April 02, 2008

Podcast #34 :: Oh, Money ~ My story

College portrait

self portrait 1994

Whew!~ this one took a bit of extra uumph to pull together and I tell you now it’s a long one about 38 minutes to be exact. I felt it needed to be and I will also say it was really cathartic to write and share especially on the heels of my big news yesterday. It’s basically my career "story" (so far!) with a little extra emphasis on the money part of it. I’ve shared segments of my story in many of the podcasts but none have put it all together, in chronological order, as this one does ~ and I’m thinking it might be good timing for this particular one since I have heard from so many of you lately saying how much these podcasts are "just what you need to hear". It always helped and still helps me to hear the details of someone’s story, especially the part that "is how it all began", and then the part of how they made it financially, since money is so much a part of our present "survival" and often the main reason we let keep us from following our dreams.

With all the recent build-up of this one and so many of you waiting for it, I certainly hope it will meet your expectations. As always, it was fun for me! And thanks, as always, for tuning in and joining me on the journey.

click above to listen now

click here to download MP3
Download Instructions
Mac Users option click and Windows users right click on link above to download the file.

*Edit* later today. I was missing a directory in the link to download the mp3 earlier, but have now fixed it so it should download just fine. Also, Holly posted another thoughtful article as her contribution to this series yesterday. You can read it right here. And it looks like Erin is on a roll with another post (about networking) today as well! It’s so fantastic to get so many perspectives on this never ending subject. Glad you are enjoying the podcast so far!

09:00 PM in podcasts | Permalink | Comments (47)

Comments (47)

Dear Marisa,

I would like to thank you for publishing this. I have just been listening to you (with awe and hearfelt gratefulness). Your path shows it all: believe in yourself and you will get there.

An inspiration you are, wishing you all the best and thanks again for opening my eyes. I am taking the first step this very minute.

Kindest regards from Joanne in Germany

Posted by: Joanne Elizabeth Stocker | 04/03/2008 04:01:58 AM

Hi Marissa

Wow! I feel really moved that you decided to share your story with us. You are so brave and I'm so glad you never gave up.

I still can't believe how lucky I am that I found your website just by googling rabbit!

As you know a few months ago I felt so alone in what I was about to do - although my boyfriend has been enormously supportive and wants me to go for it, it was hard for me to explain my fears to him. Now after finding your blogs and podcasts and then through you, Holly's and Erin's blogs I dont feel alone anymore, I've realised there's a whole world out there full of people like me - who I can relate to and learn from and who are soooo supportive. So I know I always say this to you Marissa but thank you so much it's really, truly appreciated. :-)
x

Posted by: Emma | 04/03/2008 07:13:23 AM

I can't wait to listen! Thanks!

Posted by: Diana | 04/03/2008 09:10:45 AM

Hi Marissa,
Thanks for sharing so much. I feel much better about my confusions. I have worked for 12 years (and still am) in the tech industry. I still am, but I have taken a pay cut to do more of a writing job so the stress is bearable.
I am going to school to be a graphic designer. I had previosuly applied and been accepoted into Interior design, changed my mind (luckily before starting classes) because I thought drafting was too boring and I wanted to draw more. Now, after a semester of classes, I feel I want to be an Illustrator and am worried about money. My husband recently changed his career into photography. Luckily, we were able to get him a non rip off salary job at a photo studio till I get on my path. As you can imagine, once he starts his own business, money will again be unreliable. I so...understand losing all the saved money from the sale of your house. I really feel for you, because we sold our apartment, moved to a small college town so my husband could go to school and lived in a hovel. Now, we are in super expensive NY but love it. I am dying to buy a small condo (there are some still attainable in Brooklyn, that arent the size of a shoebox) because I hate renting..but still am not sure how much commitment that will require to a steady job. Goodness..I am so happy your work got picked up at urban outfitters. Good luck and your story is very inspiring.

Posted by: Amrita | 04/03/2008 09:23:01 AM

The best motivator ever.
Thanks for sharing your very special story with all the ups and downs.
I will listen to it every time I got selfdoubts about my art.

Posted by: Anna | 04/03/2008 09:46:45 AM

Hi Marisa,

Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I'm going through a little dry spell with my career right now and have been feeling down lately, so your podcast comes at a great time. There are days that I wonder if I'm on the right path, if I should still be doing what I'm doing...
I too have often wondered how other creatives are able to support themselves from month to month, but I guess it's true that having your eggs in more than one basket makes it easier to sleep at night.

