h+h Connect

About h+h Connect

Welcome to h+h Connect, the podcast series that brings you insights and inspiration to enhance your business, creativity, and overall inspiration. I'm your host Darrin Stern, and I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with all of you.

Publisher

h+h Connect

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Oct 2023

Latest episode

11 Nov 2025

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   11 Nov 2025

   Amy Frazer's Journey: From Illustrator to Author

   In this episode of h+h Connect, host Darrin Stern welcomes illustrator, designer, and newly published author Amy Frazer. They explore the evolving world of craft retail, the impact of social media on creative expression, and Amy's personal experiences in the industry. Amy discusses her latest book 'Birth Flower Embroidery,' its inspiration, and her journey from designing for major brands to becoming a published author. The episode highlights the community and networking benefits of events like h+h americas and offers insights for retailers and makers looking to expand their horizons.00:00 Introduction to h+h Connect Podcast00:58 Meet Amy Tangerine: Illustrator, Designer, and Author02:22 Amy's Journey in Craft Retail04:32 From Nike to Needle Arts07:34 The Birth Flower Embroidery Book11:50 Embroidery: A Craft for Everyone19:57 The Importance of Trade Shows22:09 Brand Storytelling and Unique Selling Points22:37 Expanding the Market and Demographics23:29 Community and Collaboration in Trade Shows24:53 Cosplay and Non-Traditional Customers26:08 Encouraging Retailers to Invest and Grow27:16 Experiences and Benefits of Attending Trade Shows35:44 The Importance of Physical Books and Tactile Experiences40:55 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTo pre-order a copy and get a free download:https://www.quarto.com/campaign/BirthFlowerEmbroidery?_kx=yxEMhom8cb2aT7OQ-TtEGw.WEMLKU (https://www.quarto.com/campaign/BirthFlowerEmbroidery?_kx=yxEMhom8cb2aT7OQ-TtEGw.WEMLKU)Wholesale ordering:https://quarto.sommerstreet.com/product/birth-flower-embroidery-a-month-by-month-celebration-of-floral-embroidery/ (https://quarto.sommerstreet.com/product/birth-flower-embroidery-a-month-by-month-celebration-of-floral-embroidery/)IGhttps://www.instagram.com/kellerdesignco/ (https://www.instagram.com/kellerdesignco/)Websitehttps://www.kellerdesignco.com/ (https://www.kellerdesignco.com/)

2. 

   29 Jul 2025

   Crafting Connections: Mastering Marketing for Your Store With Less Money

   In this live episode from the h+h americas 2025 Main Stage, a dynamic panel of shop owners, designers, and business leaders shares practical, budget-friendly marketing strategies for independent retailers. Learn how to turn your store into a destination, build brand identity, grow community partnerships, and effectively use email, social media, and even AI tools—all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a yarn shop, quilt store, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with inspiration to help your business thrive.

3. 

   30 Apr 2025

   Exploring Knitting Innovations with Jamie Lomax & Insights from Heidi Kaisand at h+h americas

   Join Darrin as he engages in a captivating conversation with Jamie Lomax, a renowned knitting pattern designer and author, and Heidi Kaisand from Hen and Chick Studio. Jamie introduces her company, Pacific Knit Co, and her innovative modular knitting patterns as well as her new book, 'The Doodle Knit Directory.' She shares her journey from corporate life to becoming a full-time designer. Heidi discusses the significance of attending H&H Americas, customer engagement practices, and offers a sneak peek at her upcoming class on customer relations. Discover the latest trends in knitting and quilt shop ownership, and learn valuable tips on growing your craft business.00:00 Introduction and Guest Speaker Jamie Lomax00:37 Jamie Lomax's Background and Business01:20 The Doodle Knit Directory and Modular Knitting04:44 Inspiration Behind Jamie's Work07:23 Jamie Lomax at H&H Americas09:10 Introduction and Guest Speaker Heidi09:33 Heidi's Background and Business10:18 Importance of Networking and Education at H&H11:48 Heidi's Class on Customer Engagement14:30 Current Retail Climate and Strategies17:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

4. 

