HobbyScool

82: What Your Family Really Remembers About the Holidays (It’s Not the Gifts)

Let’s simplify the holidays—without sacrificing the magic. If you’re feeling the holiday pressure creeping in already—shopping lists, school events, and trying to make everything magical—this episode is the warm hug and strategy session you didn’t know you needed. I sat down with Corinne, the founder of Wondermom Wannabe, who helps busy moms create calmer, more connected homes through simple systems and joyful traditions. We talked about how to slow down during the holidays, focus on connection instead of perfection, and build family memories that don’t rely on stress, spending, or schedules. What started as a conversation about simplifying the holidays turned into a heartfelt reminder of what actually matters: presence over pressure. What You’ll Learn: * How Corinne shifted from “doing it all” to creating a holiday season full of calm and connection * The surprising answers her kids gave when asked about their favorite holiday memories * Why focusing on “how you want your family to feel” changes everything * Her secret weapon for planning family time without adding stress: the Countdown to Christmas * How to make magical memories without spending money (or baking the perfect cookie) * * What to do when things don’t go as planned (because they won’t—and that’s okay) * Why planning your “yeses and nos” ahead of time makes everything easier You don’t need more on your plate—you need better systems and clearer priorities. If you're ready to let go of the Pinterest-perfect holiday pressure and focus on what really matters, you’re going to love this conversation. Tune in, take a deep breath, and let’s reclaim the joy this season is meant to bring. Mentioned in this episode: Where to find Corinne: Website [https://wondermomwannabe.com⁠] Corinne's free gift: Stop wondering "What's For Dinner?" [https://wondermomwannabe.com/dinner-ideas/]

81: A Simple Guide to Learning Music as an Adult

Ever thought it’s too late to pick up an instrument or learn to sing? Think again. In this episode, I sat down with Tara Brueske—professional musician, voice and piano coach, and all-around creative powerhouse—to explore how music can bring joy, healing, and a powerful sense of self-expression at any stage of life. Whether you're curious about dusting off that childhood piano skill or you’ve always dreamed of singing with confidence, Tara shares how approachable (and affordable!) it really is to get started. We dive deep into her journey as a lifelong musician, her 30+ years of teaching, and the simple steps anyone can take to reintroduce music into their life—even if it’s been decades. From affordable keyboards to community choirs, Tara offers practical, encouraging advice for making music part of your everyday joy. 🎧 What You’ll Learn: * Why it’s never too late to start learning music * Creative ways to get started without breaking the bank * How community choirs and local programs can help you test the waters * What to look for in online vs. in-person lessons * How music impacts your mental and emotional well-being * Tips for beginners who don’t read music * The surprising benefits of adult voice and instrument lessons 🎶 Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a way to reduce stress, or a confidence boost, music might be exactly what your soul needs. I hope this episode encourages you to take that first step—your creative spark is worth it. Tune in and be inspired! Mentioned in this episode: Where to find Tara: ⁠Website⁠ [https://www.tarabrueske.com ] Tara’s free gift: ⁠ [https://mailchi.mp/373f6fcf2f6b/acrylic-painting]The Singer’s Hub [https://tarab.vipmembervault.com/products/courses/view/4] Never miss a HobbyScool event. Join our free newsletter and be the first to know when the next online learning virtual summit launches. ⁠See the full schedule here. [https://hobbyscool.lpages.co/hobbyscool-event-schedule-sign-up/]

80: How to Start Acrylic Painting (Even If You’ve Never Tried It Before)