I'm really glad to have found your blog. Thanks again.

Posted by: Cathy | 04/03/2008 11:00:43 AM

Nice job Marisa! Yay!

Posted by: decor8 Holly | 04/03/2008 12:19:52 PM

Thank you so much for putting your heart out there Marisa! I just stumbled across your website from Decor8 and this is the first podcast of yours that I have listened to. Needless to say, I loved it and will be listening to every other one as soon as I can! Somehow you tapped into how unsatisfied and under-appreciated I am feeling right now in my own design job. I want to make the leap to work on my own, but I have so much apprehension, despite a very supportive husband and friends, that something may not work out or that my ideas may not be creative enough. Thank you for the support to follow your heart, it may help more people than you know to take the leap to find their true happiness!

Posted by: Chelsea | 04/03/2008 01:26:02 PM

Just what I needed to hear right now and you are right - it's the subject everyone leaves out of their story. You are such a positive inspiration.

I so desire to work for myself but have been at a stand still as to exactly how I would get there. You just have to stop thinking and start trying.

Thanks for the nice kick in the butt.

Posted by: frizz | 04/03/2008 02:30:20 PM

Hey Marisa, I think this is the very first time I have left a comment on your blog (although I have been reading for quite some time now - I love your paintings). I just wanted to stop by and say thank you for the inspiring podcast. I haven't listened to any of your other podcasts...yet (I shall have to do that now since I enjoyed this one so much!). It was great to hear your story and to know that it can be done. And so lovely to put a voice to a face ; )

Posted by: Zoe | 04/03/2008 02:56:43 PM

Hi Marissa,

I came across your website, blog and podcast through Decor8 and I have to say I am hooked. Your podcasts are so utterly motivating and I appreciate them so much as you very eloquently express things and talk about things that I think of and often mull over myself.

Today's podcast was a brave one, dicussing finances for most artists usually is a difficult thing...or else we try to hide our secrets to success and I applaud you for be willing to share your personal story of how you've finally arrived.

Congratuatations to you, to your successes, to your hardships turned into learning experiences and to all the goodness still to come.

Thank You for your motivation and honesty...if you ever write a book, I am going to buy it for sure, ha ha.

Take Care and Happy Creating, Mandy Saile

Posted by: Mandy | 04/03/2008 03:01:49 PM

Well hello. I've been a lurker on your blog for some time but wanted to thank you and the others for taking on the task of sharing your experiences, for better or for worse, with us. I know it's difficult enough to manage a business, a blog and a life but you're doing a great service to the community you've helped build by putting back into it. Kudos!

Posted by: Melanie | 04/03/2008 03:02:04 PM

Thanks Marisa! We share many of the same experiences.
I feel like I just spoke to a friend. H:)

Posted by: helen:) | 04/03/2008 03:02:57 PM

I really want to thank you for sharing, and I wish I could explain the most valuable impact you all have made on me with these recent topics. Your blog is a treasure chest of inspiration, and it seems that I came across it at precisely the right moment in my life.

Posted by: Katrina | 04/03/2008 03:09:46 PM

Marisa!
What an difference you make by sharing your story..so clearly, honestly, practically,and full of heart!
I am in awe!
Thank you!

Posted by: outi | 04/03/2008 06:04:16 PM

Marisa,
So glad you shared your story and were so honest about it...
Sometimes it seems like artists who "make it" come by success so easily without trials.

I totally think I saw your chairs on the gallerie's website when I first came to LA years ago. I remember wondering hmm.. I wonder if she makes money with those chairs. ..I don't know how I connected the two-your artwork now and the chairs. I think you had a website back then and I never forget a face or maybe the bright colors on your chairs stuck in my mind and looked familiar on your site now...
Back then I had just moved from SD where I was doing faux finishing. I was trying to start my own business in faux finishing in LA but some how I knew it wasn't what I truley wanted..after some credit card debt I went to school for textile design then worked in that field for almost three years and just in 2007 started trying to do my own paintings/drawings..
It is great to see your success and it also encourages me that your "cute" art is still respected as art.. as I do "cute" too. Sometimes I try so hard not to but it's what always comes out!! I am blabbing on and just wanted to say thanks for the encouragement! You're awesome!
jill

Posted by: Browningtonforest | 04/03/2008 07:03:31 PM

Marisa, I discovered your art and blog through Decor8 a while back, and enjoy hearing your perspective on things (as well as seeing your cute cast of characters)!

