Sarah Hurley Inspires Creativity & Strategy in this Episode of Creative Living

Feeling stuck in your creativity? This episode of Creative Living is your permission slip to break out of the “I’m just a…” mindset and start building something bold. Jane Clauss chats with creative entrepreneur and trend forecaster Sarah Hurley, who shares her no-fluff wisdom on turning passion into profit and doing it with confidence.

As Sarah Hurley beautifully puts it, creativity is 'freedom… a moment to 'mess around with paints and glitter and pretty things and try stuff out.' This powerful, open-hearted spirit sets the tone for this inspiring conversation.

From overcoming imposter syndrome to embracing industry trends without losing your spark, this episode is packed with strategies, inspiration, and that little creative kick you didn’t know you needed.

You’ll learn how to:

• Use trends to your advantage (without selling out)
• Push past doubt and show up boldly
• See the creative industry as wide open not walled off

Building, reimagining, or simply soaking it all in, this episode hits refresh on your creative spirit.

'Creativity is freedom' @SarahHurley drops the most inspiring definition of what it means to be a creative entrepreneur. Listen to the full podcast now.

Want to skip around or jump straight to the good stuff? Here’s your handy timecode breakdown because we love making it easy for you. You’re welcome!

[0:00:10 - 0:02:21] Defining the Creative Industry

Overview: Sarah Hurley breaks down the misconception that the creative industry is a narrow field. She explains that creativity spans multiple industries like greeting cards, party supplies, and stationery. Creatives often limit themselves by saying "I'm just a..." when in reality, their skills can translate across numerous sectors. The key message is to see creativity as a broad, interconnected landscape with endless possibilities for growth and innovation.

[0:12:07 - 0:15:46] Overcoming Creative Business Hurdles

Overview: Sarah discusses the common challenges creatives face when turning their passion into a business. She emphasizes that most creatives start from a hobby perspective, which differs from traditional business planning. The focus is on shifting mindsets from "I'm just..." to "I am an entrepreneur." Sarah provides strategies for goal-setting, including defining specific revenue targets and breaking down larger objectives into manageable steps to prevent overwhelm and build confidence.

[0:34:55 - 0:36:04] Sustainability: Beyond a Trend

Overview: Sarah declares sustainability is no longer just a trend but a fundamental way of doing business. She notes that manufacturers are now transparently discussing their eco-friendly processes and packaging. The conversation highlights that sustainability has evolved from simply slapping an eco-logo on a product to a comprehensive approach of understanding and implementing environmentally conscious practices across all business operations.

[0:41:35 - 0:42:22] Breaking News: Hurleywood Studios Launch

Overview: Sarah announces the launch of Hurleywood Studios, her third business venture focused on content development. Planned for launch in September/October, this new studio represents the exponential growth of her content-based business. She revealed the initial launch at the License and Expo in Vegas, expressing excitement about the upcoming projects and the studio's potential.

[0:43:36 - 0:44:26] Creativity as Freedom

Overview: When asked what creativity means to her, Sarah succinctly defines it as "freedom." She describes creativity as an escape at the end of the day, a moment to experiment with paints, glitter, and materials. The discussion concludes with her powerful message that it's never too late to start pursuing creative dreams, emphasizing that the best time to start is right now.

Discover the unexpected magic of paper in this fascinating podcast episode that goes far beyond mere writing surfaces. Join Emmy Award winning lifestyle host, Jane Clauss, as she explores Hahnemühle, a 440-year-old German paper company that's revolutionizing creativity and sustainability. Learn how innovative paper makers are transforming everyday materials like bamboo, hemp, and sugarcane into extraordinary artistic tools, challenging everything you thought you knew about paper. From the company's rich historical roots to cutting-edge sustainable production techniques, his episode explores how tradition and innovation go hand-in-hand.

Whether you’re an artist, a journaler, or just someone who loves beautiful materials with a story, you'll be amazed by how a simple sheet of paper can unlock unlimited creative potential. Get ready to turn the page on your next creative chapter, one sustainable sheet at a time.