If you’ve ever wanted to start painting but felt intimidated by where to begin—this episode will give you the creative nudge you need. In this episode of the HobbyScool Podcast, I’m chatting with Jackie Partridge, a mom, artist, art educator, and creative entrepreneur based in Ontario, Canada. Jackie is passionate about helping beginner painters feel confident with acrylics, and she shares some super accessible advice on how anyone can dive into painting—even with minimal supplies. Jackie also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her adorable "Crowned in Fall" floral cow painting workshop she created for our Craft and Create Club. From using just three brushes to customizing your own cow with seasonal flair, Jackie walks us through the freedom and joy of making art that’s playful, personal, and pressure-free. 🎧 What You’ll Learn: * The one thing Jackie recommends all beginner painters do first * How to start painting without fancy supplies or a canvas * Jackie’s go-to brushes for 99% of her artwork * Simple ways to customize any tutorial and make it your own * Creative inspiration behind her fall-themed cow painting * Ideas for adapting seasonal artwork to fit your personal style * Where to find Jackie’s free guide for beginner painters If you’ve been looking for a relaxing, creative outlet—or a fun way to bring some art into your daily life—Jackie’s encouragement and easy tips are exactly what you need. Give yourself permission to play, make mistakes, and enjoy the process. Hit play on this episode and let’s get painting together! Mentioned in this episode: Where to find Jackie: Website [https://www.jackiepartridgeart.com/], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@JackiePartridgeArt] Jackie's free gift: Free acrylic painting guide for beginners [https://mailchi.mp/373f6fcf2f6b/acrylic-painting] Never miss a HobbyScool event. Join our free newsletter and be the first to know when the next online learning virtual summit launches. See the full schedule here. [https://hobbyscool.lpages.co/hobbyscool-event-schedule-sign-up/]

79: The “Grandma Crafts” Making a Modern Comeback (and Why You Should Try Them)

Feel the pull to create—but not sure where to begin? In this episode of the HobbyScool Podcast, I sat down with Jacquelynne Steves, the founder and creative director behind The Art of Home. She shares her passion for “grandma crafts” like quilting, hand embroidery, and appliqué—and shows us why these timeless traditions are making a modern comeback. Whether you're looking for a creative outlet or a way to slow down and reconnect, Jacquelynne’s advice is the gentle nudge you need to just start. What You’ll Learn: * Why hand embroidery is a relaxing, portable, and affordable entry point for beginners * Creative ways to use and display your embroidery around your home * What makes quilting so addictive—and how to ease into it with confidence * The mental health benefits of hands-on creative work * Why Jacquelynne’s “Songbirds Garden” block-of-the-month quilt is perfect for learning * How her membership makes quilting feel like play, not pressure * Tips for getting started with minimal supplies and maximum joy This is your permission slip to stop scrolling and start stitching. Mentioned in this episode: * Where to find Jacquelynne: Website [https://jacquelynnesteves.com/] * Free Gift: Very Versatile Quilt Pattern, with hand embroidery patterns for every season: https://jacquelynnesteves.com/very-versatile-quilt-art-of-handmade/ [https://jacquelynnesteves.com/very-versatile-quilt-art-of-handmade/] * Never miss a HobbyScool event! Sign up here. [https://programs.hobbyscool.com/hobbyscool-event-schedule-sign-up/]

78: Start Here: The Easiest Bag for First-Time Makers

If you’ve ever wanted to make your own bag but felt overwhelmed by zippers, hardware, or pattern instructions that feel like a foreign language—this episode is your sign to start simple. I sat down with Monika Potaszynska of All Sew Petite, a designer who teaches makers how to go from following patterns to confidently creating their own. And it all starts with one beginner-friendly project. Monika shares how she got into bag-making (spoiler: it began with a favor for a friend), why your sewing background might actually trip you up when making bags, and what it really takes to design your own custom, functional pieces from scratch. Whether you’re just getting started or dreaming up your own designs, this conversation is packed with encouragement and practical insight. What You’ll Learn: * Why a zipper pouch is the best first project for new bag makers * How sewing bags differs from garment sewing (and why it’s often easier) * The biggest mistakes beginners make (and how to avoid them) * What to consider before drafting your own bag patterns * How Monika finds inspiration and plans her designs from idea to prototype * A behind-the-scenes look at the Bag Maker Community * Why “just start” is the advice every maker needs to hear Whether you're staring at that fabric stash or itching to make something completely your own, this episode will help you take that first step—with confidence and joy. 🎧 Listen in and get inspired. Mentioned in this episode: * Where to find Monika: Website [https://allsewpetite.com/] and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/allsewpetite/] * Monika's free gift: A Beginner's Guide to Pattern Drafting [https://allsewpetite.podia.com/ebook-summit] * Sign up for HobbyScool's free online learning summits: https://programs.hobbyscool.com/hobbyscool-event-schedule-sign-up/ [https://programs.hobbyscool.com/hobbyscool-event-schedule-sign-up/]