Artist Academy

In this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sitting down with Australian muralist Binx, whose career took an unexpected turn after a devastating flood destroyed her studio and years of artwork. Instead of giving up, she rebuilt her business through murals and is now taking on some of the biggest projects of her career. We talk about what's helped her grow her business, from building relationships through word-of-mouth to consistently documenting every project so future clients can follow along. Binx also shares what she's learned from managing large-scale murals, staying organized on the road, and taking on opportunities that once felt out of reach. If you're building an art business or love hearing how other artists have carved their own path, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation. Binx shares so many honest lessons about growing a creative business, and I have a feeling you'll walk away inspired to keep building yours.

In this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sitting down with sculptor Stephen Feilbach, whose larger-than-life creations have become destinations for families, travelers, and communities. If you've ever stopped to take a photo with a giant sculpture, you've probably experienced exactly what he's hoping to create. I went into this conversation thinking sculpture was just another art medium. I quickly learned there's so much more behind it. We talk about the process of turning an idea into a sculpture that's built to last, why the materials matter, and what it really costs to create artwork that can live outdoors for decades. We also talk about pricing custom work, finding the right clients, and why artists need to keep learning long after they've mastered their craft. There's a lot that muralists and other creatives can relate to, even if you've never picked up a sculpting tool. If you're building an art business or simply love hearing how other artists think, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation. It gave me a whole new appreciation for public sculpture, and I have a feeling it'll do the same for you.

In this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm chatting with Clarissa from San Diego Party Banner about how she built a profitable side business creating custom hand-painted party banners. What started as a birthday decoration for her son quickly grew into a business that's generated hundreds of banner orders, digital products, and a growing online community. She shares how she designs every banner in Canva, paints them efficiently, and balances it all while working a full-time job. We also get into pricing, supplies, shipping, customer communication, and the simple systems that help her save time. If you've been looking for another way to make money with your art or you're curious about adding a creative side hustle, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at exactly how Clarissa built this business. Let me know what you think of this episode with Clarissa from San Diego Party Banner!

It's easy to look at successful artists and assume they have something you don't—more talent, more connections, more money, or more opportunities. But what if your greatest advantage is something you already possess? In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, we'll talk about how to identify the strengths and experiences that make you uniquely valuable. Maybe it's your ability to connect with people. Maybe it's your business background. It could be your willingness to take risks, your work ethic, or the challenges you've overcome. Every artist has advantages they can use to create opportunities. I'll also discuss why many competitive advantages can be learned. You'll discover how to develop skills that complement your natural strengths and how combining those strengths can help you stand out in a way that's difficult to replicate. If you've ever felt like you're falling behind, this episode might help you recognize that your greatest advantage has been with you all along.

Are you building the art career you actually want, or the one that simply feels safest? In this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm diving into a mindset shift that's been on my mind lately: the idea that many artists unknowingly limit their income by limiting the types of opportunities they're willing to pursue. Using examples from both the art world and beyond, I'll explore the difference between low-ticket, high-volume work and higher-value services that require more skill, confidence, and commitment. We'll talk about pricing, fear of failure, imposter syndrome, and why learning the hard thing is often what leads to the biggest rewards. If you're ready to think bigger about what's possible for your art business, this conversation might be exactly the push you need.

In this week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I'm sharing a reminder that I think every artist needs to hear from time to time: just because things are slow doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong. A year ago I found myself staring at an almost empty schedule. There were opportunities floating around, but nothing seemed to be sticking. I found myself questioning whether I was being too selective and if I needed to change course. Fast forward to today, and I'm in one of the busiest seasons of my career, juggling multiple large-scale mural projects and booking months ahead. The funny thing is, there wasn't a magic marketing strategy, a viral post, or a big breakthrough moment that changed everything. In this episode, I'm talking about what I've learned from experiencing both the slow seasons and the busy ones. I share why I believe so much of success comes from compounded effort, how becoming more selective with projects has shaped my business, and why I'm focusing on reinvesting in my work while the momentum is here. If you've been showing up consistently and wondering if your efforts are making a difference, I hope this episode encourages you to keep going.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m chatting with artist and former tech entrepreneur Shirley Yang Crutchfield about her journey from startup founder to luxury portrait artist. After stepping away from a successful career and becoming a mother, Shirley found herself facing an identity crisis that ultimately led her back to art. Through years of experimentation, she discovered a unique niche creating highly detailed portraits of accomplished women using traditional 24-karat gold water gilding techniques. We talk about finding your niche, building a personal brand, creating meaningful client experiences, and balancing ambition with fulfillment. Shirley shares how she transformed a centuries-old gilding process into a modern celebration of women who have overcome challenges and built remarkable lives. We also discuss pricing, marketing, collaborations, social media, PR, and the importance of creating work that feels authentic to who you are. If you're trying to figure out what you want to be known for as an artist, or you're navigating a major life or career transition, this episode is for you.

