Overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and finding clarity on your creative path.

Sponsor the Podcast; https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross

Episode Summary

In this warm, uplifting conversation, Liz Ross welcomes gentle creative guide Jo McCarthy to explore the real journey of being an artist and creative entrepreneur. Together, they discuss overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and building confidence in your creative business. This episode is a nurturing space for creative souls, offering gentle encouragement, practical advice, and soulful support for anyone seeking authenticity and growth in their creative path.

Guest Introduction

Jo Mcarthy

Jo is a gentle creative guide based in Wales, known for supporting makers, artists, and creatives in finding clarity and confidence. With a background in education, business, and creative mentoring, Jo brings a holistic, nurturing approach to helping creative souls thrive.

Key Topics & Quotes

• Connected Artist Club with Alice Sheridan https://www.soulrocketstudio.com/connected-interest
• Jo’s Website https://jomccarthy.com
• & Newsletter https://jo-mccarthy.myflodesk.com/the-garden-shed

• Website: https://www.artbylizross.com/
• Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross Support the podcast + creative work.
• Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast

• Join our creative community on Telegram for creative support and gentle guidance. https://t.me/+9EW5_m6DdSU5YTc0
• Download: Take five minutes for yourself today! Get your free creativity guide and start building confidence, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in your creative journey. Coming Soon!
• Subscribe for creative support, nurturing words, and heartfelt encouragement. **https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share**
• Buy Me a Coffee: Support the podcast + creative work. https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross

Music Credit: Feeling Good by Doug Maxwell

In this deeply honest and heartfelt solo episode, Liz Ross opens up about the real behind-the-scenes of being an artist — the self-doubt, the limiting beliefs, the tiny steps of courage, and the unexpected ways confidence grows through showing up again and again.

From navigating open calls and the emotional rollercoaster of rejection and acceptance, to the overwhelm of producing a weekly podcast, Liz shares the EXACT thoughts, fears, and breakthroughs that so many creatives quietly hold inside.

This episode is a gentle reminder that you’re not alone.

You're not behind.

And you're allowed to grow slowly.

If you’ve ever doubted your voice, questioned your worth, or felt like everyone else is “further ahead,” this conversation will bring you comfort, clarity, and a renewed belief in what’s possible.

A grounding reminder that you don’t need to transform all at once…

You just need to take the next small step.

– Why Liz is shifting the podcast from weekly to fortnightly

– How approaching gallery owners feels scary for almost everyone

– The surprising way confidence grows through tiny, repeated actions

– The emotional process of submitting to open calls (and handling rejection)

– The belief-action-outcome cycle and how it shapes your entire creative life

– Why your “messy middle” is worth sharing and never something to be ashamed of

– Your limiting beliefs are not your the truths.

– Tiny steps count. They build confidence gently and sustainably.

– One rejection doesn’t define your worth or your future.

– Galleries, opportunities, and creative growth all start with simply showing up.

– Your voice, your story, and your journey matter far more than you realise.

– You are allowed to change your mind, slow down, rest, and choose a path that feels good.

💛 The Limiting Beliefs Ladder

A gentle framework to help you shift the stories that hold you back.

✨ The Creative Confidence Tracker (7-Day Practice)

Build momentum and self-belief through tiny, intentional creative actions.

Download coming soon — make sure you're subscribed to Liz’s newsletter so you don’t miss it 👇🏻

💌Sign up to my email list:

https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/818485/114166279194019425/share

✨ Website: https://www.artbylizross.com

Explore Liz’s artwork, podcast notes, and creative offerings.

☕ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross

Support the podcast + creative work.

🎨 Instagram (Art): https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross

Behind the scenes, art process & inspiration.

🎧 Instagram (Podcast):

https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast

Episode updates & creative reflections.

🎁 Free Printable:

https://subscribepage.io/affirmationgift

Anna Mcdonald; Listen to Anna on episode #17 & #18 @annafmcdonald http://www.annafmcdonald.com

Alice Sheridan Listen to Alice on episode #20 @alicesheridanstudio http://www.alicesheridan.com

Kaisa Hart; Listen to Kasia on episode #11 & #24 @artistkaisahart http://www.kaisahart.com

Simone Russell @simonerussellart http://simonerussellart.com

Sara Hoque @sarahoqueart https://www.sarahoque.com

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, Liz Ross speaks with Matija, founder and director of MASA UK Gallery, about what it really means to be an artist — from developing your craft and trusting your voice, to navigating galleries, rejection, and the courage it takes to show your work.

