Claim OwnershipJewelry as Your Side Hustle with Sugar Gay Isber
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© Gay Isber McMillan 2024
Description
Welcome to Jewelry as Your Side Hustle!
Join designer and jewelry artist Sugar Gay Isber as she chats with talented makers and creative visionaries in the jewelry world. Each episode dives deep into their inspiring journeys, proudest achievements, and bold dreams for the future.
Discover the grit, gems, and growth that fuel their success—sprinkled with laughs and insider tips from Sugar’s Austin studio.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your jewelry journey, this podcast is your backstage pass to the stories and strategies of the industry's most creative minds.
✨ Want to share your story? Email Sugar at gayisber@gmail.com—she’d love to hear from you!
Gems, grit and growth are discussed in all of their fine forms.
Find her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sugargayisber/
Keywords:
- Jewelry Podcast
- Jewelry Design
- Creative Entrepreneurs
- Jewelry Makers
- Jewelry Business Tips
- Handmade Jewelry
- Jewelry Inspiration
- Jewelry Creatives
- Austin Jewelry Scene
- Jewelry Journey
- Jewelry Industry Insights
- Jewelry Side Hustle
- Gems and Growth
Hashtags:
#JewelryPodcast #JewelryMakersUnite #HandmadeJewelry #JewelryDesign #JewelryCreatives #JewelrySideHustle #JewelryInspiration #JewelryTalks #AustinCreatives #JewelryBusinessTips #CreativeEntrepreneurs #BehindTheJewelry #JewelryJourney #GemsAndGrit #JewelryStories#WomensJewelryAssociation #JewelrySuccess
25 Episodes
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In this heartwarming episode, I chat with the ever-inspiring Bea Byrne, a multi-talented maker, UV resin expert, quilting community builder, and art educator. We explore how Bea blends curiosity with confidence, how she encourages others to embrace their own creativity, and why community-based learning is at the heart of her teaching practice.We dive into her free Quilt n Learn Summit, UV resin kits for beginners, and what it’s like to teach hands-on classes in San Francisco. Whether you're a quilter, crafter, or simply resin-curious, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical ideas for your next creative project.Connect with Bea Byrne: Website & Shop: beabyrne.comFree Quilt n Learn Summit (starts July 1st): quiltnlearn.comUV Resin Starter Kit + Supplies List: bit.ly/uvresinkitUpcoming Classes in San Francisco: WorkshopSFInstagram: @beabyrneartist and @quiltnlearn Facebook Group for Quilters: Quilt n Learn Facebook GroupTikTok: @beabyrneartistCraftcation 2026: Craftcation ConferenceJoin the Craft Industry Alliance (affiliate link): craftindustryalliance.org/?aff=lixieyarnoverBea Byrne interview, quilting podcast, Quilt n Learn summit, UV resin crafts, beginner resin art, creative confidence, craft community building, San Francisco art classes, resin art for beginners, quilting for connection, handmade resin jewelry, fiber arts podcast, quilt and craft podcast, quilt teacher spotlight, craft retreat speaker, Craftcation presenter, how to start resin crafting, quilting workshops, teaching textile arts, quilting community group, creative women in business, fiber art educator, quilt summit 2025, art-based learning, slow crafting movement, creative career inspiration
Podcast Episode: Stitching Stories & Building Community with Edie Eckman In this episode, I sit down with crochet and knitting expert Edie Eckman to discuss creativity, community, and the art of teaching others to love yarn. We explore her journey from traditional crafting to digital instruction, her tips for staying inspired, and how she uses platforms like Ravelry, YouTube, and Instagram to connect with fellow makers. Whether you're a stitcher, a side hustler, or just love learning new things, this one's for you.Follow her on Facebook, Ravelry, YouTube, Instagram & Bluesky. andJoin her mailing list or dive into her blog for patterns, tips, and more fiber fun!Here are her links:Find Edie at edieeckman.com:Crochet Tech Edit Along is www.edieeckman.com/crochet-edit-alongJoin My Mailing ListRead My Blog YouTube Instagram & Bluesky#crochet podcast, #knitting podcast, #EdieEckmaninterview, #fiberartspodcast, #yarncraftspodcast, #learntocrochet, #learntoknit, #handmadebusiness tips, #creative #businesspodcast, #craftteachingtips, #Ravelrydesigner, #crochetteacher, #knittinginstructor, #craftingforbeginners, #onlinecrochetclasses, #fiberartscommunity, #craftinginspiration, #crochettutorials, #knittingeducation, #crochetforentrepreneurs, #creativelearningpodcast, #crochetsidehustle, #handmadecreativejourney, #EdieEckmanpatterns, #makerpodcast, #slowcraftmovement, #howtoteachcrochet, #patternwritingtips, #yarnbusinessadvice
