Explore every episode of the podcast Glazed Over

Ferne Benson of Mr. Toad’s Pottery joins us to talk about building systems that allow studio owners to step away from daily operations and spend more time working on their businesses. Drawing from her experience running (soon to be) two locations, she shares practical strategies for staff training, delegation, documenting processes, creating knowledge systems, and identifying recurring pain points. We also discuss protecting the owner’s time, developing stronger work-life boundaries, and using financial strategies like Profit First to make intentional business decisions. If you’re ready to become less essential to your studio’s day-to-day operations, this episode offers a practical place to start.

Vanessa Steele and Jessica Cowan recap the excitement of the 2026 CCSA Convention in Tampa! From inspiring classes and new supplier finds to memorable events, connections, and plenty of fun, join them for a behind-the-scenes look at the ideas and energy everyone brought home.

This episode is perfect for those who attended and want to relive the experience, as well as anyone who missed this year’s convention—or has never attended before and wants to discover what makes CCSA Convention so special.

Nell Wertz, owner of All Fired Up in Akron, Ohio, joins us to talk about CreativeQ, the studio management software she created to streamline customer orders, kiln operations, and pickup notifications. Nell shares how moving from paper-based systems to digital workflows has improved staff efficiency, organization, and the customer experience. We also explore KilnCare, CreativeQ’s digital kiln management system for tracking firings, maintenance, issues, and parts. Whether you’re looking to modernize your studio or simply spend less time tracking pieces and more time serving customers, this episode offers practical ideas for going digital.

Melissa Shook, owner of Fire It Ceramics in Port Aransas, Texas, joins us to share how she built a thriving vacation-focused pottery studio over the past 19 years. She walks us through the systems behind her signature next-day pickup service, efficient kiln operations, and all-inclusive pricing model that keeps tourists coming back year after year. We also discuss creating memorable guest experiences, serving both locals and visitors, and the operational strategies that allow her team to handle high-volume business with confidence. If you're looking to improve efficiency or attract more destination customers, this episode is full of practical inspiration.

Every studio owner has moments they wish they could do over—but those experiences often become the lessons that shape a stronger business. In this episode of Glazed Over, Vanessa Steele sits down with Katie Yallaly of Doing Dishes in Florida and Chelsea Sushchena of Clay Canvas in Reno, for a candid conversation about the decisions, mistakes, and unexpected challenges they encountered while running their studios. Together, they share what those experiences taught them, what they would handle differently today, and the advice they hope will help other studio owners avoid learning every lesson the hard way. It’s an honest, relatable conversation filled with real-life insight from people who understand both the joys and realities of studio ownership.

This week on Glazed Over, we're joined by Casey Melidoni and Brandon Berkley from ADP to tackle one of the most confusing topics for studio owners: when someone should be a 1099 contractor, a vendor, or a W-2 employee.

We break down real studio scenarios — from guest instructors and kiln technicians to seasonal staff — and discuss the legal, financial, and operational implications of each classification. We also cover the ABC test, contracts, insurance requirements, and why government agencies are paying closer attention to worker misclassification than ever before.

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of Glazed Over, Vanessa Steele sits down with Nathan and Manuel from Rohde Kilns to discuss what sets Rohde apart in the kiln industry and why more studio owners are considering their kilns for both new and expanding ceramics programs.From thoughtful German engineering and energy efficiency to innovative features designed with ceramic artists in mind, Nathan and Manuel share how Rohde kilns are built to deliver consistent results while making studio operations easier. Whether you're purchasing your very first kiln or looking to upgrade your current firing setup, this conversation offers valuable insight into what studio owners should consider before making their next investment.Tune in to learn why Rohde Kilns has earned a reputation for quality, reliability, and craftsmanship—and how the right kiln can help support the growth of your studio for years to come.

Get ready for the 2026 CCSA Convention with a special Convention Preview episode of Glazed Over! In this episode, our hosts sit down with three Convention instructors for exclusive behind-the-scenes conversations about their upcoming classes.

Each segment offers a sneak peek into what attendees can expect, including key takeaways, practical tips, and the inspiration behind the class. From business strategies and marketing ideas to creative techniques and studio growth, you'll hear directly from the experts leading the sessions.

Whether you're already registered or still deciding which classes to take, this episode will help you discover new learning opportunities and get excited about the education waiting for you in Tampa.