   5 Apr 2025

   Customer Engagement and Retail Insights with Heidi from Hen & Chick Studio

   Join Darrin for an insightful conversation with Heidi Kaisand from Hen & Chick Studio, a quilt shop and retreat center in Conrad, Iowa. Heidi shares her experiences and the importance of attending the h+h Americas show for networking and education. Discover her philosophy on customer engagement, the evolving retail landscape, and the value of continuous learning. Heidi also discusses her upcoming class on customer engagement and shares practical tips for shop owners. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights for your retail business.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:20 Heidi's Background and Business01:17 Importance of Networking and Education at H&H02:48 Heidi's Upcoming Class on Customer Engagement05:30 Current Retail Climate and Challenges09:06 Opportunities at H&H and Final Thoughts

5. 

   28 Mar 2025

   Retail Visual Dynamics: A Conversation with Sheena Burt

   Join us for an insightful discussion with Sheena Burt from Color Story Studios as she shares her expertise on transforming independent retailers into must-visit destinations. Sheena talks about her journey, the importance of curation in modern retail, and offers practical advice for creating captivating store displays. Learn about her two upcoming classes at H&H Americas: 'One Table Four Ways' and 'The Art of Retail,' where she will provide hands-on guidance to retailers looking to inspire and engage their customers. Don't miss this chance to elevate your retail experience!00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:25 Team Dynamics and Growth01:28 Challenges and Innovations in Event Planning03:12 Retail Experience and Community Building06:43 Visual Merchandising Insights12:33 Upcoming Classes and Workshops23:10 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

6. 

   22 Mar 2025

   Industry Changes: An Interview with Brint on Crafting's Future

   h+h Connect: Industry Insights and Innovations with The ScissormanIn this month's edition of h+h Connect, host Darrin sits down with Brint, better known as the Scissorman, from Specialty Product Sales Incorporated and CEO of Famore Cutlery. The episode explores a range of industry topics, from the recent turmoil at Joanne Fabrics to the vibrant, passionate world of the crafting community, including quilting, knitting, and the burgeoning cosplay segment. Highlighting key discussions on market shifts, product development, and community engagement, Darrin and Brint delve into the importance of building relationships and investing in innovation. The episode also introduces the new Fiber Plus Fabrics Craft Festival, aimed at connecting brands directly with consumers. Join us for an insightful conversation that goes beyond business as usual to touch on the core values and future opportunities in the crafting industry.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Industry Overview and Joanne Fabrics Discussion01:32 Challenges and Opportunities for Suppliers08:54 Financial Struggles and Supplier Terms16:31 Cosplay: A Growing Market24:26 H&H Show and Community Engagement28:16 Emotional Impact of Cosplay28:31 Crafting the Perfect Trophy29:25 Challenges and Innovations in Crafting30:58 Adapting to the Crafting Community34:05 Exciting New Programs at H&H36:58 The Importance of Passion in Business41:31 Building Relationships in Retail47:29 The Value of Trade Shows49:01 Investing in Yourself and Your Business

7. 

   8 Jan 2025

   Introducing the Upcoming Craft Haven: The Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival

   Danielle Mayer introduces the Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival (open to the public), slated for May 2026 at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. Highlighting insights from Darren Stern, Vice President of Koelnmesse, Inc., and show director, the event addresses a gap in the Midwest crafting market. The festival offers a diverse range of activities, including knitting, quilting, sewing, and more, with a strong focus on education, community, and creativity. It features hands-on workshops, seminars, and support for small businesses through discounted booths. The event is part of the h+h family, which is known for successfully crafting events globally. Set to become a cornerstone for the crafting community, it's designed to inspire and connect crafters from all backgrounds.

8. 

   6 Jan 2025

   Get to Know the Faces Behind the Show: h+h americas

   🎙️ h+h Connect Podcast: Meet the Team Behind the Craft Community 🎨✨ In this special holiday edition of the h+h Connect Podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes to meet the incredible team bringing h+h americas to life. Join host Darrin Stern as he sits down with key staff members to discuss their journeys, inspirations, and passions for the craft industry. Through candid and heartfelt conversations, you’ll hear from: • Jessica Bowick, sharing her love for creating memorable experiences in the trade show world. • Eileen Lynch, reflecting on the unique energy of the crafting community and her passion for connecting people. • Nadine Schwartz, diving into her decades-long trade show career and her admiration for the kindness and creativity of the crafting industry. • Leslie Fleck, exploring the global reach of crafting and the importance of international collaboration. • Marisa Goldberg, revealing the meticulous behind-the-scenes operations that make the magic of h+h possible. Discover what makes the crafting community so special—from the small businesses driving innovation to the shared passion for creativity that connects us all. Whether you’re an exhibitor, attendee, or just curious about the craft world, this episode is full of insights and inspiration. 🎄 Happy Holidays from all of us at h+h Connect! We can’t wait to see you in May for our biggest and most exciting show yet. Until then, stay inspired, stay creative, and stay connected. ❤️

9. 

