Whether you’re a complete beginner on Etsy, or want to scale your handmade business to multi-6 figures, the “How To Be A Handmade Boss” podcast gives you actionable advice and workshop style full length episodes to grow your handmade business on Etsy and beyond. We get it. Starting or growing a handmade business can be really overwhelming, and sometimes you feel like you have an expensive hobby rather than a profitable business. If you have questions like “How can I make sales in my business ...
…
continue reading
Steph Cole Lewis Podcasts

1
#80 - 20 Niche Etsy Ideas with High Demand and Low Competition
22:16
22:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:16If you’ve been scratching your head wondering what to sell or how to stand out on Etsy in 2026, this episode is your treasure map. 🎯 I’m sharing 20 real Etsy niche ideas that are high in demand, low in competition, and full of opportunity - perfect for handmade sellers who want to stop blending in and start carving out their own corner of the marke…
…
continue reading

1
#79 - Is Your Shop Holiday-Ready? Take This 5-Minute Check (Handmade Sellers)
15:00
15:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:00🎄 Are you really ready for the Christmas rush... or just hoping it’ll all come together in time? In this episode, I’m walking you through a super quick 5-point checklist that’ll help you give your handmade shop a festive glow-up without the stress. We’re talking banners, giftable products, delivery cut-off clarity, festive upsells, and simple holid…
…
continue reading

1
#78 - Stop Comparing Your Handmade Business to Others (and Do This Instead)
12:34
12:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:34Ever find yourself doomscrolling through Instagram wondering why that handmade shop has more sales, more followers, or just seems further ahead? In this episode, we’re flipping the comparison trap on its head. You’ll learn how to: Spot the “highlight reel” trap before it derails your momentum Turn jealousy into a learning tool (without copying a si…
…
continue reading

1
#77 - From Fresh Flowers to Thriving Wreath Business: Claire's Handmade Journey
26:09
26:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:09Running a handmade business isn’t always a straight line and today’s guest, Claire, proves it beautifully. 🌸 After starting with fresh flowers and even pedalling around town on a trike (yes, really!), Claire found her passion and success in creating stunning artificial wreaths and arrangements through her business Jamesia Blooms. In this episode, s…
…
continue reading

1
#76 - Instagram Not Converting? Here’s Why (+ How to Fix It as a Handmade Seller)
8:55
8:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:55Posting consistently on Instagram but still not getting sales? In this episode, I’m breaking down the three biggest reasons your content isn’t converting and how to fix it. You’ll discover: Why likes and views don’t always mean product interest How to guide your followers from scrolling to shopping A simple content plan that works without eating up…
…
continue reading

1
#75 - Instagram Reels That Sell: Step-by-Step for Handmade Sellers
12:03
12:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:03If your Reels are getting crickets (or you’re too nervous to even post one 🫣), this episode is for you. I’m walking you through my simple step-by-step Reels formula made specifically for handmade sellers - no dancing, no lip syncing, no pointing at floating bubbles. Just clear, doable tips to help you finally feel confident on camera and actually g…
…
continue reading

1
#74 - Etsy’s Latest Earnings: What It Really Means for Your Shop (And How to Respond)
13:20
13:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:20Feeling like your Etsy sales have dipped recently? You’re not imagining it and Etsy’s Q2 2025 earnings report confirms it. In this episode, I break down exactly what’s going on behind the scenes at Etsy, why sales are down platform-wide, and what it means for you as a handmade business owner. We’ll talk about rising fees, buyer hesitation, and Etsy…
…
continue reading

1
#73 - How to Market Your Handmade Products on Instagram (Step-by-Step Free Training for 2025)
14:20
14:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:20Sick of posting on Instagram and getting crickets? This episode is your full, step-by-step training on how to turn your handmade Instagram into a sales-driving machine - without feeling salesy or spending all day online. Steph breaks down the exact strategy that handmade business owners need in 2025, including: What to post (and why!) using the 4 V…
…
continue reading

1
#72 - 15 Autumn Trends for 2025 Handmade Sellers Need to Know
9:53
9:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:53🍁 Want to get ahead with your autumn product ideas and boost your handmade sales this season? In this trend-packed episode, I’m breaking down 15 of the biggest autumn trends set to dominate in 2025... with real, practical examples you can turn into products today. From modern rustic to miniature scenes, dupe-it-yourself decor to cosy accessories, I…
…
continue reading