This nourishing conversation is filled with wisdom for artists at every stage. Matija shares her heartfelt mission to support local creatives, uplift emerging artists, and make original art accessible to everyone.

If you’ve ever wondered how to approach a gallery, whether your work is “good enough,” or how to keep going when doubt creeps in — this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and the reminder that you are not alone.

“Don’t paint what you think will sell. Paint what’s in your heart — that’s what people connect with.”

A grounding reminder that your authentic artistic voice is your greatest strength.

• How MASA UK Gallery began and their mission to support local artists
• Encouragement for artists who feel nervous or unsure about approaching galleries
• What galleries look for in artwork (and what they don’t)
• Why practice, consistency, and lifelong learning matter
• Honest conversations about rejection, readiness, and developing your craft
• The emotional connection between artist, gallery, and collector
• Stories of inspiring artists exhibiting at MASA, including Jo Morton and Julian Lees
• The importance of community, relationship-building, and showing up

• Your art is a moment in time, it deserves to be seen.
• You don’t have to be perfect to begin.
• Every artist grows through practice, passion, and patience.
• Approaching a gallery isn’t something to fear, it’s part of your journey.
• Galleries love watching artists evolve over time.
• Keep learning, keep experimenting, keep showing up.

MASA UK Gallery – Bury

Website: https://masa-uk.co.uk

Instagram: @masa_art

MASA UK Gallery – Altrincham

Website: https://masa-uk.co.uk

Instagram: @masa_art

Currently exhibiting at MASA Gallery Bury

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jomortonartist/

Exhibiting at MASA Gallery Altrincham

Kate Collins – Painter known for her beautiful china work

Dave Coulter – Self-taught artist with an extraordinary journey

David Swithenbank – Celebrated sculptor, former President of Bury Art Society

✨ MASA UK ArtX Biennale Exhibition

Featuring 30 artists including ME! - I’m very excited to have 2 of my artworks in this exhibition!

5 December – 21 December 2025

Exhibited across both MASA galleries (Bury & Altrincham)

A beautiful opportunity to discover new artists, support local talent, and gift meaningful artwork for the holidays.

✨ Manchester Art Fair

MASA UK Gallery will be exhibiting artists work at manchester Art Fair 22nd & 23rd November 2025

Details: https://manchesterartfair.co.uk

✨ Website: https://www.artbylizross.com – Explore Liz’s artwork, blog posts, and creative offerings.

☕ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/artbylizross – Support the podcast and Liz’s creative work.

🎨 Instagram (Art): https://www.instagram.com/artbylizross – Artwork, inspiration, and behind the scenes.

🎧 Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast – Episode updates and creative reflections.

🎁 Free Printable: Get your free affirmation gift now: https://subscribepage.io/affirmationgift

Gentle reminders for when life doesn’t go to plan — designed to inspire calm, reflection, and creative self-care.

👉 Get My Free Affirmation Gifts 💜

In this soothing affirmation episode, Liz Ross offers gentle motivation for artists and creatives navigating life’s unpredictable moments. Through mindful breathing, reflection, and affirmations, Liz reminds us that slowing down and caring for ourselves is a vital part of the creative process.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, tired, or off-rhythm, this episode is a quiet space to pause, reconnect, and remind yourself that you are enough — exactly as you are.

“You have grown into a version of She

The world had no idea you could ever be.”

A reminder to believe in your own growth and strength. You are already becoming everything you were meant to be.

– Gentle affirmations for when things don’t go to plan

– Words of self-care and compassion for creatives

– Reflections on rest, overwhelm, and returning to balance

– An excerpt from Donna Ashworth’s poem Warrior

– A reminder that rest and reflection are part of consistency

– You don’t have to do it all to be enough.

– Resting is part of your creative rhythm.

– Every pause holds purpose.

– You are worthy of the same tenderness you give to others.

✨ Website: artbylizross.com – Explore Liz’s artwork, blog posts, and creative offerings.

☕ Buy Me a Coffee: – Buy a coffee for Liz ☕️ Support the podcast and Liz’s creative work.

🎨 Instagram (Art): @artbylizross – Artwork, inspiration, and behind the scenes.

🎧 Instagram (Podcast): @empoweringtheartistwithinpodcast – Episode updates and creative reflections.

