The Create! Podcast
The Create! Podcast (formerly Art & Cocktails) is your space for inspiration, encouragement, and practical insight at the intersection of contemporary art, creative business, and mindset. Hosted by artist, coach, and Create! Magazine founder Ekaterina Popova, the show is designed to help you grow your art career, expand your creative vision, and build a sustainable, joyful life. Through candid conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, writers, curators, and thought leaders—as well as empowering solo episodes—you’ll find tools, ideas, and stories that remind you that life itself is your canvas, and you have the power to create a career and future that truly supports you. Find us at www.createmagazine.co/podcast — where the conversation about art and business starts.
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Tax and Money Conversations for Sensitive Creatives with Hannah Cole of Sunlight Tax
11/20/2025
Tax and Money Conversations for Sensitive Creatives with Hannah Cole of Sunlight Tax
Welcome back to the show! We are thrilled to host the incredible Hannah Cole of Sunlight Tax to talk about her new book, Taxes for Humans: A Simple Guide to the Taxes That Rule Your Life. This episode is must listen material for artists, curators, freelancers, and gallery professionals who want a kinder, clearer way to deal with money and taxes. Hannah is an exhibiting artist turned tax professional. She shares the personal story of being dismissed by an accountant and how that experience inspired her to build a more humane, accessible approach to taxes for creatives. If you have ever felt judged, confused, or “bad with money,” this conversation will feel like a deep exhale. You will hear Hannah reframe money as a tool for good, with examples like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, and offer encouragement for anyone who has avoided looking at their numbers out of shame or fear. ✨ Current Open Call at Create! Magazine Share your work with us for upcoming issues and opportunities here: In this episode, we talk about: ✍️ The inspiration behind Taxes for Humans and why Hannah put everything she teaches in her programs into one affordable, comprehensive book (just 27 dollars). 🚫 How being dismissed by an accountant pushed her to create Sunlight Tax and become an advocate for creative people who are tired of feeling talked down to. 🤯 Why the fear of “not having it together” is the number one thing creative entrepreneurs have in common and how it fuels imposter syndrome. 🎨 The artist and accountant divide, and how Hannah bridges two very different worlds so artists can step into their power as entrepreneurs. ✨ How to get good at taxes and money management while keeping your soul, your vision, and your unique creative spark. 💰 A simple mindset shift to see money as a powerful tool for impact instead of something scary or shameful. 📈 Hobby versus business, what the IRS actually looks for, and why the bar for being considered a business is much lower than most artists think. 🧾 The single most important first technical step you can take today to get organized and compliant, even if you feel behind. Hannah’s approach is a beautiful balance of order and creative chaos. She shows you that you can be a serious artist and also be excellent at money and taxes. Do not let fear keep you out of the studio or away from the career you really want. Connect with Hannah Cole and Sunlight Tax 📚 Get the Book Taxes for Humans: A Simple Guide to the Taxes That Rule Your Life 🌈 Free Tax Deduction Guide Download Hannah’s rainbow colored visual guide to tax deductions to print and pin above your desk: 🌐 Website 📸 Instagram @sunlighttax
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Finding Harmony, Gratitude, and Bringing Art into Communities with Artist Leslie Braginsky
11/12/2025
Finding Harmony, Gratitude, and Bringing Art into Communities with Artist Leslie Braginsky
We’re celebrating one million downloads! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for tuning in, sharing the show, and leaving us love on iTunes. I’m so grateful to be able to share this program with you and our creative community. In this episode of Create! Podcast, host Ekaterina Popova sits down with Colombian artist and designer Leslie Braginsky to talk about gratitude, harmony, and the beauty of bringing art into communities. Leslie shares her inspiring journey from Colombia to the U.S., how gratitude shaped her perspective as an artist and mother, and how she began creating inclusive, meditative coloring books that celebrate women of all backgrounds and body types. Together, Kat and Leslie discuss how to reconnect with creativity for joy—not just productivity—and how to create harmony between art, business, and life. Leslie also shares how she’s using art to build connection in her local community through collaborative coloring gatherings. Before the interview, Kat reflects on balance and alignment and invites artists to submit their work to Create! Magazine’s Winter Solstice 2026 Print Issue, curated by Sarah Potter, celebrating transformation, renewal, and light through the dark. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How gratitude can transform your creative practice Finding beauty and self-acceptance through art The importance of making art for joy, not just results How to bring art into your community and create meaningful connections Leslie’s story of healing, motherhood, and creative flow Links Mentioned: ✨ Submit to the Winter Solstice 2026 Issue: 🎨 Explore Create! Magazine: 💖 Learn More About Leslie Braginsky: Website: Instagram: Amazon Author Page: 🖌️ Connect with Kat: Website: Instagram:
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Learning to Trust Your Creativity and Falling in Love with Your Art with Carrie Schmitt
11/05/2025
Learning to Trust Your Creativity and Falling in Love with Your Art with Carrie Schmitt