   1 Dec 2024

   h+h americas: A Launchpad for Creative Business

   h+h americas launchpad for creative business: Darrin welcomes Nichole Schneider, a multifaceted entrepreneur, to share her inspiring journey of blending creativity with business acumen to achieve her dreams.

10. 

    21 Oct 2024

    h+h americas Announces New Pavilion for Beads, Buttons, and Jewelry Crafting Supplies

    h+h americas, a prominent trade show for fiber craft retailers, has unveiled plans for a new pavilion dedicated to beads, buttons, tools, and items for jewelry making and crafts. This initiative responds to growing demand from industry professionals seeking specialized vendors in these categories. Responding to Industry Demand The decision to launch the new pavilion comes after careful consideration of feedback from the event's core audience. Retailers and professionals—including yarn shops, needlepoint studios, sewing and quilting stores, fabric shops, sewing dealers, designers, educators, professional makers, importers, and exporters—have been requesting greater access to suppliers specializing in beads and buttons. "Listening to our buyers and observing the competitive landscape, we recognized the need to expand our exhibition to include more crafting elements," said Darrin Stern, Vice President of Koelnmesse Inc. and Director of h+h americas. "Our new pavilion is a direct response to that demand, aiming to provide a comprehensive sourcing platform for the crafting community." Strategic Naming for Clarity The pavilion's name was carefully chosen to be descriptive and straightforward, eliminating any confusion about what attendees can expect to find. While acknowledging the historical significance of these terms and previous organizations that supported this product segment, the focus remains on clarity and ease of connection for both vendors and buyers. "Our sole intent with the naming is to make it easy for people to understand and engage with this new space," Stern explained. "We want vendors to quickly recognize their representation and presentation within the pavilion." Enhancing Retail Offerings The addition of beads and buttons is seen as a natural extension of h+h americas' product offerings. These items are integral to the fiber community and offer retailers opportunities to create add-on kits and gifts, thereby expanding their in-store and online product ranges. "We believe that incorporating beads and buttons allows retailers to extend their offerings and cater to a wider audience," Stern noted. "It's all about providing value and inspiration to both our exhibitors and attendees." Invitation for Industry Collaboration h+h americas is actively seeking input from the crafting community to ensure the pavilion meets industry needs. The organization invites professionals to share their thoughts and suggestions, either directly or through social media platforms. "We are extremely excited about launching this special pavilion," said Stern. "We look forward to collaborating with the industry to further its growth, reach, and importance. Together, we can create a vibrant, inspirational, and thriving marketplace." Join the Conversation Industry professionals are encouraged to provide feedback and engage with h+h americas to help shape the future of the event. The management team values community insights and is committed to fostering an environment that supports business growth and innovation. About h+h americas h+h americas continues to be a leading platform for business-to-business interactions in the crafts industry. By expanding its offerings and responding to market demands, the event aims to support individuals and businesses in sourcing diverse products for their retail and professional environments.

11. 

    1 Oct 2024

    The Importance of Visual Marketing & Headshots with Gale Zucker | h+h Connect Show

    Welcome to another edition of the h+h Connect Show! In this episode, Darrin welcomes Gale Zucker, a celebrated photographer in the crafting community, to discuss the critical role of photography, visual images, and headshots in business. Gale shares insights on why visual marketing has become vital in today's digital-first world, the importance of headshots for personal and business branding, and tips for effective photography using everyday tools like smartphones. She also talks about her experience providing headshots at trade shows and offers actionable advice for improving your own photography. Whether you're a small business owner or a crafting enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable information you won't want to miss. http://www.gzucker.com/headshots (http://www.gzucker.com/headshots )http://www.gzucker.com (http://www.gzucker.com) 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:34 The Importance of Visual Marketing 01:42 Evolution of Photography Technology 02:28 Equipment vs. Skill in Photography 04:53 Crafting the Perfect Headshot 06:39 Connecting with Customers Through Imagery 08:18 Headshot Tips and Techniques 11:22 Opportunities for Professional Headshots 12:16 Gale Zucker's Photography Services 13:55 Upcoming Events and Classes 22:31 Final Thoughts and Farewell

12. 