🎁 Free Printable: Get my free affirmation gift

A special message for you 💜

You are beautiful 💜 You are loved 🧡 Release the need for perfection. What matters is taking the next step 🩷 Each step we take brings us one step closer to our true authenticity. Choose progress over perfection. Choose yourself 🩷 Choose authenticity 🩵 You are a beautiful soul and the world needs you just as you are💜💖

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within! I'm your host Liz Ross and after a few weeks away, I’m catching you up on what’s been happening behind the scenes. In this week’s episode I’m sharing an honest catch-up on life, art, and creative courage. From taking time off for rest to showing up live on YouTube for the first time! We’ll talk about embracing imperfection, what consistency really means, and why sharing the messy moments matters just as much as celebrating the wins.

In this episode, I talk about:

• 🌿 Why I was forced to rest and take a break from the Podcast

• 🎨 My recent experiences with open calls and what happens when things don’t go the way you hope

• 💻 Going live on YouTube for the first time (and how I found the courage to hit “Go Live”)

• 💫 Why consistency doesn’t always mean perfection — and what it can look like for artists like us

• 🖌️ My latest art explorations and what’s inspiring me creatively right now

This is a gentle, honest catch-up episode about the highs and lows of being a creative and how sharing the “messy middle” can be just as uplifting as sharing our wins.

✨ Mentioned in this episode:

• My YouTube Channel: Art by Liz Ross

• Free Procreate Masterclass: http://subscribepage.io/freeprocreatemasterclass

• Buy Me A Coffee;

• Podcast guest episodes mentioned:

  • Ep. 29 — Bury Art Museum

  • Ep. 30 — Gabriel Lipper

💜 Let’s stay connected:

Podcast Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/empoweringtheartistwithin

My website; https://www.artbylizross.com

ETAW Facebook Group; https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredartistcommunity

Procreate Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/procreateartcommunity

If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to follow, rate, or leave a review - it means so much and helps others find the show.

In this gentle reflection episode, Liz Ross shares an honest update about slowing down, recovering, and learning to show up — even when things don’t go to plan.

After a few weeks away from the mic, I reflect on finding inspiration in everyday moments, navigating creative consistency, and redefining what it really means to “keep showing up” as an artist.

Recorded on a quiet autumn walk, this episode is a reminder that creativity and self-expression don’t have to be perfect - they just have to be real.

Mentioned in this episode: – The Connected Artist Club – Gabriel Lipper’s figure workshop – Local artist opportunities in Manchester

🎧 Tune in for warmth, honesty, and gentle encouragement to embrace rest, reflection, and inspiration in your own creative rhythm.

Welcome back to Empowering the Artist Within, this is the space for creativity, self-expression, and personal growth!

I’m your host Liz Ross, and today we’re shining a spotlight on something inspiring in my local community; the Bury Festival of Arts.

Joining me are Sarah Evans and Katie Stansfield from Bury Art Museum and Gallery, who share the story of how the festival began, how it’s evolved, and the beautiful way it’s supporting both artists and the wider community.

We talk about the festival’s impact on local creatives, the opportunities it offers for artists at every stage of their career, and the importance of keeping art inclusive and accessible. From free workshops and affordable art initiatives to personal success stories, this episode is a celebration of connection, creativity, and the power of coming together through art.

💛 In this episode, you’ll discover how the Bury Festival of Arts:

• Creates opportunities for artists at all stages of their journey.
• Builds community connections through free and affordable events.
• Provides inspiring stories of artists whose careers have been uplifted.
• Keeps creativity accessible to families and the wider community.
• Welcomes and encourages local artists to participate.
• Plans for an exciting and impactful future.

Art is for everyone and this episode is a beautiful reminder of the joy, inspiration, and connection that bloom when we make creativity part of everyday life. 🌿

✨ Mini Challenge:

If you’re local, find a way to get involved with the Bury Festival of Arts - attend an event, join a free workshop, or show up to support local artists. If you’re listening from further afield, explore what creative festivals or community events are happening near you and make space to be part of them.

⭐️ Question of the week:

How has your local art community inspired you?

Come over to my podcast Instagram account and share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear your stories!

💌 Connect & Support:

• Support the Podcast; Buy me a coffee ☕️ — Every cup helps me create more inspiring episodes for you!
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show.
• Join me on Instagram at my podcast account: @empoweringtheartistwithin
• Explore my art, free resources, and creative inspiration here: www.artbylizross.com
• Follow my main Instagram: @artbylizross
• Submit a question: Email liz@artbylizross.com with your thoughts or questions — I love hearing from you!

🗣️ Mentioned in this episode:

• Bury Festival of Arts — Upcoming events, free workshops, and ways to get involved through the Bury Art Museum and Gallery

Keep creating, keep exploring, and above all keep believing in yourself.

Liz 🌿