On this episode of Jewelry as Your Side Hustle, Sugar Gay Isber, catches up with Esther Ruggles, a pain therapist and fellow The Blox alum (Episode 9). Their conversation explores the challenges of building a small-town business and the possibilities of expanding into a more supportive community.While Esther isn’t a traditional entrepreneur, her work in pain therapy offers valuable insights into the connection between healing and creativity. She shares her experiences working with clients, her journey on The Blox, and her loyal service dog, Scout, who appears in the episode’s cover image.Sugar and Esther discuss potential next steps, from networking strategies to the importance of location when growing a business. Whether you’re a maker, a therapist, or someone trying to carve out a successful path, this episode is a reminder that a fresh perspective—and a change of scenery—can make all the difference.Follow Esther on Instagram: @elementsandbodyworkListen now and join the conversation about growth, business, and finding the right community for success.
In this episode, I sit down with Myla Marie, an entrepreneur, bestselling author, and reality TV competitor who knows what it takes to build a business and a brand. She shares her experience on The Blox (Season 9), where she put her entrepreneurial skills to the test, and dives into the inspiration behind her latest novel, The Vanishing.We also discuss the challenges of balancing business, creativity, and philanthropy while being a mom of three! Tune in for a conversation full of insight, resilience, and inspiration from a woman making waves in multiple industries.Here is her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001110442498Hashtags:#Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #BestsellingAuthor #TheBlox #StartupJourney #TheVanishing #AuthorLife #Philanthropy #WomenWhoInspire #PodcastInterview #CreativeMindset
In this episode of Jewelry as Your Side Hustle, I chat with the incredibly talented Salena Baca, a powerhouse in the crochet world. Salena shares her journey as a pattern designer, author, and educator, revealing how she uses her passion for yarn to inspire and connect with makers around the globe.As the founder of the American Crochet Association and an active member of the Craft Industry Alliance, Salena has cultivated thriving communities on Facebook and beyond, providing resources, guidance, and encouragement to crocheters of all levels.We discuss her love for writing books, her commitment to teaching others the art of crochet, and her unique approach to building an inclusive and supportive online space for creators. Salena’s insights into balancing creativity with community-building will resonate with listeners looking to take their crafts to the next level.Follow Salena Baca:Instagram: @salena.baca.crochetBlog: American Crochet AssociationFacebook Groups: American Crochet Association, Group Salena Baca CrochetBooks: Salena Baca on AmazonKey Topics:How to build and nurture vibrant online communities for creativesTips for writing and publishing crochet patternsThe importance of sharing knowledge and skills with othersRelevant Hashtags: #JewelryAsYourSideHustle #SugarGayIsber #SalenaBaca #CrochetCommunity #AmericanCrochetAssociation #CraftIndustryAlliance #CrochetInspiration #Crochet #MakersGonnaMakeTune in to learn how Salena combines her creativity, community-building skills, and love for fiber arts to make an impact in the craft world. You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation!🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to follow for more episodes celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Podcast Description: In this lively episode, Sugar Gay Isber sits down with Elizabeth Nuebauer from Obstreperous Ostrich—a jewelry company with a name that’s hard to pronounce but impossible to forget!We dive into the business side of handmade jewelry (crafted by her talented partner, Chris) and explore our shared passions, including learning Spanish, living in Mexico, and joining the Craft Industry Alliance. Elizabeth also shares her exciting plans to launch a YA writing contest—spoiler: I’ll be one of the judges! Tune in for laughs, inspiration, and a celebration of creativity and community.Contact Elizabeth:Website: https://oostrich.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Obstreperous-ostrich/100063565927607/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildostriches/Hashtags: #JewelryPodcast #CreativeConnections #HandmadeJewelry #YAContest #WomenInBusiness #LearningSpanish #CraftIndustryAlliance #PodcastFun #CraftIndustryAlliance