Inspiring episode of The Create Podcast, host Ekaterina (Kat) Popova sits down with artist, author, and creativity coach Carrie Schmitt to explore what it means to fall in love with your creativity again — to trust it, surrender to it, and let it lead you toward healing and joy. Carrie shares her powerful story of transformation, from facing a life-threatening illness to rediscovering painting as a divine and loving force that carried her through darkness and back into light. Together, Kat and Carrie discuss creativity as a sacred relationship — one rooted in devotion, acceptance, and self-compassion rather than perfection or control. You’ll hear insights on: Reconnecting with your creative spirit through trust and love Letting go of judgment, pressure, and self-criticism Finding inspiration and meaning in difficult seasons Healing creative wounds and learning to create for joy, not approval Viewing creativity as a living, supportive presence in your life Carrie’s book, Awakening Creativity: A Sacred Journey to Reclaim Your Inner Artist, is an invitation to remember the beauty and wisdom that flow through you every time you create. 🕊️ Mentioned in This Episode Awakening Creativity: A Sacred Journey to Reclaim Your Inner Artist by Carrie Schmitt Create Magazine’s Winter Solstice 2026 Print Issue, curated by Sarah Potter → Submit your work: Explore micro-courses and creative business resources at 🎧 Connect Follow Kat on Instagram: Follow Create! Magazine: Discover Carrie’s art, retreats, and programs:
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Detours are Destiny: Chasing Dreams, Secret Art, and Approaching Business with Creativity with Nishant Jain (The Sneaky Artist)
10/30/2025
Detours are Destiny: Chasing Dreams, Secret Art, and Approaching Business with Creativity with Nishant Jain (The Sneaky Artist)
Sometimes the most meaningful parts of our creative journey are the detours — the moments when we think we’ve failed or lost our way, only to realize we’ve discovered something new. Like a labyrinth, life guides us toward the next best thing, often better than we could have imagined. In this episode, host Ekaterina (Kat) Popova sits down with Nishant Jain, also known as The Sneaky Artist, to talk about curiosity, permission, and finding beauty in the everyday. Nishant shares how writer’s block led him to a thriving art practice, how he built a loyal global community through Substack, and why keeping secrets and creating privately can reignite your passion. If you’ve ever questioned your creative direction or struggled to share your art meaningfully in the digital age, this conversation will remind you that detours are destiny — and that creativity doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. 🖋️ About the Guest Nishant Jain is an artist, writer, and podcaster known as The Sneaky Artist. He sketches people and places in public spaces, capturing the quiet poetry of daily life. A former engineer and scientist, Nishant left academia to pursue storytelling full-time. His new book, Make Sneaky Art, invites readers to build a joyful sketchbook habit rooted in curiosity and play. Book Tour → Buy the Book → Follow Nishant → ✨ Episode Highlights How creative detours become the path to purpose Reframing failure through curiosity and exploration Balancing art-making with building a creative business Why keeping a “secret sketchbook” protects your voice Building authentic connection through storytelling Thank you to Our Sponsor Welcome to the Jungle — Josh Brown’s immersive exhibition — opens in New York City this November. For two days only, canvases pulse with color, hidden gazes peek from the leaves, and the city transforms into something wild, alive, and untamed. 📍 147 Broome St, NYC 🗓️ November 14–16 Join Josh Brown’s studio list at for RSVP access, collector previews, and behind-the-scenes as the jungle comes to life. Interested in sponsoring The Create! Podcast or advertising with Create! Magazine? Contact for information and options. 💖 About the Host Ekaterina Popova is an artist, certified master coach, and founder of Create! Magazine and Create U. Through her podcast and platforms, she helps artists and visionaries build joyful, sustainable careers on their own terms. Explore: Learn: Read: Follow: @katerinaspopova @createmagazine
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Sneaky Ways Your Ego is Sabotaging Your Growth (and How to Shift It) + Q&A with Kat
10/24/2025
Sneaky Ways Your Ego is Sabotaging Your Growth (and How to Shift It) + Q&A with Kat
Hello, beautiful souls. Welcome back to The Create! Podcast with me, your host, Kat. In today’s episode, I’m diving into a topic that’s been deeply present in my own creative journey — the sneaky ways our ego can sabotage our growth and how to shift it. Our ego often shows up in disguise: through comparison, fear, doubt, or even the desire to “grow too fast.” It’s that part of us that tells us we need a certain number to feel safe or successful, that we “should be further ahead,” or that our current progress isn’t enough. I’ll share how these patterns have shown up in my own business and art career — and the lessons I learned while reclaiming gratitude, trust, and presence in the process. Then, I’ll be answering your amazing questions from our Create! community over at @createmagazine broadcast channel, including: How to handle taxes or debt while starting your creative business What to do during slower art seasons and how to prepare for them How to navigate criticism from friends or other artists And how to start attracting more collectors and buyers on social media Before we dive in, a quick reminder that enrollment is now open for my live coaching program, The Art of Money — a six-week experience designed to help you release money blocks, rewrite your money story, and step into a new level of abundance and confidence as a creative entrepreneur. We begin November 4, and I would love to guide you through this next chapter. 👉 Join here: You can also explore Create! Magazine, discover featured artists, and stay inspired at If this episode resonates, share it with a creative friend, tag me on Instagram , and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new release. Thank you so much for tuning in — I’m so grateful for you. If this episode resonates, please leave us a review on iTunes, it means the world!