This week’s May Mural Month replay episode on the Artist Academy Podcast features the social media-famous international muralist, Kiptoe. I knew this guy had a ton of Instagram followers (278k), even more fans on YouTube (832k), and plenty of experience under his belt. But what I didn’t know about Kiptoe was that his hustle game is next-level—and that he started traveling the world independently in his 20s, building his brand from the ground up. He’s a great example of an artist who took the time to get really good at his craft, then pitched himself (and still continues to pitch today) to clients to land the mural jobs he wants. This dude needs no further introduction—and I know you’re going to feel seriously inspired by this week’s replay episode with Kiptoe.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m chatting with international muralist Nina Valkhoff for another May Mural Month episode! Nina shares how she went from painting custom client work in the Netherlands to creating large scale wildlife murals across 16 countries worldwide. Over the years, she slowly transitioned away from painting whatever clients requested and began fully embracing her own colorful, nature inspired style. We talk about mural festivals, traveling internationally for projects, finding creative confidence, and the importance of patience when building a long term mural career. Nina also opens up about burnout, learning to take breaks between projects, and why protecting your creativity matters just as much as improving your skills. We also get into mural photography, documenting your work professionally, favorite paint materials, and how social media has naturally helped attract mural opportunities throughout her career. If you’re interested in mural festivals, creative growth, and the realities of painting murals professionally, this episode is for you!

This week’s replay episode of the Artist Academy Podcast is an interview with the international street artist Peachzz (aka Megan Russell). You’ll hear Megan tell her story of how she got started with murals (using spray paint) with a theme of birds and wildlife. Her style evolved into also painting the human form, and fast forward to today with one that blends into both human and nature. Megan got her start by applying to mural/street art festivals and shares with us her tips on how to put your best foot forward when sending in an application. She has a template that she uses and, in this interview, goes over it page by page to give you a better idea of what kind of effort is needed to land these high-competition jobs. Megan inspires me to create more of what I want to create, as opposed to just leaning into commissioned work, and apply for bigger opportunities. I think every artist will get something from this interview, no matter if you’re a muralist or not. Let me know what you think of this week’s replay episode with Peachzz (Megan Russell).

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m chatting with Australian muralist Cat Dean for another May Mural Month episode! Cat shares her journey from selling drawings at markets to building a full time mural career while raising two daughters along the way. Today she paints murals for schools, businesses, hospitals, and government spaces across Australia. We talk about developing a signature style, pricing mural projects, balancing motherhood with business ownership, navigating burnout, and learning how to confidently take on bigger opportunities before feeling fully ready. Cat also shares how her detailed optical illusion murals helped set her apart as an artist. Plus, we dive into the differences between muraling in Australia and the U.S., from paint brands and materials to marketing and client communication. If you’re looking for encouragement to grow your mural business, trust yourself more, and keep learning as you go, this episode is for you.

This week’s replay episode of the Artist Academy Podcast is an interview with an incredibly talented Australian muralist and mentor Danielle Weber! Danielle has built a thriving art business from the ground up, painting murals and canvases priced anywhere from $10K to $30K on average. We talk about everything from how she connects with clients through Instagram DMs to how she bought her own warehouse studio and turned it into a creative hub. She also shares her no-fluff approach to pricing, confidence, and setting boundaries as an artist. We also dive into the importance of community over competition, building a sustainable mindset, and balancing creative freedom with business growth. Tune in to hear how Danielle’s story proves that with strategy, passion, and a bit of grit, you can make a full-time living doing what you love, from Melbourne to anywhere in the world.

This week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast is an interview with Australian muralist Patrycja Hannagan, also known as Mural Nomad. We talk about how she built a full-time mural career while traveling across Australia, what she learned from completing her 100 Mural Project, and how her business has evolved over the years. Patrycja shares the reality behind life as a traveling muralist, from landing jobs in small towns to managing large-scale projects, teaching other artists, and building a strong community through retreats and mentorships. We also get into some of the harder parts of being a full-time artist including burnout, grief, personal growth, and navigating unhealthy mentorship experiences in the mural industry. If you’re interested in murals, creative business, travel, mentorship, or the behind-the-scenes reality of being a working artist, this episode is for you.

This week’s replay episode of the Artist Academy Podcast is an interview with Canadian muralist Corrado Mallia where we talk about what it actually takes to build a mural business over time.Corrado shares how he started with cold outreach, practiced on his own, and slowly built consistent work through referrals. We get into pricing murals, what goes into quoting a project, and why it’s important to charge based on value, not just time.We also talk about common mistakes like undercharging, skipping deposits, and doing extra work without adjusting the price, along with simple ways to avoid those situations.If you’re working toward making murals a steady income, this episode gives a realistic look at the process and the decisions that come with it.

