Brandi sits down with New York–based installation artist Laurie Shapiro, whose vibrant, immersive worlds remind us that creativity is as unique as a fingerprint. Together, they explore the creative process, the idea of “stealing like an artist” (as Austin Kleon says), and why true originality isn’t about being first — it’s about being authentic.
Laurie shares how she builds her layered, colourful environments and how we can all push past creative self-doubt to express what’s already inside of us. Brandi ties this conversation back to a powerful message from her book Colour Me Happy:
This episode is your reminder that your creativity matters — not because it’s perfect, but because it’s yours.
Your art is already original — no one else has your experiences, your perspective, or your energy. What you make can’t help but be uniquely yours.
Start before you feel ready. Inspiration doesn’t come first — creation does. Each brushstroke, idea, or experiment opens a new door.
Dive deeper into this message of creativity and purpose in Brandi’s book Colour Me Happy — available now Buy HERE]
“The universe made you — you! Out of infinite possibilities. You were meant to be here right now, in the form you are in, for a spectacular reason. Believe that you were made with purpose, because you were. The stars around you are filled with ideas, choices, and opportunities. You are a gift, and the world is on your side.” - Brandi
You don’t need permission to create — just start. The act of doing is where the magic begins.” — Brandi
Ever feel too intimidated to start? Whether it’s a blank canvas, a new creative path, or putting yourself out there online — we’ve all been there. In this inspiring chat with artist and educator Andrea Nelson, we talk about overcoming assumptions, letting go of inhibitions, and just beginning.
Andrea is a big deal in the world of art, education, homeschooling, and creative curiosity. Together we dive into the power of showing up anyway, even when it feels uncomfortable or uncertain. Because art doesn’t need to be so serious — it’s supposed to be fun, freeing, and deeply human.
So why not grab your brush, throw some colour around, and trust that your art — your voice — matters. Let’s support one another on this exciting, messy, and magical creative journey!
2 Takeaway Tips
If You’re Going to Compete, Compete with Yourself — with Artist Megan Roy
Make bad art. Be cringe. Just keep showing up — because your only goal is getting better. — Brandi
In this inspiring episode of Colour Me Happy, artist and illustrator Megan Roy joins host Brandi Hofer for a heart-to-heart about creativity, self-improvement, and the courage it takes to keep showing up. Megan shares how competing only with yourself can transform your art practice — and your mindset.
Together, Brandi and Megan dive into how past experiences (even unrelated jobs!) can shape your creative voice, how to escape “victim mode” through personal growth, and why being your own best advocate is the key to unlocking opportunities. You’ll fall in love with Megan’s refreshing honesty, her practical advice, and her reminder that growth comes from making, not from waiting for perfection.
3 Takeaway Tips:
When you build a strong foundation, everything else will follow — your confidence, your pricing, and your creative freedom.— Brandi Hofer
In this empowering episode, Calgary-based artist and designer Rachael Lyon joins Brandi to talk about what it really means to know your worth as an artist. With a background in illustration and event management, Rachael shares how she unexpectedly transitioned into mural art, the lessons she learned about pricing, and why fair compensation is essential for creative sustainability.
Together, they dive into the maturity that comes with valuing your time and talent, the courage it takes to advocate for yourself, and how strong business foundations lead to more opportunities — from large-scale event murals like the Calgary Stampede to future community art festivals.
Rachael also opens up about overcoming public speaking nerves, growing confidence through experience, and her vision for a thriving creative community where artists are paid what they deserve.
3 Takeaway Tips:
“Being nervous is the same as being excited—it’s just energy. When we flip it, we open the door to growth, creativity, and possibility.” — Brandi
In this inspiring conversation with artist Jodi Miller, we unpack the power of nervouscited—that buzzy feeling of nerves and excitement mixed together—and how reframing it can help us learn, grow, and trust our instincts. Jodi shares her journey of going full-time as an artist, what it’s like to balance parenting with creative work, and how turning 40 gave us the freedom to care less about outside opinions and focus on what truly matters.
