Fresh Starts and New Projects: Your 2026 Creator Kickoff
by Josh Bailey
Welcome to a Fresh Start
Happy New Year!
Welcome to the first newsletter of the year. There's something undeniably energizing about turning the calendar to January, isn't there? It's a chance to hit refresh, to lean into curiosity, and to explore territory we haven't charted before.
This year, I'm committed to learning new skills, creating things I've never built, and tackling projects that weren't even on my radar a few months ago. Whether it's experimenting with fresh formats, diving into unfamiliar topics, or simply saying "yes" to ideas that excite and challenge me, I'm here for it.
And I'm thrilled to bring you along for the ride.
Expect the unexpected. Expect honest experiments, genuine curiosity, and work that stretches beyond the comfortable. Most importantly, expect authenticity. I'm not here to play it safe, and I hope this inspires you to take a few bold steps of your own.
Here's to new beginnings, uncharted paths, and the courage to create what we haven't yet imagined.
Let's make this year count.
-Josh
Introducing: The Makers Table
I'm excited to announce that this week marks the premiere of my new podcast, The Makers Table.
This show is designed specifically for makers and creators who are serious about their craft. Whether you're building with your hands, designing digital products, or creating something entirely unique, this podcast is for you.
On The Makers Table, we'll dive deep into the topics that matter most to people who make things. Expect conversations about the creative process, the challenges and breakthroughs that come with bringing projects to life, and the business side of being a creator. We'll talk about pricing your work, finding your audience, managing your time, staying inspired, and everything in between.
Each episode is built around real, actionable insights that you can apply to your own work. No fluff, just honest talk about what it takes to create and sustain a creative practice.
You'll be able to listen wherever you get your podcasts. The Makers Table will be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and all the other major platforms. Just search for the show and hit subscribe so you don't miss an episode.
I can't wait to share this with you. Let's pull up a chair and get to work.
Building Community, Together
The podcast isn't the only thing launching this week. I've also been running the Indie Creator Community since early 2025, and as we step into this new year, I'm making it a priority to grow this space into something truly valuable for all of us.
This is more than just another online forum. It's a place where makers and creators can connect, share honest experiences, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate wins together. Whether you're working on physical crafts, digital content, creative projects, or building a business around what you make, there's a seat at this table for you.
At indiecreator.community, you'll find ongoing discussions about the creative process, platform navigation, content strategy, monetization, and all the real topics that matter when you're building something independently. The goal is simple: bring people together around the shared mission of helping each other succeed.
I hope you'll join us. Jump into the conversations, ask questions, share what's working for you, and contribute your perspective. Community only works when we all show up, so let's make this the kind of space we all wish existed when we first started.
Let's Make This Year Count
Thanks for being here as we kick off what I hope will be an incredible year of creating, learning, and building together.
Between the launch of The Makers Table podcast and the continued growth of the Indie Creator Community, there's a lot happening. But none of it means anything without you being part of the conversation. Whether you're tuning in to the show, joining discussions in the community, or simply reading along each week, your presence matters.
This year is about trying new things, pushing past the comfort zone, and creating work that matters. I'm committed to showing up consistently, sharing what I learn, and building something valuable alongside all of you.
I'd love to hear what you're working on, what challenges you're facing, or what topics you'd like to see covered in future episodes and newsletters. Hit reply and let me know. I read every message.
Here's to new beginnings, bold experiments, and the courage to create what doesn't exist yet.
Let's get to work.