In today's episode, I'm excited to share the origin story of HobbyScool. If you've never heard how we got started, you're in for a treat. I'll take you back to April 2021, during a family vacation in Watercolor, Florida. It was there, early one morning, that the idea for HobbyScool was born.

Join me as I recount the journey from a spontaneous domain name purchase to the vibrant community and successful online learning summits we have today. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the episode.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:43] The early morning inspiration: how a vacation in Watercolor, Florida led to the birth of HobbyScool.

[00:02:56] The spontaneous decision to purchase the HobbyScool domain and the initial steps taken to develop the brand.

[00:04:41] Launching the first online learning virtual summits and the impact on audience engagement and growth.

[00:07:08] The importance of creative passions and the core values that drive HobbyScool's mission.

[00:08:42] Future plans for HobbyScool, including monetization support and expanding the Shopify store.

Mentioned in this episode:

Podcast Show notes: https://www.hobbyscool.com/podcast/origin

Get on the HobbyScool email list and be the first to know when our next online summit opens! Sign up here: ⁠https://newsletter.hobbyscool.com/profile

Today, we have a treat for all aspiring and established online sellers. Our special guest, Erin Alexander, the creator of Product Powerhouse, joins us to share her invaluable insights on building successful Shopify websites.

Erin's expertise spans from helping brand new businesses to guiding seasoned entrepreneurs in making the most out of their Shopify stores. She’s here to help you transform your online presence and boost your sales.

Episode Highlights

• [00:00:04] Introduction by Dr. Destini Copp
• [00:01:50] Erin Alexander introduces herself and her journey with Shopify
• [00:03:10] Discussing the choice between Etsy and Shopify for online sellers
• [00:04:55] First steps in setting up a Shopify store without feeling overwhelmed
• [00:16:10] Exploring essential Shopify apps and their benefits

Mentioned in this episode:

How to get in touch with Erin: Website, ⁠Erin's Shopify Store⁠

Free Gift: How to Design a Shopify Homepage that Converts Like Crazy

Podcast Show notes: https://www.hobbyscool.com/podcast/shopify-strategies

Get on the HobbyScool email list and be the first to know when our next online summit opens! Sign up here: https://newsletter.hobbyscool.com/profile

Today, on the HobbyScool podcast, I'm excited to introduce our special guest, Jess Van Den. Jess is a self-employed silversmith and the creative force behind the Ethereal label.

Since 2008, she has transformed her jewelry-making hobby into a thriving business and now helps others do the same through her platforms, Create and Thrive and the Thriver Circle.

Join us as Jess shares her journey from hobbyist to full-time business owner, offering practical tips and heartfelt advice on turning your passion into a successful venture.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:44] Jess Van Den’s journey from hobbyist to full-time silversmith.
• [00:03:27] Early challenges and strategies for selling handmade jewelry.
• [00:08:43] Recommendations for new sellers: starting on Etsy and expanding.
• [00:14:33] Common mistakes to avoid when starting a handmade business.
• [00:19:04] Inspirational advice for pursuing your creative dreams.

Mentioned in this episode:

• How to get in touch with Jess and check out her jewelry: Website
• Free Gift: FREE Handmade Business Toolkit
• Podcast Show Notes: https://www.hobbyscool.com/podcast/handmade-craft-business
• Get on the HobbyScool email list and be the first to know when our next online learning summit opens! Sign up here: https://newsletter.hobbyscool.com/profile