    5 Aug 2024

    Magnetizing Success: The SewTites Journey and the Power of Trade Shows

    In the latest episode of h+h Connect, hosted by Darrin Stern, Show Director for h+h Americas and Vice President at Koelnmesse Inc., we dive into an inspiring conversation with Jessica and Jamie from SewTites. As sisters and co-founders, they share their serendipitous entry into the crafting marketplace, driven by their love for quilting and sewing. Jessica and Jamie discuss the unique dynamics of running a family business, highlighting their complementary skills and mutual respect that have fueled their success. They emphasize the importance of networking and continuous learning, sharing valuable insights on leveraging Google and the significance of investing in one's business. The episode also explores the invaluable role of trade shows like h+h americas in their business growth. Jessica and Jamie explain how in-person interactions and the opportunity to showcase their products to a diverse audience have been game-changers for SewTites. They tease exciting new products and innovations set to debut at their booth (number 1129) at the upcoming h+h Americas event. Listeners will be inspired by the SewTites story and gain practical tips on navigating the crafting business landscape. Don’t miss this insightful episode that underscores the power of creativity, perseverance, and the human connection in driving business success. Tune in to h+h Connect to learn more!

13. 

    8 Jul 2024

    Market Trends Unveiled: Consumer Insights from h+h americas Day Three

    n this episode of h+h Connect, host Darrin Stern, the show director for h+h Americas, discusses the highlights from the third day of h+h Americas, an event that connects the global crafting and hobby industries. Presentations from industry leaders Mark Hyland of Handy Quilter and Jan Hurwitz of Berroco reveal significant findings from two major consumer research studies. Mark shares data on quilting trends, highlighting demographics, purchasing habits, and the importance of local quilt shops. Jan dives into yarn trends, comparing knitting and crochet behaviors, preferred purchase methods, and the impact of online and in-person shopping. Both presentations emphasize the need for valuable consumer insights to drive industry growth and support. The episode concludes with a call for feedback and encourages listeners to subscribe for more crafting and hobby industry insights.

14. 

    4 Jun 2024

    Keynote Session with Amber Kemp Gertzel (h+h americas 2024 - Day 2)

    Influencer Insights with Amber Kemp-Gerstel: Creativity, Challenges, and Social Media Strategies In this episode of h+h Connect, hosted by Darren Stern, we dive into the keynote session from h+h americas day two with Amber Kemp-Gerstel. Amber, a prominent creator and influencer, shares her journey, including her experiences with influencer marketing, overcoming challenges like having her Instagram account hacked, and maintaining creativity in her work. She offers valuable insights into managing social media and how it has significantly impacted her career and business. Amber also discusses her transition from a psychologist to a full-time content creator, the importance of storytelling, and tips for maintaining creativity and managing boundaries. Tune in for an inspiring and informative session filled with practical advice and engaging stories. 00:00 Introduction to h+h Connect Podcast 00:24 Amber Kemp Gertzel's Keynote Introduction 01:06 Amber's Fashion Show Inspiration 01:54 The Cosby Show Reference 03:39 Amber's Instagram Hacking Story 08:57 The Importance of Social Media 11:12 Amber's Background and Career Shift 18:05 Television and Media Appearances 20:32 The Making It Experience 27:59 The Casting Process: From Finalist to TV Star 28:25 The Handmade Project: From Concept to Reality 30:39 The Quilt with a Hidden Story 32:57 Crafting a Manifesto: Representation in the Crafting Community 39:18 The Viral Wreath Phenomenon 43:32 Influencer Marketing Strategies 46:28 Closing Thoughts and Q&A h+h Connect (https://hhamericas.digital/) h+h americas (https://hh-americas.com) Damask Love (https://damasklove.com/)

15. 

