REDUX! While Carrie and I record season 2, we're bringing this much requested episode back...In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, co-hosts Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico dive into a topic that makes every artist's blood boil: stolen artwork. From discovering your designs on unauthorized products to navigating the complicated world of copyright, they share personal stories, practical advice, and some much-needed venting.

If you've ever felt the sting of seeing your hard work taken without permission—or if you're worried about how to protect your art—this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the frustrating, cranky side of being a creative entrepreneur.

In This Episode, You'll Hear About:

• Practical steps to protect your work from unauthorized use.
• Navigating gender norms in these dicey situations as a woman.
• The emotional toll of dealing with stolen art and how to manage it.
• Real talk about what you can do to safeguard your designs.

Whether you're a seasoned creative or just starting, Carrie and Toni offer a mix of candid advice and encouragement to help you feel empowered—even when someone's trying to steal your shine.

DISCLAIMER: Carrie and Toni are not lawyers. Any statements about copyright law are their personal understanding of US copyright law.

References Mentioned

Shepherd Ferry Obama Poster

US Copyright Office

Kindle Direct Publishing

Carrie's Cat Butt Illustration

US Copyright Office Report on AI

Two Cranky Creatives …

Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, Carrie and Toni tackle the relentless pressure to always be creating. If you've ever felt like you're falling behind because you're not churning out work at lightning speed—trust us, you're not alone.

Social media, hustle culture, and the myth of the "always-on" artist can make it feel like you're failing if you're not constantly producing. But here's the truth: It's okay to step back, take a break, and ignore the noise. Your creative journey is yours alone—no algorithm gets to dictate it.

🎨 The overwhelming pressure to produce and why it's okay to slow down.
❌ Why you don't have to jump on every challenge or contest (seriously, you can say no).
🗣️ How to tune out the FOMO and stay true to your artistic voice.
⚡ Practical ways to create on your own terms—without the burnout.

The art world will keep spinning whether you post today or not. What matters most is making work that feels authentic to you. So, let's get cranky and reclaim our creative freedom!

Two Cranky Creatives …

Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.

Chronically Cranky

In this episode of Two Cranky Creatives, Carrie and Toni get real about what it’s like to build a creative business while managing a chronic illness. Spoiler: It’s tough—but it’s doable, and there’s absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.

Society loves to glorify perfection and hustle culture, but let’s be honest—being human is messy. Whether you choose to disclose your condition or not is your decision, and no one else gets a say. The most important thing? Giving yourself grace.

🧠 Why perfection is overrated—and why you don’t owe it to anyone.
🤐 The pros and cons of disclosing your chronic illness in professional spaces.
💡 Strategies for managing energy, boundaries, and expectations in your business.
💖 The importance of self-compassion and working with your body, not against it.

Running a creative business is hard enough. Doing it while managing a chronic illness? That’s next-level resilience. Tune in for an honest, judgment-free conversation about finding success on your terms.

Notable Mentions

Spoon Theory for Managing Chronic Illness

Two Cranky Creatives …

Two Cranky Creatives is hosted by Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico, two seasoned art entrepreneurs who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative. Expect unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything in between that comes with navigating the art world as a business. Whether you're a fellow creative or just curious about the hustle, join us every other week for candid conversations that go beyond the usual sugar-coated advice.