The episode is a year-end wrap-up of the Resin Mastery podcast hosted by Rachel and Ian, reflecting on its growth, global reach, and impact over its first year. They celebrate how the podcast has helped people learn resin techniques, start new income streams, and grow existing businesses, with some episodes reaching tens of thousands of views worldwide. A major highlight of the year was the launch of iCoat Epoxy’s AI agent, trained on expert Tim’s decades of hands-on resin knowledge. The AI provides reliable, experience-based answers, ranging from curing techniques and product selection to food safety and shipping questions—making expert guidance accessible 24/7 across time zones.

They also recount significant challenges and milestones, including a tragic accident that damaged iCoat’s building and temporarily disrupted operations. Despite this, the company showed remarkable resilience, continuing to fulfill orders with minimal interruption and rebuilding quickly. The year also included a major epoxy giveaway competition that boosted community engagement and supported small businesses, as well as the release of HV Ultra, a new epoxy formula offering clearer results and faster turnaround times for flower preservation. Several artisans featured in the competition and podcast have since built thriving businesses, underscoring the podcast’s real-world impact.

Looking ahead, Rachel and Ian share optimism for the coming year, promising more podcast episodes, artisan interviews, and product innovations. They announce the expansion into international shipping, opening iCoat products to overseas customers for the first time. The episode closes with gratitude to the community, encouragement for creators to share their work, and a heartfelt holiday message reminding listeners to manage stress, value connection, and look forward to new opportunities in the growing resin industry.

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Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

The episode centers on Christmas resin crafting, with Ian sharing a wide range of festive project ideas, from fast-curing resin techniques to embedding natural elements like pine sprigs and dried oranges in ornaments. He and Rachel emphasize creativity and personalization, suggesting interactive content such as polls, viewer submissions, and even mystery box challenges to keep the audience engaged. They highlight the appeal of meaningful, customized resin pieces that can become special keepsakes during the holiday season.

Ian and Rachel explore the practicality of making ornaments with resin molds, noting the durability of resin compared to traditional glass, and outline accessible DIY gift options such as charcuterie boards, coasters, bookmarks, and shaker keychains. Their conversation emphasizes the cost-effectiveness and charm of homemade gifts, especially with resin’s relatively quick curing time.

Finally, the hosts touch on marketing strategies for seasonal resin products, including the value of posting Christmas-themed items on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to reach potential clients. Ian encourages makers to learn about different resin types through resources like icoatepoxy.com and to consider the growing demand for wedding and memorial preservation work. They wrap up with a reminder to enjoy crafting while keeping sight of the holiday’s deeper meaning. Merry Christmas.

https://icoatepoxy.com

tel: +1 602-258-1114

https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/

Instagram @icoat.epoxy

Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

Valerie Dado, a dedicated resin artist and recent third-place winner in the iCoat Epoxy competition, shared her creative journey on the Resin Mastery Podcast after winning five gallons of premium epoxy. Starting out in Michigan with simple decorative trays and knick-knacks, she transitioned into floral preservation, making custom pieces such as blocks, jewelry dishes, and crosses that captured sentimental value for her clients. Her leap into resin artistry was inspired during pregnancy, spending a year learning about techniques and epoxy safety before launching into craft parties, continuous practice, and eventually developing her own signature style, one that values detailed design, purposeful placement, and rigorous use of PPE and professional tools.

Valerie’s promotion strategy is rooted in Instagram, connecting with local customers and building her business through direct engagement, client recommendations, and creative collaborations. Reshares from satisfied clients and makers help expand her reach, while consistent tagging and crediting of suppliers foster community growth and visibility for both herself and the iCoat brand. Despite working primarily from her garage, she maintains high standards for safety and product quality, using low-VOC resin and customizable molds but preferring to keep the experience personal and bespoke, without relying on a website or automated sales channels.

Looking ahead, Valerie continues to fulfill floral orders, some with months-long waitlists, while expanding into festive, personalized items for holidays like Christmas. Her focus remains on hands-on artistry and exceptional customer service, offering one-on-one consultations to ensure every piece matches the sentiment and specifications of her clients. For commissions, Valerie can be contacted directly through Instagram (@valdresin), phone, or email, representing a solopreneur approach that values creative control, meaningful client relationships, and steady growth within her local community.

Instagram @valdresin

Ph: (248) 874-5758

Email: valdresin@gmail.com

https://icoatepoxy.com

tel: +1 602-258-1114

https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/

Instagram @icoat.epoxy

Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com