Markets, Motivation, and Moving Forward | Beyond the Workbench #12

What do you do when motivation disappears and even getting to the workshop feels impossible? This episode explores how community connections, brain chemistry, and simple habits can help makers push through creative blocks and stay motivated.

In Episode 12, Odin and Michael catch up after a busy season to discuss recent leather shows, including Dallas M.A.D.E. marketplace and the expanding leather craft community across different platforms and regions. They explore the evolving role of guilds in helping hobbyists become business owners and dive into practical strategies for maintaining momentum when the work gets tough.

This conversation digs into the science of motivation, why predetermined habits beat willpower, and knowing when to change course versus pushing through.

TIMESTAMPS:

01:55 - Dallas M.A.D.E. Marketplace Experience

06:34 - When Shows Don't Pan Out

09:00 - Gordon Andrus and the Science of Art

17:58 - Brandon Corral in New York

20:11 - The Role of Guilds in Leathercraft

29:45 - Breaking Through Creative Blocks

36:41 - The Brain Chemistry of Motivation

39:30 - Building Habits vs Relying on Willpower

42:11 - Removing Decisions to Boost Productivity

43:16 - Starting Small to Build Habits

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LISTEN TO THE PODCAST:

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HOSTS:

Odin Clack - https://www.instagram.com/odinleather

Michael Magnus - https://www.instagram.com/magnusopus

Beyond the Workbench casually dives into the world of leathercraft, entrepreneurship, and modern maker life. Hosted by Odin Clack (full-time leatherworker and retail owner) and Michael Magnus (leather marketing expert and founder of www.learnleathercraft.com), we explore everything from personal project updates to marketing strategies, retail challenges, and the business side of making.

New episodes are released on the first and third Thursdays of every month.

Enjoying the podcast? Please share it with someone who you think would find value in the conversations. If these conversations have helped your business and you're interested in supporting the show, visit our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/beyondtheworkbench

Edited and produced by Instrumental Media: https://instrumental.media/

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