177: Handmade, Heart-Led, and Carbon Neutral: Fireclay’s Commitment to Conscious Craft

What happens when a love for art, sustainability, and soulful living collide? You get Caitlyn Child—and her work with Fireclay Tile is proof that design can be radically beautiful and rooted in deep intention.Today’s guest is Caitlyn Child, the Vice President of Sales at Fireclay Tile, a certified B-Corp and pioneer in handmade, sustainability-focused tile. But Caitlyn isn’t just in sales—she’s in the business of storytelling through space. And she’s here to show us how thoughtful materials, slow design, and a passion for people can transform more than just a home… they can shift the way we live and connect.How Caitlyn Turned Her Creative Roots Into a Purpose-Led CareerFrom antique-hunting childhoods to art history studies to a decade in social work (!), Caitlyn’s journey wasn’t linear—but it was aligned. She eventually found her way to Fireclay after studying architecture and falling in love with the tactile, earthy nature of clay.Now, she’s helping lead a company that’s redefining what it means to build sustainably in a waste-heavy industry.Why Fireclay Isn’t Just Another Tile CompanyWhen we say Fireclay is doing things differently, we mean it. This isn’t just another trendy brand trying to ride the green wave. They were the first tile company to use lead-free glazes back in 1986, and they’ve stayed true to their roots ever since. Every single tile is handmade to order in California and Washington, using domestically sourced minerals, recycled water, and reclaimed materials.They’re not just carbon-neutral—they’re designing beauty from the ground up with intention, artistry, and innovation.What Makes Handmade Tile So MagicalCaitlyn walked me through all the nuances that make handmade tile special—from natural variation in oxides to the way light hits a glaze. You can literally feel the difference. Their tiles tell a story: of mineral-rich soil, of skilled hands, of conscious choices.We talk about the emotional, artistic, and even spiritual connection people have with materials that come from the Earth. And how Fireclay partners with designers to translate that energy into custom, intentional work.When Design Becomes a Healing PracticeThis episode isn’t just about tile—it’s about the people behind the spaces. Caitlyn shares how Fireclay is empowering its reps and collaborators to create community-led events that are as soulful as they are strategic. And it’s why I’m SO thrilled to be part of their upcoming Summer Solstice Gathering at their Costa Mesa showroom.This isn’t another salesy mixer. It’s a nourishing, heart-centered celebration of creativity, connection, and ritual. Expect astrology, tarot, design inspiration, and real talk about how to support your clients not just aesthetically—but energetically.Why This Conversation MattersIn a time where the building industry often prioritizes speed and scale, this episode is a grounding reminder that slowness, integrity, and beauty still matter. Fireclay is proof that innovation doesn’t have to mean cutting corners—it can mean digging deeper.Whether you’re a designer, a homeowner, or just someone who wants to bring more intention into your spaces, this episode will inspire you to think about materials—and relationships—in a whole new way.Highlights We Cover:Caitlyn’s path from social work to sustainable tileWhy Fireclay puts people and planet over profit (and still thrives)How handmade tile becomes a tool for storytelling and legacyWhy community and creativity are at the heart of their business modelWhat to expect from the Summer Solstice Gathering in Costa MesaCome Join Us!Summer Solstice EventFireclay Showroom, Costa Mesa, CAThursday, June 13 | 4–7pmAstrology, tarot, sacred intention setting, community connection, and so much more.RSVP HereConnect with Caitlyn + Fireclay👉 fireclaytile.com👉 @fireclaytile on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube, and FacebookOne Last Thing…At the very end of our chat, I asked Caitlyn what she does to stay grounded—and her answer gave me chills. From daily meditation to sending one heartfelt message to someone every day, her practice is a beautiful reminder that presence is power.Whether it’s a tile, a text, or a ritual, we all have the ability to infuse our lives with more meaning. I hope this conversation inspires you to do just that.My Best,Rachel