1
#71 - Proven Etsy Listing Tips to Boost Your Sales and Get Found in Search
29:14
29:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:14Struggling to get sales on Etsy? In this episode of How to Be a Handmade Boss, Steph shares 5 powerful tips to help your Etsy listings get found, get clicked, and get bought. Whether you’re brand new to selling handmade products online or you’ve been on Etsy for a while with little traction, this episode will show you exactly how to optimise your E…
…
continue reading

1
#70 - Building a Brand Around What You Actually Love: Fran’s Story
24:12
24:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:12In this feel-good episode of How To Be A Handmade Boss, I’m joined by the lovely Fran from Born to Shop Designs – and we’re diving into how she turned hobbies like gardening, crafting and music into a heart-led clothing brand that connects people through what they love. We chat about navigating business pivots, building a brand that feels like you,…
…
continue reading

1
#69 - Why Some Makers Stay Stuck (and How to Finally Move Forward)
15:59
15:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:59Feel like your handmade business is stuck in the same place month after month - no matter how hard you try? 😩 In this episode, we’re getting honest about why so many makers hit a plateau (even when they’re doing “all the right things”)… and what to do if that’s you right now. You’ll learn: 🔸 The illusion of growth that keeps you treading water 🔸 Th…
…
continue reading

1
#68 - Understanding the Seasons of Your Handmade Business (And How to Thrive in Each One)
12:32
12:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:32Ever feel like your business is all over the place? One minute you’re buzzing with ideas, and the next… totally burnt out? You’re not doing anything wrong - you’re just in a different season of business. In this uplifting episode, I’m walking you through the 4 natural seasons your handmade business cycles through - winter, spring, summer and autumn…
…
continue reading

1
#67 - Day 5 Affirmation: Abundance & Repeatable Success
8:34
8:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:34Welcome to Day 5, the final episode in this affirmation series! Today, we’re focusing on abundance and repeatable success because thriving in your handmade business isn’t just a lucky break, it’s the result of aligned action, consistency, and belief in your own power. These affirmations will help you step into the role of CEO with confidence, embra…
…
continue reading

1
#66 - Day 4 Affirmation: Embracing Visibility & Magnetic Energy
8:26
8:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:26Welcome to Day 4 of our affirmation series! Today we’re diving into visibility... showing up, shining bright, and calling in your dream customers with confidence and authenticity. These affirmations will help you shake off self-doubt, embrace your unique voice, and remind you that every post, story, and conversation is planting seeds of connection …
…
continue reading

1
#65 - Day 3 Affirmation: Selling with Ease and Authenticity
8:53
8:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:53Welcome to Day 3 of our 5-day Affirmation Series, created to help you stay focused, inspired ✨, and energised as you move through the Sellathon. Today, we’re leaning into ease, authenticity, and creating a shop experience that feels as good to run as it does to buy from. These affirmations will help you release pressure, build genuine connections, …
…
continue reading

1
#64 - Day 2 Affirmation: Believing in Your Products and Your Worth
9:02
9:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:02Welcome to Day 2 of our 5-day Affirmation Series, designed to help you stay positive, motivated ✨, and focused as you build momentum during the Sellathon. Today, we’re focusing on something so many makers struggle with: truly believing in the value of your products and in your worth as a business owner, creative, and CEO of your handmade brand. The…
…
continue reading

1
#63 - Day 1 Affirmation: Stepping Into Your Power as a Handmade Business Owner
8:58
8:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:58Welcome to Day 1 of our affirmation series! This episode is your gentle reminder that you already have everything you need to succeed in your handmade business. Together, we’ll ground ourselves, release fear, and focus on the small but mighty actions that create momentum and growth. Whether you’re listening in the car, on a walk, or while wrapping …
…
continue reading

1
#62 - The Truth About Etsy Policies (And How to Stay Out of Trouble)
10:17
10:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:17Ever had a listing randomly vanish from Etsy with no explanation? 😳 Or maybe you’ve heard whispers about copyright crackdowns and policy changes that left you wondering if your shop is truly “safe”? 🫣 In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how Etsy’s policies work in 2025 and how you can protect your handmade business without losing sleep or se…
…
continue reading

