Indie Business Podcast

Welcome to Episode 100 of the Indie Business Podcast! On this episode, you'll meet Hannah Hon of Ruministics in St. Louis, Missouri. Do you remember the blockbuster film The Perfect Storm? Today’s guest, Hannah Hon, describes her entrepreneurial journey as the perfect storm convergence of fragrance, creativity, and entrepreneurship. In this episode, Hannah and I discuss how these passions came together to shape her “organized” career path. If you want relatable insights into creating a business that truly aligns with your life and brings genuine joy, then don't skip this episode. (Program Note: this episode was recorded in 2023. Hannah's business may be different now than it was at that time.) Enjoy this lively conversation as Hannah's calm, magnetic energy and honest storytelling leave you inspired, energized, and ready to take meaningful next steps in your own entrepreneurial journey. Sit back, relax and enjoy my interview with Hannah NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast The amazing @ruministics shares how to take your content from sleepily head scratching to undeniably mind blowing in this episode of the #indiebusinesspodcast. #ruministics #entrepreneur #contentcreatorClick To Tweet Important entrepreneurial and content creation insights from Hannah Let's unpack some of the most significant business and content creation insights Robbin and I discussed in this episode. 1. Streamline your product line Hannah's passion for crafting led her to initially create a vast array of products when she launched her business. Seriously, she said, anything scented was fair game. However, she soon realized the challenges of maintaining a wide range of scents, sizes, and products. Gradually, she streamlined her offerings to just four staple soaps with occasional limited editions, along with six roll-on blends following the same pattern. Additionally, she introduced self-care sets featuring combinations of existing products that were already in her line. This meticulous pruning process spanned years but proved to be a strategic move for Hannah. Not only did it alleviate operational burdens, but it also simplified her marketing efforts and the overall leadership of her business. Smart move, Hannah! Like I always share with my clients, I'd rather see you make lots of money successfully selling a few products than make a little money trying to sell “all the things.” 2. Test the waters to achieve success In her early days of business, Hannah cast a wide net, eager to gauge the reception of her products by selling at lots of markets. Unsure of how her offerings would be received, she opted for quantity over quality. However, as both her business and personal brand evolved, Hannah became more discerning. As she gained a deeper understanding of her target audience, she became better at identifying the best market venues. Today, aside from carefully curated pop-ups aligned with her brand, the only market she sells at is St. Louis's largest market. This strategic shift ensures maximum return on investment, both financially and in terms of personal fulfillment. Hannah acknowledges that navigating the market landscape has been a journey of trial and error, a quintessential experience for any small business owner. 3. Create a business that works for YOUR life, on YOUR terms Hannah pointed out the dual nature of entrepreneurship: challenging yet inherently enjoyable. It's a sentiment that deeply resonates with me. As Hannah points out, entrepreneurial enjoyment isn't automatic; it requires deliberate effort. For Hannah, the fun lies in the hands-on aspect of crafting her products and the joy of personal interactions at events. Whether it's the vibrant atmosphere of markets or the physical satisfaction she gets from the activity of setting up and breaking down her booth, she finds fulfillment in every step of the process. While it's undeniably hard work, she relishes the opportunity of creating a physical space that reflects her business's unique identity. For Hannah, infusing enjoyment into her work isn't just a perk—it's a priority. Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Hannah and I mentioned the following resources. Learn more about Ruministics Follow Ruministics on Instagram Aromatherapy certificate: American College of Healthcare Sciences Learn about the benefits of the Indie Business Network – for American makers and artisan entrepreneurs Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate the show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to sub

Welcome to Episode 99 of the Indie Business Podcast! On this episode, you'll meet Robbin Turner of Violet Botanical Skincare in Los Angeles, CA. One of the first things you might notice about the Violet Botanical brand is the gorgeous violet blue bottles in which each product is  carefully packaged. The bottles are not only beautiful, but they are also reflective of Robbin's deep Gullah cultural heritage. Listen out in this episode for the connection between the package and the product — just one of the many points that make the Violet Botanicals brand unique. On this episode, we take a deep dive into Robbin's extreme focus on the customer journey. Whether it's in person, at a show or market or online on her popular YouTube channel, Robbin allows the people who buy her products to guide and direct her product development and launch efforts. She is so fully immersed in their lives, wants and needs that she barely has to think about what to do next. This makes it easier and more fun to lead her business effectively and efficiently. You'll want to listen for strategies you can apply to your business starting right now, today. Sit back, relax and enjoy my interview with Robbin NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast The amazing Robbin Turner of Violet Botanical Skincare shares how to let your customers be your guide to everything from good relationships to more sales opportunities in this episode of the #indiebusinesspodcast #violetbodyme #entrepreneur #madeinlaClick To Tweet Important entrepreneurial and content creation insights from Robbin Let's unpack some of the most significant business and content creation insights Robbin and I discussed in this episode. 