    30 May 2024

    ​ State of the Craft Industry 2024: Panel Discussion Featuring Leading Experts | h+h Connect

    Welcome to another exciting episode of h+h Connect. I'm Darrin Stern, the show director for h+h Americas and a Vice President at Koelnmesse Inc., based in Chicago. Our podcast series brings you valuable insights and inspiration to enhance your business, creativity, and overall inspiration. In today's episode, we have a fascinating State of the Industry panel discussion from h+h americas 2024 featuring a diverse group of experts from the craft industry. Joining us are Tony Lipsy from TL Yarn Crafts, Gina Pantastico from Cloud9 Fabrics, Scott Stone from Genporia Craft, and Virginia Johnson from Gather Here. We'll be discussing the current state of craft retail, trends, challenges, and the future of independent retail. So, let's dive in and hear what our panelists have to say! As we thought about putting together this panel, we wanted to include a diversity of viewpoints and vantage points. And I think that we have got that here in spades. I'll call our panelists to come on up. So we have Tony Lipsy, Gina Pantastico, Scott Stone, and Virginia Johnson, and I will let them introduce themselves. So if you all want to take just a 30 seconds or so, tell us a little bit about your business and who you are, and Tony, we'll start with you. Oh, my goodness. Of course, you're gonna start with me. Hello and good morning, everyone. My name is Tony Lipsy. I'm the crochet designer and educator behind Teal Yarn Crafts. I focus on inspiring and encouraging makers at the beginning or intermediate levels of their practice. And I really focus on fostering community. That's one thing that this space did for me. So I want to do it for other people as well. Thanks, Tony, and Tina. Good morning, everyone. I share Tony's sentiment. This is quite overwhelming But my name is Gina Pantastico. I am one of the founders of Cloud9 Fabrics and Felicity Fabrics We've been doing this for about 15 years now I currently serve as the Director of Operations, and under that umbrella I handle everything from production, sourcing, customer service, sales, and essentially everything numbers related, and Very happy to be here. Thank you for having me, Abby. Of course. Thank you, Gina. And Scott? Hello hello, everybody. As you can maybe tell by the accent, I'm from the UK. My name's Scott Stone. I'm managing director of Genporia Craft, which is a company which owns a selection of brands. One in soft craft, which is called Sewing Street, hobby maker jewelry maker, and visible image. We are a shopping TV channel by probably But we also work with influencers and content creators to just create great products that people like. And it's all about community, really, and partnership. So we love what we do. I've been working there for about seven years now. Thank you. Thank you. And Virginia Johnson. Hi so my name is Virginia. I own a brick and mortar in Cambridge, Massachusetts called Gather Here and I run that business with my partner, Noah, who makes it possible for us to do all the things plus 20 other incredibly talented and caring people. Humans that all call, gather here, not just their job, but their third place. I, we also have an online space, we have a robust social media presence, and I actually hosted a workshop with Abby when I first opened 13 years ago in my first location in greater Boston. Thank you. All right, we are in for a great discussion, so thank you. So we're going to start big. What is the state of craft retail right now? What is working for our brick and mortar shops and our e commerce shops? What is no longer working? What should we be thinking about when it comes to independent retail? So actually jean, I think we'll start with you on that one if that's okay From my perspective I think that we really need to start focusing on Younger crafters. I think it's really quite important to bring them into the fold Have them be part of this community and feel that they are Welcome into this community whether they knit So quilts, crochet, we really need to be looking to the future and to me that's the biggest thing I'm trying to do at our company is encourage young people to get involved in this industry, in this community. Would you have thoughts that sure? I think I think the state of the industry is growing. Obviously coming out of the pandemic, we had this massive influx of people joining us in our crafty crusades, and I think it's important to continue to embrace those folks, who are early in their practice, who might not know that there's such a massive community of us out there who are just as enthusiastic and just as creative. So I think there's a great opportunity to embrace people who are so early on in their Maybe don't know where to turn and just need a little bit of guidance. What about you, Scott? What do you think? The biggest thing that we try and do, and I think help support that, is to try and break down some of the harder things to enter. So it feels quite tough to enter a certain craft. There's a lot of words that are said, there's a lot of acronyms for things, and breaking it down to people that it's It's just try something, and you might not be great the first time, you might be good the second time, you might not be good the hundredth time, but feel more comfortable with trying things, and then try and support people by, the community is huge, and once you do it, you love it, so try, and then try and help people try more. What are you saying, Virginia? I'm just hopping off of what Scott just said. Repeat, process over perfection to everyone who enters our space because we have made sure that there are spaces within our brick and mortar where people can learn. So we break down that first barrier to entry of we have the tools you need to take up sewing. We have the instructors you need to make that fit. And we really. As a value driven business to embody what we believe craft can be yeah, I made a point of making my set today so that people saw me as I am. I have always worn handmade. I get a little teary thinking about. It's not just. The fact that my grandmother instilled in me a deep love of handcraft, but through my store, I continue her legacy. And I'm always looking for ways for intergenerational. Sharing of skills and knowledge because I get riled up when people say not your grandma's. My grandma was a bad ass. She could run circles around anything I made and I am proud to continue her crafts and her legacy. A little bit about B2B shoppers, so these are our retailers who are shopping for their stores, and I'm wondering how B2B shoppers are buying from you as suppliers right now. Wholesale e commerce shops, are they buying