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How to Build Unshakable Belief in Yourself and a Healthy Money Mindset with Emily Williams
10/19/2025
How to Build Unshakable Belief in Yourself and a Healthy Money Mindset with Emily Williams
In this episode, host Ekaterina Popova talks with coach and author Emily Williams, founder of I Heart My Life and creator of the I Heart Money Method. Emily shares how belief fuels action, how to move through comparison and setbacks, and how simple micro upgrades can shift your relationship with abundance. This is a grounded conversation for artists and creative entrepreneurs who want growth without burnout. 💡 What You’ll Learn How to generate belief before results Practical ways to move through fear, doubt, and comparison Micro upgrades that shift money mindset without overspending Turning setbacks into leadership and service Blending simple strategy with mindset for sustainable growth 🔗 Links Join Art of Money Coaching with Kat → Create! Magazine → Ekaterina Popova on Instagram → Create! Magazine on Instagram → Emily Williams Website → Emily on Instagram → The I Heart My Life Show Podcast →
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Facing the Haunted House of Our Finances: How to Release the Ghosts Holding Creatives Back from Success and Abundance with Kat
10/14/2025
Facing the Haunted House of Our Finances: How to Release the Ghosts Holding Creatives Back from Success and Abundance with Kat
Hello, beautiful friends. It’s spooky season, with cold mornings, hot coffee, and time to face the real ghosts that haunt artists and creative entrepreneurs: scarcity, unworthiness, dabbling, and fear of expansion. In this episode, we walk room by room through the haunted house of money. Kat shares practical tools, mindset reframes, and nervous system rituals to help you release fear, build self-trust, and transform your financial story into fertile ground for growth. Nothing is wasted. Even past mistakes can become compost for future abundance. In This Episode The ghost of scarcity and how to feel safe in success The phantom of unworthiness that hides behind perfectionism The spirit of dabbling and how to replace distraction with devotion The fear of expansion and how to stay grounded while growing Practical rituals for safety, clarity, and abundance Listen If You Want To Stop letting money anxiety control your art practice Reconnect with your creativity as a source of abundance Learn how to regulate your nervous system when success feels scary Feel empowered to charge your worth and grow sustainably Join The Art of Money If you’re ready to heal your relationship with money, worth, and abundance, join Kat’s live group program: 👉 Inside this experience, you will: Identify and release money blocks and old stories Build financial safety and self-trust Create practical structure for your creative income Learn tools to manage and grow your money with ease Program runs November through December. Spaces are limited. Connect & Learn More 🌐 — Read new artist features, open calls, and creative career articles. 📚 — Explore micro-courses for artists and creative entrepreneurs. 💌 — Weekly essays, artist spotlights, and creative business advice. 🎨 — Daily art, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes updates. Disclaimer This episode is for educational and coaching purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult a licensed professional for personalized guidance.
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Meet Your Shadow: How to Go Deeper in Your Creative Practice with Chelsey Pippin Mizzi
10/06/2025
Meet Your Shadow: How to Go Deeper in Your Creative Practice with Chelsey Pippin Mizzi
In this week’s episode, Kat is joined by Chelsey Pippin Mizzi, author of The Shadow Path, to explore how shadow work can deepen your creative process and bring more honesty and depth into your art. Together, they discuss how the parts of ourselves we often avoid might hold the key to the work we’re truly meant to make. Discover gentle, practical ways to meet your shadow through tarot, dream journaling, and ritual—and learn how to see this work as a safe retreat rather than a confrontation. 🌒 Highlights What shadow work is and what it isn’t How to meet and name your shadow with curiosity and compassion The creative power of what’s hidden: why your “shadow” often holds your best ideas A gentle 10-week structure for working through The Shadow Path How shadow work can help you reconnect with authenticity, depth, and creative flow One simple daily practice to begin integrating your shadow today 🔮 Resources Mentioned The Shadow Path by Chelsey Pippin Mizzi Tarot for Creativity and The Tarot Spreads Yearbook by Chelsey Pippin Mizzi Tarot for Change by Jessica Dore The Artist’s Way and The Listening Path by Julia Cameron — an educator and writer guiding inner work through archetypal studies and Jungian psychology, offering structured yet intuitive frameworks and tools for personal growth Jungian Online courses on self-portraiture and shadow work Upcoming Dark Shadow, Golden Shadow by Shannon of The Tarot Diagnosis Chelsey’s website: Instagram: Sponsored by Create! Magazine This episode is brought to you by Create! Magazine, your destination for contemporary art, inspiration, and opportunity. ✨ Open Call: The Spirit World is now live! Submit your work to be part of our upcoming curated virtual exhibition and printed catalog exploring the mystical, spiritual, and uncanny. Deadline: October 31, 2025 👉 Submit your art at 🖤 Connect Explore Create! Magazine: Read our Substack: Join our learning platform: Follow Kat on Instagram: Follow Create! Magazine:
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Being a Magic Maker: Pam Grossman on Magic, Creativity, and the Enchanted Path of Art
10/02/2025
Being a Magic Maker: Pam Grossman on Magic, Creativity, and the Enchanted Path of Art
Welcome back to the Create Podcast. Just in time for the fall season, I am joined by Pam Grossman, a writer, curator, teacher, and practicing witch whose work beautifully bridges creativity, culture, and magic. Pam is the host of The Witch Wave podcast (called “the Terry Gross of witches” by Vulture), the author of Waking the Witch: Reflections on Women, Magic, and Power, and co-editor of Taschen’s Witchcraft volume in the Library of Esoterica series. Her essays have appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, TIME, and more. She has also organized exhibitions such as Language of the Birds: Occult and Art at NYU and spoken at institutions including MoMA and Columbia University. Her brand-new book, Magic Maker: The Enchanted Path to Creativity (Penguin Life & Hay House UK, October 14, 2025), is a guide to connecting with the creative force through ritual, history, and practice. It explores how artists and visionaries such as Hilma af Klint, David Bowie, Octavia E. Butler, and Leonora Carrington have used magic as part of their creative process, and how you can do the same in your own life. In This Episode, We Discuss Pam’s creative roots and how she began merging her artistic and magical practices Misconceptions about witchcraft and how the archetype of the witch has evolved How Magic Maker links art and magic, showing that creativity itself can be a spiritual practice Practical rituals to protect your studio time and invite inspiration, from lighting candles to leaving offerings or simply asking for guidance The idea of “low frequency” and “high frequency” desires in art and business, and how to balance material needs with higher intentions Pam’s experiences speaking at institutions like MoMA and casting a love spell on stage at Carnegie Hall with Jinkx Monsoon The role of research, fascination, and intuition when writing a book Artists who inspire her including Leonora Carrington, Remedios Varo, Hilma af Klint, Max Ernst, and Kurt Seligmann Resources and Mentions Books by Pam Grossman Magic Maker: The Enchanted Path to Creativity (Penguin Life & Hay House UK, 2025) → Waking the Witch: Reflections on Women, Magic, and Power (Simon & Schuster, 2019) What Is a Witch (Tin Can Forest Press, 2016) Witchcraft (Taschen’s Library of Esoterica series, co-edited with Jessica Hundley, 2020) Podcast – Pam’s long-running podcast on art, culture, and magic Exhibitions and Projects Language of the Birds: Occult and Art (NYU, 2016) → Art of the Occult by S. Elizabeth (recommended resource) The Spiritual in Art: Abstract Painting 1890–1985 (Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 1986) Artists Mentioned Hilma af Klint David Bowie Octavia E. Butler Leonora Carrington Remedios Varo Max Ernst Kurt Seligmann Create! Magazine Open Call We are now accepting submissions for our fall curated exhibition and catalog: The Spirit World. This virtual show explores the mystical, eerie, and uncanny, making it the perfect theme for the season. Deadline: October 31, 2025 What selected artists receive: inclusion in the curated online exhibition, a feature in the professionally designed print and digital catalog, a blog post on Create! Magazine, and a spotlight across our international platforms. 👉
