Entrepreneurial Fatigue, Market Uncertainty, and the Case for Slowing Down with Katie Hunt (240)

Host Alyson Stanfield talks with Katie Hunt about the findings from her 2025 State of the Product Industry survey.

While Katie’s audience includes product-based artists and makers, many of the themes—pricing pressures, burnout, and the need for stronger systems—apply across the creative sector.

They explore what’s really happening behind the scenes of creative businesses right now: why some are thriving while others are closing or stalling, how tariffs are complicating planning and profitability, and the surprising number of businesses still not using email marketing.

Katie and Alyson reflect on the connection between sustainability and simplification, and how support, community, and structure can make all the difference.

03:50 Who was surveyed and what kinds of businesses they run

09:00 How hiring and systems correlate with reduced hours and greater sustainability

11:30 Why email marketing is still underused—and still effective

15:30 The mindset blocks around unsubscribes and “bothering” your list

17:40 Social media as a visibility tool vs. a sales driver

18:30 Why community, mentorship, and education accelerate growth

21:00 Emotional tone of the industry: cautiously hopeful, but tired

24:20 Following up and closing the loop when no one responds

26:40 30% of respondents have considered closing their business

30:00 Tariffs, planning challenges, and the ripple effect on pricing

34:20 What separates those who sustain their business from those who burn out

38:00 The role of peer support and accountability

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📖 To read more, see images, find resources mentioned, and leave a comment, visit https://artbizsuccess.com/fatigue-hunt

⭐️ Connect with Katie and listen to the Proof to Product podcast at https://prooftoproduct.com

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