It’s podcast day! And today we’re getting honest about whether or not your creative business is bringing in enough income.

I know mine hasn’t over the last year. It’s been bloody awful trying to stay afloat after being shut for 6 months following my breast surgery. And it’s happening all over again in 2 weeks time when they whip my ovaries out. (I know, ffs...)

So I thought it would be useful to talk about ways you can diversify your income as a creative entrepreneur to give you some back up when the s**t hits the fan. With the current financial climate and the unpredictability of life in general, relying on just one stream of revenue feels risky.

The good news is that you already have skills that can bring in extra money without completely burning yourself out.

I’m giving you some practical ways that you can monetise your creativity and sharing my own experience of some things I’ve been exploring to provide a safety net when sale are slow.

This isn’t about get-rich-quick schemes—it’s about real, achievable ways to make more money doing what you love. And by working smarter, not harder.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

* Why multiple income streams matter now more than ever - and how to get over the feeling of being a failure

* My experience with Amazon KDP and Substack

* Other side hustle ideas that actually align with your creative skills

* Whether you should give any of these a go (and how to start)

Bonus Episode: If you're curious about Amazon KDP specifically, I’ve recorded a separate bonus episode where I’m talking all about setting yourself up on this platform to self publish. It’s for beginners (like me!) who want to learn what’s it’s all about, exactly how you do it and whether it’s worth trying. This will be available to paid subscribers on Friday 7th February.

I hope you enjoy today’s episode and please do let me know in the comments if you’re thinking of trying any of these things I talk about!

Joanne

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As a small creative business owner, forward planning is non-negotiable. But what happens when it leaves you feeling panicked, disconnected, and burned out before the season or occasion even arrives? In this episode, we dive into the hidden emotional toll of constant planning and why it’s not something anyone prepares you for.

I’ll explore the science behind anticipatory stress, decision fatigue, and burnout, blending research with relatable anecdotes from life as a creative entrepreneur. Plus, you’ll hear practical tips to help you manage the overwhelm, set boundaries, and reclaim your love for the seasons and occasions you’re working so hard to prepare for.

This isn’t just another business pep talk—it’s an honest conversation about a side of entrepreneurship that often gets overlooked.

Enjoy this episode? Don’t forget to check out my Substack for more inspiration, tips, and support for female creative entrepreneurs.

Want even more value? Upgrade to a paid Substack subscription to unlock exclusive bonus podcast episodes where we dive deeper into topics like this, including the science behind burnout and actionable strategies to thrive in your creative business.

Visit my website for more small business help and advice!

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of willpower and how it plays a critical role in helping creative entrepreneurs achieve their goals.

With New Year underway, it’s easy to set resolutions but much harder to stick to them. We explore why willpower matters in business, share practical tips for strengthening it and uncover the science behind staying focused and resilient.

Packed with humorous anecdotes, relatable stories and actionable advice, this episode will inspire you to tackle your goals with renewed determination - and turn your creative dreams into reality.

Links and Resources:

Visit the website for help especially designed for female entrepreneurs with a creative business

Sign up to my free monthly newsletter for a free dose of business support straight to your inbox

Connect with me

@herhandmadehustle - Instagram and Facebook

In this thought-provoking episode, we tackle a question many creative entrepreneurs are asking: is there still a place for handmade businesses in an age dominated by AI and mass production? The answer might surprise you!

Join me as I explore why handmade products continue to thrive despite advances in technology. We'll break down the unique value of artisan creations, discuss how consumer preferences are shifting toward authenticity and craftsmanship, and share why now is the best time to start—or scale—your handmade business.

With a mix of bold opinions, actionable advice, and a touch of humor, I’ll show you how to position your creative business as indispensable in a world craving connection and originality. If you've ever doubted your place in the handmade industry, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to take action.

Tune in and discover why your handmade creations matter more than ever!

Links and Resources Mentioned:

⁠Free download! The Handmade Business Starter Guide

Podcast Episode: The SEO Edge - How to Get Your Creative Business Discovered Online with Dr Tonya Lawson

Connect with me!

@herhandmadehustle - Instagram and Facebook

Email me for help with your creative business!

This Christmas special is all about family, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit that runs deep in ours.

I’m joined by my dad, a barber with an incredible 50-year career and a legacy of self-employment that has inspired three generations of entrepreneurs.

In this heartfelt and entertaining episode, we dive into:
✨ The story of how my dad became a barber and built his business.
✨ Funny and memorable moments from his 50 years behind the chair.
✨ The challenges and triumphs of being self-employed.
✨ How our family’s entrepreneurial journey shaped my own path.
✨ Personal stories of support, strength, and overcoming challenges together as a family.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, a fan of family stories, or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with insights, heartfelt moments, and festive cheer.

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  Links and Resources:

  
  
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  • Subscribe to my free monthly newsletter for creative female entrepreneurs
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  • Visit my website to find out how I can help you
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  • Discover more podcast episodes here!
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  Grab a hot drink, get cosy, and join me for this special Christmas episode that celebrates all things family and real business success.

