Her Handmade Hustle Unplugged: A Podcast Helping Independent Businesses Get Seen, Remembered and Chosen.

Being Found When It MattersWhat happens when someone is actively looking for what you do… and you don’t show up?In this episode, I’m talking about why being visible online isn’t the same as being found - especially when people are searching locally and ready to buy, book or enquire.This conversation was sparked by a very real, very festive moment when our toilet blocked over Christmas - and I needed a plumber, fast. I didn’t scroll. I didn’t browse. I searched. And Google decided who I saw.We talk about:- Why intentional searchers behave differently to casual browsers- Why local visibility matters more than most businesses realise- The role Google plays when people are actively looking for services- Why “near me” searches are such a powerful signal of intentThis episode is for businesses of all kinds who want to be found at the moment it actually matters - not just seen when people are scrolling.If you’d like to go deeper, I’ve also written a blog article that explores this in more detail, including what helps businesses show up locally on Google:👉 Read the blog here: https://www.herhandmadehustle.co.uk/blog/local-seo-for-businesses This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

I started a TikTok channel… and didn’t tell a soul.In this episode of Her Handmade Hustle, I share the honest reality of a 4-week secret TikTok experiment where I started a brand-new account from scratch to see if it was actually possible to grow an audience quickly as a small business owner in 2025.No shortcuts. No viral hacks. No pretending to love every second of it.I set myself strict rules around consistency, posting frequency, testing different days and times, using trending vs non-trending audio, experimenting with content pillars and tracking what really mattered - watch time, engagement, and confidence, not just likes.In this episode, we talk about: whether TikTok is worth it for small and creative businesses and what actually worked (and what really didn’t).If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner or independent brand wondering whether TikTok is right for you, this episode will save you time, energy and a lot of second-guessing.Find more resources, tools and support for small and independent business owners at: https://www.herhandmadehustle.co.uk This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