through online, are they buying through raps? Are they buying here at a trade show? And so where and how are B2B shoppers shopping? And since you're a retail, we'll start with you. Okay so a variety of different ways. Last year I attended H& H mostly because it's it was so easy for me to get here from Boston. Like as soon as something's on the West coast, it's like a thing. I'm like, Oh, and then I got to go and then I got to see my parents, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. But going to Chicago, I was like, I'll just hop in. It's like an hour and a half flight, super chill. And I met a bunch of people. One of those people I met was Allie road trip sock yarn and started collaboration with her. And I'm so proud that we did that and that we got to meet face to face. Congratulations, Allie. But I also love a wholesale B2B website because being the owner of a brick and mortar, we have so much on our plate. We have so many things to do from the in person interaction, from training people, from educating the public about what we do and why what we do matters. So being able to hop on my phone, even as I say I have all these boundaries and I'm not going to check at 11 p. m. at night, I'm still on there. Being able to order and do a reorder and getting a notice, like I love when Wooble sends a little notice that says we've restocked and I'm like put it in my cart. It's The other thing that I've really loved that is post pandemic is RJR started this program where to Cut down on in person meetings. They send a small travel suitcase called Roli and in Roli has all of the upcoming lines in paper and fabric and things you might consider and just having the option of having that suitcase come. And I can open it up on my own time, be that at 11 o'clock at night, take a look, gestate for 24 hours, and then place my order has been very helpful. Because sometimes doing these in person meetings can be incredibly overwhelming. And I'm like, did I already get that? Do I know I would need that? And being able to talk it through with my team is really helpful. That's great. Gina, do you have thoughts about how, Folks are buying B to B. To Virginia's point, Virginia carries our fabrics. We're very proud that she's one of our stockists and We have a very robust user friendly wholesale web shop, but I really we there's a litany of ways that you can find our fabrics and I think every shop is an individual and there's a few other things that are come up today in our discussions where I am a big proponent of self sufficiency. stay in your lane and do what works for you. I very much understand where Virginia is coming from because even on my end, I have to manage my time a lot. And oftentimes I'm doing things after hours. But there are shops that really love the rep to come in. They enjoy that one on one human contact. So That's an important element to this industry. I think distributors are also another element. Some woman I spoke to today carries our fabric. She buys it through a distributor. She has a great relationship with them. So I think that every shop has their own personality, their own community, and their own way that kind of works for them. But I do think wholesale web shops are becoming increasingly important and more and more people are using them. But you have to stay in your lane and just do what works for you. Let's talk a little bit about trends and Scott we'll start with you on this one. How do you discover what it is consumers want? It's a tough one. It's that. That's the million dollar question, isn't it? It's how do you find out what somebody wants before they know they want it? We do. We do a lot of trying to lead it, and that sounds silly, but you can Build something by showing somebody how to do something in a different way to what's been done before. So not all products are brand new. Not everything that you bring to your stores or to TV is completely new at the same moment. But there's other ways you can show things that you're using or ways that you use it to to make it seem new. Because new is a thing that people chase. As humans, we chase something that's new all the time. But there's other ways of doing that. The other thing is that social media, you can't get away from it. The trends are there. You can see them before they've even happened there as well. It's a difficult thing to try and stay on top of them all. But there's a lot out there. And then also, I think we talk about this or a few of the panelists within a bit going back in time, things that were for popular 2030 40 years ago. Bringing those back are quite a big thing as well. Yeah, absolutely. And what about you, Tony? What are you, how are you spotting trends? Yeah, I think one of the unique opportunities I have is that I have access to like things like this that my audience doesn't. So being able to take back the things that I learned at San Diego State. An H& H or from a craft show or from, I don't know, a teaching event that I go to and sharing the things that I've seen is a level of access that they might not have already. So I'm able to share like, hey, this is something that I saw that maybe we're not talking about yet. So we can start that conversation. I think too, when it comes to trends, I'm. I'm a bit averse, because I feel like we do live in a, in an industry that there's a lot of information, there's a lot of opportunity and inspiration already, and I think if we mine some of the some of the great ideas and some of the information that we have access to already, we don't have to necessarily chase trends. I feel like sometimes chasing trends distracts from the amazing people the speakers, the teachers, the businesses that we have already, so if we can connect those people I think it can transcend the trends to a degree. How I feel about it. I think at least with TL Yarn Crafts, what I found is like, staying true to myself, the things that I'm interested in, the things that I love to do, and sharing that with my audience, and encourage them to do the same. Whatever it is that you're into, all of your quirks, all of your weird little interests, that you maybe only talk to your best of friends with share a little bit more of that. I think there's a level of information, a level of passion that we have, that sometimes we're a little nervous to share, and I think that is. I think that's almost more important than the trend, pulling that out. Absolutely. Oh, I love that so much. Okay. When it comes to brands I also see a shift. In direct to consumer, and I'm wondering whether you all are seeing this, and if so, what the impact of that might be, so I'm not sure who wants to start on that one, but Gina, yeah. I will start on that. We had a brief co