  
  
  This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com/subscribe

In this eye-opening episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest myths in the entrepreneurial world: time management. If you’ve ever said, “I just don’t have enough hours in the day,” this episode is for you.

We’ll explore the uncomfortable truth behind why you might feel too busy and whether you’re actually avoiding the hard, high-value tasks that could take your handmade business to the next level.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

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• The surprising reasons we tell ourselves we're "too busy."

  
  
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• How avoidance behaviours can sabotage your business growth.

  
  
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• The 80/20 rule and how to identify tasks that truly matter.

  
  
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• Simple, actionable tips to reclaim control over your time.

  
  
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• A humorous and brutally honest take on the lies we tell ourselves about productivity.

  
  
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Download Your Free Time Audit Worksheet!

As a special bonus, I’ve created a downloadable worksheet Map Your Time Like a Pro: A Reality Check for Creative Entrepreneurs to help you track how you’re really spending your day. Use it to uncover hidden patterns and reclaim hours you didn’t even know you had. Download it here!

Connect with Me

Love this episode? Make sure to subscribe so you never miss a new one! Share your time management breakthroughs or struggles by tagging me on social media. Let’s keep the conversation going @herhandmadehustle

Get more support for your business!

Visit my website to see how I can help you or book a free half hour chat to tell me your business worries and get some instant help!

***IMPORTANT*** I made a school girl error! I accidentally uploaded last week's episode for this week's! Therefore for a short time S3 Ep27 was the same as S3 Ep.26 (in case you have already listened and thought you were going mad!) The correct episode has now been uploaded so please do press play again to access this week's episode: 'Stop Blaming the Algorithm: Why Your Social Media Strategy Isn’t Working (and how to fix it). Thank you and apologies! Joanne

Are you stuck blaming the algorithm for why your handmade business isn’t growing? It’s time for some tough love. In this episode, we tackle the harsh truth: it’s not the algorithm holding you back—it’s your strategy.

If you’ve been feeling frustrated by low engagement, stagnant sales, or posts that seem to vanish into the void, this episode is for you. I’ll share personal stories, bold opinions, and practical advice to help you stop pointing fingers and start fixing what’s actually going wrong.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

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• Why blaming the algorithm is a waste of your time and energy.

  
  
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• The biggest mistakes handmade business owners make on social media (and how to fix them).

  
  
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• Practical strategies to create engaging, consistent, and story-driven content that your audience will love.

  
  
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• Why showing up authentically and consistently is more important than chasing trends.

  
  
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• How to turn your followers into fans by focusing on connection, not perfection.

  
  
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Highlights:

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• The real purpose of the algorithm—and why it’s not your enemy.

  
  
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• Common mistakes like inconsistent posting, boring content, and neglecting engagement.

  
  
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• Proven strategies that actually work: storytelling, quality over quantity, and the power of reels.

  
  
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• Tough love: why it’s time to stop making excuses and take ownership of your growth.

  
  
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Social media can feel overwhelming and unpredictable, but the truth is, you have more control than you think. This episode will empower you to ditch the excuses, step up your strategy, and finally make social media work for your handmade business.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and honest truths to help you stop blaming the algorithm and start building the social media presence your business deserves. Hit play and let’s get started!

Links and Resources:

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• Get a social media makeover with my Banner & Bio Bundle!

  
  

  Join the conversation: DM me on Instagram @herhandmadehustle and share your biggest social media struggle!

  
  
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• Love this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe and share it with a friend who needs to hear this!

  
  
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Let’s Connect:

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  • Website
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Is your handmade business feeling stuck, and you're not sure why? Do you want to know why so many handmade businesses fail? It might be because you’re treating it more like a hobby than a business. In this bold and eye-opening episode, Joanne breaks down the harsh truths female entrepreneurs need to hear about what’s holding back their creative businesses.

From mindset shifts to pricing strategies, Joanne explores how to transition from hobbyist to business owner—and start seeing real growth.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

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• The key differences between running a handmade business and pursuing a hobby.
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• Why undervaluing your time and skills is holding your business back.
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• How to adopt a business mindset to set yourself up for success.
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• Practical steps to take your creative business to the next level.
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• Why setting boundaries and prioritizing profit isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
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If you are a female entrepreneur feeling stuck in your handmade business, not getting consistent sales and you want to see some real progress with some real, small creative business success strategies - then this episode is for you.

Mentioned in the Episode:

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• FREE download: ⁠'10 Steps to Turn Your Handmade Hobby into a Profitable Business'⁠
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• GET HELP for your creative business - ⁠visit my website⁠
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Ready to turn your craft into a business? Listen to this episode and start implementing actionable strategies today.

Loved this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more tips tailored to female entrepreneurs in the handmade and creative space. Share this episode with a fellow creative who might be struggling with pricing their products—we're all in this together!

Her Handmade Hustle: Unplugged - The Creative Business Podcast for Female Entrepreneurs