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The 2025 Creator Stack for Artists: What's Working to Grow Business, How to Use Time Wisely, and Not Burn Out While Showing the F Up
09/23/2025
The 2025 Creator Stack for Artists: What's Working to Grow Business, How to Use Time Wisely, and Not Burn Out While Showing the F Up
In this episode, I (host Ekaterina Popova) dive into what I call The 2025 Creator Stack for Artists. These are the four simple tools you need to build trust, grow your audience, and create consistent income without burning out. We are in what I call a trust recession. Algorithms keep changing, AI noise is everywhere, and collectors are more selective than ever. That does not mean your art business has to suffer. I am sharing what has been working for me this year, the lessons I have learned, and how you can lean into connection, trust, and real growth. 🎉 Special Announcement Create! Magazine is celebrating its ninth anniversary. To mark the occasion, we have opened our Call for Art for Issue #54, our anniversary edition. Selected artists will be featured in print and digital editions, on our blog, and across our social platforms. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2025. Submit your work here: 🎙 What You’ll Hear in This Episode I share what the trust recession means for artists and why it can actually be an opportunity. I break down the four pillars of the Creator Stack, including community platforms, email lists, AI workflows, and simple sales systems that support growth without leading to burnout. You will also hear how I have been using these tools in my own practice and how you can adapt them to fit your creative business. 🌐 Connect + Explore Create! Magazine → Create U Courses → Instagram → | Substack →
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How to Talk About Art, Connect with Collectors Authentically, and Stay Nimble in Shifting Times with Liz Lidgett
09/17/2025
How to Talk About Art, Connect with Collectors Authentically, and Stay Nimble in Shifting Times with Liz Lidgett
Are people still buying art? The answer is yes. But how you talk about your work, connect with collectors, and navigate uncertainty can make all the difference. In this episode of The Create! Podcast, host Ekaterina Popova sits down with gallerist, author, and art advocate Liz Lidgett to discuss her upcoming book Art for Everyone, how to make art conversations more accessible, and the principles that keep artists and entrepreneurs resilient through shifting times. Liz shares powerful insights on: Why collectors are still buying and how to build trust in today’s market Simple, accessible ways to talk about your art without overcomplicating it The key role consistency, systems, and flexibility play in long-term success How to stay authentic and connected while showing up online and in person This conversation is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement for artists and entrepreneurs ready to thrive in today’s art world. 📚 Resources & Links Pre-order Liz’s book Art for Everyone: Collect art: Submit your work to Create! Magazine: Explore on-demand courses at Create U: Read more stories, tips, and interviews: Connect with us on Instagram: @createmagazine
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Our Next Chapter: Podcast, Magazine, and Community Together
09/13/2025
Our Next Chapter: Podcast, Magazine, and Community Together
In this special solo episode, I, Ekaterina Popova, share important updates about the future of the podcast, the magazine, and our community. What began back in 2018 as Art & Cocktails has now grown into more than 400 episodes featuring painters, sculptors, writers, mystics, musicians, and healers. After all these years, it is time for the next chapter. I am bringing the podcast back under the Create! Podcast name, and this shift reflects my broader vision of uniting the magazine, the membership, and the podcast under one roof. For me, this is about simplicity, synergy, and building a stronger creative home for artists, writers, entrepreneurs, and seekers of all kinds. In this episode, I share the journey from Art & Cocktails to Create Magazine and now back to Create. I explain why simplifying brands makes creative work stronger, how this rebrand will make resources and community more accessible, what the future of our membership will look like as it evolves into the Create Collective, and why this is not an ending but a natural expansion. Whether you have been here since the beginning or you are tuning in for the first time, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the heart of Create and where we are heading together. Explore Create Magazine’s Substack: Learn more about open calls and membership:
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Fortifying Your Money and Success Mindset Despite the Times
09/06/2025
Fortifying Your Money and Success Mindset Despite the Times
In this episode, I, Kat Popova, founder and editor of Create! Magazine and certified master coach, share practical ways for artists and creatives to strengthen their money and success mindset, even during uncertain times. You will learn how to release what is outside your control, rewrite limiting beliefs, focus on your desires and goals, and take small but powerful actions toward the future you want to create. Connect with us: Instagram: @createmagazine Resources:
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Reconnecting to Your Why and Finding Harmony in Art, Business, and Life
09/02/2025
Reconnecting to Your Why and Finding Harmony in Art, Business, and Life
Have you ever wanted to quit it all? The studio, the business, the endless to-do list? If so, you’re not alone. In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I share how I nearly walked away, and what brought me back. From seeing members across the world to a simple but powerful reminder about harmony, I’ll take you behind the scenes of my own turning point. Inside, you’ll discover: How to identify your roots and branches and use pruning season to your advantage Why harmony (not balance) helps you integrate art, business, and life Five practical strategies to help you move forward with clarity and confidence Reflection exercises you can apply right away ✨ Special Invitation Enrollment is now open for Art Queens Society. Early bird closes September 15, 2025 Final day to join this year is September 30, 2025 This is your chance to step into a supportive, inspiring community of ambitious women artists. Learn more at . Learn More & Connect With Us
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The Club: Discovering the Forgotten Parisian Haven for Women Artists with Jennifer Dasal
08/21/2025
The Club: Discovering the Forgotten Parisian Haven for Women Artists with Jennifer Dasal
