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Two Cranky Creatives

Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico
Two Cranky Creatives
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  • Art Is Everywhere, So Why Are We Cranky? with Julia Barry
    In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Julia Barry of UpRoot Design Studio. Together, they dive deep into the societal devaluation of art. From the paintings on your walls to the designs on your favorite coffee mug, art is everywhere—so why is it so often dismissed as “non-essential”? They examine the barriers to collecting art, how classist norms influence accessibility, and challenge the arbitrary systems deciding which art is “good.” Most importantly, they explore how valuing each other as artists can transform these outdated narratives. Join them for a thought-provoking conversation that’s sure to get you fired up about the importance of art in everyday life—and why it deserves more respect, recognition, and resources. In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: Why art is all around us and yet undervalued. The classist restrictions on collecting and enjoying art. Who decides what makes art “good” and why it’s all arbitrary. The power of artists valuing and uplifting each other. Whether you’re a working artist or someone who simply loves creativity, this episode is your reminder to take art seriously—because it’s shaping the world around you every single day. Notable Mentions Eddie Gangland Fabio Napoliani Blinded by the Light Maverick Sabre Julia’s Playlist All Is Well Now by Gillian Spencer TrioRather Be feat. Jess Glynne Loud Pipes by RatatatMalka Moma Si Se Bogu Moli   Julia Barry…Julia Barry is an artist working toward a healthier planet. She owns UpRoot Design Studio, where she teaches classes on green living, runs the Sustainable Superhero Society for green living enthusiasts, and designs and sells sustainable home, garden & wellness goods to make green living easier and more fun. She uses bold colors and a whimsical illustration style to communicate delight and wonder about humans and our Earth, and motivate everyday people to participate in joyful sustainable habits. As an artist and organizer, she has created community art projects such as "Habitat: Home" -- a performance series of collaboratively-made art about the meaning of 'home' -- and taken part in many arts programs and residencies nationwide like Art-a-Hack, Chalk Hill, and VCCA. As an advisor, she has served as a grant panelist for The Pollination Project and board member for the climate podcast, Threshold. She lives with her many plants, tiny rescue dog, and husband in Brooklyn, NY. UpRoot Design Studio (use code THANKYOU15 to get 15% off)Sustainable Superhero Society (use code SUPERHERO3MON to get 3 free months)Instagram: @uprootdesignstudio  Two Cranky Creatives … Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.  
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  • Cranky and Ahead of the Curve w/Mandy Corcoran
    In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Mandy Corcoran of Amanda Grace Design. Together, they unpack the ins and outs of pitching schedules in art licensing and explain why working smarter and crankier matters. You'll also hear why small companies might be your licensing sweet spot over those intimidating big-box stores. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Why you should be designing one season ahead to stay relevant and competitive The benefits of designing for seasons, not holidays - timeless over timely Real-world experience pitching art in an ever-changin industry Whether you're just starting out or deep into licensing, this episode will leave you feeling prepared, proactive, and just the right amount of cranky. References Mentioned Notion Mable Tan’s Newsletter Mandy Corcoran…Hey there! I’m Mandy Corcoran, the creative force behind Amanda Grace Design. With a deep passion for turning art into seamless patterns, I’m here to help artists like you merge creativity with technology and transform those artistic dreams into thriving businesses. My journey in surface pattern design is all about making tech tools fun and accessible, turning the transition from sketch to digital masterpiece into an exhilarating adventure. Through my courses, eduletters, and engaging reels, I’m dedicated to helping you streamline your processes so you can focus on what you truly love: creating. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of digital art together and manifest those wild creative visions into reality. Ready to turn your art from under appreciated to unstoppable? Let’s do this! Website: amandagracedesign.com Instagram: instagram.com/amandagracedesign Procreate Patterns Unleashed (affiliate link for Toni)   Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.  
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  • Cranky, Creative, and Trendy w/Cat Coquillette
    In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Cat Coquillette. Together, they tackle the controversial “T-word” in the creative industry—trends. Is trend-chasing selling out? Can you still be considered an artist if your work aligns with market demands? Spoiler: Yes, and yes! This week, we’re embracing the cranky side of being a surface designer in a commercial world. Carrie, Cat, and Toni explore how surface design is, by nature, commercial and why wanting to be paid for your work isn’t the betrayal of artistry some might claim. Learn how to apply your own creative voice to trends, make them uniquely yours, and stay authentic while keeping your work marketable. Because, spoiler alert: You're still an artist—even if your art pays the bills. In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: Why “trend” doesn’t have to be a dirty word. Finding the balance between market demands and your creative identity. How to interpret and personalize trends in your work. Challenging the myth that commercial art isn’t “real” art. Whether you're a trend trailblazer or someone who rolls their eyes at the word, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the art-meets-commerce tightrope. References Mentioned Pinterest Predicts 2025 Pantone Color of the Year 2025 Backblaze Cat’s Kittens & Shrooms Mug Cat’s Trend Reports Toni’s Blog Cat’s Playlist Sunny Sloth by Monster Rally Taxi Dancer by Dengue Fever Lebanese Blonde by Thievery Corporation   Cat Coquillette …Cat Coquillette is a nomadic artist and founder of CatCoq, a brand that draws inspiration from Cat’s travels around the world. Her artwork, ranging from tropical florals in Bali to Amazonian wildlife and Scandinavian textile patterns, offers a unique perspective to her audience. Cat’s creative courses and art workshops have helped over half a million students gain the skills and confidence to pursue their creative passions. Cat remains dedicated to delivering art, education, and value to the community she loves. www.catcoq.com Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.  
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  • A Cranky Guide to Creative Confidence w/Janine Vangool
    In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico are joined by Janine Vangool of UPPERCASE Magazine. They tackle the myths and realities of creative confidence. Forget what you’ve heard about “imposter syndrome”—it’s time to ditch the labels and start owning your power. They share their insights on why confidence isn’t something you’re born with but something you build by doing, how to embrace action as your superpower, and why removing self-imposed labels can unlock your creative potential. If you’ve ever doubted your abilities or felt stuck in a creative rut, this episode is your pep talk—cranky humor included. You’ll Hear About: Why “imposter syndrome” is just a silly myth. How confidence grows when you step into action. The freedom that comes from ditching restrictive labels. Whether you’re a seasoned creative or just starting out, Carrie, Janine, and Toni want you to show up boldly and unapologetically. References Mentioned UPPERCASE Magazine Encyclopedia of Inspiration 6th Surface Design Guide UPPERCASE on Instagram  Janine Vangool …Janine Vangool is the publisher, editor and designer of UPPERCASE. Her magazine and books celebrate the process of making, the commitment to craft and the art of living creatively. Janine got her start working as a freelance graphic designer for arts and culture clients and has also taught typography and publication design at the college level. She has been a shop owner and bookseller, gallery curator, sold a line of greeting cards wholesale, made 10,000 books by hand (with lots of help!) and has sewn her own products for retail. She has four fabric collections with Windham Fabrics. Two Cranky Creatives …Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.
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  • Tariff Tantrums & Cranky Comebacks
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About Two Cranky Creatives

Introducing Two Cranky Creatives, the podcast where two seasoned art entrepreneurs pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.
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