1. Let your customers tell you what to do Robbin says that you never really arrive at a final destination in terms of knowing what your customers want. Instead, you continuously talk to them and listen to their stories. She maintains a mindset of curiosity about what matters most to them. This arms her with the information she needs to move her business forward. Her customers tell their stories and she listens to them, getting everything she needs to know exactly what to do next in her business. Robbin sums it up this way: “Stop thinking like a founder, and start thinking like a customer.” 2. Build your community Your community, your fans, your followers — these are the people who will become your marketers, your ambassadors, your sales people — basically, your everything. Robbin points out that part of what she has learned by being a part of the Indie Business Network is the importance of building a community and providing them with quality information backed by research and truth. As she says, business is not about being out here just trying to sell a person something, and then moving onto the next person. Instead, it's about educating and empowering your community and enhancing their lives. All you need to get started is 1,000 true fans. 3. Put a video camera in your hand Robbin talked about how she uses her YouTube channel to educate and share behind-the-scenes snippets with her community. Showing people what she actually does to create the products they love so much engages them in unique ways that even the most beautiful product photos cannot. Robbin credits Indie Business Network workshops with planting so many of the seeds that have helped her to become more comfortable on camera. Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Robbin and I mentioned the following resources. Learn more about Violet Botanical Skincare Follow Violet Botanical Skincare on Instagram Robbin's YouTube show: Work With Me Wednesday Article: 1,000 True Fans by Kevin Kelly Article: Community is King by Donna Maria Learn about the benefits of the Indie Business Network – for American makers and artisan entrepreneurs and join today! Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, i Heart Radio, Google Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate the show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Let Your Customers Be Your Guide with Robbin Turner of Violet Botanical Skincare – Indie Business Podcast Episode 99 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 98 of the Indie Business Podcast! On this episode, you'll meet Larissa Lewis of Jargon Gist in Pasadena, CA. This episode is chock full of fantastic tips to help you boost your content creation chops. It's also special to me because it's an introduction to the wonderful daughter of IBN's very first member, Kathleen Lewis. Larissa was a toddler in tiny tutus and pink ballet slippers when her Kathleen's membership application and payment landed in my inbox a mere few days after our website went live back in 2000. Fast forward to today, and I have the honor and privilege of knowing and loving Larissa as my “bonus daughter,” friend and team member here at IBN. It is one of the special joys of my life to watch Larissa follow in her mother's footsteps as the leader of her own successful business, Jargon Gist, where she helps people take their content from sleepily head scratching to undeniably mind blowing. I cannot say enough about what a talented and skilled content creator Larissa is. You are in for a treat with the no-stress content creation tips and strategies she shares in this episode. You are going to want to take notes … Sit back, relax and enjoy my interview with Larissa NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast The amazing @JargonGist shares how to take your content from sleepily head scratching to undeniably mind blowing in this episode of the #indiebusinesspodcast. #jargongist #entrepreneur #contentcreatorClick To Tweet Important entrepreneurial and content creation insights from Larissa Let's unpack some of the most significant business and content creation insights Larissa and I discussed in this episode. 1. You are a content creator No matter what kind of business you have, you are also a content creator. You are a publisher, and it is vital that you figure out the best ways to create content that connects personally with the people who are most likely to buy your products and services. This connection is not a “one and done” type of endeavor. It's a process that requires you to create and share information on an ongoing basis, and while there are many ways to do that, social media is awesome because it's a direct bridge from you to your customer. In this episode, Larissa shares something she calls “the Cinnabon theory” and you'll want to make sure you listen so you can use it to your benefit. 2. Just get started I love how Larissa called this directive “the most annoying tip ever,” but it's true nonetheless. No matter the endeavor, if it's a challenge for you, you'll sometimes procrastinate or avoid it completely when all you really need to do is take a step forward and get started. Larissa reminds us in this episode that when it comes to preparing content, you need to figure out what motivates you personally and use it to get you going in the direction of taking action that you might not otherwise take. Do what's fun for you, and the only way to figure out what this might be is to get started. It's kind of circular, but life is like that sometimes. Get over it, and get started. 3. Embrace artificial intelligence (AI) Larissa described AI as a kind of souped up version of the type of predictive text that appears when you're texting someone and your phone begins to fill in your message based on a guess about what you're about to say. It's not always right as we know, and this is a good way to illustrate the double-edged sword that AI can be. AI will give you a string of characters that you can consider incorporating into your marketing materials, but it can be bland and vanilla without your personal input — and as an Indie, you want to be anything but bland and vanilla. Don't miss Larissa's extremely informative revelations about AI, plus some super good examples of how to conduct effective AI searches for content you can use to market your business. Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Larissa and I mentioned the following resources. Learn more about Jargon Gist. Follow Jargon Gist on Instagram AI tool: Open AI AI tool: Google Bard Learn about the benefits of the Indie Business Network – for American makers and artisan entrepreneurs Meet Larissa's amazing mom, IBN's first member, Kathleen Lewis of Kathleen Lewis Beauty Worldwide Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate the show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post No-Stress Content Creation Strategies with Larissa Lewis of Jar