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat Popova sits down with art historian, author, and podcast host Jennifer Dasal to talk about her latest book, The Club: Where American Women Artists Found Refuge in Belle Époque Paris (Bloomsbury, 2025). Jennifer shares the little-known story of the American Girls’ Club in Paris—a home-away-from-home for women artists during the late 19th century that became a vital hub for creativity, education, and connection. We dive into her passion for art history, her research process, and why community was just as important for artists in Belle Époque Paris as it is today. We also discuss: How Jennifer uncovers forgotten stories in art history Why Paris was a critical destination for American women artists The parallels between the struggles of 19th-century women artists and today’s ongoing inequities in the art world The importance of building supportive communities for artists at every stage ✨ Learn more about Jennifer and her work at ✨ Order Jennifer’s new book ✨ Join the waitlist for the Art Queens Society, Kat’s community for ambitious women artists:
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From Dream to Published: Kristy Gordon on Writing, Publishing, and Inspiring Artists
08/13/2025
From Dream to Published: Kristy Gordon on Writing, Publishing, and Inspiring Artists
Kristy returns to Art and Cocktails to share the inspiring story behind writing and publishing her book. We talk about the dream that began in childhood, the process of bringing it to life, and the milestones that followed. These include holding the finished copy in her hands, receiving an endorsement from Jerry Saltz, and seeing her work translated into Taiwanese. Kristy also addresses the myths that hold artists back from writing, why you do not have to identify as a “real writer” to publish a book, and how to navigate both traditional and self-publishing while keeping your vision intact. She shares details about her upcoming Essential Publishing Bootcamp with Frannie, a live two-day workshop that helps artists and creatives turn their book ideas into reality. Participants will learn about the different publishing paths, receive a step-by-step workflow for bringing a book to life, and review examples of real winning pitches that secured book deals. Whether you are interested in traditional publishing, indie presses, or self-publishing on Amazon, this workshop will provide the tools to make it happen. Kristy Gordon is a Canadian-born artist based in New York City whose paintings have been exhibited internationally, including at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Uris Center, the European Museum of Modern Art in Barcelona, and the National Academy Museum in New York City. She is a three-time recipient of the Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant and earned her MFA from the New York Academy of Art, where she now teaches. Her work appears in more than 600 collections worldwide and has been featured in Vogue, Hyperallergic, and Fine Art Connoisseur. She is represented by Garvey|Simon, Blumka Contemporary, and Grenning Gallery. Learn more about Kristy’s Essential Publishing Bootcamp and sign up at . Create! Magazine is now accepting submissions for our upcoming issue. Apply to the current call for art at . Publish your own art catalog:
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Back to Basics: Falling in Love Again and Building a Fun Art Practice with Kat
08/09/2025
Back to Basics: Falling in Love Again and Building a Fun Art Practice with Kat
Hello friends, and welcome to Art & Cocktails. In this solo episode, I’m Ekaterina Popova ( Kat), inviting you to return to the joy, curiosity, and grounding that comes from showing up for your art without overcomplication or pressure. This summer, I started a 100-day painting challenge that has completely reignited my love for the process. I share how working small, limiting my decisions, and committing to consistent daily practice has kept me inspired and overflowing with ideas. We discuss why slowing down and simplifying can help you create more, how to eliminate decision fatigue in your practice, the power of small daily creative commitments, using challenges to build confidence and spark inspiration, and how to protect your joy in art while still pursuing professional goals. Whether you’ve been in a creative rut or simply want to fall in love with making again, this episode will remind you why you started. Join the 100-Day Painting Challenge & Course. We start August 18, 2025. Learn alla prima techniques, get weekly demos, safe material tips, and join a supportive community committed to creating every day. Perfect for oil or acrylic painters. 👉 Enroll here: Mentioned in this episode: Emergency Exit group exhibition at Cole Gallery, Menorca — available works on Artsy: Read on Substack: If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review on iTunes. It helps us reach more creatives like you.
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Danielle Clough: Painting with Thread, Embracing Craft, and Following Creative Instincts
08/04/2025
Danielle Clough: Painting with Thread, Embracing Craft, and Following Creative Instincts
In this special episode of Art & Cocktails, artist Danielle Clough joins host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) to share her journey to becoming an internationally recognized embroidery artist. Known for her bold, painterly thread work and playful approach to fiber, Danielle opens up about finding her voice, building a creative career on her own terms, and embracing the power of intuition and process. She reflects on the evolution of her practice—from sewing plush toys and experimenting with “thread sketching” to creating intricate embroidered portraits that feel like paintings. Danielle also discusses her breakout moment with Colossal, the inspiration behind her newest solo show Crewel Intentions at Paradigm Gallery, and how she reimagines vintage imagery through a contemporary lens. This episode explores the value of craft in the art world, the importance of protecting what you love when working with commercial brands, and the joy of slowing down through hands-on making. Danielle offers heartfelt encouragement for emerging fiber artists and shares the story behind her iconic Instagram handle, . If you're in Philadelphia, don’t miss her solo exhibition Crewel Intentions, now on view at Paradigm Gallery. More info: Stay Connected Follow Danielle Clough: Website: Instagram: Apply to be featured in Create! Magazine’s 9-Year Anniversary Print Issue: Subscribe to Create! Dispatch on Substack: Explore artist courses and resources at Create U: Follow us on Instagram:
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Thriving as an Introvert in the Art World: Openings, Exhibitions & Networking on Your Terms
07/22/2025
Thriving as an Introvert in the Art World: Openings, Exhibitions & Networking on Your Terms
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, awkward, or drained by art openings or networking events, this episode is for you. Host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) shares supportive and practical advice for introverted artists who want to show up with authenticity and confidence without sacrificing their energy. You’ll learn how to prepare, what to say, and how to care for your emotional well-being before and after events. From conversation tips to grounding practices and confidence, this quick solo episode offers a gentle guide for navigating the social side of the art world in a way that honors your personality. Whether you are just beginning to attend shows again or want to expand your network while staying true to yourself, this conversation will help you feel less alone and more empowered. Topics Covered: • Mindset reframes for introverts • How to prepare for gallery events and conversations • Conversation starters and meaningful ways to connect • How to feel good in your body through wardrobe choices • Boundaries, exit strategies and post-event grounding • Alternatives to traditional networking Helpful Questions to Ask at Openings: • What brought you out tonight? • Are you one of the artists in the show? • Which work stood out to you? • I follow your work. It's so nice to see it in person. • I'm new to this space. Do you come here often? Recommended Resources: — online courses and community for artists Connect: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow artist and tag or on Instagram. We would love to hear what resonated with you or how you're learning to show up in your own way.
