Self Acceptance Happens Here: Creating a “Good Messy” Space with Nicki Traikos
My studio is a good messy — it’s where creativity lives, where I can spread out, make mistakes, and keep growing. — Brandi This week on Colour Me Happy Podcast Creating a “Good Messy” Space with Nicki Traikos In this cozy and honest episode of Colour Me Happy, artist and creative entrepreneur Nicki Traikos shares how her once-living-room evolved into a thriving studio space — the birthplace of Life I Design. We dive into what it means to create an environment that supports your creativity, even when it’s a little “good messy.” Nicki opens up about her leap into art at age 40, the freedom that comes with age and self-acceptance, and how decluttering both your space and your mind can open doors to new adventures. Brandi Hofer joins in with her own reflections on turning 40, creative focus, and finding clarity through clearing space. Takeaway Tips: Make Room for Creativity — Declutter your space and your mind to invite new ideas, growth, and opportunities. A refreshed environment can reignite your creative energy.Embrace the “Good Messy” — Creativity doesn’t thrive in perfection. Let your studio, desk, or dining table reflect the beautiful chaos of making — it’s where your best work often begins. Be sure to check out Nikki and Lifeidesign, she has amazing books, workshops and classes! Pre-order her new book HERE
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You Were Made to Create: Embracing Your Original Spark with Laurie Shapiro
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
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Start by Doing: Showing Up Anyway with Artist Andrea Nelson
You don’t need permission to create — just start. The act of doing is where the magic begins.” — BrandiEver 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 TipsStart before you feel ready. Confidence comes after the first brushstroke, not before.Drop the serious art attitude. Play, experiment, and remember that creativity is meant to be joyful — not perfect.
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Practicing Confidence! Be Cringe! Advice that will impact your every day mindset — with Artist & Illustrator Megan Roy
If You’re Going to Compete, Compete with Yourself — with Artist Megan RoyMake bad art. Be cringe. Just keep showing up — because your only goal is getting better. — BrandiIn 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:Compete only with yourself. Progress happens when you focus on improving a little each day — not comparing yourself to others.Be your own advocate. Opportunities rarely fall into your lap — go after them, ask for them, and believe you’re worthy of them.Step out of victim mode. Difficult moments are temporary — shift from “why me?” to “what can I learn from this?” and watch your confidence grow.
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Know Your Worth: Building Strong Foundations with Canadian Artist & Designer Rachael Lyon
When you build a strong foundation, everything else will follow — your confidence, your pricing, and your creative freedom.— Brandi HoferIn 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:Set a strong foundation — clarity in pricing and values gives you stability and growth.Advocate for your worth — fair pay isn’t just personal; it elevates the entire art community.Confidence comes with practice — step into new challenges; each one builds your voice and visibility.
A podcast for creatives, dreamers, and anyone ready to live more boldly — Join me, Brandi Hofer, on Colour Me Happy! Each week, we dive deep with artists, makers, and inspiring humans to talk about what it really takes to live a creative life. We get honest, we laugh (a lot), sometimes we cry, and we always leave feeling a little more seen and connected. Because creativity isn’t just about making art — it’s about making a life that feels true to you. Tune in and see how we turn the everyday ordinary into something truly extraordinary — together.
Ireland