Wendy Crafts
Are you a creative soul seeking comfort and healing? Discover the healing power of creativity with Wendy Townley on the Wendy Crafts Podcast. Join heartfelt conversations with fellow makers exploring how their crafts mend, comfort, and transform through life's challenges. Find solace and inspiration in shared stories of resilience.
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Painting & Purpose: Ashley Spitsnogle on Art, Anxiety, and Healing
11/19/2025
Painting & Purpose: Ashley Spitsnogle on Art, Anxiety, and Healing
Nebraska artist Ashley Spitsnogle invites us inside the rush and calm of live painting—how she prepares for a three-hour “performance,” finds flow in front of hundreds of people, and reconnects to purpose after heartbreak. Ashley shares the Florence, Italy moment that convinced her to pursue art, why she writes a “why” before every piece, and the community stories behind her most meaningful works—from memorial portraits to a Cattlemen’s Ball canvas that honored flood recovery. If you’ve ever wondered what’s really happening inside a live painter, this episode is your all-access pass. Follow this link to learn more about Ashley: https://wendycrafts.co/wendy-crafts-ashley-spitsnogle-on-art-anxiety-and-healing/ Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . https://wendycrafts.co This podcast is produced by .
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Letters to Barley: A Dog's Role in a Family's Darkest Days
11/05/2025
Letters to Barley: A Dog's Role in a Family's Darkest Days
Wendy shares a deeply personal story of her West Highland White Terrier, Barley. She recounts how Barley joined her family during the "pretty dark days" of her husband Matt's prescription pain medication addiction. Wendy reveals her struggle to care for herself amid the chaos, and how Barley became her "constant loyalty," a unique alpha that helped her survive. She discusses how writing and crafting handmade cards help her process the loss of her beloved companion. Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . https://wendycrafts.co This podcast is produced by .
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Make, Don’t Scroll: Scrapbooking for Mental Health with Beth Kingston
10/22/2025
Make, Don’t Scroll: Scrapbooking for Mental Health with Beth Kingston
Scrapbooking for mental health isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifeline. In this heartfelt conversation, Beth Kingston (Kingston Crafts; longtime HSN craft expert) joins Wendy to explore how creativity, connection, and simple printed photos can help us process hard seasons, reduce doom-scrolling, and feel truly seen. Beth shares candid stories from years as a military spouse, why she opens her studio to neighbors and Naval Academy students, and how her “Everyday Stories” system lowers the barrier to memory keeping for busy lives. You’ll learn practical ways to spark community through crafting, plus hear about a special 10% listener discount on Kingston Crafts. Subscribe for more conversations that heal through the work of our hearts and hands. Complete the following form to learn more about Beth Kingston and the many offerings of her creative business, Kingston Crafts. https://wendycrafts.co/wendy-crafts-beth-kingston-believes-in-the-power-of-creative-communities/ Learn more about Beth and Kingston Crafts on - - or online at . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . https://wendycrafts.co This podcast is produced by .
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Unpacking Mental Health, Creativity, and a New Journal
10/08/2025
Unpacking Mental Health, Creativity, and a New Journal
Discover the powerful collaboration between sisters Heather Kell and Holly Rohring on their new mental health journal. Learn how their unique backgrounds in design and counseling shaped this vital tool, offering a gentle yet effective way to process emotions and find support. This episode unpacks their journey, from childhood creativity to addressing mental health stigma, and reveals how their journal provides a safe space for self-reflection and healing. https://wendycrafts.co/wendy-crafts-heather-kell-holly-rohring-and-kell-of-a-plan-release-new-mental-health-journal/ Check out these links to learn more about Kell of a Plan: Mental Health Collection: Instagram: Holly's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyitscounselorholly/ Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . https://wendycrafts.co This podcast is produced by .
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Building Lifelong Friendships Through Scrapbooking
09/24/2025
Building Lifelong Friendships Through Scrapbooking
When national craft chains are struggling, local, independently owned stores like The Scrapbook Haven are thriving by focusing on community. In this episode, store managers Brandy Lewis and Gena Christofferson share how they’ve cultivated a space where people feel like family. They discuss why crafters of all skill levels, including men, are drawn to the store and its weekend "crops," and how this creative community provides a powerful source of healing, friendship, and sanity in a busy world. Follow this link for your free information: Learn more about The Scrapbook Have on - - or online at . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . https://wendycrafts.co This podcast is produced by .