1
#61 - The Real Reason You're Not Getting Sales (And It's Not What You Think)
14:40
14:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:40😩 You’re posting on socials, updating your Etsy listings, and maybe even running the occasional sale... but still not seeing consistent orders? Let’s clear this up once and for all. In this episode, Steph breaks down the real reason you’re not getting sales and no, it’s not the algorithm, your branding, or even your prices. It’s your messaging and …
…
continue reading

1
#60 - Etsy's Algorithm Change (Etsy Q Score) + Etsy’s Q1 Results: What Handmade Sellers Need to Know
15:04
15:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:04Etsy just dropped their Q1 2025 financial report… and there’s more to it than just numbers. In this episode, I’m breaking down what the latest earnings reveal about where Etsy is heading, how it’s affecting sellers like you, and the big changes to Etsy’s search algorithm - including the now-official Q Score. If you’ve ever felt in the dark about ho…
…
continue reading

1
#59 - How Handmade Sellers Are Making £1k in Just 7 Days (Without a Huge Audience)
17:07
17:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:07🎧 If you’ve ever thought “I just need more followers to start making decent sales,” this episode is your wake-up call. Meet Sam and Lydia - two handmade business owners using the same platform, same tools, even similar products. But one made over £1k in just 5 days… with less than 400 followers. The difference? Lydia had a plan. 👏 In this episode, …
…
continue reading

1
#58 - Why Your Sales Are Inconsistent (And How to Fix It for Good)
16:35
16:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:35🎢 Feel like your sales are on a constant rollercoaster? One week you’re rushed off your feet with orders, the next… total crickets? You’re not alone – and the good news? It’s completely fixable. In this episode, we’re breaking down why your sales feel so up and down – and spoiler alert: it’s not your product, pricing, or even your views. It’s your …
…
continue reading

1
#57 - How the Threads Algorithm REALLY Works (And What to Do About It)
10:18
10:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:18If you’ve been posting on Threads and wondering why some posts take off while others flop... you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the Threads algorithm works (spoiler: it’s NOT just a copy of Instagram’s). We’ll chat about what Threads looks for when deciding what to show people, the role of engagement (and what kind of …
…
continue reading

1
#56 - How Jen Turned Her Craft Hobby Into a Real Business – The Honest Journey of Indy Bee Crafts
32:50
32:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:50In this uplifting episode, I’m chatting with the lovely Jen from Indy Bee Crafts, one of our Handmade Business Success Academy (HBSA) students, about her real and raw journey from craft hobbyist to small business owner. Jen opens up about: 💙 How she found the confidence to start selling 💙 What helped her go from “I can’t do this” to “this is actual…
…
continue reading

1
#55 - Cracking the Code: How the Facebook Group Algorithm Really Works
11:13
11:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:13💙 Ever feel like you’re shouting into the void in your Facebook group? You’re not alone... and it’s not your fault. 🎙️ In this episode, we break down exactly how the Facebook group algorithm works in 2025, and why your posts might not be getting the traction they deserve. 👉 Here’s what we cover: • Why even your most valuable posts might get buried …
…
continue reading

1
#54 - How the Pinterest Algorithm Really Works (and How to Use It to Boost Sales)
10:42
10:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:42Welcome back to How to Be a Handmade Boss! If you’ve been sleeping on Pinterest, it’s time to wake up because this visual search engine is a goldmine for handmade business owners who want consistent, long-term traffic and sales. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the Pinterest algorithm works and how you can make it work for you and unl…
…
continue reading

1
53 - How the Instagram Algorithm Really Works in 2025 (for Handmade Business Owners)
13:19
13:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:19Hey handmade boss 👋 Feeling like you’re doing all the right things on Instagram but still not getting the reach or engagement you hoped for? You’re not alone — and you’re definitely not doing anything wrong 💛 In this episode, I’m lifting the lid on how the Instagram algorithm actually works in 2025... in simple, no-fluff terms, just for makers like…
…
continue reading

1
#52 How the Facebook page algorithm works
15:57
15:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:57🔐 Unlock the secrets to Facebook success for your handmade business! Are you pouring your heart into your Facebook business page only to be met with silence? 👉 This episode of the podcast dives deep into the Facebook page algorithm, specifically for handmade businesses like yours. Learn why your posts aren't reaching your audience (it's not you, it…
…
continue reading

1
#51 - REAL TALK Does the HBSA actually work?
13:25
13:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:25💙 In this episode we hear directly from students of the HBSA about their experiences and whether the course has worked for them. • Karen tells us how the course has helped her with marketing and identifying her target audience, as well as achieving a better work-life balance • Pash highlights the expertise within the HBSA and emphasises the value o…
…
continue reading

