Windowsill Chats

Margo Tantau
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Windowsill Chats

Windowsill Chats is a podcast for artists and creatives who are curious about what it's like to live, work & walk a creative path. You'll find honest stories, refreshing tips, artistic business advice and real conversations with global artists & makers just like you. Host Margo Tantau, a 30+ year Creative Director, Product Designer & maker, is a cheerleader for your success. Come grab a cuppa & join her in her sunny windowsill.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    After the Fire: Rebuilding After Loss and Making Life a Total Work of Art with Steve & Mary Jo Hoffman

    Margo is joined by creative couple Steve and Mary Jo Hoffman for a tender, thought-provoking conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the art of intentional living. In the wake of losing their family home to a fire, Steve and Mary Jo open up about what it means to rebuild—not just a house, but an entire way of living. They share how their individual creative practices continue to evolve, how they support one another through parallel play and creative autonomy, and how loss clarified what truly matters. About Mary Jo Hoffman: Mary Jo is an artist and photographer best known for her project STILL, a daily nature photography practice that blossomed into a decade-long blog and the book STILL: The Art of Noticing. Her images and essays capture the quiet beauty of everyday natural objects and invite readers to see the world with fresh eyes. She lives in Shoreview, Minnesota, with her husband Steve and their puggle Jack, who joins her on daily foraging walks. About Steve Hoffman: Steve is a James Beard Award–winning writer whose debut memoir, A Season for That, chronicles his family’s relocation to southern France and the unexpected beauty found in ordinary food, people, and rhythms. A tax preparer by day and food writer by heart, Steve’s work has appeared in The Washington Post, Food & Wine, and The Minneapolis Star Tribune. He lives with Mary Jo on Turtle Lake, surrounded by bees, cranes, and creative inspiration. Margo, Steve, and Mary Jo discuss: Navigating loss and rebuilding with intention after the fire that destroyed their home and studios How daily creative rituals can ground and guide us through upheaval The power of noticing: Mary Jo’s journey with STILL and the discipline of paying attention Writing memoir and confronting vulnerability in Steve’s A Season for That What it means to live in a “total work of art” and create a life aligned with your values How partnership and creativity intertwine without merging Embracing slow living, meaningful routines, and the grace found in the everyday Previous Episodes with Mary Jo & Steve Episode 197: "Finding Beauty in Everyday Life: The Power of Creative Practice and the Art of Noticing with Mary Jo Hoffman" Episode 209: "A Season for Change: Steve Hoffman on New Perspectives, Culture, and Finding a Sense of Belonging"   Connect with Steve Hoffman: www.sjrhoffman.com https://www.instagram.com/sjrhoffman/   Connect with Mary Jo Hoffman: https://www.instagram.com/maryjohoffman/ STILL: The Art of Noticing http://eepurl.com/bTvh4n (Newsletter)   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1h 28m

  2. 6 DAYS AGO

    Creative Current Events: Grandma Hobbies, Pink Tariffs and Uniqlo Coffee Shops

    Margo and Abby catch up on pink taxes, party store shakeups, and grandma hobbies making a comeback in the latest episode of Creative Current Events. This special segment of Windowsill Chats dives into cultural shifts, small business realities, and brand storytelling that’s catching their creative eye. They also explore how big-box stores like Michaels are filling retail voids left by Party City, how hobby shops in the UK are struggling, and what all this means for the crafting world. The conversation also dives into the rising conversation around the Pink Tax and Pink Tariffs—and how these unseen costs hit both consumers and creative entrepreneurs. Plus: a fresh look at niche content creation, a POD platform for artists, why Uniqlo is serving coffee now, and the nostalgic charm of slow, tactile hobbies like embroidery, crochet, and calligraphy. Articles Mentioned: Michaels & Party City https://finance.yahoo.com/news/michaels-seeing-void-left-party-133819782.html HobbyCraft Decline in the UK https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5y651327eko The Pink Tax https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/taxes/articles/the-pink-tax-costs-women-thousands-of-dollars-over-their-lifetimes Pink Tariffs on Women’s Clothing https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/16/business/womens-clothes-pink-tariffs/index.html eeBoo Founder on Tariffs Impacting Small Businesses https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBRplSmhI-8 Canvastry Print-on-Demand Platform https://www.canvastrywholesale.com/ Grandma Hobbies Are In https://theeverymom.com/grandma-hobbies/ Uniqlo’s NYC Coffee Shop & Lifestyle Strategy https://ny.eater.com/2025/3/19/24388687/uniqlo-coffee-open-nyc-cafe-manhattan https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/contents/lifewear-magazine/styling/ Den of Pin (Hyper-niche Community Building) https://www.instagram.com/den_of_pin/ Yeti Product Storytelling Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSpdnXWlgJg Huckberry’s Cinematic Product Launch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFtu6Bi-blY Amy Poehler & Rashida Jones Launch “Good Hang” Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aF-p8z_R2q0     Connect with Abby: https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/ Instagram: @ajcampkc Pinterest: @ajcampbell Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill The Foundry at Tantau Studio

