer is often seen as a time to relax and take a break, but how does that translate into the world of
#66 - Level Up Your Business: Insights from Program Alumni
Send us Fan MailHey there, welcome to this awesome episode of our podcast! Today, we've got a burning question to tackle: "Is the Ja, Wol Business Circle program the right fit for you?" If you're thinking of joining the next cohort in September, we've got something super cool for you – two fantastic businesses that have been through the program will spill the beans on thei
#65 - Bending Time: How to Manage Energy for Productivity with Kim Witten
Send us Fan MailThe big question on this episode is; How do we bend time our way? Can we make more of it so we can get out of overwhelm and stress. I’ve invited my friend and coach Kim Witten because she’s the perfect partner for a hilarious but insightful journey through linguistics and philosophy. Which are all fancy words for we have a lot of fun figuring out an the issue of never having enough
#64 - Transform Your Small Business Mindset with the Power of Decluttering
Send us Fan MailReady to conquer that overwhelming clutter and skyrocket your small business productivity? Join me, Saskia de Feijter, as I reveal the secret to unlocking your mental clarity and focus through decluttering your workspace. Say goodbye to the myth that creative chaos fuels inspiration and discover how tidying up can actually boost your motivation and creativity. In this PatternShif
#63 - Taking yourself seriously as a business owner, with Cal Patch
Send us Fan MailAre you taking yourself seriously as a business owner, do you set boundaries, are you being professional,It’s time to start owning the tasks that come with running your business, to stop feeling icky around business terms and accepting what you need to know about your needs and applying business strategies in order to balance and grow your personal and business life.How business-y
#62 - A Smaller Life is now: PATTERN SHIFT
Send us Fan MailAs you might have heard in the last episode I did with my friend Zoe Edwards, A Smaller Life is evolving into a podcast that is similar but a bit different. I was always talking to and with crafters and business owners in the field, from now on I will focus more on providing business owners in the needlecraft industry with practical business insights and actionable tips to help you
#61 - “Our podcast evolution: How Zoe and Saskia support their business and listeners + BIG NEWS”
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, podcast hosts Zoe Edwards of Check Your Thread and myself discuss how we approach our podcasts and how we make it work for our businesses. We talk about how we’ve shifted our focus over time and how our podcasts have evolved along with our businesses. We also discuss advertising and how it may or may not fit into our podcast and business models. And… there’s a big
#60 - Pilar Letelier of Cabeza de Alfiler - Overcoming the fear of Copy Cats, using the Power of Branding and Peer Support
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of A Smaller Life, Pilar and Saskia discuss several key aspects of running a creative business. They emphasize the importance of having a clear vision for your business, delegating tasks to others, and finding support from peers. They also address the fear of being copied by competitors and suggest owning your brand as the best way to combat this. Finally, they high
#59 - "The Art of Deliberate Choice: Crafting a more Sustainable Wardrobe with a Philosophical Mindset"
Send us Fan MailSupport the show☆ other ways to SUPPORT THE SHOW ☆If you appreciate the free content and the work we put into this podcast, consider showing your support in a way that feels right to you. This could be by sharing episodes with friends, signing up for our newsletter, or making a small monthly contribution by clicking the Support the Show link. Your support keeps the podcast going an
#58 - ‘In Conversation with Kathleen’ Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Success: A Journey of Mindfulness and Crafting
Send us Fan MailIn this episode we’re flipping things around. Kathleen Kettles, one of the most enthusiastic members of the Ja, Wol community and a podcaster herself is interviewing me.Her podcast ‘In conversation with Kathleen’ is all about how her guests define success. I was invited and I loved the atmosphere of this conversation so much that I wanted to share it with you as well.The main topic
#57 - Maaike van Geijn's Rocket Launch: insights from a successful beginning knitwear designer
Send us Fan MailIn this podcast episode upcoming knitwear designer Maaike van Geijn, shares her ideas, processes, hiccups, and successes as a designer like how her first three designs were immediately published by Laine Magazine, Kate Davies and la Bien Aimée. We’re discussing topics such as her daily routine, submitting patterns to magazines, designing for multiple sizes, pattern writing, and the
