#314: From Hobby to Profitable Creative Business with Carina Gardner

This episode, I'm joined by Carina Gardner, a PhD in design and a successful entrepreneur, discussing her journey from academia to building a thriving design business. Carina's brand has been linked with various products such as dishware, jewelry, and fabrics, and she shares valuable insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of volume in creative businesses, and strategies for distribution. She also touches upon her teaching program, Design Suite, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on how to turn their hobbies into profitable ventures. The conversation also delves into personal resilience, team building, and maintaining a larger vision for long-term success. Takeaways: Choose the best entry point into an industry based on your expertise. Volume is crucial in business, whether it's the number of products or the number of leads. Having a bigger vision and a strong sense of duty can help overcome challenges and stay focused on goals. Reliability and showing up for others are important characteristics for success in business. To overcome doubts and imposter syndrome, consistently engage in the activities that define your identity as a creative professional. Connect with Carina: Free masterclass: www.makeartbook.com code:MakeArt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carinagardner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carina.gardner.designs YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/carinagardner Other Show Links: 5 Day Launch Your Podcast Challenge: www.teriholland.ca/5daypodcast Book Teri for your next event: www.teriholland.ca Connect with Teri www.instagram.com/theteriholland   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:59 A Design Journey 03:21 The Crafting Space and Fabric Design 05:52 Distribution and Business Strategies 14:12 The Importance of Volume in Business 18:01 Delegation and Prioritization 22:43 Handling Creative Blocks and Personal Struggles 29:14 Hiring and Firing: Lessons Learned 32:38 Balancing Work and Personal Life 34:05 Starting a Creative Business 36:38 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 42:56 Rapid Fire Questions 50:03 Final Thoughts and Inspiration