Rewriting Beauty Standards with AI + Breaking Into the Whitney Museum with Gretchen Andrew In this episode of She Who Paints, I’m sitting down with the incredible Gretchen Andrew, an artist and tech visionary whose work is reshaping the conversation around beauty, technology, and societal standards. Recently, two of Gretchen’s paintings were collected by the Whitney Museum of American Art in NYC—a monumental achievement for any artist. We dive deep into her mission of using machines and AI to challenge and redefine beauty industry norms, exploring how these technologies are influencing not just aesthetics, but the way society and future generations perceive themselves. Gretchen shares her fascinating process of integrating tech into her art practice, and how she uses it as a tool for empowerment and change. But it’s not all about the tech—Gretchen opens up about the mindset work that fueled her journey to the Whitney, the grit it took to face rejection, and how she stayed focused on her greater vision even when the odds felt stacked against her. Whether you’re an artist, a creative entrepreneur, or someone curious about the intersection of art, technology, and culture, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable insights, and a fresh perspective on what it means to create for impact. Tune in to hear: ✨ How Gretchen got her work into one of NYC’s top museums ✨ The role of AI in challenging beauty standards and shaping societal norms ✨ Her approach to rejection and staying aligned with her bigger mission This conversation will leave you feeling inspired to think bigger, create boldly, and embrace the power of your unique voice. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.gretchenandrew.com Host: Michelle Schultz https://michelleschultzstudio.com Connect with us: https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/ Get the meditative painting workshop here: https://www.michelleschultzstudio.com/products/meditative-painting-digital-workshop
In this solo episode of She Who Paints, we’re diving into the essentials of marketing for creatives—without the overwhelm. Whether you’re a painter, maker, or dreamer looking to grow your business, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you market with confidence and clarity. We’ll cover: --The mindset shifts every creative needs to embrace marketing as an extension of their art -- How to identify and connect with your ideal client (hint: it’s about more than demographics) -- The power of email marketing and why it’s your most valuable tool -- Building genuine relationships that lead to loyal collectors and clients -- Using incentives and urgency to inspire action—without feeling salesy If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure about how to market your work, this episode will give you the tools to show up, share your art, and grow your creative business with heart. Let’s make marketing feel as meaningful as the art you create. Press play and let’s get started! Host: Michelle Schultz, fine artist. https://michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart/ https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/ Join my email list here: https://mailchi.mp/b3302e4faa83/vip-list Comfrt Affiliate (Cozy Sweatsuits): https://www.comfrt.com/MICHELLE04228
In this episode of She Who Paints, host Michelle Schultz is joined by astrologer and creative guide Jess Ellen to explore how the stars can help us elevate our business and artistic lives. Astrology isn’t just about horoscopes—it’s a practical and mystical tool for aligning with your natural rhythms, boosting productivity, and unlocking creative flow. Together, Michelle and Jess dive into: How your birth chart reveals strengths, blind spots, and creative superpowers Using moon phases and planetary transits to plan launches, projects, and collaborations The energy of each zodiac season and how to work with it instead of against it Why syncing your workflow with the stars leads to more ease, inspiration, and abundance If you’ve ever wanted to harness astrology to fuel your creativity and business growth, this conversation will give you both insight and practical steps to start aligning with cosmic timing. 🌙 Connect with: Michelle: https://michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart/ Jess Ellen: https://www.instagram.com/jessellenastrology/ 🌙 Get my Meditative Painting Course Here: https://www.michelleschultzstudio.com/products/meditative-painting-digital-workshop
In this solo episode of She Who Paints, host and artist Michelle Schultz shares her most powerful tips for negotiating your worth as a creative. Whether you’re pricing your art, pitching a project, or navigating tricky money conversations, Michelle walks you through mindset shifts and practical strategies that help you stand confidently in your value—without burning out your nervous system in the process. She covers: – Why you should always start high and leave room to negotiate – How to meet in the middle without underselling your work – The importance of keeping a “good reviews” folder for those confidence dips – How to increase your income streams for more freedom and flow – Ways to stay grounded by negotiating from a place of safety and regulation, not fear This episode is part pep talk, part business school for sensitives—and a reminder that asking for more is not only okay, it’s powerful. ✨ Connect with Michelle: https://michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart/ Podcast Sponsor: https://houseofbettencourt.ca/links Get my Monochromatic Meditative Painting Course Here: https://www.michelleschultzstudio.com/discount/PODCAST?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fmeditative-painting-digital-workshop
