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In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Carrie Story, a renowned metal clay artist, inventor, manufacturer, and instructor, shares her inspiring journey from a hobbyist to a successful entrepreneur. Carrie began her creative path beading and making jewelry as a relaxing hobby. Her discovery of metal clay sparked a deep passion, leading her to start teaching and eventually recognize a significant demand for metal clay products and education.

This realization prompted Carrie to launch her own business, Clay Revolution. Here, they manufacture clays and products to serve the artist community’s needs (more tools!). Clay Revolution continues to grow and will be celebrating the first anniversary of Project X, their newest product line, a family of silver metal clays.

Throughout the episode, Carrie emphasizes the importance of identifying one’s strengths and being honest about skills and passions. She advises entrepreneurs not to fear competition but to learn from it instead.

Artists work shown above with permission: Clockwise starting (center) upper left:

Michael Marx
Cathy Flesher
Brandy Boyd
Melissa Kay-Steves



JUMP. Just do it. Weigh your risks so you know what you can afford to lose. Then take any necessary precautions and risk the rest. There is no harm in sticking your neck out there. What is the worst that can happen?

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Find your niche and understand your strengths to build a successful business.
  • Competition can be beneficial and push you to be better.
  • Analyze opportunities and make informed decisions based on their potential impact.
  • Seek advice and support to overcome self-doubt and fear of failure.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or hire expertise in areas where you lack knowledge. Overcoming self-doubt is crucial for success
  • Surround yourself with supportive people
  • Don’t be paralyzed by fear, take action
  • Put yourself out there and take pride in your work
  • Innovation and differentiation are key in marketing
By: Stephanie Chavez

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

Introduction and Background

01:19

Carrie’s Creative Journey and Business Evolution

05:06

Meeting the Demand for Metal Clay Products and Education

07:03

Expanding into Silver Clay and Business Growth

08:19

Embracing What You’re Good at and Enjoy

10:12

Learning from Competition and Finding Opportunities

23:45

Competition as a Source of Growth and Innovation

29:41

Seeking Help and Overcoming Self-Doubt

30:08

Overcoming Self-Doubt

32:30

The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Good People

34:54

Navigating the Challenges of Having Your Name on a Product

36:19

Striving for Excellence in Your Craft

40:26

The Process of Developing a New Clay Formula

50:30

Innovative Marketing and Branding Strategies

57:02

Bringing Metal Clay to a Wider Audience

By: Michael Marx
By: Cathy Flesher
By: Melissa Kay-Steves

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