Meet Melinda Joseph

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melinda Joseph. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Melinda, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.

Creativity for me is about transformation; turning life’s challenges into meaningful expressions of beauty and connection. From a young age, I discovered the power of creativity when I realized I could sing at just six years old. I’ve often felt alone but my inner world has always been filled with magic and endless possibilities. Uncovering that inner magic opened the door to a lifelong journey of self-taught exploration, from writing songs and poetry to crafting visual stories on YouTube. Each outlet has become a way to translate emotions and experiences into something tangible and deeply personal. It has become a form of therapy for me.

Over the past year, my journey with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) has profoundly shaped how I view creativity. The diagnosis was daunting, but it also became a catalyst for channeling my energy into the things I can create rather than what I’ve lost. Whether I’m handcrafting items for my Etsy store, composing a song, or crafting visual poetry, each act of creation is a way to redefine my abilities and supplement the parts of me that MS has challenged.

In many ways, creativity has been my lifeline, it allows me to communicate my story, process my emotions, and inspire others. It’s a habit I foster every day, not just as a form of expression but as a means of resilience. When I pick up yarn, a pen, or wake up with a new melody in my mind , I’m reminded that I have the power to transform struggle into inspiration, disability into possibility, and fleeting moments into lasting art.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am the owner and creative mind behind Mel’s Cozy Nest, my Etsy shop where I offer handmade blankets, stuffed animals and other treasures crafted with care and intention. Each piece I create reflects my love for storytelling, a deep appreciation for life’s quieter moments, and my journey of living with multiple sclerosis. This past November, I taught myself to knit in just one week, and it has quickly become one of my greatest passions. Since then, I’ve completed numerous projects, from cozy socks to a few hats that my family wears proudly, and I’m excited to expand my product line to include even more handmade items.

What makes my work truly special is the heart behind it. For me, crafting isn’t just about making beautiful things; it’s about finding meaning and joy in the process. Living with MS has taught me to slow down, focus on what truly matters, and channel my energy into creating tangible pieces that bring comfort and connection to others. Life does not stop for any of us and if we let it , it will slip away before we realize just how impactful we can be. My focus has been on making my efforts count. Every item in my shop is a reflection of that ethos, and I’m thrilled to share those pieces with others through Mel’s Cozy Nest.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to expand my brand beyond Etsy. I plan to launch a YouTube channel that focuses on lifestyle content, with an emphasis on mental wellness, creativity, and life as a stay-at-home wife and mom living with MS. I also plan to share some of my musical gifts. Through my channel, I hope to inspire others to embrace creativity as a form of self-care, find balance in life’s challenges, and discover beauty in the everyday.

Whether it’s through handcrafted items in my shop or heartfelt content on YouTube, my mission is to share warmth, encouragement, and creativity with those who connect with my work. Mel’s Cozy Nest is not just a brand it’s a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the power of making something meaningful from life’s journey.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are reflection, agility, and innovation.

Reflection has been vital in helping me grow as both a person and a creative. Taking the time to learn from experiences and tapping into myself is an essential part of my process. My relationship with myself guides me and allows me the space to evolve efficiently. For those starting out, I’d say: don’t be afraid to pause and evaluate your journey. Reflect on what’s working, what’s not, and what aligns with your deeper purpose. Growth comes when you give yourself space to learn and adapt.

Agility—the ability to adapt and explore new opportunities—has opened doors I never imagined. For example, I taught myself to knit in one week this past November and have already created socks, hats, and more. Being willing to try something new, even if it feels outside your comfort zone, is key to uncovering hidden talents. My advice? Stay curious, and don’t shy away from challenges, they’re often where your most surprising gifts are revealed.

Innovation has been the driving force behind much of my creative journey. I wrote my first song because the music I wanted to hear didn’t exist, and I’ve carried that mindset into everything I create. If you see a gap or feel like something’s missing, don’t wait for someone else to fill it—create it yourself. The world needs your unique perspective.

For anyone just beginning their journey, embrace these qualities. Reflect on where you’re going and listen to your inner voice, stay open to discovering new paths, and trust in your ability to bring fresh ideas to life. The combination of these skills will help you build something truly meaningful.

How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?

One of the biggest challenges I’m currently facing is adjusting to life after my recent MS diagnosis. It’s been a journey of profound change ; not only physically but also emotionally, and professionally. Losing my job because of my health was incredibly difficult. Not only did I lose a career I’d worked hard to build, but I also felt like I lost a part of my identity. I continue to ask myself, “who am I ?”. For a while, I was uncertain about who I was or where I fit in the world.

Living with MS has forced me to rediscover myself within new limitations. I used to feel like I could do anything but now tasks that used to feel simple are often exhausting, and I had to learn how to listen to my body, prioritize rest, and redefine what productivity looks like for me. But as challenging as it’s been, it’s also opened my eyes to the importance of finding meaning in the things I can do.

This journey has inspired me to focus on my creativity as a way to rebuild and redefine myself. From teaching myself to knit to expanding my Etsy store, I’ve found new ways to channel my energy and purpose. While the challenges of MS are ongoing, this process of rediscovery has taught me resilience and allowed me to see myself in a brand new way, not just as someone navigating limitations, but as someone creating a meaningful life despite of.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melscozynest?igsh=ZTE2aTBhMm10cDc%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AtKGuZa5q/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MelsCozyNest