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.
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Nervouscited: Turning Nerves into Power & Creating a Life You Love with Artist Jodi Miller
“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.” — BrandiIn 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.
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Flipping the Script: Alli K Design Muralist, & Author on Social Media, Creative Friendships & Saying Yes
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.
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.
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