What If I Made Joy My Biggest Priority in My Art Business: With Kate Smith | The Typecast Episode 47

Send us Fan MailBuilding a creative career is one thing—making it sustainable (without burning yourself out) is another. In this episode, we sit down with Kate Smith, an artist and author who’s proof that you can build a thriving creative business without selling your soul. We talk about the power of embracing silliness, the realities of mass-market licensing, and why betting on yourself is the best investment you’ll ever make.We also get real about the challenges of working with clients, staying true to your artistic voice while still paying the bills, and the secret sauce to making your work actually fun. Plus, Kate shares her approach to creative decision-making, the non-negotiable boundaries that keep her sane, and what she wishes more artists knew about building a business that doesn’t just survive—but thrives.All that and more when you listen to this episode:Why betting on yourself can lead to unexpected creative opportunitiesHow to balance passion projects with commercial work without burnoutThe role of joy and playfulness in running a creative businessWhy originality is your greatest asset (and how to lean into it)The realities of mass-market licensing and working with big retailersHow to make client collaborations feel valuable instead of restrictiveThe importance of defining success on your own termsConnect with our guest:Instagram: @katesmithcompanyWebsite: Kate Smith CompanyMentioned in this episode:Noodles the DogThe Creative Act by Rick RubinConnect with Katie & Ilana from GoodtypeGoodtype WebsiteGoodtype on InstagramGoodtype on YoutubeWe wrote a book! Grab a copy and sign up to access the audiobook when we release it!Love The Typecast and free stuff? Leave a review, and send a screenshot of it to us on Slack. Each month we pick a random reviewer to win a Goodtype Goodie! Goodies include merch, courses and Kernference tickets!Leave us a review on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to the showTag us on Instagram @GoodtypeFollow us on Tiktok @lovegoodtypeLearn from Katie and IlanaGrab your tea, coffee, or drink of choice, kick back, and let's get down to business!