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The Power of Offering It Up: A Story of Faith, Family, and Creative Healing
09/10/2025
The Power of Offering It Up: A Story of Faith, Family, and Creative Healing
Mary Lenaburg shares her powerful story of finding purpose amidst immense suffering. She reveals how her 22-year journey of caring for a profoundly disabled child, navigating a marriage on the brink of collapse, and overcoming personal struggles was transformed through faith, therapy, and creative pursuits. Mary discusses the concept of "redemptive suffering" and how to transition from pain into a gift of sacrifice for others. This episode is a candid and heartfelt conversation on finding hope, learning to love hard, and embracing the imperfect beauty of life. Complete the following form to download more from Mary – including a favorite recipe that offers more than just food. https://wendycrafts.co/wendy-crafts-mary-lenaburg-on-faith-family-and-creative-healing/ Learn more about Mary’s journey and how to find hope through hardship by visiting . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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How a Single Card Can Spread Joy to Millions
08/27/2025
How a Single Card Can Spread Joy to Millions
In a digital world, the Creative Kindness Foundation proves the power of a tangible connection. Megan Stahlecker, from the Arizona-based non-profit, shares how their organization collects handmade cards from crafters to distribute to millions of people in need of cheer and support. This act of creative giving not only brings joy to recipients but also provides healing and purpose for the crafters themselves, creating a cyclical ripple effect of kindness. Follow this link to learn how you can share your cards across the world: Learn more about Creative Kindness Foundation on - or online at . Contact: support@creativekindness.org Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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Finding Hope and Empathy After Loss
08/13/2025
Finding Hope and Empathy After Loss
When Tiffany Wachtler lost her mother, she discovered the power of creative compassion and the importance of having a community that "loves you a little louder". This experience inspired her to create The Kindness Concierge, a service that helps people show up for loved ones in difficult seasons. She shares how laughter, music, and simple, thoughtful gestures become powerful tools for healing. This episode is a heartfelt guide to moving through grief, offering hope and practical ways to support others without feeling paralyzed. Follow this link to find the right words for any occasion. https://wendycrafts.co/wendy-crafts-finding-hope-and-empathy-with-tiffany-wachtler-of-the-kindess-concierge/ Learn more about Tiffany Wachtler and The Kindness Concierge on or online at . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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Reclaiming Flow: How to Find Creative Resilience
07/30/2025
Reclaiming Flow: How to Find Creative Resilience
Joining us is artist and designer Lisa Congdon as she reveals the vital role of community in fostering a thriving creative life. Discover her journey into sobriety, a transformative decision that brought profound clarity and reshaped her approach to work and well-being. Lisa shares how finding her "creative allies" and establishing firm boundaries, including "loud quitting" obligations, has cultivated spaciousness and sustained her artistic passion. This discussion offers invaluable lessons on embracing vulnerability, defining success on your own terms, and nurturing the relationships that truly uplift your creative spirit. Follow the link for more information on Lisa’s creative journey — and how her work can inspire you. https://wendycrafts.co/wendy-crafts-lisa-congdon-on-creative-resilience/ Connect with Lisa on or online at Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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Embracing Emotions Through Tattoo Art
07/16/2025
Embracing Emotions Through Tattoo Art
Discover how the deeply personal art of tattooing can be a powerful source of healing and self-expression. Joining us is Wendy’s own tattoo artist, Topher Charnley, to explore the adventurous journey of an artist whose creative life bloomed from family interactions, upbringing, and even a mental health diagnosis. Topher reveals how his art has manifested over the years and the profound impact this intimate art form has on both him and his hundreds of clients. This episode dives into the therapeutic aspects of creativity, including how art provides a conscious meditative space, a reprieve from overthinking, and a way to process emotions. Sharing his experience navigating bipolar disorder and how he's learned to harness his emotional cycles to his artistic advantage. Learn about the unique relationships between tattoo artists and clients, the transformative power of a new tattoo, and why comparison is a trap. This conversation will inspire you to embrace creativity as a vital tool for mental well-being and personal growth. Takeaways The creative life of an artist can begin at any point. Support from family is crucial for nurturing creativity. Creativity can serve as a form of meditation and emotional balance. Art can help process and deal with mental health challenges. Navigating ADHD and bipolarity can influence creative expression. Tattooing creates deep connections between artists and clients. Memorial tattoos serve as a way to honor lost loved ones. Art can be a way to express emotions that are hard to verbalize. The experience of getting a tattoo is a roller coaster of emotions. Creativity is a gift that can help others heal. Follow this link for tips on how to select you first or next tattoo: Learn more about Topher on and check out Black Lantern Collective on . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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The Unwilting Power of Creativity