In this episode of Glazed Over, Vanessa sits down with Stefan and Daisy, co-owners of Small Ceramics, to talk all things mini pottery wheels and the growing popularity of wheel throwing in today’s fired arts industry.They share the story behind how Small Ceramics began, what inspired them to manufacture small pottery wheels, and how studios across the country are successfully using them for beginner-friendly classes, team building events, kids programming, and even walk-in wheel throwing experiences.The conversation dives into the business side of wheel throwing, including how studios can create profitable wheel programs without needing a massive clay space or expensive equipment setup. Stefan and Daisy also discuss teaching tips for first-time throwers, common mistakes beginners make, social media’s influence on the pottery boom, and where they see the future of ceramics education heading.Whether you’re a seasoned clay studio owner or a PYOP studio curious about adding wheel throwing for the very first time, this episode is packed with practical ideas, inspiration, and real-world advice for bringing more hands-on clay experiences into your studio.

On this week’s episode of the Glazed Over Podcast, Vanessa sits down with Crista Toler from Mayco Colors to talk all things paint bar! From setting up an inviting, easy-to-use glaze area to choosing the right products for your customers, this episode is packed with practical tips for pottery and PYOP studio owners. Crista shares insights from her own studio experience, discusses the importance of keeping your paint bar fresh, organized, and stocked with trending products, and breaks down the different types of glazes every studio should understand. Whether you’re building your first paint bar or refreshing an existing one, this conversation is full of ideas to help make your studio more creative, customer-friendly, and profitable.

This podcast interview focused on Ben Clark from Queen City Clay discussing the integration of Paint Your Own Pottery (PYOP) into their 50,000 square foot clay studio. Ben explained how PYOP has been operating for about 9 years and serves as both a gateway for new customers to experience clay and a profitable business component. The studio uses three dedicated kilns for low-fire pottery painting, operates in a 1,000 square foot space with seating for 30 people, and offers seasonal items like Christmas trees and Easter pieces. Ben discussed staffing arrangements, glaze options, and the educational approach to pottery painting, noting that proper sampling and instructional materials were key lessons learned early on. The PYOP area creates a different energy than the main clay studio, more like a social environment where people meet and share experiences, while also helping with diversity in the studio and serving accessibility needs for those with sensory issues or who cannot work with wet clay.

Hillary  Moullilet   of The Creative Retailer joins us to talk about the power of branding in paint-your-own pottery studios and how it shapes the customer experience. Drawing from her journey as a multi-studio owner, Hillary shares how consistent branding goes far beyond logos — it lives in your space, your systems, and your staff. We discuss creating welcoming first impressions, involving your team in delivering your brand, and simple strategies like mystery shopping and brand checklists to stay aligned. This episode is a must-listen for studio owners ready to build a more intentional, cohesive, and memorable business.  

This week on Glazed Over, we sit down with Donna Bordeaux of PYOP Accounting, who has spent more than a decade helping studio owners understand the numbers behind their businesses. Donna explains why every studio owner should think about an exit plan from day one, even if selling feels far away.

We talk about what actually creates studio value — from strong bookkeeping and documented processes to reviews, social media presence, and a transferable brand. Plus, Donna shares practical advice on leases, business valuation, and the systems that make your studio easier to grow and eventually sell.

This week on Glazed Over, we’re joined by Louise Blazucki of Kiln Creations, who shares how she doubled revenue and grew her team after buying the studio on a two-week decision.

We talk about defining your studio’s “why,” building a community-driven team, setting sales goals, and creating operating systems that keep a creative business running smoothly.

If you love the nuts and bolts of studio ownership, this episode is full of practical insights you can use right away.

In this episode, Ammie Williams helps us break down design trends spotted at the Atlanta Market gift show and what they actually mean for pottery studios. From cherries, mushrooms, and nautical themes to oversized hand-built pieces, textures, and earthy tones, we talk through what’s here to stay, what’s evolving, and how to translate trend forecasting into real clay projects.

We also dive into stoneware, cone 6 glazes, mixed media techniques, and why experimentation, not perfection, is what keeps your studio creatively relevant.

In this episode, we talk with Ailene, founder of a four-location paint-your-own pottery studio in Israel (and one in California!), about how social media has shaped her studio’s growth. We discuss Instagram, viral moments, TikTok trends, and why she chose to delegate social media so she could focus on operations. Ailene shares how authenticity, imperfect pottery, and emotional experience—not follower count—are what truly build connection and drive customers through the door.

On this episode of Glazed Over, Vanessa sits down with Stephanie McGinnis from Ceramics in the City in Denver to dive deep into one of the most impactful revenue opportunities for PYOP studios. They talk through everything you really need to know to make memberships successful - from marketing and pricing, to managing members, creating a dedicated studio space, and setting clear expectations that keep both staff and members happy.

This episode is packed with practical, real-world insight for studio owners who will want to add consistent income while building a stronger clay community. If you’ve been curious about memberships but unsure where to start (or how to avoid pitfalls), this episode is for you!