In this chaotic, rum-fuelled hotel-room episode, Joanne and her husband dive into the real truth about running a creative business. From the rise of AI in small businesses to the power of assertiveness, confidence and clear boundaries, this unfiltered chat covers the emotional rollercoaster of self-employment, why it isn’t for everyone and why support and belief matter more than anything. If you're a female entrepreneur or creative business owner who wants honest advice, relatable humour and a reminder that you're not alone, this is the episode to play.Grab your copy of the Her Handmade Hustle Ultimate Business Planner here! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Running a creative business can be beautiful… and brutally hard.In this episode of Her Handmade Hustle Unplugged, Joanne gets honest about what happens when the dream doesn’t match the reality. When the sales are slow, the doubts creep in and you start wondering if you’re really cut out for it.Expect humour, honesty, and a few unlikely stories..It’s a wake-up call (delivered with love!) for every maker, artist or small-business owner who’s ever felt disheartened or disappointed that things aren’t going to plan.You’ll learn how to:Push through the messy middle of businessDeal with disappointment without giving upFind purpose when progress feels slowBuild resilience and keep showing upBecause it’s not about everything going right - it’s about who you become when it doesn’t.Listen now for a little tough love, a few laughs and the reminder that you’re doing better than you think.Mentioned in this episode:The Her Handmade Hustle Business Planner - designed for creative women who want to feel organised, focused and in control again (without losing their spark).👉 Grab your copy hereThe Mel Robbins Podcast - 8 Things To Tell Yourself Every Morning👉 Listen here This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Ever feel like life and business have both cranked the volume up too much? Between the constant notifications, family chaos and the endless “shoulds” of running a handmade business, it’s easy to lose track of your own voice.In this week’s episode of Her Handmade Hustle Unplugged, I’m talking about what happens when everything gets too loud - and how to tune back into what you really want. From literal noise (yes, my house is rarely quiet!) to the mental load and comparison that sneak into our creative lives, we’ll explore how to step away from the overwhelm and reconnect with yourself.This episode is for every woman who’s ever felt overstimulated - you’ll learn simple ways to quiet the noise - both outside and inside - so you can feel calmer, more focused and more in control of your business again.Mentioned in this episode:Feeling like your Etsy shop’s the source of your noise? Let me take it off your plate with my Etsy Takeover Service - a full done-for-you setup and optimisation package designed to help your handmade business get found (without you having to do it all). Check it out here This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Want a way to grow your audience without shouting on social media or feeling pushy about selling? In this episode, I’m sharing why podcasting is one of the best marketing tools for creative business owners - whether you start your own show or simply get yourself featured as a guest.I’ll walk you through how I got started, the simple tech setup I use and why podcasting feels so much easier than constant posting. You’ll learn the benefits of having your own podcast, tips for making it work without overwhelm and how to pitch yourself to other podcasts if running your own isn’t your thing.By the end, you’ll see how using your voice can help you build trust, reach more people, and grow your business - no hard sell required!If you want any help starting a podcast, or would like to chat about how I can help you grow your creative business, visit the Her Handmade Hustle website. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Are you haunted by past mistakes, self-doubt or the fear of failure? In this episode of Her Handmade Hustle Unplugged, I’m sharing ghost stories (yes, real ones!) alongside the invisible “ghosts” that creep into our businesses - the doubts, failures and bad experiences that hold us back.We’ll talk about how to confront those fears, exorcise old failures and finally step forward with confidence in your handmade business.If you’ve ever felt stuck, scared to try again, or haunted by the past - this one’s for you.Get in touch:Follow me on Instagram: @herhandmadehustleEmail: herhandmadehustle@gmail.comNeed help with your Etsy shop?Check out my brand new Etsy Takeover Service - I’ll refresh your listings, boost your visibility and give your shop the attention it deserves. Etsy Takeover Service This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Marketing doesn’t have to feel salesy, scary or limited to social media. In this episode, I’m joined by Anna Short from Boo Marketing (Small Business Britain’s Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs 2025) to share simple, confidence-boosting strategies for small business owners.Discover:Why you don’t need to be a marketing expert to succeedThe confidence shift that makes marketing feel simple and humanHow to stop panicking about social media and use other ways to get your business seenBudget-friendly marketing tips that actually work (without burning you out) Grab Anna’s freebie here: https://helloboo.podia.com/simple-marketing-strategy-starter Check out her Simple Strategy Workshop here: https://helloboo.podia.com/5-step-simple-marketing-strategy-workshopVisit her website here: https://helloboo.podia.com/And if you're a creative and in search of some small business support and mentoring for your creative business, visit the Her Handmade Hustle website and get in touch! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Talking about tax and accounting might not sound exciting… but if you’re running a creative business, it’s one of the most important conversations you can have.In this episode of Her Handmade Hustle Unplugged, I sit down with Alison Boucher, founder of Boucher Accountants, to chat about the money questions most of us are too embarrassed to ask. Alison is not your typical accountant - she’s friendly, approachable and completely understands the worries that come with starting and growing a small business.We cover:The most common myths around tax and bookkeepingThe mistakes new business owners often make (and how to avoid them)A quick-fire round of “Can I claim for that?” covering Canva, coffee and more...Why you don’t need to be ‘good with numbers’ to feel confident with moneyWhether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in business for a while but still panic every time the word tax comes up, this episode will leave you feeling calmer, clearer and much more confident.Connect with Alison Boucher:Website: https://www.bouchers-accountants.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bouchersaccountants/Work with me through Her Handmade Hustle:If you’re ready to grow your creative business and want to feel more confident doing it, you’ll find all the support I can offer you on the Her Handmade Hustle website! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Rachel, the founder of LoveLossDiscoballs - a heartfelt business born from unimaginable grief. After losing her husband to suicide, Rachel found herself navigating the raw realities of loss, motherhood and healing. But instead of hiding her pain, she channelled it into something creative, joyful and honest.This is a story about love, loss, starting again - and yes, a little sparkle too. If you’ve ever been through something hard (or loved someone who has), this conversation will definitely resonate.Links to things mentioned in the episode:Check out the beautiful range of unique cards on their website LoveLossDiscoballsCALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) - suicide prevention charity This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Dealing with criticism as a small business owner in your forties can feel especially tough - especially when you're rediscovering who you are and finally putting yourself out there.In this episode, I’m talking about how unsolicited opinions and unwanted feedback can shake your confidence, stall your ideas and make you question everything. You’ll hear personal stories, why criticism hits harder in midlife and practical tips to protect your confidence, build resilience, and keep going - even when you’re feeling wobbly.Perfect for women in their 40s (and beyond) building heart-led businesses. Need some down to earth help with your small business? Visit my website to see how I'm different to other creative business coaches and how I can help you grow your business!https://herhandmadehustle.co.uk/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