In this episode, I sit down with artist Kristin Ruscher to talk all things visibility—from prepping for your first big art fair to embracing LinkedIn as a powerful (and often overlooked) tool for creative connection. Kristin shares her behind-the-scenes experience exhibiting at The Other Art Fair, what she learned, and how showing up in person transformed how she sees herself as a professional artist. She shares her experience as a first timer and all the tips and tricks she wished she knew or would do differently showing her work at a juried art fair. Get the inside perspective! We also dive into how LinkedIn has opened unexpected doors, why it’s more than just a corporate resume platform, and how artists can use it to confidently share their work and find new opportunities. This conversation is packed with real talk, inspiration, and practical steps if you're ready to be seen in your art career. We cover: 🎨 How to prepare for your first art fair 💬 Conversations that lead to sales and opportunities 📱 Why LinkedIn might be your most underrated platform 🛠 Tips to confidently share your art online Connect with us: Host: Michelle Schultz: https://michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart/ Guest: Kristin Ruscher Website: https://kruschart.shop https://www.instagram.com/kruschart/ Subscribe + leave a review if this helped you feel braver in your creative path! Follow @shepaintscallective for more https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective Contact our sponsor: http://houseofbettencourt.ca/freebies
In this powerful episode, I sit down with artist and researcher Paulina Ree to explore the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout art history—and the striking parallels to the challenges and triumphs of 2025. Together, they delve into what it means to create while navigating motherhood, mental health, and the weight of invisible labor. Paulina shares her research on forgotten female artists whose impact shaped movements without recognition, and how their stories mirror the lived experience of women making art today. This is a soulful, truth-telling conversation that uplifts the quiet power of persistence, the beauty of creative lineage, and the courage it takes to be seen. In this episode, we cover: -How women’s creative contributions have been erased or overlooked -The emotional labor of motherhood as an artist -Parallels between past female artists and today’s art world -Strategies for protecting your mental health while making meaningful work -Why researching female artist's lives matters now more than ever -What we can do as women creatives now to change the narrative xoxo Contact Paulina Ree: https://www.paulinareeartist.com https://www.instagram.com/paulinareeartist/ Host Michelle Schultz: https://michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart/ Contact us at She Who Paints: https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/
In this episode of She Who Paints, I’m opening up about something that nearly every creative faces but rarely talks about: imposter syndrome. I share the raw truth of what it felt like to experience it in the middle of my solo art show — a moment that should’ve felt like a peak — and again while building my meditative painting course. We’ll talk about how these inner doubts creep in just as we’re about to level up, and how they can sabotage not only our self-worth, but also our earning potential — especially for women. Inspired by Rachel Rodgers’ insight in We Should All Be Millionaires, we’ll explore how imposter syndrome keeps female creatives small and underpaid. Plus, I walk you through a simple but powerful journaling practice I use called the Triangle Technique, designed to move you through the emotion, rewire the belief, and reconnect to your desired outcome. If you’ve ever felt like a fraud or questioned your worth as an artist or entrepreneur — this episode is your invitation to reclaim your power. In this episode: My personal experience with imposter syndrome during big milestones How imposter syndrome costs women creatives real money Why your fear is often a sign you're on the right path The Triangle Journaling Technique to move through self-doubt Encouragement for showing up anyway ✨ Learn more & connect with me: Website: www.michelleschultzstudio.com Instagram: @michelleschultz.art Get on the waitlist for my new Digital Course on Meditative Painting. Join Here!https://mailchi.mp/michelleschultzstudio/blue-meditative-workshop
