Artist, Entrepreneur, Creator

06/17/21 • 17 min

When I first started doing art shows and festivals, I remember being struck by the sense of community and friendship among the artists, entrepreneurs, crafters and creators at these shows. They’re painters, wood and metal artists, fiber artists and designers, ceramic and jewelry artists, photographers like me, and more. Every artist has a story. Some have been artists and creators their entire lives while others started as a second or third career, or just a hobby. At a recent art show my art booth was next to entrepreneur clothing designer and manufacturer Heidi Hess (and her sweet pup Henri!). Among so many things I learned about Heidi is that although she now runs an independent fashion label, she was once an On Air Radio Personality in every major market, including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami. Heidi calls this her “Life 1”. I asked Heidi to join my podcast and share her story of how she got started with Life 1, Life 2, and if there might be a Life 3.

Previous Episode

What Goes Up Will Come Down – Know the Facts and Laws About Balloon Releases

Why Are We Still Littering with Balloons?

Intentional balloon releases are often done as part of fundraisers, sporting events, weddings, graduations, other ceremonies, birthdays and to recognize the death of a loved one. Some see balloon releases as having religious or spiritual significance. There are businesses that actively promote, and sell, balloon releases. There are also well-documented harms caused by balloon debris, including death and serious injuries to wildlife and lots of unnecessary, completely preventable, litter. The reality that’s emerged from the debates and analysis on the risks of balloon releases has led to a number of state-wide, or locality-based balloon release bans, with legislation pending in other states and localities. We can avoid the dark side of balloon releases and find easy alternatives that are also safer. The first alternative is do nothing – yes, nothing. A life with less stuff does not mean a lesser life. Balloon releases, and their alternatives, are not essential for human life. With that said, there are alternatives to balloon releases that are less harmful to the environment we all share.

Next Episode

If A Butterfly Lands on You It's Probably Tasting You -- And Other Interesting Truths

I’ve never set out to intentionally photograph butterflies, but the places I travel to intentionally photograph other species and landscapes, are often the same places I encounter amazing butterflies. Most of us learned something about butterflies during elementary school. We may even remember a bit about the astonishing lifecycle and transformation of butterflies. I remember some of what I learned about butterflies, but since I come across so many different butterflies doing all sorts of interesting behaviors – that I don’t remember learning about – I was curious to brush up on my butterfly facts. I’m glad I did. Listen for some amazing truths you may not know about butterflies, including that they taste with their feet.