To kick off May Mural Month, I wanted to step outside of my usual circle and have conversations with muralists in different parts of the world. In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m talking with Toronto-based artist Tetyana Bibik.We get into the realities of running a mural business in Canada, from pricing differences and currency gaps to a high cost of living and seasonal limitations due to winter. She also shares how she stays booked through email outreach, networking, and trade shows, and how becoming a parent has shifted the way she approaches time, pricing, and balance.Let me know what you think of this week's episode with Tetyana Bibik.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m talking about something that can be tough for artists to navigate… what happens when a mural gets painted over.It’s a situation that brings up a lot of emotion, especially when a piece is loved by the community or holds personal meaning. I’ve experienced it myself, and recently my city went through a similar situation, with guest artist Austin Sepulveda, that sparked a lot of conversation. I interviewed Austin to chat about his painting techniques and what it was like being the artist commissioned to paint over a much loved mural.The biggest takeaway from this episode is that painting is a business, and art replaced by more art is just part of it. Murals fade, building ownership changes, and new murals are painted. Finding a way to not take it so personally, or just replicate it, is the key to solving these tricky situations.

Join MURAL MONEY BOOTCAMP starting May 1st! In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I break down what actually wins a mural job when you’re not the only artist being considered.Because it’s rarely about price.It’s about how you show up, how clearly you position yourself, and how easy you make it for the client to say yes.I walk through real situations where I was up against other artists and what made the difference. This includes getting in front of the client, presenting ideas on the spot, and putting in extra effort where it counts.If you’ve ever felt stuck competing with other artists or unsure how to stand out in an RFP or bid situation, this episode will shift how you approach it.

Join MURAL MONEY BOOTCAMP starting May 1st! This episode of the Artist Academy Podcast breaks down the stages every artist goes through while building a career, based on both my own experience and what I’ve seen coaching artists over the years.It starts with the early phase of uncertainty and self-doubt, where you’re figuring things out and questioning if this is even possible. Then comes the stage where work starts coming in, but everything feels messy, overwhelming, and you realize you’ve been undercharging and overcommitting.From there, it often leads into burnout, caused by saying yes to everything, people-pleasing, and not knowing how to manage your time or boundaries. Eventually, if you stick with it, you move into a stage where you’re more confident, more selective, and finally in control of your schedule, pricing, and energy.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, second-guessed yourself, or wondered if you’re doing this “right,” this episode will help you understand where you are and what to expect next.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I sit down with photographer and business coach Scott Proposki to talk about what really drives success as a creative. Scott has worked with brands like National Geographic and the White House, but this conversation focuses on what made that possible behind the scenes. We get into why talent alone isn’t enough, how most artists hold themselves back without realizing it, and what actually helps you get consistent work. From outreach to positioning to thinking differently, this is a practical breakdown of what works. If you’re trying to grow but feel stuck or inconsistent, this episode will give you a clearer direction on what to focus on next.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m walking through a simple question that can change everything when you’re scared to go all in on your art career: what’s the worst that could actually happen? I’m breaking down the biggest fears artists have around money, pricing, clients, skill level, and stability—and sharing how I’ve handled those same fears in my own business. We’ll look at what those “worst case scenarios” actually look like in real life (hint: most of them are fixable), and how to handle them with a plan instead of panic. If you’ve been stuck in the “but what if…” loop, this episode will help you move forward with more clarity, confidence, and a solid game plan.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m talking with Colorado-based artist Samuel Popovich. He has built an incredible business around his hilarious, character-filled frog paintings and is sharing exactly how he did it. We talk about how he developed his unique style, how he taught himself to paint through YouTube and experimentation, and how he turned a playful idea into artwork people genuinely collect. We also get into the business side of it all, from selling prints and originals to using Instagram, ManyChat, and email marketing to create successful print drops. If you’ve ever wanted to build a stronger art business or sell more prints, this episode will leave you inspired and full of ideas.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing the uncomfortable truth about marketing yourself as an artist—posting online, talking on camera, networking, pitching, and doing all the awkward things that actually lead to opportunities. If showing up feels uncomfortable, you’re not alone. A lot of artists struggle with putting themselves out there, promoting their work, or being the face of their business. In this episode, I talk about why that feeling is so common and why it shouldn’t stop you from sharing what you create. We’ll also talk about why trying hard isn’t something to be embarrassed about, why even posts that seem to flop can still reach the right people, and why letting yourself be seen is often the key to getting hired. The truth is, the thing that feels the most cringe is often the exact thing that moves your art career forward. www.artistacademy.com