#56 - Pockets and Planet: a conversation about inclusivity and denim innovation with Marshall Conley
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of A Smaller Life, Marshall Conley of Slø Jeans, joins the show to discuss how this sustainable fashion brand started. The values and steps they had to make before they could start selling inclusive and sustainable jeans. Marshall discusses the challenges of starting a sustainable fashion brand and the importance of creating a positive impact in the fashion industry
#55 - Leigh Metcalf @ Top Stitch Makers on starting a business with no formal business education and pivoting from sewing studio to online community
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Saskia and Leigh Metcalf, founder of Top Stitch Makers Social Community, discuss the importance of building a safe and valuable space for garment sewers.Leigh shares her journey of finding her ideal customer, reaching them through various channels, and how she puts aside the financial treadmill of retail to focus on what really matters to her customers.They also ta
#54 - Gillian Caughey @ Fearless Financials on how to be brave and fearless about your finances
Send us Fan MailIn this amazing episode full of gold nuggets, you’ll hear from Gillian CaugheyGillian is the founder of Fearless Financials, an accountancy business that offers life centered accounting for folks that dare to be themselves in business. They love to work with creatives businesses and help them achieve their financial goals.I was quite nervous about this interview as I am about a sma
#53 - Zoe Edwards helps me with the foundation for a more sustainable sewing practice
Send us Fan MailZoe Edwards joins us again! This time, we covered sustainable sewing and lots of things in between. I've asked Zoe to help me while I'm still quite new to sewing, to get a good foundation to a more sustainable sewing practice. From learning how to choose patterns to fit your body so you will get the most wear out of them -always the most sustainable option after not getti
#52 - Kim Witten: Yarn Over-thinking, create succes with the help of coaching, mentoring and craft
Send us Fan MailMy coach, Kim Witten, teaches us the difference between coaching, mentoring and therapy. Then, we move on to topics such as the struggle we creatives have balancing structure and freedom (for our craft), and also have an enlightening conversation about “imposter syndrome”. Kim shares a comforting perspective and cites the two psychologists who coined the term in the 1970’s.Enjoy th
#51 - New Year's Shortie Episode - taking a pledge
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I talk about the Ja Wol Community pledge that has been spontaneously started by our member Kathleen. I jumped on her idea and we had a zoom call together and made it happen. In the episode I share my personal pledge and invite you to join us to see how you can make the curating and creating of your wardrobe in 2023 fun and meaningful.A new way of curating and creati
#50 - Milestones: Maya @ Knit With Attitude goes Big + A Smaller Life's 50th Episode
Send us Fan MailMay Lin Bang (Maya) joins us from Knit With Attitude in High Street London, but not before we do a little celebrating for our 50th episode! Tune in to hear shout outs and interesting stats in the first 10 minutes, and then get cozy for our 50 minute conversation.Maya is an inspiration who has run a successful ecological yarn shop as an immigrant for more than 10 years. She had an o
#49 - Reporting from the Faroe Islands Gudrun & Gudrun & Snaeldan Spinnery
Send us Fan MailIn this cinematic, on-the-road episode, you’ll hear all about the wool and shepherding industry in the Faroese Islands or Faroes (Føroyar). You’ll get to hear a spinning machine, special background music from the feat-of-modern-egineering underwater tunnels, reports from the traveler’s log in the ferry cabin, and spontaneous interviews with shop owners and workers. You’re going to
#48- Elizabeth Joy of Conscious Style explaining conscious and sustainability lingo
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, you’ll hear from Elizabeth Joy of Conscious Style.Elizabeth is a content creator that cares about fashion and style in a conscious way. We talk about green washing, the use of wording and descriptions in the field of conscious fashion and educating through podcasts and other channels. Elizabeth JoyMAIN TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODEThe Big Brands often co-opt words us
#47- Janne de Hoop @ Hollands Wol Collectief on turning local wool into product