07/02/2025
The Unwilting Power of Creativity
What if creativity was your best friend? In this episode, we meet Liz Carter, the visionary behind Unwilted. Liz, with a background in fresh florals, discovered a profound need for creativity amidst life's trials. Her journey took an extraordinary turn, transforming her love for fleeting blooms into exquisite, everlasting paper flowers. Liz shares how life's hardships became catalysts for healing and artistic innovation. Discover her unique approach to the "flow state" in crafting, balancing artistic vision with the realities of entrepreneurship. Liz candidly discusses the challenge of perfectionism and the liberating power of embracing mistakes in her creative process. Hear inspiring anecdotes about how Unwilted's long-lasting floral creations bring joy and comfort to others, filling spaces and hearts with enduring beauty. This episode is a testament to resilience, highlighting how creativity can be a constant, nurturing companion through every season of life, fostering growth and bringing joy to both maker and recipient. Takeaways Creativity can be a constant, supportive presence. Creativity can be a source of healing through hardship. Mistakes play a part in the creative process. Art provides enduring beauty and comfort to others. The importance of self-care to maintain creative well-being. Learn more about Liz on - - - and online at . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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Unlock Your Happiness: How to Live a More Joyful Life
06/18/2025
Unlock Your Happiness: How to Live a More Joyful Life
Ever wonder if you truly have control over your happiness? In this enlightening episode, speaker and consultant Buck Davis reveals a compelling truth: nearly 50% of your happiness is within your daily control. This is a thought-provoking conversation that challenges common beliefs about well-being and offers actionable strategies for cultivating a more joyful life. Buck, who confidently calls himself the most optimistic person he knows, breaks down the science of happiness, explaining the impact of genetics, life circumstances, and, most importantly, intentional activity. Discover why chasing external achievements often leads to "arrival fallacy" and how true, lasting joy is found in the journey. Learn about the dangers of rumination and how engaging in creative pursuits, like crafting, can serve as a powerful antidote, fostering a 'flow state' that distracts from negativity and cultivates positive emotions. This episode will equip you with three easy ways to boost your happiness, starting today, and inspire you to embrace creativity as a vital tool for mental well-being. Takeaways Your happiness is nearly 50% within your control. 50% of our happiness comes from genetics. 10% of happiness is based on life circumstances. 40% of your happiness is your intentional activity. Practicing gratitude can boost joy and happiness levels. Happiness is a universal emotion we all crave. Crafting helps you stay fully present in the moment. Rumination can lead to deeper negativity and pessimism. Creativity can help you increase your positive emotions. Tactile savoring is important to our happiness. For Buck’s go-to tips for finding your creative joy follow this link: Learn more about Buck Davis on - - - and online at . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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How to Connect Globally Through Colorful Creativity
06/04/2025
How to Connect Globally Through Colorful Creativity
What if your deepest personal journey could become a source of global inspiration? In this episode, we uncover how Claudia Ramos, a graphic designer and artist was able to bring her vibrant creations to a worldwide audience. We explore how she was able to weave a tapestry from her heritage, family, and the raw beauty of her life's adventures; even the tear-stained ones. Discover how Claudia's story, painted in hues of gratitude, healing, and profound humility, can ignite a spark of joy and understanding in your own heart. Takeaways Living a creative life means adventure. Childhood experiences shape our creative journeys. Community support is vital for creative growth. Finding time for personal creativity is essential. Creativity should be prioritized, not seen as selfish. Small steps can lead to significant creative progress. Sharing personal stories through art can inspire others. Embracing creativity can lead to healing and joy. Learn more about Claudia on - - For Hola! Mijas Bonitas go to - - . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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One Stitch at a Time: Healing Through Creativity
05/21/2025
One Stitch at a Time: Healing Through Creativity