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m diving into a topic artists keep asking about lately—AI. I decided to put three of the most talked-about platforms—ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and MidJourney—to the test and see how they actually perform when used inside a real mural workflow. In this episode, I’m sharing how I use AI in my own mural business to create faster mockups, refine concepts, generate references, and save time without letting it replace my creativity. If you’ve been curious about using AI as an artist, this is my honest breakdown of what each platform does best, where each one falls short, and how to use them in a way that still feels ethical and true to your work.www.artistacademy.com  

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m bringing back a highly requested 2020 interview with wildlife artist Carla Grace — and the lessons are just as relevant today.Carla breaks down how she slowly built her career into full-time art by focusing on technical mastery first, then letting demand and pricing follow. We discuss her acrylic layering technique, collaborating ethically on reference images, and learning to detach emotionally so you can operate professionally.On the business side, we talk about cultivating a premium collector experience from first inquiry to final delivery, choosing exclusivity over prints, managing commissions strategically, and the hard-earned confidence that came from finishing a life-sized painting that tested her limits.This conversation is proof that strong art careers aren’t rushed — they’re built deliberately.

This week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m giving you the honest talk I wish someone had given me earlier. We’re covering the habits that quietly hold artists back—like hiding behind tools, blaming the algorithm, or constantly switching directions before giving anything a real shot.I break down why obsessing over your weak spots can keep you from becoming known for your strengths, why marketing isn’t optional if you want paid opportunities, and why someone less talented might be earning more simply because they show up consistently. We’ll also talk about the discomfort of being seen online, the discipline it takes to stick with something long enough to see real progress, and how investing in quality—whether that’s materials, education, or mentorship—can fast-track your growth.This episode might sting a little, but if you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start building traction, it’s exactly what you need.

This week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast is for my fellow Type B artists… and it might make a Type A listener clutch their planner.  After hosting a mural meetup in Costa Rica, I realized just how differently artists operate—some plan every detail, and some (hi, it’s me) make decisions in real time, right there on the wall.I’m sharing the “Type B” habits that keep my mural business moving: staying flexible when clients change their minds, why my contract protects my creative freedom, how I handle deposits (or don’t), and the systems I do use so I can still wing it without chaos. If you’ve ever felt “too messy” or “not organized enough” to run a real art business—this one’s for you.

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing one of the biggest shifts that’s changed the way I run my creative business: batching.From sketching and painting to marketing, admin, and even studio cleanups, batching has helped me stay consistent, protect my energy, and actually get the things done that artists tend to put off. I’m breaking down what I batch weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly, with real examples of how grouping similar tasks together saves time, mental energy, and decision fatigue.We’ll talk about why constantly jumping between different headspaces doesn’t work, how to batch creative work without killing your creative flow, and how batching content, promotions, and business tasks can make your life feel lighter instead of more overwhelming.This episode will help you simplify your process, stay focused, and finally clear some space on your to-do list.

As we enter the month of love, I have a little Valentine’s present for you — join Artist Academy for just $1! Whether we’re selling ourselves on a dating app or selling our art on social media, at the end of the day we’re all people connecting with other people who might want what we have to offer. In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I break down the surprising similarities between dating and marketing your art—first impressions, confidence, response time, storytelling, and knowing when something simply isn’t the right fit. I share practical advice on presenting your work online, responding to inquiries clearly and quickly, and telling stories that make your art memorable. At its core, this episode is about confidence, self-respect, and connection. We’re not marketing to algorithms—we’re connecting with people. If you’re ready to show up with more clarity and trust in your art business, this one’s for you.Click HERE to join

In this episode of the Artist Academy podcast, I have a conversation with artist and educator Josie Lewis about what it really takes to build a sustainable art career over the long term.We talk about balancing large-scale commissions, selling work online, and teaching—while navigating fear, failure, focus, and constant decision-making. Josie shares why there’s no magic formula for success, how action creates clarity, and why learning to be okay with getting it wrong is part of staying in the game as an artist.This episode also explores social media as a tool, intentional pricing, adapting when styles or trends shift, and trusting what Josie calls the “living path”—taking the next step before everything feels certain.At its core, this conversation is about resilience, hope, and making art in a world that often feels heavy, while still building something sustainable and real.

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sitting down with Patrick Walgamott, an Artist Academy student who recently quit his day job to become a full-time artist.I’ve watched Patrick’s journey for years — from getting back into painting through pet portraits to slowly building income through murals, commissions, and paint parties while working a physically demanding job. Like so many artists, he thought it would happen faster… and like most of us, it took longer than expected.We talk about what finally pushed him to take the leap, how he handled the fear around money and stability, and why consistency and local marketing played a huge role in making it work. Patrick shares real numbers, real doubts, and the mindset shift that helped him commit fully — even without everything perfectly lined up.If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to quit your day job, this episode will help you see what’s actually possible when you decide to go all in.