1
#50 - 'The perfect journey' for our HBSA Student Heather
46:07
46:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:07💙 'The perfect journey' for Heather and we want it to be for you too! 💬 Steph chats with Heather, the creator of Arthur's Knitting Business, about knitting, teaching, and entrepreneurship.... Heather's business focuses on providing kits and educational resources to help people learn to knit. 🧶 She's on a mission to remove the misconception that kni…
…
continue reading

1
#49 The beginners guide to Pinterest for handmade business owners
28:12
28:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:12🤔 Have you always wanted to know how to use Pinterest effectively for your handmade business? 🥳 We've got the answers, join Steph for an in-depth guide on how to use Pinterest to benefit a handmade business. 💙 This episode covers everything you need to know including setting up a Pinterest business account, creating effective pins, optimising your …
…
continue reading

1
#48 - How to keep going when you're not seeing results - AMA (Ask Me Anything)
21:26
21:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:26👋 Welcome back to the How To Be A Handmade Boss podcast! 🎉 In this episode, we tackle a common struggle for many handmade business owners: staying motivated to complete those essential but less enjoyable tasks, like bookkeeping, PR activities, and business development. ❓ Join me as I answer a listener's question from Soul Seed Jewellery about shift…
…
continue reading
👋 Welcome to the How To Be A Handmade Boss podcast! In this episode, we're diving into the transformative power of affirmations for your handmade business. If you've been feeling stuck or unmotivated, this episode is for you! Don't worry it's not too woo-woo. 🙂↕️ Join us as we guide you through a series of affirmations created to boost your creati…
…
continue reading

1
#46 - Learn how HBSA student Laura turned her passion into a business
28:27
28:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:27👋 Welcome back to another episode of the How To Be A Handmade Boss podcast! 🎨 In this episode, I chat with HBSA student and fantasy artist Laura, from The Daydream Emporium, who draws inspiration from the beauty of nature and the quirky creatures that inhabit it. We discuss Laura's creative journey, her unique approach to art, and how she turned he…
…
continue reading

1
#45 - Marketing has changed since 2020. Here's what's working now (backed by research)
15:26
15:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:26📱 Marketing as we used to know it has changed! If you've noticed a decline in sales or you're struggling to connect with your audience, this episode is for you! 🛍️ Steph discusses how the pandemic has change the shopping habits of our customers and why understanding your target audience is more crucial than ever. She highlights the importance of no…
…
continue reading

1
#44 - The Communication Game: Should You Speak with 'We' or 'I'?
20:18
20:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:18🩵 In this episode Handmade Bosses founder, Steph, dives into the great "I vs. We" debate that many handmade business owners face. ❓ Should you present your brand as a solo handmade business or as a team? Steph shares talks about the pros and cons of using "I" versus "we," helping you decide which approach aligns best with your business. Join Steph …
…
continue reading

1
#43 - Unlock Effortless Social Media Growth: Proven Strategies that Work
20:52
20:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:52Insta CTA Welcome to the Handmade Bosses family 🌻 I’m Steph, & since 2016 I’ve been running my handmade business full time on Etsy. Now I’m here to help you do the same – whether that’s starting your first shop, boosting sales with Etsy ads, mastering SEO, refining your branding, or finally finding your niche. If you already sell handmade products …
…
continue reading

1
#42 - Here's how to have a calm marketing strategy for your handmade business
22:42
22:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:42🩵 Does social media feel heavy and something you just don't need piled on your to-do list? 😤 Do you feel like you're not doing your best, you don't know what to do on social media and it's all a bit too much? 🥰 Today I'm going to teach you how to grow your handmade business all whilst keeping your social media serene AF. 📋 I'll help you find your r…
…
continue reading

1
#41 - Unlock Peak Sales After Christmas: Tips to Thrive in the New Year
33:07
33:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:07🩵 Join me in this episode of "How to Be a Handmade Boss," as I talk about a common challenge faced by many handmade business owners: the post-Christmas sales slump. 🎄 As the holiday season winds down, many entrepreneurs notice a significant dip in sales, you're not alone in this experience. I share valuable insights and actionable strategies to com…
…
continue reading