This is a raw, real, and empowering episode about bravery, passion, and the joy of literally creating the life you want.
3 Takeaway Tips:
Flip the script on nerves — nervous and excited are the same energy; choose excitement.
Trust your gut — it can lead you into unexpected and amazing opportunities.
Create your own life — with bravery and passion, you get to define what matters most.
When we treat social media as a connector instead of a comparison game, it becomes one of the most powerful tools we have as creatives. – Brandi
This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast I sit down with Alli K Design to hear how she built a thriving public art platform and business while staying true to her creative voice. We dive into the positive side of social media—how shifting your outlook turns it into a tool for connection, not exhaustion. Alli shares the power of creative friendships around the world, the magic of collaboration over competition, and the importance of saying “yes” to projects that are the right fit.
Alli Koch is a prolific and passionate female artist based in Dallas, Texas. Over the past 10 years Alli has built a diverse and impressive portfolio, establishing herself as a leading figure in the world of art, public art and education. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or creative dreamer, this conversation will leave you inspired to grow with authenticity. Don’t forget to check out Alli’s incredible colouring books HERE
3 Takeaway Tips
Flip Your Social Media Mindset – Use it as a connector platform to build genuine relationships, not just to scroll.
Collaboration Over Competition – Partnering with other creatives fuels growth and creates opportunities you can’t build alone.
Say Yes with Intention – Choose projects that align with your values and benefit everyone involved.
Every ‘no’ became a chance to create my own ‘yes'. – Brandi
Rejection doesn’t have to be the end of your creative journey — it can be the spark that lights something even bigger. In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with artist, author, and curator Alexis Marie Chute, who turned early rejection from art galleries into a thriving career of building opportunities for others.
From launching the InFocus Photo Exhibit (now in its 12th year!) to founding Wild Skies Art Gallery and Wild Skies Press, Alexis shares how identifying gaps in the creative world led to powerful platforms for artists across Canada.
We dive into why collaboration matters more than competition, how creative community keeps us going, and what happens when you focus on building relationships instead of chasing approval. If you’ve ever felt shut out by the “gatekeepers,” this episode will give you the fuel to carve your own path — and maybe even build the door for others.
3 Takeaway Tips
Flip rejection on its head → Every “no” is just pointing you toward your own “yes.”
Spot the gaps → If you see a need in your community, chances are others feel it too. Be the one to build the solution.
Relationships > hierarchies → Creative success is rooted in genuine connection, not gatekeeping.
Follow on Instagram: @AlexisMarieChute
InFocus Photo Exhibit & Awards: www.InFocusPhoto.ca
Wild Skies Art Gallery: www.WildSkiesGallery.com
Wild Skies Press: www.WildSkiesPress.comRed Brick Common Public Art Gallerywww.redbrickcommon.ca/art-gallery
Sometimes the best way forward is to return to what called to your heart in the first place. – Brandi
On this special mentorship episode of Colour Me Happy, artist Andrea Mondragón joins us to share her journey of reconnecting with the childlike joy and play that first drew her to art. Together, we explore how to lean into creative curiosity, how playfulness can become a powerful guide in shaping an artistic career, and how to navigate the challenges we all face as creators.
If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure of your next step, this conversation will remind you that struggle is part of the process—and that your creative heart always knows the way.
Creative Tips
Return to your roots – Revisit the practices, subjects, or styles that first made you fall in love with creating.
Embrace play as progress – Creative exploration doesn’t have to look “productive” to be meaningful.
Allow your art to guide your path – Your creativity can open doors you never imagined, especially when you listen to what excites you.
To feel uplifted and inspired learn more about booking a Mentorship Session HERE
Your creativity will always be there for you—ever evolving, transforming, and reminding you of your strength. – Brand
This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast in this inspiring episode, Brandi Hofer sits down with Hannah Ricke—artist, social worker, and the creative mind behind Flock of Beasts. Hannah shares her journey from earning a master’s in clinical social work to becoming a full-time artist, and now blending her creative practice with her passion for backpacking and empowering women. Hannah opens up about burnout from overproduction, the courage it takes to pivot, and the power of following your gut toward the art (and life) that truly calls to you. Together, Brandi and Hannah remind us that creativity is not static—it transforms as we do. This conversation is equal parts authentic, eccentric, and empowering.