In this episode of the Artist Academy podcast, I sit down with Lennon Bone, founder of Stop the Starving Artist, to talk about why connecting with people matters more than perfect content or clever marketing.We explore how storytelling, values, and real human experience help audiences connect with art, why fear of judgment keeps artists stuck, and how reframing marketing as an exchange—rather than manipulation—can change everything. If you’ve ever struggled with sharing your story or felt uncomfortable selling your work, this conversation will help you approach both with more clarity and confidence.

This is the last week to join Mural Money Bootcamp! If you want a breakdown of my profit/expenses and a look into my Quickbooks, join us next week inside the Artist Academy Facebook group for a video walkthrough of exactly how I calculate my taxes, how much I spent on supplies, hiring, etc.

Join Mural Money Bootcamp Let’s start the new year with a goal… what’s yours? In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m talking about setting big, exciting goals for the year ahead—and more importantly, how to break them down so they actually feel doable instead of overwhelming.I share how I think about long-term income goals for artists, why I like working in phases, and what really moves the needle when it comes to hitting big numbers. Let’s Talk Goals as a Muralist…Instead of one massive, intimidating number, I like to think in stages: $20K – Year 1 $50K – Year 2 $100K – Year 3 Take your big, almost-out-of-reach yearly goal and divide it into three for the first 100 days. Money goals are fun… but action goals get results. My Action Goals for the First 100 Days Create something every single day Share my creations, life, and process 4x per week Publish 1 podcast episode per week Apply to 4 art calls Pitch 4 mural ideas to walls or businesses How Do I Keep Myself Motivated? Motivating audio in my ears Challenges to keep me moving And most importantly… a plan Clarity creates momentum. We begin the 31-Day Challenge on January 1st!

Join Mural Money Bootcamp In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m kicking off one of my favorite traditions of the year—the 31 Day Challenge—and inviting you to join me. For the eighth year in a row, I’m sharing why committing to daily creation and sharing from January 1–31 can completely change your momentum as an artist. I walk you through what the challenge is, why it works, and how it blends creativity, marketing, and habit-building into one simple daily practice. I also share what I’m doing for this year’s challenge, why I finally decided to stop putting it off, and how this practice has shaped everything from my confidence to my career—including leading to my book, Mural Money. We talk about choosing the right project, keeping it manageable, using tools (including AI) to reduce friction, and why creating something every day helps you find your style, grow your audience, and trust yourself more deeply as an artist. I also share how the 31 Day Challenge pairs perfectly with my Mural Money Bootcamp, starting January 1, designed to help artists build momentum and land mural clients in the first 100 days of the year. If you’re craving motivation, clarity, creativity, and a strong start to the new year, this episode is your invitation to show up, create daily, and start 2026 with intention.Artist mentioned: Summer Paradiso

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m chatting with Odette Guastavino, a Netherlands-based muralist and painter whose whimsical, magical artwork stopped me mid-scroll on Instagram. What started as admiration for her art quickly turned into a conversation about style, storytelling, and building a sustainable art career—especially after I realized she had recently joined the Artist Academy.Odette shares her journey from studying architecture to building a mural career through Facebook groups, word of mouth, and social media, and how she’s now intentionally shifting her focus toward canvas work, prints, and more flexible income streams. We talk about transitioning from client-led mural commissions to creating original, imaginative paintings that sell—often before they even make it to her website—and what helped her recent work go viral. We also explore why whimsical and nostalgic art resonates with adults just as much as kids, and how she presents her artwork in context to help buyers visualize it in their homes.Toward the end of the episode, Odette shares one of her most powerful tools yet: how she’s using AI to mock up artwork in real interiors, speed up her workflow, and ultimately sell more paintings—without compromising her artistic integrity.

In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing the collective wisdom of artists who are out there doing the work, growing their businesses, and proving what’s possible. I asked members of the Artist Academy who made six figures this year to reveal the biggest lessons they learned along the way. Instead of just my perspective, you’ll hear a chorus of voices from artists at different stages and specialties, all navigating their own creative paths. Discover what helped them break through plateaus, the unexpected places they found clients, the courage it took to raise their prices, and the personal projects that opened doors they never saw coming. Along the way, I’ll share how their journeys mirror many of the wins, challenges, and mindset shifts I’ve experienced in my own career. This episode is about possibility. It’s about seeing yourself in the stories of others, realizing you’re not alone, and getting fired up about what your next chapter could look like. If you’re craving both motivation and practical guidance, this episode will light a spark.