Thank you so much for sharing details of how you got your start, and the challenges you faced. The feelings of dissatisfaction and disillusionment of working as a corporate cog, the fear of doing something "different," the frustration and doubt when sales are slow. The joy when things start going the right way. I've felt all these things since leaving a very sensible job to start my own scrapbooking and custom photo card business. I found myself nodding along to your entire podcast!

Thanks for putting yourself so honestly out there. Your message was a great pick-me-up, and reminder to "trust" that belief in myself!

Posted by: Anita | 04/03/2008 07:11:14 PM

Thank you so much Marisa-- you are doing so much good for us all. :) I am totally inspired by your story-- I've been in "this-is-never-going-to-happen" mode the last 2 days, and your podcast was just the trick to pull me out of it. now i'm re-inspired and ready to go! thank you again, so much. your story was incredibly honest and wonderful.

Posted by: jess gonacha | 04/03/2008 09:18:34 PM

Hi Marisa
I actually just discovered your blog through designformankind.... and your story is exactly what i needed to hear today. I am a photographer living in LA, i recently graduated from photography school and im out here trying to get work and follow my dreams. It's so hard right now, i dont want to settle for a poor paying job that will take up all my time and isn't even what i want to do. and i dont want to get into the restaurant business either. Your story was very inspiring, it was honest and smart and i really wish only good things for you. I just wanted to thank you for everything you do. Please keep up the beautiful, fun work
Jessica

Posted by: Jessica Pages | 04/04/2008 12:26:44 AM

Thanks for another inspiring podcast, Marisa! It was fun to hear your story and follow along your path , sort of like looking at a map to where you are now. I loved the pictures of your bright and sunny studio space a few posts back- it looks so cheerful and happy. :)

Posted by: Annie | 04/04/2008 02:36:39 AM

Like so many other people, your podcasts have been a treasure trove of inspiration, information and motivation. I doubt I'm alone in thinking that it's as if you, Holly and Erin have been speaking and writing directly to me in your recent posts/podcasts. I'm even considering taking up the daily draw/paint challenge! Thankyou so much for sharing your story with the world - you continue to inspire me and countless others everyday, and I am so grateful to be able to learn from your experiences. I wish you more and more greater success! Thanks!

Posted by: Penny | 04/04/2008 04:31:10 AM

Marisa, as you are my blog guru I wan to write about you in my blog and post some of your great paints, I hope that is ok for you.

Posted by: Karina | 04/04/2008 09:23:45 AM

perfect, honest and i am feeling so normal at the moment.
your podcasts are just the medicine!
happy weekend girlie.

Posted by: kelly | 04/04/2008 09:51:08 AM

Marisa-

Nice job delivering your story with wisdom and sincerity. I'm a wee bit older (43) than many of your readers, and have already gone through what so many others are dealing with in their lives right now. I was very impressed that you gave thanks and credit to those who nurtured you along the way. A bit of wisdom that I came across a couple of years ago is to "see through it", which means that no matter what current struggles you are dealing with, learn to "see" the other side. This will help you focus on the positive outcome and once you can visualize and know better things lie ahead for you, they will happen. I think it is great that you have shared your story as inspiration to others.

Ann

Posted by: Ann Marie | 04/04/2008 10:07:13 AM

Congrats on appearing on Poppy Talk! It's one of my favorite blogs! Loved the interview and and your space:)

Posted by: helen:) | 04/04/2008 10:56:35 AM

Hi Marisa,

I loved your podcast about money. I'm actor in New York. About three years ago, I made a choice to really focus on my acting full time and let all that other stuff go. I have made money by taking risks as you talked about. I also had to finance my dreams with credit cards at times. It's worth it being your own mistress and seeing how you grow further as a person by throwing your all into your dreams. So your podcast is right on point and very true.

Posted by: Michelle | 04/04/2008 12:22:39 PM

Marisa, Thank you for much for this podcast. You are such a wise, articulate and sweet soul. I see you as such an amazing mentor, and I can relate to so much of your story (I interviewed for a fancy, full-time law gig this week.... just in case... winter was pretty lean around our house). Your willingness to share is such a gift.
*
k

Posted by: kelly LOVES whales | 04/04/2008 01:16:36 PM

Thank you for so generously sharing your truth with everyone. Having met you when it was taking off, I had no idea all the tears that came before. Thank you for you being supportive and gracious to me as you describe in the pod-cast.

