Episode 22 : Why Creative Conversations Matter with Two Cranky Creatives
In Episode 22 of Creative Diaries, host Dimitra Tzanos speaks with illustrators and surface designers Carrie Cantwell and Toni Federico, co-hosts of the Two Cranky Creatives podcast. Together, they unpack the motivation behind creating a space for raw, unfiltered conversations about life as a working creative. This episode is a celebration of collaboration, honesty, and the messy realities behind what often looks like a polished, aspirational career.
Unlike the glossy image of creative success often portrayed on social media, Carrie and Toni built a podcast around the challenges artists face behind the scenes—ghosting, comparison, rejection, tech issues, and industry shifts. What started as a spontaneous connection over portfolio reviews and community chats soon evolved into a growing platform of real talk for surface designers and freelancers navigating the ups and downs of the industry.
Carrie shares how her transition from teaching on Skillshare and building a Patreon led to a more intimate connection with her community. Toni, who previously ran another podcast, brought her experience in writing and project management to the table. Together, they organically split the work—Carrie handles editing, Toni manages logistics and show notes—making their collaboration sustainable and fun.
What truly sets their podcast apart is their commitment to transparency. They don’t sell classes or curated dreams—they show up as they are, and talk about things like feeling stuck, pitching to dozens of clients with little response, or adjusting to new industry regulations. Their honesty has struck a chord: listeners feel seen, heard, and less alone.
Through their stories, Carrie and Toni challenge the idea that success must look effortless or perfect. Instead, they highlight the power of showing up, sharing your truth, and making space for the hard stuff. Podcasting, for them, has become a vehicle not only for connection but also for empowerment—especially for visual creatives who are often expected to let their work speak for itself.
Their biggest surprise? Just how many people wanted to hear these conversations. And how, in being themselves, they gave others permission to do the same.
🎧 Want to hear what happens when creatives get honest about the messy middle?
Listen to Episode 22 of Creative Diaries with Two Cranky Creatives and discover the power of real conversations, creative companionship, and building something together—flaws and all.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
Real conversations about rejection, comparison, and burnout are more needed than ever.
Podcasting can be a powerful outlet for visual artists to share context and emotion behind their work.
Collaboration works best when you embrace your strengths and divide the workload organically.
Aspirational content has its place, but without reality checks, it can feel alienating.
Community spaces like podcasts and Patreons foster deeper, more intimate connections than traditional teaching platforms.
About Carrie Cantwell & Toni Frederico
Carrie Cantwell & Toni Federico are two seasoned art entrepreneurs, who pull back the curtain on the highs and lows of making a living as a creative.
Listen in to the Two Cranky Creatives podcast