If I had to start completely over with zero mural experience, zero clients, and zero momentum in 2026… what exactly would I do to rebuild my mural business back up to $50,000 in the first year?In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I break down the exact steps I’d take—numbers included—to go from day-one beginner to a fully booked muralist with steady income and growing confidence. Whether you’re brand new to murals or looking to reboot your art business, this is the roadmap I wish I had when I started. Let’s talk numbers first. To make $50,000/year, here’s what it actually looks like: $136/day if you worked all 365 days OR $200/day working 5 days a week Which equals $1,000/week — or just two $500 jobs per week Two small $500 projects each week is incredibly doable when you know where to look and how to market yourself. STEP 1: Start With $500 Jobs Your first goal is simple: book consistent $500 projects. These usually include: Kids’ rooms Bathrooms Interior accent walls Small logos for businesses Window art Simple custom pieces Anything custom you can complete in about two days Why start here?Experienced muralists rarely want $500 jobs.These beginner-friendly projects help you build a portfolio, gain confidence, and learn to work efficiently. STEP 2: Raise Your Prices as Soon as You’re Booked Out Once you have one month of $500 jobs lined up, you’re done taking $500 jobs.At that point, $500 naturally becomes: $700… then $850… then $1,000… You don’t need a new year, a new portfolio, or a special reason. You can raise your prices mid-year, mid-month, or even mid-week. Your schedule will tell you when it’s time. How do you actually GET these jobs? NOW Marketing (focus on this first): Social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn depending on your area) Posting in local Facebook groups Sending DMs to local businesses Reaching out to interior designers Public art calls Thumbtack Pro (the fastest way to get ready-to-buy clients) LATER Marketing (you don’t need this yet): Website & SEO Referrals Separate art accounts Fancy branding Business cards These things matter later—but beginners often hide behind them and slow themselves down. Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s how to simplify it. NOW Strategy: Build a portfolio Say “yes” to most things Try out different styles Work with a variety of people Practice, gain speed, build confidence Network everywhere LATER Strategy: Niche down into your signature style Choose your ideal customer Create a targeted marketing plan Specialize and scale STEP 3: Shadow an Experienced Muralist Shadowing—even for a single day—is one of the fastest ways to shorten your learning curve. You’ll learn: The tools and supplies they actually use How to scale artwork onto a wall Which brushes and rollers make the job easier How to paint efficiently How to handle real client interactions What a full mural workday actually looks like One day of shadowing can save you months of trial and error. Want Me to Mentor You Through This? My new coaching program begins January 1, designed specifically for artists who want to start or grow their mural business with clarity, confidence, and accountability. DM me to be notified with more info.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m chatting with fine artist Rebecca King, whose journey into full-time art is equal parts inspiring and refreshingly honest. Rebecca walks me through the years she spent experimenting with style and medium before discovering her signature look—those calming, cool-toned abstract pieces created with acrylic inks. Hearing how she pieced together her creative identity over time is such a good reminder that your style doesn’t magically appear… you build it. We also dig into the business side of things: how Rebecca priced her early work, how her first small wins at art shows fueled bigger steps, and how she now structures her collections, email launches, and print releases. Her process is thoughtful and strategic without feeling overwhelming, and she shares how she uses her email list as the engine behind most of her sales. The part that hit me most was the emotional shift that pushed her into full-time art—a combination of burnout, loss, and the desire to finally lean into the work she was meant to do. Rebecca’s path is such a beautiful example of what’s possible when you trust your intuition, communicate with your collectors, and show up for your creativity with intention. If you’re building an art business with meaning, this conversation will feel like a deep breath and a roadmap all in one.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m rewinding to one of my favorite interviews with window painting legend Scot Campbell—a man who’s painted over 70,000 windows in his 44-year career. Scot breaks down exactly how to get started in window painting: from pricing your first jobs and handing out flyers to painting bold, eye-catching designs fast. We chat about how this fun, low-pressure art form can boost your income during the holidays and even open doors to bigger mural projects. Scot shares genius tips—like using paint rollers to save time and painting big, simple shapes that grab attention. His creative approach (and hilarious stories of painting in costume!) will leave you inspired to get out there and pitch your first window gig.

