Episode 142: What it Really Takes to Be a Good Art Teacher as a Course Creator with Susan Yeates

In this episode, I had a truly inspiring and warm conversation with Susan Yeates, a brilliant artist, educator, and fellow member of my Remarkable League. We dove into what it takes to be a good art teacher and course creator these days, especially as the landscape of teaching art online continues to evolve.

One of the highlights was hearing Susan reflect on how much inspiration she draws from her garden, nature, and, most of all, her students. She shared something I deeply relate to: often, we learn as much, if not more, from the people we teach. That creative exchange is magical and humbling, and it’s a reminder of why we do this work.

The unique energy found in in-person retreats and workshops, and how teaching live (whether in-person or online) is such a powerful way to get real-time feedback and better understand what students need. Susan made a great point about how her years of face-to-face teaching provided a bank of knowledge she brings to her online courses, especially in anticipating questions and meeting students exactly where they are.

Another big focus was on embracing imperfect, human moments in our teaching videos. We agreed that showing our creative problem-solving and the little “mistakes” is vital, not just for relatability, but because it makes learning more accessible for everyone.

As for running an online art business, Susan and I both admitted how overwhelming tech can feel at first, but the real challenges are often elsewhere: marketing, community-building, and staying inspired. And inspiration doesn’t just magically come, it needs space. We both emphasized the importance of “pre-charging” ourselves by taking creative breaks, learning from others, getting out in nature, meditating, or simply giving ourselves permission to make art just for us.

Susan has also made some smart, small pivots in her business by focusing more of her content around mindful, nature-connected sketching. She’s found that infusing more of her whole self, her love of yoga, mindfulness, and nature, into her teaching made her business feel more authentic and rewarding. And focusing on her membership, Inspire, as the core of her work has led to real growth and more meaningful connections with her community.

Lastly, we touched on the importance of valuing our work as teachers. It’s not always easy to charge for what we do, but our teaching has value, and it’s important to remember that.

If you’re a creative educator or artist considering starting (or growing!) your own teaching business, let this serve as a loving reminder: fill your own cup first, bring your whole self to your teaching, and know that you have something remarkable to share

Susan’s Upcoming Projects and Where to Find Her

• Tiny Moments Course: Susan is launching an accessible, short-format sketching course designed for busy creatives and those looking to build tiny art practices into their daily routine. Join the waitlist HERE.

• Connect with Susan:

  • Instagram: @susanyeatesartist

  • Website: susanyeates.co.uk

Ready for more?
If you’re looking to build a sustainable, profitable course creator business, and want the tools, support, and accountability that makes success stick, join the Build It Remarkable waitlist now. Head to kelleewynne.com/priority for priority access, bonuses, and a front-row seat to everything that’s coming in 2025.

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Click here for the full written transcript