Podcast Summary: Jewelry as Your Side Hustle – Featuring Courtney GrayIn this episode of Jewelry as Your Side Hustle, I sit down with Courtney Gray, an accomplished metalsmith, former jewelry-making school owner, and now a dedicated business coach for jewelry makers.She also sings in a band. I can't wait to listen.Courtney shares her journey from running a successful jewelry school in Austin to empowering other makers as a coach. We delve into the keys to building a thriving jewelry business, insights from her years of experience, and the power of community through organizations like the Women’s Jewelry Association, where we’ve been members—and friends—for over a decade.Whether you're just starting or looking to take your jewelry business to the next level, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips.Check out Courtney's incredible work and coaching resources at courtneygrayarts.com.Link tree: All My LinksListen to my podcast: The Jeweler’s ViewGet your FREE guide: Courage, Clarity, and CustomersInstagram https://www.instagram.com/courtneygrayarts/Email cgrayarts@gmail.comKeywords:Jewelry BusinessMetalsmithingJewelry CoachingWomen in BusinessJewelry Side HustleAustin Jewelry MakersJewelry SchoolCreative EntrepreneurshipCourtney Gray ArtsJewelry Success TipsWomen’s Jewelry AssociationHashtags:#JewelryPodcast #JewelryBusiness #JewelrySideHustle #CourtneyGrayArts #Metalsmithing #JewelryCoaching #CreativeEntrepreneurship #JewelryMakersUnite #AustinArtists #JewelryTips #HandmadeJewelry #WomenInBusiness #JewelryInspiration #WomensJewelryAssociation #JewelrySuccess
In this episode of Jewelry as Your Side Hustle, Sugar Gay Isber sits down with Kamilah Campbell, founder of The Pink Locket Jewelry. Kamilah shares how her Jamaican heritage and American experiences influence her distinctive designs, each crafted to tell a story and empower individuals to express their uniqueness. Listen in as Kamilah discusses her unwavering commitment to creativity and quality, and learn how her jewelry reflects personal narratives and celebrates individuality. Here are her links:https://www.thepinklocket.com/https://www.instagram.com/thepinklocket/Kamilah's contact information:The Pink Locket 12461 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Suite 760 Douglasville, GA 30134 customer@thepinklocket.com
In this episode, Sugar Gay Isber chats with Sara Mizrachi, the creative force behind Sera Sela Jewelry. Sugar and Sara are both members of the Artisan Group, where celebrities are gifted works of their art to get social proof for other potential buyers. It spreads the word. Sara shares her journey from passion to profession, crafting stunning, handmade brass statement pieces that embody simplicity and elegance. Her jewelry has been featured in many TV shows and movies.Tune in to discover how Sara turns everyday brass into wearable art and gain inspiration for making your own side hustle shine.Hashtags: #JewelryAsYourSideHustle #SaraMizrachi #SeraSelaJewelry #BrassJewelry #HandmadeJewelry #StatementPieces #JewelryDesign #CreativeEntrepreneur #SideHustleSuccess #astisangroup #SugarGayIsber #GayIsber #handmadejewelrywww.sarasela.comwww.etsy.com/shop/saraselajewelrywww.faire.com/direct/saraselajewelrywww.instagram.com/saraselajewelrywww.facebook.com/saraselajewelrywww.pinterest.com/saraselajewelry
In this episode, Kim Langley, an expert in the ancient art of yarn creation, takes us on a journey through the intricate process of crafting yarn. With a deep understanding of wool production, Kim shares insights into her business as a Purveyor of Fine Yarn. She discusses the importance of breed-specific yarns, locally sourced wool, and the dedication to supporting small producers in the Fibershed Heartland with yarn spun in the Midwest. Join Sugar Gay Isber and Kim for a fascinating conversation that delves into the beauty and tradition behind each skein.Explore more about Kim's work and the complete yarn-making process by visiting:Website: purveyoroffineyarns.comEmail: purveyoroffineyarns@gmail.comInstagram: instagram.com/purveyoroffineyarnsFacebook: facebook.com/purveyoroffineyarnsFor a bonus, check out Kim’s blog post, "This is How Your Yarn is Created," to see photos of the complete process: purveyoroffineyarns.com/blog.