3 Takeaway Tips:
It’s okay to pivot – Your path doesn’t have to be linear; trust that your creativity can guide you through each transformation.
Follow the work that calls to you – Saying no to “shoulds” opens space for the art and opportunities that feel right.
Tap into resilience – Like backpacking through rough terrain, creative strength is built by showing up, adapting, and leaning on your inner power.
You learn more diving in, making mistakes and doing the work! – Brandi
This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast Artist Jenny Johnson joins host Brandi Hofer on the Colour Me Happy podcast for a real-talk conversation about making art while working full-time. Jenny shares her journey from pulling shifts at East Side Mario’s to fund art school, to building her practice around a busy schedule. She and Brandi dig into the realities of burnout, commissions versus personal work, and finding joy in the process. Jenny also shares practical tips: work on multiple pieces at once, don’t hoard supplies—share them, diversify your income streams, and let creativity fit naturally into your life instead of forcing it. It’s an inspiring, lighthearted episode packed with wisdom for anyone balancing their passion with their paycheque.
Tips:
Join Brandi and Shirley for a candid, laughter-filled deep dive into art, life, and the gold standard of creative authenticity—this is one conversation you’ll want to replay whenever you need courage to take the next step.
Your words have power, own your creative voice. Say it, write, it, walk it, feel it and see it all come to life! – Brandi
Brandi sits down with Shirley Yang Crutchfield, an artist whose breathtaking 24-karat gold leaf work blends centuries-old techniques with a fiercely modern voice. Together, they dive into the balancing act of motherhood and creativity, the role of supportive partners, and the power of choice in carving your own artistic path. From navigating career reinvention to setting boundaries that protect both art and life, this conversation is equal parts inspiring and practical.
Shirley Yang Crutchfield is a contemporary artist specializing in gilded portraits, using a rare 13th–14th century technique known as dura aguazo. With a background in technology and entrepreneurship, she brings business acumen, discipline, and a deep commitment to authenticity into her creative practice. 3
Takeaway Tips!
Reinvent Often — Success is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing cycle of adaptation and growth.
Negotiate & Diversify — Protect your selling potential and build multiple income streams to sustain your career.
Ask Boldly — Opportunities often arise from connections and confident outreach, even in unexpected places. Join Brandi and Shirley for a candid, laughter-filled deep dive into art, life, and the gold standard of creative authenticity—this is one conversation you’ll want to replay whenever you need courage to take the next step. Tune in now to get and tap into all Shirley's great advice!
You don’t need a formal art education to build a meaningful, thriving creative life—you just need connection, curiosity, and the courage to begin. – Brandi
This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast
Paint, Play, and Guacamole: A Creative Life with Rosso
In this fun and candid episode, Brandi Hofer chats with Rosso of Rosso Art School about her inspiring journey from a busy life in London to a quieter, creativity-filled existence in Oxford. Together, they dive into the balance of motherhood, teaching, and personal art practice—plus a surprise guacamole break when Brandi’s kids return home from school! You’ll hear all about Rosso’s upcoming retreat in Morocco, how she’s built a career without formal training, and her passion for fostering inclusive, supportive art communities. This conversation is as refreshing as it is real. About Rosso:Rosso is a self-taught Italian artist and founder of Rosso Art School, currently based in Oxford. With a background in literature and art history, she brings an intuitive and inclusive approach to both painting and teaching. Through international retreats and in-person workshops, she empowers artists of all backgrounds to embrace creative freedom.2 Key Takeaways:
Whether you’re curious about living a slower, more creative life or looking to reignite your artistic spark, this episode will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even crave guacamole.