In this emotional episode of the HHH Unplugged podcast, I’m joined by the extraordinary Lucy Thompson - a medical tattoo artist and founder of the Nipple Innovation Project (NIP), the UK’s first mastectomy tattoo charity. Lucy is a true pioneer in the art of hyper-realistic 3D nipple tattoos, offering fully-funded tattoos to breast cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy or breast reconstruction.And this one’s personal - because Lucy tattooed me.After my own preventative breast surgery, Lucy helped me reclaim a part of myself I didn’t even realise I was grieving. This episode is about so much more than aesthetics. It’s about healing. Confidence. Closure. And giving women back what breast cancer took away.We talk about:Why 3D nipple tattoos are an essential part of breast cancer recoveryHow Lucy’s charity is giving women access to high-quality, permanent tattoos - free of chargeThe emotional and psychological impact of looking in the mirror and finally feeling whole againWhat doctors and surgeons don’t always tell you about the final stage of reconstructionHow YOU can help spread the word to someone who needs this, right nowWhether you’ve experienced breast cancer, supported someone through it or simply want to know more about how art and empathy can heal, this is a must-listen.Find out more about the Nipple Innovation Project:Website: www.nippleinnovationproject.orgInstagram: @nipcharityConnect with Lucy Thompson (Tattoo Artist & Founder):Instagram: @lucy_nippleSpecial thanks to my incredible plastic surgeon Benjamin Baker:Instagram: @plasticsurguk This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Feel like you’re “too quiet” to build a memorable brand? Think again. In this episode of Her Handmade Hustle: Unplugged, we’re busting the myth that you have to be loud, bold or always online to be seen.If you're a creative female entrepreneur who prefers to stay behind the scenes, this episode will show you a gentler, more authentic way to build your brand. We’ll explore what branding really means, how to create connection through your story and tone of voice and why quiet clarity is more powerful than curated perfection.Whether you're just starting your small business or trying to figure out how to show up online without exhausting yourself, I'm helping you to build a brand that feels right - not forced.Links to resources mentioned in the episode:Building Your Brand - 1:1 Session This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Sometimes we forget that behind every handmade product is a story -  not just of craft, but of courage, healing and personal transformation.In this episode of Her Handmade Hustle: Unplugged, I share the moments from a weekend spent surrounded by women whose creativity has helped them move through illness, trauma and self-doubt. From fairy houses, to meaningful tattoos and market stalls full of soul -  this episode is a reminder that what we make often holds more than we ever say out loud.I’m talking about:Why handmade work is often deeply connected to healingThe emotional strength behind the “small” creative businessWhat it really means to turn pain into purposeHow to reconnect with the heart of your businessIf you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or wondering if your work is “enough,” this is the episode to remind you that your creativity is powerful - and so are you.Links to things mentioned in the episode:Pick N Mix 1:1 Business Support SessionsFreyja’s Fairy ArtYorkshire Mastectomy ClinicNIP (Nipple Innovation Project) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Are you a creative entrepreneur who feels pressured to follow every Instagram trend just to stay visible? In this refreshingly honest episode, I share the 5 Instagram habits I refuse to follow - and exactly why I believe they can harm your brand as a creative business owner. From overdone rants and forced language like "slide into my DMs" to copying trends that don't align with your values, this episode is a reminder that your originality is your power.If you're ready to build a business rooted in authenticity, creativity, and sustainable success- this one’s for you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