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Make It Weirder: Maggie Smith on Poetry, Success, and Creative Survival in the Age of AI
06/15/2025
Make It Weirder: Maggie Smith on Poetry, Success, and Creative Survival in the Age of AI
This episode is a dream come true. I sit down with bestselling author and poet Maggie Smith, whose viral poem Good Bones captured hearts around the world. We talk about navigating creative life with honesty and resilience—from managing unsupportive friends to staying grounded when the world starts watching. We also dive into her newest book, Dear Writer, and how artists can protect their joy, set boundaries, and thrive in the AI era by getting weird, staying real, and honoring their process. If you're a writer, artist, or creative soul trying to stay true to your work in a noisy world—this one's for you. In this episode, we talk about: What happened when Good Bones went viral (14:40) Why you don’t need to monetize everything you make (18:25) Dealing with unsupportive family and friends (30:00) How to write personal stories safely and honestly (42:10) Maggie’s approach to creative rhythm vs. consistency (52:30) Why imperfection, eccentricity, and “making it weirder” matter now more than ever (1:02:00) Guest Bio: Maggie Smith is the author of You Could Make This Place Beautiful, Good Bones, Goldenrod, and Keep Moving. Her poems and essays have appeared in The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Paris Review, and Best American Poetry. A recipient of fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and Ohio Arts Council, her next book Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life will be released in April 2025. Connect with Maggie Smith: Website: Instagram: Substack: For Dear Life Presented by Create! Magazine Submit to our open calls or subscribe to the digital edition at Let’s connect: Instagram: Host:
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Let the Place Speak: On Art, Life After Academia, Building a Practice on Our Own Terms, and Starting Again with Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg
06/05/2025
Let the Place Speak: On Art, Life After Academia, Building a Practice on Our Own Terms, and Starting Again with Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg
In this heartfelt and grounding conversation, Kat reconnects with her former professor, artist and printmaker Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg, to explore what it truly means to live a creative life—on your own terms. Cheryl shares how her work is shaped by place, walking, and deep observation—drawing inspiration from time spent in Wyoming, China, Finland, and her new home in Arizona. Together, they reflect on life after academia, the courage to start over, and the unexpected clarity that comes with experience, loss, and listening to the land. This episode is a balm for any artist feeling overwhelmed, out of place, or unsure of what comes next. It’s a reminder that your work doesn’t have to be impressive—it just has to be yours. In this episode, they discuss: Life after academia and what changed in higher education Making time for your art while raising a family or working full-time How Cheryl approaches residencies, place-based work, and listening Letting go of external pressure and creating from authenticity The real markers of a fulfilling creative life Advice for artists just beginning—or beginning again Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg Website: Instagram: ✨ Resources to Support Your Creative Path: Submit to Create! Magazine’s open call: Explore free artist tools + micro-courses at
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Beyond Trends: Tatum Dooley on Making the Art World More Interesting, Accessible, and Artist-Driven
06/03/2025
Beyond Trends: Tatum Dooley on Making the Art World More Interesting, Accessible, and Artist-Driven
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, host Ekaterina Popova speaks with Tatum Dooley—writer, brand strategist, and founder of Art Forecast. Tatum shares how she built a trusted curatorial platform that bridges art, fashion, and design while spotlighting emerging artists and helping demystify the art world. We discuss: How Art Forecast evolved from an Instagram account to a Substack and PR studio Why storytelling and consistency matter more than chasing trends How to build your own creative platform with purpose and integrity Practical advice for writers, curators, and creatives entering the art world Whether you’re an artist, curator, or collector, this episode will inspire you to think differently about visibility, community, and the future of contemporary art. Learn more about Art Forecast: 📷 Follow Tatum on Instagram: Sponsors: 🎁 Get free guides, templates, and artist tools to grow your creative career: Submit or subscribe to Create! Magazine: Start learning with micro-courses on Create U:
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The Creative Business Audit: Maximize Your Profit, Reclaim Your Time, and Make Space for What Matters
05/29/2025
The Creative Business Audit: Maximize Your Profit, Reclaim Your Time, and Make Space for What Matters
Feeling overwhelmed in your creative business? In this solo episode, Ekaterina Popova (Kat) walks you through how to do a Creative Business Audit—a practical process to clarify what’s working, where your time and energy are going, and how to boost your profit without burning out. Whether you're an artist, coach, designer, or creative founder—this episode will help you reset your priorities and build a business that actually supports your life and art. 🎯 You’ll Learn: How to audit your finances, time, and energy Why profit > revenue (and how to spot the difference) Simple tools to track what’s draining vs. energizing you When to delegate, hire, or pause offers How to shift from “doing it all” to working like a creative CEO 🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned: 📘 Profit First by Mike Michalowicz 📘 Chillpreneur by Denise Duffield-Thomas Optional: Use AI tools (like ChatGPT!) to analyze your bank statements and identify where income flows—and where you might be overspending 🔗 Featured Links: 👉 Build Your Art Career & Business at Create UTake instant-access micro-courses for artists and creative entrepreneurs. From press features to pricing and gallery strategy, get tools to grow your income, confidence, and visibility. 🎓 Start learning now at www.createu.co 👉 Submit to Create! Magazine's Fall 2025 IssueBe featured in print and digital, curated by art advisor Emily McElwreath. 🖼️ Apply now at www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art ✨ Let’s Connect: 🎁 Get free guides, templates, and artist tools to grow your creative career: 📸 Instagram: @createmagazine | @katerinaspopova 🌐 Website: 🎧 If you loved this episode, please subscribe, leave a review on iTunes, and share it with a creative friend. Your support helps keep this show ad-free and packed with value. 💛