In this episode, author Shelby McFadden takes us on a journey through the haunted threads that weave together her writing, ancestry, and everyday life. We talk about the real ghost stories that inspired her latest book, her writing routine as a mother, and how her connection to ancestral magic and tarot informs both her creativity and her healing. Shelby opens up about the mental health challenges that come with being a sensitive storyteller and how writing has become both her anchor and outlet. Whether you're drawn to the paranormal, the creative process, or the honest balancing act of motherhood and magic—this episode is for you. We cover: What inspired her latest book Her writing routine and creative rituals The role of motherhood and its affect on being an author Ancestry and inherited magic How tarot influences her intuition and process Mental health and the emotional cost of sensitivity Finding grounding as both a writer and a mother And of course Real ghost stories and how to protect yourself from dark spirits. Grab a cup of tea (or something stronger) and settle in for ghost stories, deep truths, and the sacred art of telling them. Find Shelby Here: https://www.shelbynmcfadden.com/grove-hollow-book-series https://www.instagram.com/shelbynicoleauthor/ Your Host Michelle Schultz: https://michelleschultzstudio.com Join my Collector's Circle https://mailchi.mp/b3302e4faa83/vip-list Sponsor: Soma Lumin https://www.somalumin.com Use code MICHELLE to get 20% off Aura Painting and Photography - Shop Here: https://www.michelleschultzstudio.com/products/aura-portraits-the-official-painting-and-photo-package?_pos=2&_psq=aura&_ss=e&_v=1.0
In this deeply honest conversation, Michelle sits down with artist Courtney Griffin to explore the quiet, seismic shift of becoming a mother for the first time. Together, they speak to the invisible threads connecting us to our maternal lineage—the mother line—and how our ancestors whisper through our creative work, even (and especially) when the work is slow, messy, or unseen. Courtney shares her transition from full-time artist and entrepreneur to new motherhood: the shedding of schedules, stepping away from Instagram, and redefining success without urgency. They talk about the pressure of productivity in a culture obsessed with output, and how soulful artist emails can be acts of devotion, not marketing. This episode is a love letter to the ones who feel unseen in their motherhood. A reminder that this moment is not forever. That age is not something to fear but a deepening of voice, of purpose. And that our creative lives are not linear, not a race—but a rhythm we learn to trust. Whether you’re in the thick of new motherhood, reimagining your creative path, or simply craving a more human conversation about art and life—this one is for you. Find Courtney Here: https://courtneygriffinart.myflodesk.com/links Find Host, Michelle Schultz: https://michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart/ Join my email list here: https://www.michelleschultzstudio.com/pages/collector Please leave a review and reach out to us @shepaintscollective on IG!
In this powerful episode of She Who Paints, Michelle is joined by Canadian artist, author, and mother of three, Brandi Hofer—a creative force known for her bold, expressive portraits and her mission to empower women through art. Brandi opens up about the challenges of burnout, the pressure to do it all, and how hitting rock bottom became the catalyst for redefining her life and creative career. Her artwork has been featured on national television, in international publications, and exhibited at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery. Brandi’s work is collected and celebrated by notable creatives and influencers including Jillian Harris, Sarah Baeumler, Jenna Kutcher, Andrew Salgado, Jann Arden, and Sarah Nicole Landry. Brandi shares how she rebuilt her life and art business with intention, boundaries, and joy. If you're a creative soul navigating burnout or seeking alignment in your practice, this conversation is filled with inspiration and truth. Connect with Brandi Hofer: Website: www.brandihofer.ca Instagram: @brandihofer Book: Color Me Happy Connect with Michelle Schultz: Website: www.michelleschultzstudio.com Instagram: @michelleschultzstudio Join the Collector Circle: Sign up here She Who Paints: https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/
In this nourishing episode of She Who Paints, Michelle sits down with Gaye Del Sol for a deeply rooted conversation on healing through culture, community, and conscious living. Gaye shares her journey of reconnecting with ancestral foods as a sacred form of nourishment and remembrance. Together, they explore how building intentional community, practicing mindful finances, and honoring our roots can support both personal and collective wellness. Gaye also offers tools for nervous system regulation—like the soothing power of music—that help us ground, soften, and stay present in our healing journeys. In this episode, we explore: Reclaiming ancestral foods as a path to healing How community can be medicine Mindful approaches to finances that support well-being Cultural wisdom as a grounding force Nervous system tools for daily regulation, including the power of music Creating spaces that feel safe, soulful, and supportive Find Gaye: https://www.gayedelsolstudios.com/ https://www.instagram.com/gaye_del_sol/ Your Host: https://michelleschultzstudio.com Tag us at https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/