Send us Fan MailBefore The Holland Wool Collective came along, tons of wool was going to waste. There was a gap between people who had wool, people who processed it into a usable product, and wholesalers or designers who needed the material.Farmers in the Netherlands needed more options as far as who to send their wool to; there wasn’t anyone gathering that material to send it to be processed it i
#46 - Alice Karolina @ The Ethical Move on Ethical Marketing
Send us Fan MailWe welcome Alice from The Ethical Move this week on A Smaller Life!Alice owns a branding firm, and she runs an online community (with the help of dedicated others) that's focused on ethical branding / marketing.How do we attract customers without using lead magnets? How can we appeal to our customers without manipulating them? These are the kind of questions they ask at https:
#45 - Connecting the dots, planning & strategy in your craft business
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I talk about the role of strategy in your small business and how you don't have to change all that much to make better use of the time and effort you are already investing in communication, marketing, branding and all those other 'icky' business words.Hopefully you'll get some information about how thinking things through just a little bit more,
#44 - Melody Hoffmann of B Mandarines on Where Personal and Professional Identity Meet
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, you’ll hear from Melody Hoffman, the knitting pattern designer behind B Mandarines. She's a soft spoken nature loving, foraging business owner. She doesn't like the word branding as she feels completely connected to what she does. It's not a brand, it's her. Listen to Melody talk about how her values, her choices shape her work. Find links to co
#43 - How to Start a Business When You Don't Know Where to Start - Summer Shortie Episode
Send us Fan MailOn my summer break I answer listeners' questions and share some of my personal strategies and tips in short & compact episodes. Short, sweet and simple but elegant and packed with value if it's something you were looking for.If it is, consider supporting the show so I can continue to build and grow valuable episodes for makers and sellers alike. Go to asmallerlife.co
#42 - 28 Hours a Week - Summer Shortie Episode
Send us Fan MailOn my summer break I answer listeners' questions and share some of my personal strategies and tips in short & compact episodes. Short, sweet and simple but elegant and packed with value if it's something you were looking for.If it is, consider supporting the show so I can continue to build and grow valuable episodes for makers and sellers alike. Go to asmallerlife.co
#41 - How to Start a Knitting Circle - Summer Shortie Episode
Send us Fan MailOn my summer break I answer listeners' questions and share some of my personal strategies and tips in short & compact episodes. Short, sweet and simple but elegant and packed with value if it's something you were looking for.If it is, consider supporting the show so I can continue to build and grow valuable episodes for makers and sellers alike. Go to asmallerlife.co
#40 - Less Overwhelm - Summer Shortie Episode
Send us Fan MailOn my summer break I answer listeners' questions and share some of my personal strategies and tips in short & compact episodes. Short, sweet and simple but elegant and packed with value if it's something you were looking for.If it is, consider supporting the show so I can continue to build and grow valuable episodes for makers and sellers alike. Go to asmallerlife.co
#39 - How to leave social and stay in touch with friends - Summer Shortie Episode
Send us Fan Mailnote: there is a bit of Dutch in the beginning but I translate right after! On my summer break I answer listeners' questions and share some of my personal strategies and tips in short & compact episodes. Short, sweet and simple but elegant and packed with value if it's something you were looking for. If it is, consider supporting the show so I can continue to build an
#38 - The Spectacular End of Season Episode
Send us Fan MailThis is a fun one. Sharing facts, fun tit bits, percentages and numbers about YOU the listener and me te host. And giving you a wonderful collage of the best quotes of the season.This made me choke up. Seriously. I'm proud of making this show with the help of Ali and you, the listener. I have to be messy and leave the old perfectionist in me behind or I'll never do it. Ep
#37 - Hanna Lisa Haferkamp @ Making Stories sharing honestly about transparency, customer expectation and navigating inclusivity
Send us Fan MailFULL SHOWNOTES https://www.asmallerlife.comBEST QUOTE FROM THE EPISODE"I fucking refuse to aim low. Making a profit in this industry, it needs to be possible. We're gonna make this possible!" – Hanna Lisa HaferkampLINKSThe yarn shop in Berlin mentioned is Wollen BerlinBook: Priya Parker - The Art of Gathering JOIN The Building Better Businesses Circle aka the BBBC !