Tune in now to get and tap into all Rosso's great advice!
Summer Fun! Still time to join our Free Sketchbook Project!
Burnout doesn’t mean you’re broken — it means it’s time to listen.” – Brandi In this insightful episode of Colour Me Happy, Brandi Hofer chats with South African artist Jo Roets about navigating the highs and lows of full-time creative life. They explore the reality of burnout, why setting boundaries is key to staying inspired, and how self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.
Jo Roets is a celebrated South African artist and sculptor known for her intricate clay relief work inspired by botanical forms, lace, and South African heritage. Her work bridges the natural and spiritual worlds, often inviting the viewer into a space of quiet reflection and awe.
Takeaway Tips:
Creative Burnout is Real – Jo shares the HALT method (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) as a practical daily tool to check in with your body and mind.
Say No to Stay Inspired – Strategic calendar management and learning when to say no is critical to protecting your energy and creative flow.
Art is a Lifelong Cycle – Honour your seasons: some are for productivity, others for rest, healing, or play. Trusting this rhythm builds long-term sustainability in your art practice. Whether you’re a working artist, parent, or creative thinker feeling the squeeze of burnout, this conversation will uplift and refocus you. Tune in to hear how Jo Roets and Brandi Hofer are redefining what it means to be artists — and humans — in a fast-paced world.
Tune in now to get and tap into all Jo's great advice! Time to catch our SALE! Portrait Class is 30% off Last DAY! Don't miss it!!🌟 THE LINK
Brandi sits down with Pennylane Shen—art consultant, advisor, and founder of Dazed & Confucius—for an honest, insightful, and energizing conversation. Artists, this is a must-listen. From navigating burnout to discovering your true art direction, Penny Lane shares real advice from her experience in the industry, what galleries are really looking for, and how to stay inspired when the spark fades.
Get behind the scenes of her career journey, find out what she’s tired of seeing in artwork, what she’d love to see more of, and even learn how this art industry powerhouse likes her coffee and unwinds after a long day. This episode is packed with creative takeaways, laughter, and truth bombs—just what your art practice needs.
🎨 2 Takeaway Tips
Refill your creative well by exploring different mediums, keeping a sketchbook, and giving yourself permission to play.
When approaching galleries, be professional, prepared, and show you understand their aesthetic—don’t just send a cold DM.
Spreading Joy One Scoop at a Time: Building Community with Business Owner Maria!
Business isn’t just about the bottom line—it’s about the people around you and the community you serve. – Brandi
In this episode of the Colour Me Happy Podcast, we sit down with Maria, owner of The Scoop, to talk about the heart and history behind her beloved local business. Maria shares how honouring tradition, embracing nostalgic memories, and building genuine connections have shaped The Scoop into a community favourite. We dive into overcoming fear, taking bold steps as a female business owner, the challenges and rewards of expanding and running a team, and what really matters at the end of the day: spreading joy, one scoop at a time.
2 Takeaway Tips
Don’t let fear hold you back—sometimes you just have to go for it and trust yourself.
Remember your community is your foundation—nurture it, and it will support you in return.
There’s so much value in simply starting and learning by doing—it’s where real growth happens. -Brandi
This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast The Power of Doing: In this episode, we talk with artist, muralist, and illustrator Karen Sue about the power of saying yes to the process and trusting the journey. Karen lives by the advice from her art teacher that you learn far more by doing than by waiting until you feel ‘ready.’ She’s built her career in a thoughtful, organic way, letting one opportunity lead naturally to the next.A beautiful full-circle moment in her story is returning to the school where that teacher first encouraged her, creating a mural with today’s students and passing on the same inspiration. Karen’s dreams have no limits—from completing a 30,000-square-foot mural in Taiwan to publishing her own colouring books and developing new creative projects. This conversation is an invitation to get inspired, trust your instincts, and take those small steps that grow into something extraordinary.