In this episode of She Who Paints, I sit down with ceramic sculptor and visionary artist Jen Dwyer, whose intricate, sensual, and playful works challenge patriarchal narratives while embracing the sacred feminine. Jen opens up about her artistic journey, from her early influences to her deep connection with Rococo aesthetics and how she uses clay and paint as a medium for storytelling, healing, and reclaiming feminine power. We talk candidly about how she navigates the art world and working with moguls like Hashimoto Contemporary gallery while staying true to her inner voice. Whether you're an artist, a lover of ceramics, or someone drawn to the mystical and feminine in art, this episode will leave you inspired to create from your truth and honor the stories your body holds. 🌸 Highlights include: – Jen shares so much advice for artists carving their own paths. - She speaks openly abut asking for what you want . - And shares how to deal with rejection and the application process of the art world. Pour some tea, light a candle, and join us in this warm, layered, and soul-nourishing conversation. Find Jen Dwyer :https://www.instagram.com/jen_dwyer_/ https://www.studio-jed.com/ Your Host: Michelle Schultz https://michelleschultzstudio.com Tag us and find community at https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/
Money, Mindset & Art: Financial Wisdom for Creatives with Jillian Todd In this episode of She Who Paints, I sit down with Jillian Todd, a financial coach, "money mom" who specializes in helping artists and creatives take control of their money with confidence. We dive into the unique financial challenges artists face, from inconsistent income to pricing our work with value and intention. Jillian shares practical strategies for budgeting as a creative, building financial resilience, and shifting our mindset around money so we can thrive—not just survive. Whether you struggle with feast-or-famine income cycles or want to feel more empowered in your financial decisions, this episode is packed with insights to help you create a sustainable, abundant art career. 🎧 Tune in and let’s talk money, creativity, and financial freedom! Find Jillian Here: https://www.instagram.com/_jilliantodd/ Our Sponsor Crux Fermentation Projet Here : https://www.cruxfermentation.com/ And Join the first She Who Paints Virtual Vision Party here: https://mailchi.mp/michelleschultzstudio/party I can't wait to see you there!
Creative Recharge: 6 Tips to Reignite Your Spark Feeling creatively stuck or uninspired? In this episode, we dive into 6 powerful tips that will help you re-spark your creative flow and reignite your passion for your work. Whether you're an artist, writer, or creative professional, these practical strategies will guide you back to your inspired self. From breaking through creative blocks to finding new sources of inspiration, you’ll leave with actionable tools to reignite your imagination and get back into your creative zone. Looking for more ways to stay connected and inspired? Join the creative community at @ShePaintsCollective https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/ on Instagram for exclusive updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes insights. You can also explore my latest art collections and soul stories at www.michelleschultzstudio.com. Tune in for this energizing episode and get ready to fuel your creative fire!
In this episode of She Who Paints, artist Michelle Schultz, who has been featured in numerous media outlets, including a magazine cover and a radio interview, shares her insights on how creatives can get their work noticed by the press. With an upcoming artist interview in Bend Magazine, Michelle delves into the essential strategies for securing media coverage, regardless of whether you're from a small town or a big city. She discusses the importance of the right mindset for artists seeking visibility, and highlights common pitfalls, such as vanity publications, to avoid along the way. This episode is a must-listen for any creative looking to elevate their profile and gain the recognition they deserve. https://michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart https://www.instagram.com/shepaintscollective/ Join The Collectors Circle: https://us20.admin.mailchimp.com/reports/summary?id=0300408be2f0
In this episode of She Who Paints, a podcast for creative thinkers, I’m joined by the incredibly talented Turkish artist, filmmaker, director, and photographer, Elif Koyuturk. She now resides in Bend, Oregon and LA. Elif shares her journey of discovering her artistic passion, deeply rooted in her cultural heritage and ancestral connection. Through her art she explores the expression of complex emotions which fuels her creativity and shapes her storytelling. Tune in as we discuss the importance of honoring where you come from and how it can ignite your inner drive to create art that resonates with the soul. We delve into her current project, Guardians of Anatolia a film about the last matriarchal nomadic tribe in Turkey. As well as her photography series Letters to Mothers. Find Elif here: https://www.elifkoyuturk.com https://www.instagram.com/eliffkoyuturk/ https://www.instagram.com/guardiansofanatoliamovie/ Host: Michelle Schultz, Painter and Podcaster, https://michelleschultzstudio.com