Kathy Cano-Murillo — the brilliant mind behind Crafty Chica — joins us to share her creative journey from a 1996 passion project to a nationally recognized brand. She breaks down how one beloved ceramic platter sparked her career and why targeting multiple communities is the key to long-term growth. We dive into her strategies for branding, newsletters, trend-spotting, and protecting your creative work through trademarks. This episode is packed with heart, humor, and practical advice for any studio owner or creative entrepreneur looking to expand their impact.

In this bonus episode of Glazed Over, we’re excited to officially introduce Vanessa Steele as a new moderator of the show. Vanessa shares her journey from restaurant management in Arizona to opening an art buffet in Pennsylvania, then growing into a pottery-focused business, and eventually settling in South Carolina. We talk about transitioning into a PYOP studio, teaching clay classes, and how education and community shape everything she does.She also shares what’s next, including upcoming clay events and her Teaching Clay subscription. This episode is a chance to get to know Vanessa and what she brings to the future of Glazed Over.

This week, we’re talking with Jenn Meyer from Walls of Clay about how ChatGPT went from a curiosity to one of her most-used business tools. We dig into what ChatGPT really is, when it’s worth upgrading to the paid version, and how she uses it every day in her studio and personal life.

Jenn also shares how she taught ChatGPT to sound like her brand, what makes AI content feel “off,” and why it clicks for some people but not others. Plus, her “relationship phases” analogy for ChatGPT just might be the most relatable thing you hear all week.

We’re keeping our “Meet the Suppliers” series going with a lively chat with DJ Toal of Bisque Imports. From a barn-based start to multiple warehouses and international growth, DJ shares how he built a thriving family business in a collaborative industry. We cover sourcing products worldwide, working with family, favorite bisque pieces, the magic of studio relationships, and more!

In this episode of Glazed Over, we sit down with Colleen Carey Brennan, CEO of Mayco, for a candid conversation about her journey in the ceramics world. She shares how Mayco has grown and adapted through the years—from expanding their product lines to navigating industry changes with heart and hustle. We also chat about company culture, continuous learning, and what it takes to stay inspired in a hands-on industry. Whether you're a studio owner, artist, or PYOP enthusiast, you'll love this peek behind the curtain at one of ceramics’ biggest players.

In this episode, we’re joined by the team from Gare Incorporated, a family-owned ceramics business with a rich history and a whole lot of heart. We dive into how the company got started, how their creative and strategic decisions have shaped their growth, and what they’re planning next. We also chat about industry trends, pricing strategies, and upcoming product releases. Things get personal too, with conversations about favorite glazes, gardening, and what it’s like running a business with family. It’s a warm and insightful look at what it means to build something meaningful, one piece at a time.

In this episode, we chat with Kelly Browning of American Bisque and get the behind-the-scenes scoop on what it’s like to run a ceramic bisque manufacturing company. From the history of American Bisque to their current production process, Kelly walks us through how the magic happens. She shares how she juggles inventory, small business life, and prep for Convention where she’ll be teaching and showcasing her work. It's a great listen for anyone curious about the nuts and bolts of the supplier side of the PYOP world and what it takes to keep a ceramics business running strong.

In this episode, we sit down with Tom, the new owner of American Ceramics, a 50-year-old company with deep roots in the ceramic world. Tom shares how he got started—helping out at his wife’s pottery studio—and what led him to take the reins of a beloved ceramics supplier. We talk about his vision for the future, from launching an e-commerce site to expanding services and creating satellite pickup locations. He’s focused on modernizing operations while keeping strong relationships at the heart of the business. If you're curious about the behind-the-scenes of supply, strategy, and studio support, this one’s a must-listen.

In this episode, we’re joined by Lulu Villanueva, lead custom artist at As You Wish Pottery, for a deep dive into what makes a sample piece successful. Lulu shares how she plans seasonal displays across eight studios, balances creativity with customer-friendly design, and uses color palettes and stickers to keep things fun and accessible. We also chat about teaching kids' classes, managing studio inventory, and how to simplify color choices without sacrificing style.

This week, Wendy Pettys joins us to share her no-nonsense approach to content creation for paint-your-own-pottery studios. From planning and editing Instagram Reels to training staff and organizing behind-the-scenes footage, Wendy breaks down what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to social media. We cover everything from scheduling tools and trending audio to why your captions might not matter as much as you think. If you’ve been needing a push to finally post that reel—or just want to make your content feel more fun and manageable—this one’s for you.