“Creativity means for me, doing or creating something that makes me forget time… It’s not limited to art, it can help solve problems in a creative or effective way.” - Rana Ardal, Hahnemühle

If you want to jump around or revisit your favorite moment, we made a handy cheat sheet with show notes for you!

[0:00:10 - 0:02:20] Hahnemühle’s Rich History and Sustainability
- Jane introduces Hahnemühle, a 400-year-old paper company from Germany
- Highlights the company's commitment to sustainable paper production
- Emphasizes the intersection of creativity and environmental consciousness
- Sets the stage for a deep dive into innovative paper manufacturing

[0:02:37 - 0:07:10] Company Origins and Unique Production Methods
- Explanation of the company name (rooster mill)
- Detailed history of paper production dating back to 1584
- Discussion of their unique mold-made paper machine from 1871
- Insight into traditional handcrafted papermaking techniques
- Showcases the company's long-standing expertise in paper production

[0:07:46 - 0:14:13] Sustainable Fiber Innovation
- Introduction of the natural line of papers using alternative fibers
- Exploration of materials like bamboo, hemp, agave, and sugarcane
- Detailed research process for developing new sustainable paper products
- Explanation of how these fibers require less water and no pesticides
- Demonstrates the company's commitment to environmental innovation

[0:20:51 - 0:25:26] Digital Fine Art Paper and Creative Possibilities
- Invention of digital fine art paper range in 1997
- Discussion of paper's versatility beyond traditional uses
- Exploration of three-dimensional paper art
- Highlighting the museum in Berlin dedicated to paper art
- Showcasing the creative potential of paper as a medium

[0:29:16 - 0:34:43] Accessibility and Creativity for Everyone
- Launch of mini pads and bookmark products
- Emphasis on making creativity accessible to all
- Personal reflections on what creativity means to the speakers
- Encouragement for people to explore their creative potential
- Invitation to engage with Hahnemühle’s products and philosophy

"We want to inspire people, and we want to give everybody the feeling that everybody is an artist." - Barbara Knipper, Hahnemühle

If you’re passionate about home trends, kitchen gadgets, and housewares industry insights, this episode of Creative Living is a must-listen! Host Jane Clauss sits down with housewares industry expert Peter Giannetti, the editor-in-chief of HomePage News and Director of Editorial Content and Education for the International Housewares Association, to discuss the top home and kitchen trends for 2025. From replacement cycles for home goods to the rise of at-home entertaining.

Discover the latest in household product innovation, sustainable home products, and must-have appliances. Whether you're shopping for a new air fryer, upgrading your coffee bar, or staying ahead of the curve on home design trends, this conversation is packed with insights to help you make smart, stylish choices.

Tune in now to explore the future of home and housewares and how brands are making everyday tasks easier, smarter, and more beautiful.

If you would like to jump to specific topics, check out the episode log notes below.

[0:00:00 - 0:02:22] Welcome to 2025’s Housewares Trends!
Jane kicks off the episode, introducing Peter Giannetti, Editor-in-Chief of Homepage News, to dive into the latest home & housewares trends and innovations.

[0:02:22 - 0:06:30] Homepage News: The Industry’s Insider Guide
Peter shares how Homepage News is a must-read for trendspotting, market insights, and industry updates.

[0:06:30 - 0:10:33] Housewares Industry Outlook
From pandemic demand surges to economic shifts, Peter breaks down what’s stabilizing and what’s growing in 2025.

[0:10:33 - 0:14:19] Kitchen Gadget Replacement Boom
Appliances and gadgets are cycling out faster than ever. Peter explains how innovation is driving upgrades.

[0:14:19 - 0:16:37] Tariffs & Pricing: What to Expect
Jane and Peter discuss the impact of potential tariffs and how brands are navigating cost, quality, and supply chain challenges.

[0:16:37 - 0:21:17] At-Home Entertaining is Back!
Consumers are hosting more, fueling trends in coffee bars, cocktail stations, and stylish hosting essentials.

[0:21:17 - 0:25:31] Kitchen Gadgets & Tools: 2025 Must-Haves
Peter shares the latest in high-performance gadgets and specialty tools that consumers are loving.

[0:25:31 - 0:29:05] Sustainability: A Growing Consumer Priority
Eco-friendly, repurposed, and sustainable products are no longer niche—they’re the new norm.

