We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sarah Nidek-Eberle a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Sarah , appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

A lesson I learned in 2025 was to separate work from my personal life. As a Neurospicy, intuitive empath I often see the best in people.
Working out of my basement allowed people access to my sacred safe place. Not everyone is deserving of that privilege so I was desperate for a solution.
2025 was a low sales year for most small businesses. I’ve seen several people I know and care about throw in the towel.
I’ve watched small businesses grind day and night trying to keep their doors open. Some of those doors planned to close but the Universe had other ideas. A collective was forming.
Wick-ed Palette Studio Collective.
The foundation had already been built in this artist studio space in the heart of downtown Toledo.
Two dear friends Callisto Terra and TC Acrylics started Wick-ed Palette Studio the year prior. They had the idea to fully utilize the large space and bring in some artist friends they trusted.
Stoned By Medusa was extended the offer to become part of the collective along with Clearly Weird. and Ariel Kay Crochet.
Taking the risk of fully putting my work out there has been empowering. I’ve got such a fantastic support system. Everyone has their strengths and we compliment each other.
I’m grateful to solidify myself as a woman owned small business.
Especially alongside other businesses that have inspired me.
I’ve fully allowed my inner child to create a magical space of my own.
Having a studio space, rock shop, classes, machinery and my jewelry is a dream come true!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Sarah, a Science loving rock hound. I’ve always been drawn to water since I was a child and rocks!
I pursued degrees in Science and kept finding my way back to rocks.
A lapidary business came naturally. I pride myself in sourcing all the stones that I use.
I love going on adventures and traveling for rocks! I feel like that sets me apart since I don’t purchase stones, I find them.
Repurposing is also close to my heart so one of the materials I use is Jeep Fordite. All the overspray Jeep paint from the Toledo plant that lands on surrounding surfaces gets repurposed. Jeepite is one of a kind jewelry made from this paint.
Another aspect that sets Stoned by Medusa apart is the classes offered.
I teach students the art of cutting and polishing stones. This is a fantastic way to educate people about Geology.
I also lead guided rock hunting tours, taking people to special locations that I know are loaded with rocks.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I definitely feel like shopping locally makes the biggest difference. Art saves lives. Art is a release, a way to process and create. I encourage the public to attend art shows and markets! So many talented creative folks are just trying to do what brings them joy. I believe joy is the key in keeping art alive.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

For me the driving force is Joy! I want my children seeing that it is possible to follow your dreams and run a business. Whatever that may be, there is room for all types of art.
I also love being a woman owned business. Often times in college I was the only female in my field.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://stonedbymedusa.as.me/
• Instagram: @stoned.by.medusa
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/MedusasStones
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@stoned_bymedusa
• Other: TikTok @stonedbymedusa Medusas stones