Take the first step, even if it feels small—it leads to big opportunities.Trust the process of doing, learning, and letting each project open new doors. Time to catch our SALE! Portrait Class is 30% off Ends soon! Don't miss it!!🌟 THE LINK
“There’s no rush in your creative journey—it’s about learning through the pivots and trusting you already have the tools you need.” - Brandi
This week on the Colour Me Happy Podcast, we chat with local Lloydminster and Canadian artist and muralist Michelle Lake about the power of stepping fully into your art practice. Michelle shares her experience of growing a slow-paced, sustainable career, showing us how those quiet seasons, the mistakes, and the pivots are all essential parts of getting where you want to go.
We dive into the real-world challenges of undervaluing your craft, finding the courage to price your work properly, and learning to trust your own skills and vision. This is an honest, encouraging conversation for any artist who’s wondered if they’re “behind” or worried about taking the leap.
Don’t miss this episode—especially as we kick off our first annual Lloyd Mural Fest this week, celebrating local creatives and artists. Stay tuned for festival updates over at @brandihoferstudios.
Embrace the slow seasons—they’re essential for building the skills and clarity you need.
Know your worth: price your work in alignment with its true value and the expertise behind it.
If you’re not failing, you’re not pushing hard enough. Every misstep is a lesson—and honestly, the best stories come from the mess. - Brandi This episode is bold, loud, hilarious—and full of truth. Brandi Hofer sits down with Canadian artist and Co-Owner of Artwrk.ca Aggie Armstrong for a raw and unfiltered conversation about the highs and lows of creative collaboration. They dive into the messy middle of artistic success, how failure teaches us the most, and why reclaiming your voice (and your time) is non-negotiable. Expect big laughs, real talk, and a couple f-bombs (but in the most friendly Canadian way).
Whether you’re in your studio or stuck in self-doubt, this episode will shake you up in the best way. You've totally got this! It's time to claim your creative power!
2 Powerful Takeaways: Collaboration won’t always be perfect—and that’s okay. Failure in creative partnerships is part of the process. Learn, grow, and carry on.
You are allowed to ask for what you want. Stop shrinking. Get bold. Be unapologetic about your creative needs and goals. This one’s for the wild-hearted creatives—if you’re ready to laugh, feel seen, and get fired up to keep going, tune in now.
You don’t have to know everything before you start—going all in teaches you more than planning ever could. - Brandi
Join me on Colour Me Happy with Jessie Whealy, founder of Jessie’s Art Shed in Oxfordshire. What started as art classes in her parents’ shed in 2015 has blossomed into a vibrant, walk-up art studio teaching hundreds weekly. In this episode, Jessie and I talk gut instincts, creative flow, and how embracing the unknown opened up her path. If you’re hesitating to begin—or thinking everything must be perfect before you leap—this conversation will remind you that your creative ability unfolds as you go.
Trust Your Gut and Begin: You don’t need a perfect plan—making that first move, however small, is far more powerful than overthinking or waiting.
Learn by Doing: Every step in your creative journey reveals new solutions. Let problem-solving be your teacher, not a barrier.
If you’re ready to feel inspired, energized, and empowered to start—or restart—your creative life, you won’t want to miss this.
Even when life feels like too much, showing up to create can be the thing that saves you. – Brandi
This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast we sit down with artist and Canadian Artist Billie Rae Busby to talk about why creating—no matter the chaos of life—is essential to fuelling joy and balance. We dive into the transformative power of setting aside time for “art dates,” and how these moments of creative play often become catalysts for personal and professional breakthroughs. The conversation ends on a powerful reminder to advocate for yourself—because no one else will. This episode is an uplifting, real-world look at how art isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
2 Creative Tips from the Episode: Make time for regular art dates.
Creative play without pressure often leads to unexpected clarity, healing, and new career opportunities. Take yourself out on an Art Date!
Advocate for your work and your worth. Don’t wait to be discovered—speak up, show up, and ask for what you deserve.
Tune in to this inspiring episode with Billy Rae Busby and let it remind you that creativity isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you claim. Listen now on Colour Me Happy wherever you get your podcasts.