Posted by: ann h | 04/04/2008 04:46:32 PM

This was just wonderful. Inspiring story and just so honest and well articulated. Thanks for sharing your story. I posted about it and your book which I one day would like to read.

Posted by: karline | 04/04/2008 07:00:19 PM

Ok, now I really know what it means when they talk about the wonders of the "blogging" community. I'm so touched by all your comments. I love that this means so much to you, that the timing was "just when you needed it". I love, love, love hearing from you. You all are the BEST!!!!
a heartfelt thank you.

Posted by: marisa | 04/04/2008 08:20:59 PM

Hurray for you and your creative success! :) A friend of mine sent me to your site and I must say that this particular podcast has come with perfect timing. Thank you for sharing your story. I listened with my whole heart and am sending you wishes for continued success. I am so happy to have stumbled upon your blog.

Many thanks,
j.

Posted by: Jessie | 04/06/2008 10:56:31 PM

For 4 days I have wanted to listen to this podcast...waiting until I could have a quiet moment. But my son has been home from school sick and with his sister by his side they can be pretty loud. I decided to plug in my head phones and listen while they watch cartoons. Although I got interrupted about a zillion times I am so glad I listened to this today.
Your story is SO Inspiring. I Really appreciate you taking the time to record this podcast as I know it must have taken time and effort.
And it is so timely too~ I am part of a tele circle group called Circe's Circle lead by Jamie Ridler and our topic for our call this Monday night is Money. I am going to recommend this podcast to everyone!

I loved what you said about being happy for others who have the success you want. Even though I believe in abundance it is easy to forget when it seems everyone else is selling their creations but you.

While I was listening I heard a bing from my email. I checked when your podcast was over and I sold one of my reversible collages on Etsy! See your well wishes and positive energy made its way to me!

Thank you!
Melba

Posted by: Melba | 04/07/2008 12:19:45 PM

Oh yay--- another fabulous podcast, Marisa--- I can't WAIT to meet you at the BizLadies in LA... you'll be there, yes? :)

Will link to this podcast on the next Roadmaps... :)

Posted by: Design for Mankind | 04/07/2008 02:20:18 PM

Marissa,

Let me start by congratulating you on your success AND you talent as an artist. You have certainly practiced what you're preaching: to never give up!

The money issue is a huge problem when trying to make it as an artist/crafter and I appreciated your insights on how to use credit cards or loans to your advantage at the beginning of our adventure. You give me hope. I think I'm going to be ok :-)

I have said it my the past comments, your podcasts always seem to come at the most needed time. If I didn't know any better, I would say that we are riding on the same brain waves. Besides the money/debt topic, something you said struck a chord with me; it was along the lines of not competing against someone. Often times I find myself trying to emaluate a style that seems to be successful for other crafters or one that is the current fad, and that is wrong. Art should be first and foremost about pleasing ourselves. Once again, you have reinforced that belief and I will honestly try to abide by this re-affirmed rule.

Thank you for these amazing podcasts. I truly appreciate them, like a good piece of chocolate... well, almost. Take care,

CeeCee

Posted by: CeeCee | 04/08/2008 11:06:55 AM

Need to apologize: I spelled your name wrong. I don't like it when people mispell mine so... sorry, Marisa.

Posted by: CeeCee | 04/08/2008 11:15:04 AM

[...] Oh Money, My Story by Marisa at Creative Thursday. Marisa shares her very inspirational story about how she dealt with money when she first started her venture into become a self-supporting artist. [...]

Posted by: Friday Favorites at Today’s Homemaker | 04/11/2008 02:27:15 PM

Hi Marisa!

I luckily chanced upon your site through someone else's, and I'm glad I browsed through.

I just wanted to say that you are very kind and generous for sharing your experiences. A lot of people are hesitant about doing so, for whatever reason they may have, and it's nice to see that there are people like you who are open about such things. I love that you inspire others, and I find that it's absolutely refreshing to see someone do it so enthusiastically.

All the best,

Yasmine

Posted by: yasmine | 04/14/2008 02:49:26 AM

[...] Reading all the recent comments and blog posts linking back to the latest podcast inspired me to create a painting with a special message on this Monday, or rather the characters in the Creative Thursday world wish to cheer you on. For all of you out there needing a little extra reminder of this very sentiment, this one’s for you! I’m making it available as a print over at the Etsy shop just in case you need a daily reminder hanging in your home or office. From left to right, Lovey, sweetie bear, simone and Ruby (in new springtime outfits ~ I got some new paint colors that I had to try out ) oscar, little sackbelly, and rabbit. (click here to buy original) [...]