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There is Nothing Left to Prove – It’s Already Yours! Energy & Creating from Alignment with Olga
05/19/2025
There is Nothing Left to Prove – It’s Already Yours! Energy & Creating from Alignment with Olga
In this uplifting and practical mindset episode, I’m joined by transformational coach and author Olga, whose new book It’s Already Yours offers a refreshing and accessible approach to identity, mindset, and aligned creation. We dive into: How your subconscious mind shapes your day-to-day reality The role of identity and nervous system regulation in reaching your goals Tools to gently shift out of doubt and into creative flow Why success comes from alignment—not from pushing harder How to move forward without needing everything to be “healed” first If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure of your next step, this episode is a reassuring reminder that you’re not broken—and your next level might be closer (and simpler) than you think. ✨ Brought to you by – On-demand micro-courses designed to support creative entrepreneurs. 📖 Order Olga’s book and explore her programs: 🎧 Subscribe to Art & Cocktails and follow + for more inspiration. 🖼️ Submit your work or read the magazine at:
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From Artist to Opportunity Creator: Entrepreneurial Mindset & Submission Tips with Sergio Gomez
05/15/2025
From Artist to Opportunity Creator: Entrepreneurial Mindset & Submission Tips with Sergio Gomez
In this inspiring episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat Popova sits down with artist, curator, educator, and coach Sergio Gomez to talk about what it truly means to be a successful artist in 2025. Sergio shares his incredible journey—from creating art while working a 9 to 5 job to launching a thriving gallery, curating international exhibitions, and mentoring artists through The Artist NXT Level. We explore: ✨ The power of adopting an entrepreneurial mindset 🎯 Becoming an opportunity creator, not just a seeker 🖼 What curators actually look for in juried shows and proposals 🌀 How to balance a multi-passionate art career 💡 Real-world tips for building a sustainable and soulful creative business Whether you're applying for open calls, refining your art career path, or seeking clarity in your next move—this episode is packed with grounded advice and encouragement. 🌿 Artist Opportunities Mentioned: Lightness of Being — Now accepting submissions at Presented by Create! Magazine and juried by Sergio Gomez. Selected artists will be featured in a curated virtual exhibition and beautifully designed print catalog. Deadline: May 30. Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize — Global award for emerging and established artists across all mediums. Submit at 🔗 Explore More: Sergio Gomez's art and projects: Kat’s personal website & coaching: Submit your work or read more at:
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What Artists Truly Need in 2025 (It’s Not More Content)
05/13/2025
What Artists Truly Need in 2025 (It’s Not More Content)
In this honest chat, Kat shares an unfiltered look at what artists like you and me truly need in 2025 and beyond. From navigating overwhelm and distraction to embracing deeper purpose and aligned visibility, this conversation is a reminder that you’re not alone—and that your art, your voice, and your vision still matter. This episode offers grounded encouragement to help you reconnect with your mission, regulate your nervous system, and create from a place of clarity. If you’ve been feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure about your next step, this episode is for you. You’ll hear Kat’s personal take on what’s working right now (and what’s not), including why being seen, building intentional income streams, and honoring your energy are some of the most important things you can do as an artist in this season. This isn’t a marketing episode or a how-to—it’s a permission slip to be human and to keep going. This episode is sponsored by Beautiful Bizarre Magazine Entries are now open for the 2025 Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize! Now in its 8th year, this annual non-acquisitive international art prize is administered by Beautiful Bizarre Magazine and celebrates diversity and excellence in the representational visual arts—including all static mediums: traditional, digital, and photographic. From realism and hyperrealism to pop surrealism and lowbrow, this prize honors it all. With over $77,000 in cash and prizes, including a $10,000 grand prize, this is an incredible opportunity to gain funding and global exposure for your work. Finalists will also have a chance to exhibit in the 2025 Beautiful Bizarre Magazine exhibition at Haven Gallery in New York, alongside 70 of the world’s top contemporary artists. You don’t need to submit a physical artwork—just upload an image of your favorite piece (even if it’s already sold). This year’s six award categories are: MPB Photography Award Digital Art Award The RAYMAR Painting Award Victoria Olt Gallery Drawing Award Yasha Young Projects Sculpture Award Catherine K. Gyllerstrom Emerging Artist Award There’s also a People’s Choice Award, offering a second chance to win with an additional $1,000 prize and a bespoke promotion package with Beautiful Bizarre Magazine. The team looks at every single entry—and many are shared online and on social media before the deadline—making this a powerful way to get noticed. 🗓 Entries close July 17, 2025 👉 Learn more and enter at Looking for support as you grow? Kat is now accepting new 1:1 and small group mentorship clients—ideal for creative entrepreneurs, artists, and art world professionals building their own path. Learn more and apply at Want to be published and featured? Create! Magazine’s latest Call for Art is now open—submit your work for a chance to be featured in print, online, and in upcoming exhibitions. Full details at Explore Create U For tools and support to build a sustainable, aligned creative career, check out —Kat’s digital school for artists and creative entrepreneurs. Inside, you’ll find micro-courses on selling your art, writing your bio, growing your audience, building income streams, and more. Kat also shares updates on her evolving coaching practice and her commitment to supporting creative leaders who are ready to build their own platforms and spaces in the art world. This is a raw, powerful episode that so many artists need to hear right now.