Hey y'all! Jonesin' for a new episode of Glazed Over? Well you're in luck because a new episode drops TODAY! This week, we're diving into the world of studio software with the amazing and incredibly knowledgeable Aksh Gupta, founder of Occasion. If you've ever wondered how to streamline your studio's booking operations - from the user booking interface to recovering abandoned carts all the way to following up post-event reviews - this episode is for you! Available NOW on a preferred platform near you

Ever wonder what it really takes to run a paint-your-own pottery studio? In this episode, we sit down with Felicity Gunter and Kaelyn Bucy—two powerhouse studio managers—to talk about how they stepped into leadership, the systems they’ve built, and what it’s like balancing people, tasks, and chaos daily.

They open up about:✨ Navigating call-outs and conflict🛠️ Creating custom systems that work🌱 Growing their team (and themselves)💡 What they wish they had more time for.

If you’re a studio owner, manager, or dreaming of becoming one—this episode is a must-listen.🎧 Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts!

Saddle up and sparkle! Visit Bisque Imports at Convention for new products, games, sneak peeks, and swag-packed fun!

In this episode of Glazed Over, we’re joined by business coach and podcaster Wendy Batten, who shares her insight on goal-setting, marketing strategies, and creating a customer journey that actually works for both your business and your life. We talk about planning with purpose, balancing profits with joy, and the power of aligning your goals with your values. Wendy also opens up about her podcasting journey, the value of mentorship, and what she’s excited to teach at the upcoming convention where she’ll be leading workshops on goal planning and strategic marketing.

This week, we’re joined by HR consultant Katie Magoon for a practical (and surprisingly fun!) conversation about all things employee handbooks and studio policies. Katie breaks down what every small business should include in their handbook—from attendance and hygiene to termination procedures—while making sure it all reflects your company’s values. We also chat about handling out-of-state events, managing a growing team, and why your policies should work for you, not against you. Katie even shares some helpful resources if you’re ready to tighten up your HR game.

In this special bonus episode, we officially welcome our new co-host, Jessica Cowan! From her early days slinging spicy chicken sandwiches at Chick-fil-A to running pottery studios and yogurt shops, Jessica’s journey is full of leadership lessons, creative pivots, and a whole lot of heart. We talk about what she learned from fast food, entrepreneurship, and working alongside industry leaders—all of which led her to clay. Plus, she shares some exciting studio projects in the works, like AI assistants, toddler story time, and a community art postcard program. This is a fun, wide-ranging conversation full of laughs, real talk, and a few hot takes on Chick-fil-A sauces.

We’re sitting down with the queens of large-scale events—Gail and Jackie Burrow from All Fired Up in Nevada. They share how to find the right contacts, run smooth and successful big events, and keep those valuable partnerships strong. Gail and Jackie have this down to a science, and this episode is just a peek at what they know. Catch them at CCSA’s Convention in Denton, Texas, where they'll be leading a pre-con deep dive on this very topic!https://www.ccsaonline.com/2025-convention

In this episode, we chat with Samantha Irwin—a former teacher and boutique hotel owner—about what she’s learned from leading teams and creating standout customer experiences. With years in the hospitality industry under her belt, Samantha shares practical advice on staff training, building a positive work culture, and making every customer feel seen and valued. Whether you're running a pottery studio, a gift shop, or something in between, her insights on loyalty, leadership, and service will give you plenty to think about.

Des Toal from Bisque Imports graciously welcomes listeners to this month's podcast and commends listeners for growing successful businesses! https://www.bisqueimports.com/

Check out Occasion: https://occasion.app/

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Julie and Robin Cates from On the Pot in Salina, Kansas. With 23 years of experience under their belts, these two have figured out not just how to hire great team members—but how to keep them. They share what they look for in a new hire, how they run interviews, their training strategies, and why giving young people clear expectations and real responsibility can lead to long-term success for everyone.

We’re back with Bill Shipley from Constant Contact, and this time we’re talking way more than just email. Bill gives us the scoop on all the new tools Constant Contact has rolled out—from SMS marketing to social media scheduling to seamless ad integrations. If you thought it was just an email platform, think again. These updates are designed to make your entire business run smoother (and smarter).

Today we’re joined by Anna Scott from Cutters For Clay and Debi DelaCruz of De La Designs for a conversation all about clay cutters. We cover how to store and clean them, tips for getting started, and best sellers. Whether you’re just beginning with clay cutters and stamps or looking to add to your setup, there’s something here for you. Check out their work at cuttersforclay.co.uk and deladesigngifts.com for more info and to shop!