    36 min

  3. 30 APR

    The Art of Being, Not Just Doing: Creativity Beyond Productivity and Perfectionism with Maria Bowler

    Margo is joined by writer, coach, and retreat leader Maria Bowler for a conversation about redefining creativity beyond the limits of productivity. Maria helps creatives transform resistance into clarity and insight, drawing on her background as a magazine editor, creative writing teacher, and holder of a master's degree in religion and the arts from Yale University. Originally from Canada, she now lives with her family in the Driftless region of the U.S., where she continues to explore and teach a more holistic approach to creative living.   Margo and Maria discuss: Maria’s creative journey, from childhood passion to overcoming major blocks How to redefine resistance as a valuable teacher rather than an obstacle The differences between productivity and creativity—and why confusing the two leads to burnout Seeing creativity as a collaboration with life, not just a series of tasks The impact of perfectionism on creative expression and how to loosen its grip Embracing whole-life creativity as part of daily living, not a separate act Balancing creative output with essential intake and inspiration Giving yourself permission to make mistakes and stay curious Practical strategies for reconnecting with creativity during stuck periods Highlights from Maria’s new book Making Time: A New Vision for Crafting a Life Beyond Productivity   Connect with Maria: www.mariabowler.com www.mariabowler.substack.com https://www.instagram.com/mariaevbowler Connect with Margo:  www.windowsillchats.com @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    58 min

  4. 23 APR

    Sketches of a Colorful Life: Monika Forsberg on Art, Islands, and Embracing the Unfinished

    Margo is joined by Monika Forsberg, an award-winning illustrator and surface pattern designer known for her playful, colorful, and striking work across books, fabrics, homewares, toys, and more. Born and raised in a small coastal town in Swedish Lapland, Monika moved to London in 1995 where she now lives with her husband, two children, and a delightful mix of pets. She’s a keen swimmer, aspiring stamp collector, and former animator who believes in being versatile over niche. Her work is rich with curiosity, imagination, and a deep love for creative exploration. In this warm and meandering conversation, Monika and Margo dive into the layered realities of a creative career—one that doesn’t always follow a linear path but is all the more beautiful for it.   Margo and Monika discuss: Monika’s upbringing in Swedish Lapland and how it shaped her worldview Moving to the UK and studying art in multiple forms Embracing versatility over specialization in creative work The joys (and challenges) of working with client briefs Why personal projects are essential to her process How she uses Instagram and Substack to share more authentically Dreaming up whimsical projects—like a fantastical fair Approaching tricky client relationships with honesty and grace Continuing to grow, shift, and stay creatively energized   Connect with Monika:  Website: walkyland.com Instagram: @monika_forsberg   Connect with Margo:  Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats Patreon: www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill The Foundry: https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    49 min

  5. 16 APR

    From Page to Picture: Brian Selznick on Storytelling, Cinematic Inspiration, and the Power of Visual Narratives

    Margo is joined by Brian Selznick, the wildly imaginative author and illustrator whose groundbreaking books have redefined how we tell stories. Known for seamlessly blending text and image in powerful, cinematic ways, Brian shares the origins of his creative process, the stories behind his best-known works, and the magic of collaborative art-making. Together, they explore what it means to honor both the reader and the story, why grief and love are ever-present themes in his work, and how he approaches retelling iconic tales through fresh and inclusive lenses. From The Invention of Hugo Cabret to Run Away With Me, Brian’s work invites readers into deeply felt worlds where art and narrative become one.   Margo and Brian discuss: The start of Brian’s creative process and how he moves from words to illustration His unique storytelling style and cinematic inspirations What it was like to have The Invention of Hugo Cabret adapted by Martin Scorsese Collaborating with director Todd Haynes on the Wonderstruck film adaptation His philosophy on creative ownership and openness in adaptations Designing the 20th anniversary covers for the Harry Potter series and grappling with the controversies surrounding J.K. Rowling. The importance of telling authentic queer love stories in his new novel Run Away With Me Exploring universal themes of love, grief, and time in narrative The reimagining of The Nutcracker with a historical, class-conscious twist How Brian sees the future of storytelling as both expansive and inclusive   Connect with Brian: https://brianselznick.com https://instagram.com/thebrianselznick   Connect with Margo:  www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    56 min