This is a fun listen. Angell Jazmin and Sugar Gay Isber both live in Austin, although they have never met. Angell is lovely! The power of creativity is strong with this artist.She's a self-taught Austin metalsmith; as she says, she creates for people with a bit of a dark side, but she is a delight to listen to.Find about more about Angell and shop her jewelry collections:www.miraizjewelry.comLinks:https://www.instagram.com/miraizjewelry/https://www.miraizjewelry.com/Angell J. Figueroa
Okeyele-Olatunji Elizabeth talks to Sugar Gay Isber about her journey to teach children and sometimes their parents how to create with their hands by learning the art of knitting and crocheting. It's a fantastic journey Elizabeth takes us on as she discusses the many benefits of helping children learn a handicraft.Her company, Tunnizze Creation, teaches children in Africa to knit and crochet. She travels the country teaching at schools, private lessons, orphanages, and conferences. Elizabeth is an inspiration as an entrepreneur, teacher, and businesswoman—and she's also a wonderful person!Elizabeth and Sugar are both members of the Craft Industry Alliance.You can learn more about it here: https://www.instagram.com/craftindustryalliance/Email Elizabeth to sponsor her amazing work: Tunnizzie@gmail.com.Here are more links to connect with her:https://centerforknitandcrochet.org/teaching-20000-children-across-the-african-continent-to-knit/https://craftindustryalliance.org/9-tips-for-teaching-children-to-knit-and-crochet/Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tunnizze/Follow her on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Tunnizzecreationhttps://textilesocietyofamerica.org/13389/member-monday-with-okeyele-olatunji-elizabeth#african #children #knitting #crochet #entrepreneur #businesswoman #smallbusiness
Lindsay deOliveira is an inventor, patent holder, mom, entrepreneur, business leader, and Founder and CEO of Soothe Beginnings. She's a delight to listen to as she tells her story of grit and growth as her company blossoms. Lindsay and Sugar Gay Isber have The Blox in common. Shhhhhh! Don't tell anyone, but Lindsay won Season 12 of The Blox. Soon to be released on Amazon Prime.This significant accomplishment opened the doors for her company to grow with her vision as a thoughtful leader in innovative baby products.Listen to Lindsay's journey and her path to super success. For more information:Lindsay deOliveirahttps://linktr.ee/soothebeginnings www.soothebeginnings.comhttps://www.instagram.com/soothebeginnings/lindsay@soothebeginnings.comInfant Pacifier USAPlastic-free. Latex-free. Eco friendlyInterchangeable and Safe
Sugar Gay Isber talks to Jill Wolcott, owner of Jill Wolcott Knits, a fellow Craft Industry Alliance member and queen bee of pattern-making and knit books.Sugar watched her studio tour video on her website and loved the behind-the-scenes peek at her processes and inspiration.Jill shares the joy of running a successful business enterprise, her plans, and color trends. It is so interesting! Contact Jill Wolcott: info@jillwolcottknits.comFollow her on IG: https://www.instagram.com/jillwolcottknits/ Read more and visit her website: https://www.jillwolcottknits.com/t and Sugar Gay Isber McMillan
