#122 | From Sleeping in Her Car to Living Her Dream as a Glass Blower Artist: Carlyn Ray

In this episode of Finding Your Inspiration, we sit down with Carlyn Ray — glassblower, artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Carlyn Ray Designs, whose breathtaking glass sculptures and installations have transformed homes, businesses, and public spaces throughout Texas, California and beyond.

But Carlyn's journey wasn't always filled with success. Long before becoming an accomplished glass artist, she faced years of uncertainty, sacrifice, and struggle while pursuing a dream that many people told her was unrealistic. At one point, she was sleeping in her car, doing whatever it took to continue creating and building a future through her art. In this conversation, Carlyn shares what first drew her to the world of glassblowing, the challenges of choosing passion over security, and the lessons she learned from refusing to give up.

She reflects on the realities of building a career as an artist, the resilience it takes to succeed, and how working with molten glass has shaped not only her craft, but her outlook on life. From sleeping in her car to becoming an award-winning glassblower whose work inspires communities, Carlyn's story is a powerful reminder that success rarely comes overnight—but perseverance has a way of opening doors. T

his is a conversation about resilience, creativity, and what can happen when you refuse to quit on your dream.

🎬 Produced by National CORE Productions

💙 In support of Hope Through Housing Foundation