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Shrinking the Problem, Expanding the Dream: Trusting the Next Level and Letting Go
05/08/2025
Shrinking the Problem, Expanding the Dream: Trusting the Next Level and Letting Go
In this solo episode, host Kat — artist, certified coach, and founder of Create! Magazine — speaks directly to those navigating the in-between seasons of life and creativity: when the vision is clear, but momentum feels slow, and nothing seems to be moving fast enough. From reframing your challenges to trusting the pruning seasons, this episode is a reminder that you're not going backwards — you're evolving. You’ll learn how to stop over-identifying with obstacles, use tools like anchoring and “living as if,” and incorporate creative rituals like walking in nature to regulate your nervous system and reignite your vision. Kat also explores the concept of mental hygiene, reducing negativity, and cultivating a mindset that nurtures expansion instead of fear. This conversation is here to help you zoom out, reconnect with your inner knowing, and take aligned, empowered action — especially when the path ahead feels unclear. Limited time only: Grab the Art Career Bundle — a curated collection of 10 workshops designed to help artists step into visibility, sales, and strategic growth. It's 50% off through May 21 at . This is your reminder: your dream is real. You are not shrinking — you're expanding. Apply to work with Kat 1:1: Visit for recources and artist opportunities
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How We See and Understand Art with Gita Joshi
05/05/2025
How We See and Understand Art with Gita Joshi
What makes a work of art resonate? Is it the colors, the subject, the symbolism—or something more elusive? In this episode, curator, author, and coach Gita Joshi returns to talk about her new book Framing the Invisible: How We See and Understand Art. We explore how perception, personal experience, and context shape the way we engage with artwork—whether you're an artist, collector, or simply a curious viewer. We also talk about why visual literacy matters, how to talk about your work with confidence, and why there's no wrong way to see art. Order Gita’s book: Start learning with our educational micro learning hub: Read the blog, submit your work, or check out the latest issue of Create! Magazine: Follow Gita on Instagram: Follow Kat on Instagram: Thanks for listening to Art & Cocktails! Love the show? We appreciate your support, plese leave us a quick review on iTunes and share this with a friend.
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Why Your Pitch Isn’t Landing—And How to Actually Get Published in Magazines, Podcasts, and More with Kat
04/30/2025
Why Your Pitch Isn’t Landing—And How to Actually Get Published in Magazines, Podcasts, and More with Kat
If you’ve ever thought, “Why am I not getting featured?”—this episode is for you. Whether your pitches are met with silence, you’re dropping “feature me” comments under open calls, or you’re simply unsure how to approach editors, this is the (loving) tough-love conversation you didn’t know you needed. In this solo episode, Kat shares raw insight from her unique perspective as both a published artist and the editor of Create! Magazine. You’ll learn why some pitches get ignored (even when the art is strong), what editors are actually looking for, and how to approach press and media outreach with clarity, professionalism, and confidence. She also pulls back the curtain on behind-the-scenes stories and common mistakes that hold artists back—like relying solely on social media comments, sending vague DMs, or coming off too self-promotional. You’ll leave with a grounded understanding of how to share your work in a way that actually resonates. Kat also explores the energetic and mindset side of visibility—because getting featured isn’t just about tactics. It’s about believing you’re worthy of being seen, celebrated, and supported. Want to take it further? Grab Kat’s new mini course: How to Get Featured in Magazines and Press as an Artist at . It’s just $39 and includes a 40-minute video training, pitch templates, a press kit checklist, and Kat’s exact system that’s helped hundreds of artists land meaningful features. New to juried submissions? Make sure you’re not skipping the basics—download our free guide: . Your work deserves to be seen. Let’s make sure the right people find it. Listen now, share with a fellow artist, and start visualizing your next feature—because it’s possible, and it’s closer than you think.
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What 9 Years of Self-Employment Taught Me About Selling Art, Standing Out, and Scaling a Creative Life with Kat
04/22/2025
What 9 Years of Self-Employment Taught Me About Selling Art, Standing Out, and Scaling a Creative Life with Kat
In this solo episode of Art & Cocktails, I’m (Ekaterina Popova) celebrating my nine-year self-employment anniversary—marking the moment I walked out of my corporate job and committed to building a life as a full-time artist and creative entrepreneur. This conversation blends personal storytelling with practical strategies for artists who are just starting out, those in the thick of building, and anyone dreaming of making their creative practice sustainable. I share what worked for me when I had fewer than 300 followers, no gallery representation, and no real roadmap—just passion, urgency, and the willingness to figure it out. You’ll hear what helped me sell my first artworks, grow beyond friends and family, and start showing up professionally long before I felt “ready.” Topics include: How I made my first sales with a small audience What to post and how to talk about your work Why local shows and early wins deserve celebration How I began getting noticed by curators and galleries What I did to prepare for opportunities before they happened Why I built Create! Magazine to support other artists like me The shift from doing everything to scaling through systems Why you don’t need to go viral to succeed How creative leadership changed my business and energy I also talk about growing Create U, embracing structure as a form of freedom, and what I’ve learned about building a business that allows for rest, alignment, and long-term joy—not just hustle. If you’re navigating a season of growth or feel like you're on the edge of something new, I hope this episode encourages you to take your next brave step. Explore resources mentioned in this episode: Sell From the Studio course at Create U: Submit to Create! Magazine: Read and subscribe to my Substack: Thank you so much for listening. I’m honored to be on this creative path with you.
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