How Wendy Conklin Became a Creative Entrepreneur: Betting on Herself

What does it take to leave a secure career, start a creative business and bet on yourself? Wendy Conklin was a successful teacher, writer and educational consultant. Then an upholstery class sparked a new creative interest.  That small experiment eventually became Chair Whimsy. In this encore episode, Wendy shares how she became a creative entrepreneur and what gave her the courage to leave her established career. Making a midlife career change to pursue a creative business full time required Wendy to take a calculated risk. She realized that staying in an unfulfilling career had become harder than facing the unknown. In this episode • What happens when misery becomes greater than the fear of the unknown • Why Wendy left a secure career to start her own business • How mistakes helped her become a stronger designer and entrepreneur • Two practices that helped Wendy keep growing • Why creative entrepreneurs need mentors and supportive communities Wendy’s story reminds us that betting on yourself doesn’t always begin with a big leap. Sometimes it begins with curiosity and one small step in a different direction. Stories of Change: Helping You Navigate What’s Next Hosted by Judy Oskam Navigating a change or wondering what comes next? Hear real stories from people who have faced unexpected turns, made important choices, and figured things out along the way. A little wisdom to help you find your own way forward. Explore more at StoriesofChangePodcast.com.