Ever look back at your first mural and cringe just a little? In this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my very first paid mural—the $350 job that had me spending three scorching days in the sun, a sketchy ladder, and a whole lot of “what was I thinking?” moments.I’ll share what that project taught me about pricing, safety, and preparation—lessons I wish I’d known before climbing that ladder with the wrong paint and too much optimism. These early mistakes shaped how I run my mural business today, from choosing the right materials to confidently quoting big projects and staying safe while doing what I love. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to fine-tune your process, this episode will help you skip the struggle and learn from my first-mural fiasco. Resources mentioned: Mural Supplies → artistacademy.co/supply Mural Pricing Guide → artistacademy.co/pricingguide $17 Audio Book → MuralMoney.com HEADS UP! I will be taking on a new small group of artists to coach more intimately with meetings every week starting January 1st. If you are interested, message me and I will put your name on a list to let you know as soon as it becomes available. You are perfect for this coaching if you have a few photos of your work and need guidance on bigger projects, what to say to customers, how to land jobs, or if you get stuck not knowing what to do—I’m on call.

In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m diving into one of the trickiest parts of being a working artist—what to do when hiring help or collaborating with another artist doesn’t go as planned. Recently I had back-to-back coaching calls asking me questions that centered around the complications that arise when artists work together. They asked, “Have you ever had drama with coworker artists?” I laughed because oh boy have I! I’ve hired friends to work with me that didn’t work out. I’ve under and overpaid artists. I’ve experienced expectations not being met and the complications that came with it. I’ve worked with people who are great communicators and others who held issues in and let it build up to the point of exploding on a job site. I feel like I am the perfect person to talk about this subject having been on all ends of this issue. What do you do when…? Another artist thinks they need to be paid more than you’re offering. An artist you’re counting on cancels the day before. The artist you hired paints slow and won’t speed up. The artist makes a small/big mistake on the job. Your artist friend suddenly treats you like competition. A fellow artist copies your mural design or idea. Your helper posts the mural on their page and tags you weirdly (or doesn’t tag you at all). Tips: Always over-communicate and remind them. Explain why. Set expectations in writing, even if it’s just a text. Hire quick, fire fast — 1, 2 strike, you’re out. Day 1: trial day

In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, we’re tackling that all-too-relatable question: “What the heck do I post today?” I recently sat in on a Chamber of Commerce presentation about social media, and it got my wheels turning about what our customers really want to see from us. So, I pulled together a list of post ideas designed to boost your visibility, connect with your audience, and maybe even spark a few new mural leads. When people see you online frequently, they remember you, recommend you, and you inspire ideas for their home or business. Content Ideas Repost a mural video with a testimonial at the bottom Common mistakes people make when commissioning a mural Behind the scenes: show the full process Sketches vs. the final mural Before and after photos “Tag a business who needs a little color added to their walls”(Pro tip: have a friend tag the business you want to work with) Carousel of your best work — pin it at the top! Carousel of a specific theme (ex: all your American flag murals ) “5 days of work wrapped up into 15 seconds” — show the time-lapse! A walkthrough describing your mural and the meaning behind it “3 things to know before hiring a muralist” “How much does a mural cost?” “How murals can boost foot traffic” — especially for businesses “Would you paint this inside your house or business?” Fun fact: “This was my biggest project of 2025!” “Why did you start painting?” Throwback to your first mural ever A “day in the life” post or reel “Top 5 most time-consuming projects of 2025” What Doesn’t Work Anymore: Canva graphics as posts Black space at the top/bottom of the video Too much fancy editing Twitter (X), TikTok, Threads — pretty dead in my area for leads Tune in to hear how a simple list of creative prompts can reignite your posting strategy and remind you that consistency, authenticity, and a touch of creativity are all it takes to stay top of mind—and booked out.

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m chatting with the incredibly talented Australian muralist and mentor Danielle Weber!Danielle has built a thriving art business from the ground up—painting murals and canvases priced anywhere from $10K to $30K on average. We talk about everything from how she connects with clients through Instagram DMs to how she bought her own warehouse studio and turned it into a creative hub.Danielle shares her no-fluff approach to pricing, confidence, and setting boundaries as an artist. We also dive into the importance of community over competition, building a sustainable mindset, and balancing creative freedom with business growth.Tune in to hear how Danielle’s story proves that with strategy, passion, and a bit of grit, you can make a full-time living doing what you love—from Melbourne to anywhere in the world.

Have you ever wondered how some fine artists make real money selling originals at art shows while others struggle to get traction?In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m chatting with Mark McKenna, a Western and wildlife artist who went from teaching high school art to earning up to $50K at a single show. Mark breaks down exactly how he did it—without fancy connections or a massive following. He shares the pivotal lessons he learned from his mentor, Greg Beecham, about pricing your art higher (and why collectors actually prefer it that way), connecting with buyers authentically, and how being likable and generous can open more doors than any marketing tactic.We also talk about his leap from teaching to full-time art, how he balances family life while painting 30 hours a week, and why art shows are still one of the best ways to build genuine relationships with collectors today.If you’ve ever thought, “Could I really make a living selling my paintings?” — Mark’s story is proof that you absolutely can, with the right mix of strategy, confidence, and heart.

