Open Studio & A New Season: What’s Next for The Founders Society Podcast
What’s Next for The Founders Society Podcast
Dear Founders,
This week’s episode of The Founders Society Podcast is a celebratory one.
Exactly one year ago, we pressed record on what began as a passion project—a way to keep the conversation going between getaways and within the founders community. But it quickly became something more: a gathering place for founders, dreamers, doers, and dear friends.
Each week, you joined us as we sat down with brilliant female founders from coast to coast, and together, we created space for stories of resilience, reinvention, motherhood, creative pivots, deep purpose, and the kind of clarity that only comes from walking through the proverbial fire of entrepreneurship—and choosing to keep going, in good company.
Now, one year and over 50 episodes later, we’re pressing pause—not only to honor the stories already told, but also to take the time to write a few chapters of our own. From international travels and creative exploration to intentional rest and collection launches, our next few months are teeming with stories ready to be penned—and we cannot wait to invite you into the fold at our next juncture in the journey.
Until that day, we invite you back into the rich archive of conversations—ready for you to revisit whenever you need encouragement, perspective, or simply the comfort of a conversation among friends.
Thank you for being here—not just as listeners, but as fellow stewards of this community we’ve built together. We’re filled with gratitude for all that’s been, and full of hope for all that’s still to come. We hope you are too.
Love always,
Hayley & Meg
Open Studio: Your Lingering Questions
For our final episode (for now), we couldn’t leave you hanging! So, we opened the queue one last time and answered all of your lingering questions inside this special Open Studio session.
How do I approach a local shop to sell my products?
When working with local retailers, it’s important to lead with earnest connection. Start by creating a simple portfolio that outlines your products, price points, and key details (we love Canva templates for this!). For this listener who sells candles, we suggested putting together a small gift basket featuring their bestsellers, along with a handwritten note.
Then, walk in with the gift basket, introduce yourself sincerely, and take time to understand the shop’s aesthetic and values. You might time this visit to celebrate a milestone for the business, to welcome a new season, or simply to thank them for being a beacon of light in your community. Allow an organic conversation to unfold in the store, and follow up a few days later with your portfolio to see if you're a good fit. If not, continue nurturing the relationship while exploring other potential connections in the area.
The important part is that you're putting yourself out there—you never know where an introduction can lead!
How do I stand out as an artist?
In this phase of your creative journey, guard your inputs. Simply put—stop tuning in to other artists! Instead of consuming more art, fill your well with adjacent inspiration: recipes, interior design, fashion, fragrance, books, or whatever naturally piques your interest. Let those textures, scents, and colors spark ideas and influence your creative process.
Tune in to hear Hayley share how this mindset shaped her Reading Girls collection. Let curiosity lead. Experiment, evolve, and remember—the most magnetic artists are the ones who feel most like themselves.
What’s the best way to approach an art show, festival, or market?
Begin with research! Who’s attending? Who’s vending? These questions can often be answered by checking out the event’s website or Instagram page. Price your work accordingly, plan your display based on the space available, and lean on the wisdom of those who’ve done it before.
Bonus: If you come across a vendor who has participated in the past, invite them for coffee and ask about their experience—you’ll likely gain invaluable insight.
Next step is thinking beyond the booth. A market is more than a place to sell; it’s a place to connect. Bring business cards, QR codes, and a simple way for people to stay in touch. Even if you don’t make a sale, consider each interaction as a future client, customer or colleague.
Bonus: Mark a few more events on your calendar to keep your momentum going and keep learning as you grow. You got this!
A Heartfelt Thank You, For Now
As we press pause on the mic, we want to take a moment to thank you—truly and deeply—for being with us on this podcast journey. Whether you wrote in to an Open Studio, left a review, shared an episode with a friend, or joined us on the mic, we wouldn’t be here without you.
While we won’t be releasing new episodes for a while, know that we’re still here, cheering you on every step of the way. You can find us on Instagram (@founderssociety), in your inbox (be sure to stay subscribed to our Substack), and hopefully in person at upcoming events and pop-ups.
We hope these episodes continue to meet you exactly where you are—whether you're tuning in during your daily walk, packing orders, or dreaming up your next big idea—and remind you that as a founder, you are always in good company.
With love and gratitude,
Hayley & Meg