16. 

    8 Apr 2024

    Unraveling Creativity: Alanna Wilcox’s Journey Through Fiber Arts and AI Innovation

    Dive into the vibrant world of fiber arts with Alanna Wilcox on this week's h+h Connect. From the playgrounds of Brooklyn to the forefront of textile innovation, Alana shares her journey through the colorful threads of life. Discover how a childhood fascination with untangling knots blossomed into a profound love for embroidery, crocheting, and knitting. Join us as Alana unravels the tapestry of her experiences, from teaching art to mastering yarn construction and spinning. In this episode, we also explore the intersection of traditional crafts and modern technology, as Alana discusses the potential of AI in revolutionizing the fiber industry. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a curious newcomer, prepare to be inspired by Alana's story of creativity, passion, and her unexpected superpowers. This description aims to capture the essence of Alana's personal and professional evolution, her passion for fiber arts, and the intriguing topic of AI's role in creative industries.

17. 

    18 Dec 2023

    Attention all creative souls, quilters, and small business owners! Featuring Heidi Kaisand & Darrin Stern

    In the podcast, Darrin and Heidi delve into Heidi's background, discussing her early quilting experiences and her diverse career in the creative industry. From editing craft titles to managing national sales for long-arm quilting machines, Heidi eventually opened her own quilt shop, Hen & Chick Studio. In 2015, she acquired American Quilt Retailer and later expanded to include Creative Retailer Magazine to reach a broader audience of small businesses. The discussion moves to innovation and trends in the industry, emphasizing the role of video in conveying creative ideas and reaching customers. Heidi also shares insights into how technology has positively impacted her brick-and-mortar store and expanded its reach beyond the local community. Heidi highlights major life events like births, graduations, and weddings as opportunities to attract new customers to her store. By tailoring products and projects to these events, she creates a welcoming entry point for individuals of various ages and skill levels. The conversation then shifts to the challenges of staying motivated and inspired as a creative professional. Heidi emphasizes the importance of networking, attending trade shows, and investing in oneself to maintain enthusiasm and keep business ideas fresh. She shares her personal mantras of striving to be 1% better each day and consistently adding value to others' lives. Lastly, Heidi provides insights into her decision-making process, balancing her entrepreneurial spirit with a practical, analytical approach. She stresses the significance of understanding financials, delegating responsibilities, and having a clear vision for short-term and long-term goals. Throughout the episode, Heidi's passion for the creative industry shines through, highlighting the joy and fulfillment she finds in helping others unleash their creativity. Join us: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hhamericas⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hhamericas⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/hhamericas⁠ Email us: ⁠info@hh-americas.com

18. 

    8 Oct 2023

    Welcome to the world

    Welcome to h+h Connect, the podcast series that brings you insights and inspiration to enhance your business, creativity, and overall inspiration. I'm your host Darrin Stern, and I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with all of you. Join us: https://www.instagram.com/hhamericas (https://www.instagram.com/hhamericas) https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hhamericas (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hhamericas) https://www.facebook.com/hhamericas (https://www.facebook.com/hhamericas) Email us: info@hh-americas.com (mailto:info@hh-americas.com)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

34,195

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

8 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 45 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

35

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

60