photo credit: FiyaB0mb Instagram

Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

In this episode, we chat with Olivia Bé Nguyen, aka Fiyab0mb, about her journey from a kid watching Bob Ross to a powerhouse artist whose work hangs on Wall Street. We dive into the highs and lows of turning art into a thriving business—from last-minute venue changes to earning a TEDx nomination. Along the way, Olivia shares why being genuine online, trusting your ideas, and knowing when to say “no” are just as important as your craft.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Building Resilience in Creative Entrepreneurship: Facing tough clients, blown-out venues, and major debts—and how to push through.
• Authentic Storytelling on Social Media: Why sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly helps you connect and grow your audience.
• Trusting & Acting on Your Ideas: How to spot the right ideas, jump on them fast, and avoid letting them slip away.

Takeaways:

• Vulnerability Is Strength: Being honest about your struggles builds trust, deepens community, and can turn fans into lifelong supporters.
• Ideas Choose You: Your unique ideas deserve action—don’t wait, or someone else will bring them to life.
• Set Boundaries for Balance: Saying “no” and pacing your schedule protects your creativity and mental health, so you can keep showing up at your best.

Links:

• FiyaBomb – Artist Olivia Be’Nguyen
• Refuge Tattoo & Coffee Co. – CT’s first tattoo and coffee stop.