When life throws its heaviest blows, creativity can be the unexpected hand that lifts you. Discover how crochet became more than just a hobby for Elise Speed; it became a lifeline. In her darkest hours, a forgotten childhood skill (crochet) emerged as a powerful form of therapy and resilience. Hear about how this unexpected hobby became a saving grace, a path to healing, and a source of strength for her entire family, ultimately blossoming into an online success that continues to mend their hearts. Takeaways Elise found healing through crochet after her son's diagnosis. The flow state allows for deep presence in creative activities. Navigating her son's health challenges reshaped Elise's perspective. Crochet became a vital hobby during stressful times. Balancing family responsibilities with creative pursuits is possible. Crafting offers significant mental and physical health benefits. Creativity fosters personal growth and confidence. Embracing imperfection is key to enjoying creative endeavors. Community support enhances the creative experience. Self-care is essential for caregivers and creatives alike. Follow this link for your free guide to start your crochet journey! Learn more about Elise Speed on - - - . Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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Anna Griffin: The Heart of Crafting
05/05/2025
Anna Griffin: The Heart of Crafting
What truly fuels crafting icon Anna Griffin’s creativity? It's not just about the beautiful card making and paper crafting supplies she creates. Discover the heart behind the brand in this inspiring episode. You'll learn why the vibrant community Anna has intentionally cultivated through initiatives like the heartwarming Fan Mail Friday and her immersive virtual crafting events, Create, has ignited a global movement centered on kindness, positivity, and profound hope. We explore the origins of the "Griffinites" moniker, the passionate self-given name of Anna's devoted fanbase. Hear the story behind the evolution of her Create events, from intimate in-person gatherings to the accessible virtual experiences that have connected crafters worldwide. Discover the magic of the virtual craft room and the deep friendships forged within this supportive space. Ultimately, understand why fostering community and connection stands as Anna Griffin's most cherished creation, offering a powerful antidote to isolation and a beacon of belonging for crafters everywhere. Takeaways The community created through crafting is more important than profits. Virtual crafting events have transformed the way crafters connect. Friendships formed through crafting events are invaluable. Crafting can be a healing process for mental well-being. Making time for creativity is essential for self-care. It's not about skill; it's about the willingness to create. Learn more about Anna Griffin on - - - - - and online at . Follow this link to find your creative community: Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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Anna Griffin: Healing Through Crafting
05/05/2025
Anna Griffin: Healing Through Crafting
Behind the sparkle and success, crafting icon Anna Griffin reveals a lifelong battle with self-worth. In this raw and honest conversation, Anna peels back the layers, sharing how childhood challenges shaped her creative journey and became both solace and escape. In this episode, discover the pivotal moments of resilience, from navigating business pivots to enduring personal loss, and how crafting became a powerful tool for rebuilding self-esteem. Experience Anna's emotional breakthrough in embracing love and validation, offering a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with their inner voice. This is more than crafting; it's a story of healing, bravery, and the transformative power of creativity. Takeaways Anna's childhood crafting experiences were a source of joy and escape. Creativity has been a lifelong companion for Anna, deeply embedded in her identity. Resilience is crucial for navigating the challenges of running a business. Crafting can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. Community support plays a vital role in personal healing and growth. Crafting serves as a safe space for emotional expression and healing. Positive inner dialogue can be cultivated through creative practices. Anna's journey highlights the interconnectedness of creativity and mental health. Learn more about Anna Griffin on - - - - - and online at .Also, check out Anna's video community. Link is below. Anna's Video Community Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at . This podcast is produced by .
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Your Creative Path to Healing: The Wendy Crafts Podcast
05/05/2025
Your Creative Path to Healing: The Wendy Crafts Podcast
Creativity has the power to heal. Welcome to the Wendy Crafts podcast, a space dedicated to exploring the powerful intersection of creativity and healing. Join Wendy Townley as she engages in heartfelt conversations with fellow creatives, diving into how their artistic passions serve as a means of navigating life's challenges, finding solace, and even facilitating profound healing for themselves and others. Discover the stories behind the crafting, not just the creative process and the beautiful outcomes, but the personal journeys that led individuals to their crafts and the pivotal role creativity has played in their resilience and growth. Through open and vulnerable conversations, Wendy creates a safe space for sharing, inspiring you to reflect on your own experiences and the potential for creativity to aid in healing. Each episode offers stories of inspiration, perseverance, endurance, and transformation, revealing the common threads that connect us all through our shared human experience and the remarkable ways in which creativity fosters our well-being. Subscribe to the Wendy Crafts podcast and embark on a journey of discovery, finding comfort and perhaps your own path to healing through the work of your heart and hands. Check out Wendy Crafts on - - - - and online at .
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