In this powerful episode, Joanne shares the three most common fears that hold creative entrepreneurs back: fear of the unknown, fear of failure, and fear of success. Through the lens of a personal story from a recent family camping trip to the Yorkshire coast - where each member faced and conquered a fear - she explores how fear quietly sabotages your business dreams.If you've ever said "I'm scared" when it comes to launching, growing or showing up in your business, this episode is for you. You'll learn how these fears show up in your day-to-day as a small business owner and discover simple, practical strategies to move through fear with courage and clarity.Whether you’re just starting out or hitting a plateau, this episode will help you stop letting fear make your decisions - and start growing your business with more confidence. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

In this fun and refreshingly honest episode, I’m joined by my husband Dave to explore the real-life experience of living with a creative female entrepreneur (aka me!). If you run a small business from your kitchen table, studio or shed – and your partner still doesn’t know what SEO stands for – you’re going to love this.We cover:✨ What it’s like being married to a creative business owner✨ The reality of supporting someone chasing big business dreams✨ Hilarious confessions from “the other side” of self-employment✨ And of course... the return of “5 Minutes with Dave” — where I quiz him on business buzzwords. Spoiler: he has no idea.This episode is light-hearted, relatable, and perfect for creative women in business who need a giggle and a reminder they’re not alone. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Ever wondered what a car boot sale can teach you about running a creative business? Turns out - quite a lot.In today’s podcast episode, I’m sharing 5 surprising business lessons I learned from selling face-to-face at a local car boot sale last weekend. All of which you can use to help you when it comes to selling your work as creative entrepreneurs.Expect laughs, multiple dramas (I mean, what the hell did I expect when I decided doing a car boot sale with a 5 year old was a good idea?!) and plenty of relatable insights for anyone who sells their work online, at markets or anywhere in between.What You’ll Learn* understanding the power of first impressions * mastering the art of impulse buys* how to handle hagglers without crumbling* learning how to selling your creative work confidently and connect with customers* the benefit of letting go of products (or ideas) that no longer serve your businessAnd the lessons in this episode apply to you no matter what you’re selling - or where. Whether it’s a product or a service and you’re selling at markets, craft fairs, pop-ups or just online, you’ll be able to use them to boost your small business success. And if you enjoy the episode, please do send it to one other person who you think would enjoy it too - I’d be eternally grateful for your help in sharing my podcast far and wide!I’d love to know if this episode helped you feel more confident about selling your creative work - and if you’ve ever braved a car boot sale yourself, drop me a message or tag me on Instagram - I’m desperate to know other people’s funniest or most dramatic car boot story!Until next week,JoannexThe Her Handmade Hustle Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

Are you a creative entrepreneur who’s full of ideas but constantly stuck in start-up mode? Maybe you’ve got a new product, service or studio space ready to go - but instead of launching, you're procrastinating, second-guessing and tweaking things again. In this honest and empowering episode, I’m talking all about why creative and neurodivergent brains struggle with decision-making, time management and getting tasks done - and more importantly, what you can do to stop the cycle and just open the bloody door.Whether you’re battling perfectionism or simply paralysed by fear and overwhelm, this episode will help you take action - your way. I’m also sharing my five-step method to beat procrastination, ditch the pressure of the ‘big launch’ and finally get that business idea out into the world.🎧 Want ongoing support from a community that truly gets it? Join my WhatsApp Support Group for Creative Business Owners, supporting Breast Cancer Now with every membership received. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com

If you’ve ever fluffed your way through a speed dating intro (guilty as charged), you’ll know how brutal 60 seconds can be. And guess what? Pitching your business is no different. If you can’t confidently explain what you do in under a minute, you're letting potential customers walk away without a second thought.In this episode, we’re ditching corporate jargon and getting straight to the heart of it. I’m sharing my no-nonsense, 5-step formula to help you craft a killer business pitch that grabs attention and actually converts.Problem + Impact + Solution + Proof + Benefit = Your Business Pitch Gold.By the end, you’ll be able to answer the dreaded “So, what do you do?” question with clarity and confidence. Because if you don’t know what you do, no one else will either.Visit the Her Handmade Hustle website for help growing your business Check out my new Pick n Mix Business Support packages to get visible, get organised and start selling handmade.  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit herhandmadehustle.substack.com