Stephanie Daily andJoin Sugar Gay Isber McMillan and Stephanie Daily, two dynamic entrepreneurs and contestants from season 14 of "The Blox" (coming soon to Amazon Prime), as they explore the thrilling world of jewelry making, business growth, and creative entrepreneurship. Stephanie, with her shocking pink hair that embodies her creative flair, brings a fresh perspective to the podcast. She has turned her passion for making lasagna from scratch into a booming business, "Send a Friend Lasagna," adored by the city of Indianapolis.During the pandemic, Stephanie grew her business from zero to a local favorite, delivering delicious, freshly made lasagna right to the doors of her customers. Recently, she received a trademark from the US Patent Office, marking a significant milestone in her entrepreneurial journey.In each episode, Sugar and Stephanie share their experiences, insights, and tips on turning creative passions into successful ventures. From the intricacies of jewelry design to the secrets of scaling a homegrown business, they provide valuable knowledge and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and creative minds.Connect with Stephanie and Follow Her Journey:Freshly made lasagna delivered to you or a friend in Indianapolis and surrounding areas (inside I-465 and 15 miles outside of Indy).Contact: (317) 694-9529 | sendafriendlasagna@gmail.comInstagram: sendafriendlasagnaWebsite: sendafriendlasagna.comFacebook: Send a Friend LasagnaKeywords and Hashtags: #JewelryMaking #Entrepreneurship #TheBlox #CreativeBusiness #HandmadeJewelry #JewelryDesign #SmallBusiness #Crafts #DIYJewelry #Podcast #SendAFriendLasagna #Indianapolis #HomegrownBusiness Sugar Gay Isber McMillan
Kelly Parke and Sugar talk about all things about the creation of her book series about Mineral Fairies. Kelly's passion for drawing and rock hunting led her to create books to teach kids about mineralscOquirrh Mountain Fairies result from Kelly Parke's lifetime love of drawing and cartoons. To engage students, she also creates coloring books and lessons about minerals.Look for her Oquirrh Mountain Fairies online. Kelly also creates pendants from rocks she hunts in the areas around her Utah home. There is so much information!Listen and enjoy! Find Kelly's website at https://oquirrhmountainfairies.com/
Jenn Perkel - left a long-time teaching position to become an entrepreneur and businesswoman. She creates, promotes, and manages outdoor events for vendors in three locations.Sugar and Jenn hit it off the first night of The Blox. Listen as Jenn gives tips and tricks to being an outdoor vendor.Guest: Jenn PerkelHear Here, LLC website: hearherellcnj.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/hearherellcnj/ email: hearherellcnj@gmail.comWatch Jennifer and Sugar on Season 14 of The Blox!Event Organizer #eventplanner #CottageBaker CFO#1873 @matawanfarmersmarket @seabrightfarmartisanmarket @howellfarmersmarket
Annie Ciszak of Annie's Arts & Follies from Anchorage, Alaska talks to Sugar about living as an artist in our most northern state. So much good stuff!Find her 0n Instagram https://www.instagram.com/msanniepants/ Her Etsy Store www.anniepants.etsy.comHer website www.anniesartsandfollies.com
After seeing an antique necklace online, Sugar Gay goes down a rabbit hole tracking down all things from the period that influenced Tiffany & Co. and the time I met the president of Tiffany's.
Business Consultant Jazmyn Lopez talks to Sugar Gay Isber about their time together on The Blox, helping businesses grow and all things ChicagoConnect with Jazmyn on her IG https://www.instagram.com/meetanthelo/
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