In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing how I’m using my birthday week to boost art sales, clear out the studio, and make selling fun again through my favorite Q4 strategy — hosting an art auction. You’ll hear exactly how I set it up, from starting bids and pricing tactics to creating excitement (and even turning bidders into future mural clients).We’ve worked really hard all year to grow our audience (audience = buyers) and gain the attention of potential customers. Now is the time to sell to them. We’ve spent the year practicing our craft to create our best-quality work. Now is the time to share that work with the people who’ve been watching and waiting to buy. Let’s take all that hard work, creativity, and momentum from this year — and turn it into real results. It’s time to sell confidently, have fun with it, and finish the year strong.  Birthday promo! Join the Artist Academy for $299 for one year and get a free one-on-one coaching call with me! CLICK HERE

In this special midweek episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I sit down with Meg Wagler, the powerhouse behind Springfield’s Overlay Music and Arts Festival. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to pull off a mural festival—from raising funds and navigating nonprofit hurdles to rallying volunteers and making sure artists are paid fairly—this conversation gives you the full behind-the-scenes picture.Meg shares the story of Overlay’s beginnings, the setbacks of COVID, and the partnerships that have helped it grow into a thriving nonprofit. We talk about the challenges of balancing passion with sustainability, the importance of valuing public art as more than just philanthropy, and how murals can spark pride and cultural identity in a community.And of course, we give you a preview of this year’s festival! Expect live mural painting, DJs, skateboarding, interactive art installations, a community dining hall, and more—all happening this weekend in downtown Springfield. Whether you’re an artist, an arts supporter, or just curious about the power of public art, this episode will leave you inspired.

This week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast features the amazing artist, educator, and traveler Elida Field. Elida’s story is all about resilience—navigating divorce, raising three kids as a single mom, and building a thriving art career through teaching, commissions, retreats, and now her new book Nobody Dies in Art Class.We talk about her journey of creating after-school art programs, leading 33+ international art tours, and how travel continues to spark her creativity. Elida also opens up about her upcoming sabbatical year where she plans to travel to 50 countries at age 50 (yes, 50!).If you love art, travel, or just need some inspiration to keep going through life’s transitions, this episode is for you.I’m also sharing details about our upcoming Costa Rica Mural Meetup in January 2026. Imagine painting murals in the jungle, yoga in the mornings, amazing Costa Rican food, and excursions with fellow artists. It’s going to be unforgettable. Get all the info and see the mockups here: www.artistacademy.co/meetup

It sucks to lose a mural job. Period. It also sucks to see another artist land the job you really wanted. Let’s just be real—it’s easier said than done to feel happiness for someone who got the opportunity you were reaching for.In this week’s Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sharing stories from my own career where I’ve been on both sides of that coin. I’ll walk you through how I overcame those negative feelings and reframed them into something useful. Instead of dwelling on what I didn’t get, I’ve learned to ask:• How can I stand out in a crowd?• How can I niche down even more?• How can I enjoy what I do daily, even more?• How am I already different from other muralists in my area?This episode is all about choosing community over competition, sticking to your value instead of lowering your prices, and finding your unique edge.And before I wrap up, I’ll also give you details about the 2026 Costa Rica Mural Meetup —a week of mural painting, spray and latex training, sunrise yoga, and jungle adventures. Get all the info and see the mockups here: www.artistacademy.co/meetup

This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I get to revisit with muralist Hibaaq Ibrahim, who first joined me years ago when she was just starting out. Back then, she had only recently quit her day job—today, she’s a full-time commercial artist in Minnesota with projects starting at $10k and a schedule that keeps her booked year-round.  In this episode, Hibaaq shares how her mindset, goal-setting, and smart investments in courses and mentorship helped her grow quickly. She talks about the habits that keep her consistent, why she only takes on projects that align with her values, and how working with an art consultant has freed her up to focus on creating.  This conversation is full of practical advice for artists who want to raise their rates, attract better clients, and build a career they actually love.

On this episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I sat down with Colorado artist Maggie Sackmann, who’s built a thriving canvas art business while raising a toddler. We talked about her leap from corporate life to full-time painting, why she releases quarterly collections, and how she prices her work in the $2,000–$3,000 range. Maggie also shared how framing boosted sales, how video content helped grow her audience, and the way she balances commissions with painting what she loves. What stood out most was hearing how she makes it all work as a mom, the mindset shifts she’s made to treat art like a business, and the importance of sharing your story so collectors connect with you. I left this conversation inspired with ideas to try in my own art journey, and I think you will too.  www.artistacademy.com