In this episode of She Who Paints, we delve into the transformative power of creating art in collections. Art is more than just individual pieces; it's a narrative, a journey, and a bridge between artist and collector. We explore how thoughtfully curated collections can foster deeper connections, not only elevating the art itself but also enriching the experience for collectors. Discover how collections can serve as powerful tools for healing, offering solace and reflection whether created from a place of joy or pain. We'll discuss the role of luxury and storytelling in art, and how a well-conceived collection can add layers of meaning and beauty to both the creator's and the collector's lives. As we navigate the intricacies of building a cohesive body of work, we provide insights into how artists can approach their next collection and solo show with intention and authenticity. Whether your inspiration stems from joy or hardship, you'll learn how to channel those emotions into a collection that resonates on a deeper level. Journal Prompts are included at the end of this solo episode to help you dive into your inner world and imagination. Your host, Michelle Schultz, is a painter based in Bend, Oregon. She earned an art degree from the University of Georgia and began the first 3 years of her artistic career exhibiting work in Wellington, New Zealand. Her work is influenced by her Lebanese heritage and roots in the American South. The artist has been creating acrylic paintings exploring feminine strength by capturing the intimate moments within her own spiritual journey. Vivid colors communicate the sensitivity and emotion in her work. Through paint she creates a channel for the viewer to connect to ones’ own sense of self more deeply. https://www.michelleschultzstudio.com https://www.instagram.com/michelleschultzart/ Free Coloring Pages Here: https://michelleschultzstudio.com/color
In this episode of "She Who Paints," we are thrilled to welcome Ekaterina Popova, a successful artist renowned for her solo shows in Paris and exhibitions in NYC. Ekaterina is also the founder of Create! Magazine, a platform that champions and supports emerging artists. Join us as she shares invaluable advice for creatives striving to find success in the art world while managing their egos. Ekaterina delves into her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and how she learned to balance ambition with humility. We discuss the importance of staying authentic, the role of community in an artist's career, and practical tips for achieving artistic success without letting the ego overshadow your creative spirit. Tune in to gain insights from a seasoned artist who has made a significant impact in the contemporary art scene and discover how you can thrive in your own artistic endeavors. https://www.katerinapopova.com/ Host & Artist: Michelle Schultz https://michelleschultzstudio.com
In this episode of She Who Paints, we delve into the profound connection between murals and mental health. Join us as we explore how large-scale public art can transform not only physical spaces but also emotional landscapes. We’ll discuss the therapeutic benefits of creating murals. Our special guest, Elaine Stephenson, will share insights on how to harness the power of murals for personal and collective well-being. Tune in to discover how the strokes of a brush can paint pathways to mental wellness. Elaine Stephenson is an Atlanta based artist and muralist creating bright and colorful art with positive messages to uplift and inspire. She draws from her personal experience with anxiety and depression as a means to create art that focuses on the beauty of life and encourages others. Find her: @artsy_elaine and elainestephenson.com Mural Guide PDF: https://www.elainestephenson.com/shop/p/making-murals-pdf-guide Host & Artist: Michelle Schultz, https://michelleschultzstudio.com
In this episode of She Who Paints, I sit down with Em from Pazful Designs, an accomplished ceramic artist, to uncover the real truths behind launching a successful Kickstarter campaign, working with brands, and creating a backyard studio. Paz shares her journey from the initial spark of an idea to the challenges and triumphs of crowdfunding and collaboration. Together, we explore the highs and lows, unexpected hurdles, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're an artist looking to fund your next big project, curious about brand partnerships, or dreaming of your own creative space, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration to help you on your journey. Join us as we delve into the behind-the-scenes stories and practical tips that can turn your artistic dreams into reality. Contact Paz: https://www.pazfuldesigns.com https://www.instagram.com/pazfuldesigns/ Host: Michelle Schultz, soulful painter and podcaster: https://michelleschultzstudio.com