1
#40 - Unlock Extraordinary Business and Personal Growth with My Proven Dream Board Method
31:23
31:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:23🎉 Kick off the New Year with an inspiring episode of the How to Be a Handmade Boss podcast! ⚡️ In this electrifying episode, "Unlock Extraordinary Business and Personal Growth with My Proven Dream Board Method," Steph reveals how dream boarding can be a game-changer for achieving your business goals. 🤫 Join her as she shares the secrets behind her …
…
continue reading

1
#39 - I Failed. How Ignoring My Own Advice Led to Burnout — Lessons Learned
39:52
39:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:52💙 In this episode of the "How To Be A Handmade Boss" podcast, I dive deep into a topic that many of us face but often shy away from discussing: burnout and mental health. ✋ Before we get started, I offer a trigger warning for those who may not be in a place to hear about these struggles. If you're feeling overwhelmed or prefer to skip this episode,…
…
continue reading

1
#38 - Crafting Success: Charly's Journey to Niche Mastery and Business Resilience
39:40
39:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:40💙 Join Steph in this episode of the "How to Be a Handmade Boss" podcast, as she chats with the inspiring Charlotte, known as Charly from Charly Bee Designs. 💡 Discover how Charly transformed her passion for crafting into a thriving full-time business, focusing on personalised paracord bracelets designed specifically for men and families. 💬 Charly o…
…
continue reading

1
#37 - GPSR, Is Etsy's $£ down? Instagram scams and things you need to know - The BIG Update
25:44
25:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:44💙 The BIG update episode - I dive into some significant updates that every handmade business owner needs to be aware of, especially as we approach the holiday season. 🎄 With Christmas orders piling up, I wanted to ensure that you have all the essential information in one place, without the hassle of sifting through misleading clickbait or lengthy a…
…
continue reading

1
#36 - Unlock Your Handmade Business Potential: What’s Holding You Back?
25:01
25:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:01💙 Are you unknowingly standing in the way of your own success? In our latest episode of "How to Be a Handmade Boss," we dive deep into the common pitfalls that can derail your progress. 🤯 Every time something amazing happens in your business, do you find yourself getting in your own way? Whether it’s splurging all your profits on shiny new material…
…
continue reading

1
#35 - How to succeed in your handmade business with ADHD
26:53
26:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:53🤔 Do you have ADHD, tendencies and traits or an inkling you might have ADHD and think that running a handmade business is impossible? Then, this podcast is for you. 💙 In this episode of "How to Be a Handmade Boss," we dive deep into the unique challenges and strengths of running a handmade business with ADHD. 🙋♀️ If you've ever felt that your neur…
…
continue reading

1
#34 - "A year ago I was listing something on Etsy, finding it wasn't selling and having a panic attack" HBSA student Tara's honest conversation about her business then and now
30:21
30:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:21💙 Join me in todays episode where we explore the enchanting creations made by Tara, from Fabric Sewn Beautiful, she creates lavender-scented gifts reminiscent of the romantic Regency era. 🪻 Drawing inspiration from historical charm, translating it into comforting handmade items such as wardrobe fresheners, organza bags, and dream pillows, aimed to …
…
continue reading

1
#33 - What to Do When Someone Steals Your Designs: A Step-by-Step Guide
18:59
18:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:59💙 This episode is all about the dreaded Copycat 🫵 What you can do about them, how to stop copycats & the steps you should be taking now to protect your handmade business 🧡 What Etsy can do about copycats, their role from a legal stance and the Etsy reporting tool 📕 The facts about who reports copyright and Intellectual Property (IP) infringements a…
…
continue reading

1
#32 - Don't Give Up on Your Handmade Business Dreams – This Can Help!
39:55
39:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:55🛑 Stop!! Before you give up listen to this podcast. 💙 We explore the challenges of monetising a handmade business, we know how hard it can be! 💪 You'll get motivation and practical advice through my 4R framework: Resilience, Reflection, Reframe, and Rest. 💰 Whether you're struggling with low sales or feeling overwhelmed by your success, we'll guide…
…
continue reading

1
#31 - How to Seamlessly Take a Month Off and Keep Your Business Running
27:27
27:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:27💙 Have you ever wanted to take time off your business but worry that everything will fall apart? Well, I took a month long holiday and my business thrived. ⛱️ Join me as I share practical steps and personal experiences from my recent month-long break from my business. 🚀 If you're a handmade business owner looking to take significant time off withou…
…
continue reading