Posted by: Creative Thursday Daily Paintings » Blog Archive » You CAN do it!! | 04/14/2008 06:38:48 PM

oh, thank you for this marisa. so inspirational!

Posted by: leah | 04/17/2008 03:47:39 PM

thank you so much for this amazing podcast... I have listened to many of your talks, and always loved your insights, but this one in particular was so meaningful to me. Your honesty, your depth and the huge sharing of your experiences to get where you are today was so complete in its generosity of spirit and generosity of information.

I have read and heard so many stories from artists who have reached a point where they are making a living, feeling successful with their art, but rarely do they include the downs as well as the ups, and rarely have I heard someone be so totally honest about their experiences and their views.

So, thank you for all your thoughts and experiences and for being willing to share in such a big way, what a gift!

Posted by: Liz | 04/20/2008 06:14:06 PM

Marisa thank you so much for sharing this with us!!! It was so very inspiring to hear your story!

Posted by: Paulette Insall | 04/22/2008 09:23:32 PM

Hi Marisa, I stumbled on your blog after seeing the blog post about you on Decor8. So your podcasts have even reached Australia now!!. Just wanted to say that a lot of what you were talking about in this podcast resonated for me. Whilst I was listening, I was thinking wow, that's what I'm like, or that's what I do, so its nice to know that its not just me and that maybe its just all part of being a creative person. I love listening to your podcasts and have listened to a few of them now. I also love listening to Hay House Radio also and have been doing that for a couple of years now, so when you mentioned it in an earlier podcast, I thought its nice to meet someone on the other side of the world who listens as well. In any case I have rambled a bit here, just wanted to say I enjoy listening and think that what you have to say is very valuable and thanks for sharing your thoughts and ideas with all of us creative artists. Anna

Posted by: Anna Pontikis | 04/23/2008 07:34:18 AM

Hi Marisa,

Unfortunately I am unable to download your podcasts, but I was able to listen to this one (with few interruptions from my 4 year old (ha ha)). It was wonderful. Thank you.

I hope you do not mind, but I mentioned you in my blog today.
http://brushedwithmagic.com/blog

keep smiling and creating
Nicci

Posted by: Nicci | 05/08/2008 08:45:40 PM

Wow. What a great story. I just posted a comment at another blog (http://www.escapefromcubiclenation.com/get_a_life_blog/2008/06/how-do-you-know.html) at a post about listening to your inner compass. I love how blogs work together, on accident!

I've also shared your website and blog/podcasts with a woman at work. Her daughter is preparing to go to college and is wondering whether or not she should pursue art. (She's not comfortable with the artist stereotype and doesn't think she's good enough.) You're site is the perfect thing for her.

You are an inspiration and you're voice is just amazing to listen to. Mesmorizing!

Keep it up and thank you for sharing your life.
Todd

Posted by: Todd Reed | 06/19/2008 10:50:40 PM

Hi Marisa, I can't tell you how much your podcasts have helped answer a lot of questions for me. Even though I have always worked for myself in many creative endeavors, I am very new to the internet world and I'm starting to reach a larger audience with my art which I'm so excited about. It's really brought me out of my shell and made me a better promoter of myself. For years I kept my art private because it was so personal to me, but with all the wonderful support of my family and my husband, I know I can make it if I truly want to. So far Etsy has been amazing for me and I've met some wonderful people and friends. I noticed your work when I first joined Etsy, and have always been a fan. We both share the love for beautiful color. Take care and I wish you lots of success as your journey continues. Karin Grow

p.s. I also really loved the interview you did with Matte Art! What a cool guy. It's so inspiring to hear other artists stories.

www.karingrow.etsy.com

Posted by: Karin Grow | 08/28/2008 06:43:16 PM

Incredible, it just goes to show how brave and strong you have to be sometimes in finding your dream. It doesn't always happen overnight. Loved your story thanks so much for sharing.

Posted by: Jennifer | 06/30/2009 10:49:56 AM

Just listened to your great story, than you, it was so inspiring. I love hearing from other risk takers! It's a shame people don't value taking risks more in the creative world. Now I'm off to listen to your other podcasts!

Posted by: A page of rain | 07/21/2009 04:51:39 AM