Thoughts on Illustration Focusing on the Kids Market | Interview with Suzy Ultman
What happens when you bravely create from what matters most to you—even when you’re not sure others will understand? In this episode, I talk with artist and author Suzy Ultman, whose work blends joy, vulnerability, and cultural identity in a way that’s both incredibly specific and widely relatable.
Suzy is the creator of a series of Jewish-themed board books for Penguin Workshop — I Like Your Chutzpah, Shabbat Shalom, and It’s a Mitzvah! — and in our conversation, we explore the story behind these books: the experiences that shaped them, the fears Suzy had about putting herself out there, and what it means to lead with joy even when it’s rooted in something much deeper.
IN THIS EPISODE
- How Suzy went from client-based work to building a licensing brand around her own voice
- Why she was initially afraid to make books that reflected something deeply meaningful to her
- Why she sees herself as a bridge (middle child, anyone!?)
- What it looks like to make joyful work rooted in meaning, emotionally layered, and honest
- Suzy’s advice for artists who want to create from a deeper place but aren’t sure where to start
REFLECTION PROMPT
What’s something you’ve been afraid to share in your creative work — and what might change if you let it in?
SHOW LINKS
- Suzy Ultman’s Website — https://www.suzyultman.com/
- It’s a Mitzvah! (Penguin Workshop, Sept 2, 2025) https://www.suzyultman.com/shop/p/mitzvahbook
- Suzy on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/suzyultman
- Paper Doll Parade – Chronicle Books — https://www.suzyultman.com/paper-doll-parade
- Friendship Carousel – Chronicle Books — https://www.suzyultman.com/friendship-carousel-bts
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CREDITS
Music and cues by Mark Allan Falk — http://linktr.ee/semiathletic