[0:29:05 - 0:32:54] Sneak Peek: The Inspired Home Show
Peter previews game-changing innovations set to debut at The Inspired Home Show in March.

[0:32:54 - 0:37:38] The Future of Home: Smart & Connected
From AI to 3D printing, home products are getting smarter, more customizable, and seamlessly integrated.

[0:37:38 - 0:44:17] Creativity in Housewares & Everyday Products
Innovation isn’t just about function—brands are blending creativity with consumer needs for better product experiences.

[0:44:17 - 0:49:00] Wrap-Up: Stay Ahead of the Trends
Peter shares how to subscribe to Homepage News and why attending The Inspired Home Show is a must for industry pros and home enthusiasts alike.

The world of home and housewares is constantly evolving, and 2025 is shaping up to be full of exciting innovations. From kitchen upgrades to sustainability trends, there’s something for everyone looking to enhance their space. A huge thank you to Peter Giannetti for sharing his expertise and giving us a sneak peek into what’s next! Stay inspired, stay creative, and as always—make your house a home.

For more inspiration, head to www.JaneClauss.com. Thank you for listening!

Creativity is a powerful force but let’s be honest, balancing it with real life can feel impossible. Between work, family, and responsibilities, making time for your creative passions can seem like a dream that always takes a backseat. But what if you didn’t have to choose?

In this episode of Creative Living, Jane Clauss chats with Lauren Spangler, a creative coach and multi-talented artist, to break down how you can make your art work for you - without sacrificing stability, sanity, or the things that matter most.

Lauren shares her own story of overcoming a seven-year creative block and how she finally found a way to weave creativity into her busy life. She gives us practical tips on time management, mindset shifts, and reframing the link between creativity and financial security so you can stop debating and start doing.

Whether you’re a seasoned creative or just dipping your toes into artistic expression, this conversation will empower you to ditch the fear, embrace your passion, and make space for creativity, even in a jam-packed schedule. Lauren introduces game-changing strategies like “golden hour” and “sprinkle time” to help you integrate creativity into your daily routine.

If you’ve ever felt stuck between your creative dreams and real-life responsibilities, this episode is your sign to take-action. Tune in and redefine what it means to be a creative powerhouse!

Every part of this conversation is packed with insight! But if you’re looking for something specific, these timestamps will guide you.

[0:02:17 - 0:07:31] Meet Lauren Spangler! Jane introduces Lauren, a creative coach and multi-talented artist. They dive into the meaning behind “happiness is homemade”, the biggest creative blocks—like fear, overwhelm, and imposter syndrome—and the struggle of feeling like an artist inside but not actually living that creative life.

[0:07:31 - 0:14:40] Can creativity and financial stability coexist? Lauren shares how to move past the fear of financial risk, reframe stability and creativity as partners—not opposites, and her personal story of breaking free from a seven-year creative block.

[0:14:40 - 0:21:16] Strategies to make your art "work" for you! Jane and Lauren explore how to balance creativity with real life—on your own terms. They discuss how self-reflection can help you discover what drives your creativity and why defining success for yourself is a total game-changer.

[0:21:16 - 0:26:04] Mindset matters! Creativity starts in the mind, and Lauren shares why a mindset shift is key to overcoming blocks. Plus, her take on vision boards, choosing a “word of the year,” and other creative goal-setting techniques.

[0:26:04 - 0:32:50] What does creativity really mean? Lauren redefines creativity and explains why it’s something everyone should embrace—whether you think you’re an artist or not.

[0:32:50 - 0:43:42] Coaching, inspiration, and next steps. Lauren reflects on the most rewarding part of her work and shares ways listeners can connect with her, access resources, and start taking-action on their creative goals.

Creativity isn’t just something you do—it’s part of who you are. And as Lauren Spangler shared, you don’t have to choose between your passions and your responsibilities. With the right mindset and strategies, you can make your art work for you. So whether you start with a golden hour, a sprinkle of time, or just a fresh perspective, take that next creative step—because your creativity deserves a place in your everyday life!

For more inspiration, head to www.JaneClauss.com