  6. 9 APR

    Watercolor, Words & What Heals Us: Jaime Townzen’s Creative Meandering Path

    Margo is joined by Jaime Townzen, a Southern California-based writer and professional artist whose watercolor paintings have earned international acclaim. Jaime’s creative talents span both visual art and the written word—her essays and microfiction have been featured in Light Magazine and Fairfield Scribes, and her debut novel Absorbed was released in January 2025. When she’s not painting or writing, Jaime enjoys soaking up the sun at the beach with her family and their dogs or catching live music performances.   Margo and Jaime discuss: The intersection of writing and visual art in Jaime’s creative practice The journey of publishing her debut novel, Absorbed How she built an art career with watercolor as her medium The role of intuition and emotion in both painting and storytelling How grief has shaped Jaime’s creative process and how she walks alongside it The way her lived experiences inform and enrich her writing How motherhood and family life influence her artistic expression The importance of honoring slow seasons and creative rest Jaime’s thoughts on community, connection, and what success really means   Connect with Jaime:  http://www.instagram.com/jaimegetscreative https://www.facebook.com/jaime.townzen/ https://tiktok.com/@jaimegetscreative jaimetownzen.com   Connect with Margo:  www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    53 min

  7. 2 APR

    Creative Current Events: Crayon Collectors, Color Theory, and Art as Medicine

    Margo and Abby catch up on colorful collections, creative conferences, and curious cultural trends in the latest episode of Creative Current Events. This special segment of Windowsill Chats dives into all the artful oddities, thought-provoking news, and heartwarming discoveries that have recently caught their attention.   They touch on how color is used intentionally in media like the show Severance, the healing potential of museums (including Switzerland’s bold move to prescribe them for mental well-being), and the magic of virtual museum visits. They also explore current concerns around learning, attention, and AI search tools, all wrapped up in their signature blend of insight and humor.   As always, listener submissions help fuel the fun—so keep sending those articles their way!   Articles Mentioned:  Crayon Collector https://www.kvue.com/article/news/community/crayon-collection-texas-torch-red-colors-strange/273-adc66c54-6598-429b-9f80-c600038034b5#   Colors of Severance https://www.instagram.com/movieluts/reel/DFNePz-iCXL/ https://www.polygon.com/tv/539421/severance-season-color-theory-red-green-blue   10 Best Art Museums https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-art-museum/   Art as Therapy https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/art-therapy-swiss-doctors-prescribe-museum-visits-2025-03-12/   Google Arts & Culture! Free Museums Visits & so much more https://artsandculture.google.com/   Human Intelligence Sharply Declining https://futurism.com/neoscope/human-intelligence-declining-trends   PISA Results https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/pisa-scores-by-country   AI gets it wrong https://futurism.com/study-ai-search-wrong   Connect with Abby: https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/ https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    29 min

  8. 26 MAR

    The Heart of Email Marketing: Jessica Suggs on Writing That Connects and Builds Trust

    Margo is joined by talented writer, editor, and marketing strategist Jessica Suggs. With 19 years of experience in copywriting and a background as Director of Media Services for a top faith-based media agency, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge about the enduring power of email marketing. These days, she helps entrepreneurs and authors craft messages that sound like them—with services spanning from brand voice development to full-scale book editing and publishing support. As a wife, mom of two, and creative business owner, Jessica is no stranger to balancing big ideas with real-life connection. Margo and Jessica discuss: Why email is still one of the most powerful marketing tools How to develop and maintain a strong, authentic brand voice The magic of welcome sequences and consistent, heartfelt communication Transitioning from a corporate career to creative entrepreneurship Building connection and community through words How AI can enhance—not replace—human messaging Tips for balancing work, creativity, and motherhood The value of mastermind groups and creative support systems Get 50% off your Flodesk Subscription by visiting www.flodesk.com/c/tantaustudio Join the Greater Goods Alliance: A small group virtual mentorship, mastermind community, and in-person retreat for product-based business owners with Lisa Congdon & Emily McDowel (Applications Closing 3/28) https://thegreatergoodsalliance.com/ Connect with Jessica: www.jessicasuggsmarketing.com https://www.facebook.com/jessicasuggsmarketing https://www.instagram.com/jessicasuggsmarketing/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1h 9m
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About

Windowsill Chats is a podcast for artists and creatives who are curious about what it's like to live, work & walk a creative path. You'll find honest stories, refreshing tips, artistic business advice and real conversations with global artists & makers just like you. Host Margo Tantau, a 30+ year Creative Director, Product Designer & maker, is a cheerleader for your success. Come grab a cuppa & join her in her sunny windowsill.

Information

  • Creator
    Margo Tantau
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    262
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Windowsill Chats

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