Check out Occasion: https://occasion.app/

Bisque Imports has partnered with 4-H, America's largest youth organization! Licensed shapes are here- stock up now! https://www.bisqueimports.com/

In this episode, we are joined by Steve and Erin Racioppi to talk all about finding and designing the perfect studio space. We cover what to look for (and what to avoid) when touring potential locations, how to set up your space for the best creative flow, and what really matters. Plus, Steve drops a hot tip about one deal breaker of his when searching for new locations. Listen now—you don’t want to miss this one!

Bisque Imports has partnered with 4-H, America's largest youth organization! Licensed shapes are here- stock up now! https://www.bisqueimports.com/

Check out Occasion: https://occasion.app/

Today we chat with Michaela "MJ" Jaskowiak of As You Wish Pottery about the importance of Influencer Marketing. MJ takes us through what it is, how to reach out to influencers, and why you should be prioritizing this marketing strategy in 2025. This is an episode you'll come back to again and again! 

Bisque Imports has partnered with 4-H, America's largest youth organization! Licensed shapes are here- stock up now! https://www.bisqueimports.com/

Check out Occasion: https://occasion.app/

Nobody wants a bad review, but it happens—even to the best studios. In this episode, we're joined by Maddie Riegel, owner of Glazed Expressions, who has mastered the art of responding to negative feedback with grace and professionalism. Maddie walks us through her approach to handling tough reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp—without losing your cool. From diffusing tension to turning critics into loyal customers, she’s got the strategies you need when things go sideways. Don’t let a bad review ruin your day—tune in and learn how to take control of the narrative!

Bisque Imports has partnered with 4-H, America's largest youth organization! Licensed shapes are here- stock up now! https://www.bisqueimports.com/

Check out Occasion: https://occasion.app/

We are so excited to have the King of Kilns himself, Jim Skutt, on the podcast this week! Jim talks to us about kilns types, best practices for loading, how easy repairs can be, and more. He even answers some very specific "hypotheticals" from Christine and Ammie. This will be an episode many of us come back to over and over again, we just know it! Learn more about Skutt Kilns at www.skutt.com

Bisque Imports has partnered with 4-H, America's largest youth organization! Licensed shapes are here- stock up now! https://www.bisqueimports.com/

Check out Occasion: https://occasion.app/

In this episode of Glazed Over, Ammie and Jessica are joined by Stacey and Caren to talk all things 4/20 events! We’re covering how to host your own, collaborate with dispensaries, price your pieces and events, and best glazing practices for ceramic bongs and pipes. We cover disclaimers and language for these events- especially if cannabis is not legal where you are. This episode is packed with tips, laughs, and plenty of high-spirited creativity.

Today we chat with display queens Nacy Tuel of Your Art's Desire and Wendy Pettys from The Pottery Patch. This episode is full of inspiration from starting with displays, tips on lighting, how to plan and schedule new displays, storing props, and more. You'll leave this episode excited and brimming with ideas for window displays, speedbumps, and shelf vignettes. 

We have Jaryn Conway back on the podcast this week to discuss Grants. She tells us about how to find grants, what the application process looks like, and what to expect. Jaryn also walks us through the THRIVE program from the Small Business Administration, a robust and exciting acceleration program for small businesses across the US. Learn more about the program here: https://sbathrive.com/

This week we chat with Aksh Gupta of Occasion about what's trending in technology. We discuss where AI is going, how omni channels are the future, and what PYOP can do to stay up to date with the changing tides. Aksh is a wealth of information and makes a potentially intimidating topic really accessible. He even offers a special discount for CCSA members, so don't skip this episode! Learn more about Occasion at https://occasion.app/

Ever thought about adding a coffee bar to your studio? Join us as we chat with Sherry and Scott George from Meg-Art Pottery Painting Studio & Espresso Bar. They’ll share their insights and experiences on blending art and coffee to create a unique studio experience!

We have PYOP legend Lori Neff of As You Wish Pottery on the podcast today to discuss how to trust your staff when you can't (or don't want to!) be in the studio. Spoiler alert: it takes an excellent training program and clear policies and systems. We know you'll be inspired to beef up your training program after hearing from Lori! 

Today we chat with Bill Shipley of Constant Contact about how to send better emails. He talks us through interesting subject lines, what open rates we should be looking for, how often we should be emailing our audience and more. CCSA members get a discount on a Constant Contact account with their active membership!

This week we're chatting with the incredible Ferne Benson about her recent breast cancer journey and how that impacted her studio, Mr. Toad's Pottery. Learn how putting systems in place can help you step away and trust your staff to take over in emergencies. Find the CCSA Business Continuity Guide in the resources on ccsaonline.com

Thinking about adding the wheel to your studio? Jaryn Conway from Just Claying Around walks us through the process including class structure, storage solutions, policies, and more!