Welcome to Episode 97 of the Indie Business Podcast! I'm excited to introduce you to Catherine Robinson of Wildwood Aromas in Springfield, Missouri. A self-described introvert, Catherine started her business after she began making aromatherapy products for people who wanted to use essential oil blends to enhance their daily lives but didn't have, a reputable source to purchase them. She began making products for a small circle of friends and acquaintances, and word began to spread. Catherine quickly realized that she could help more people if she started to sell her products, so in 2019, she started Wildwood Aromas. While it's not easy, Catherine loves leading her business. Her determination to help as many people as possible with her passion for customizing aromatherapy blends for health and wellness drives her to continue to put on her “big girl panties” every day to make it happen. I can't wait for you to hear more about how Catherine works to improve herself and her business through consistently yet gently pushing herself forward. Sit back, relax, and enjoy my interview with Catherine NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Learn how the introverted founder of @wildwoodaromas creates aromatherapy products for wellness and wellbeing in her Springfield, Missouri studio!! #indiebusiness #indiebusinesspodcast #wildwoodaromas #aromatherapy #introvertentrepreneurClick To Tweet Important Entrepreneurial Insights from Catherine Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Catherine and I discussed in this episode. 1. Suck it up, buttercup As a self-described introvert, Catherine struggles to use social media to promote her business and put herself out there. At one point, she hired a coach to help her work through some personal issues so she could develop the confidence she felt she needed to meet this challenge. As Catherine shared, it's so easy to hide behind seemingly legitimate excuses to not reach our full potential and be everything we can be. I'm inspired by Catherine's determination to suck it up as she says, and overcome every limiting belief, and do the hard work to reach her full potential as the founder and leader of the Wildwood Aromas brand. 2. Newsletters produce sales Catherine transparently shared that publishing newsletters on a consistent basis can be a challenge, but doing so always rewarded with either immediate sales or feedback from subscribers that eventually turns into sales. It is so rewarding to be able to trace your efforts directly to cash in your pocket. Newsletters nurture relationships and create sales opportunities. In nearly a quarter of a century of coaching and mentoring entrepreneurs, I have never come across anyone who can dispute that with any credibility, and Catherine's experience certainly bears this out. 3. Chunk it down Catherine reminds us that any goal is achievable when you break it down into bite-sized pieces and attack it in chunks. Allow yourself to make small goals, she says, and when you hit those goals, allow yourself to feel really good about it. Consistently hitting small goals leads to consistently hitting larger goals. And while your goals may be smaller than other people's goals, stay focused on the fact that you are hitting your own goals and moving yourself forward. What matters is what you are doing and what progress you are making, not what anyone else is doing. Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Catherine and I mentioned the following resources. Learn more about Wildwood Aromas Follow Catherine on Instagram Learn more about the Indie Business Network – for American makers and artisan entrepreneurs Email marketing services: MailChimp, Mailerlite Aromatherapy training and certification: School for Aromatic Studies Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate the show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post The Introvert Entrepreneur with Catherine Robinson of Wildwood Aromas – Indie Business Podcast Episode 97 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 96 of the Indie Business Podcast! On this episode, you'll meet Kimberly Cross of Zhi Bath & Body in Charlotte, North Carolina. From the time she was a child, Kim has been in the beauty industry. She started out as a hair dresser in middle school. Later, after retiring from the military (thank you for your service!!), Kim began creating bath and body products containing goat milk in part because her auntie had told her for years that it would help with her skin conditions. Like many of us do, Kim resisted her Auntie's sage advice for years, but when she finally wised up, she did the research and discovered the many benefits of goat milk and started making products with goat milk on her own skin. Of course, creating a great product was no guarantee of success. Over the years, Kim has done a lot of inner work to develop the chops needed to get the word out about her products — starting with the skill of getting out of her own way. If this is an issue for you, as it is for so many other entrepreneurs, you'll be motivated and inspired by how Kim's business truly began to open up once she decided to really get over herself. I can't wait for you to hear more about Kim's journey. Sit back, relax and enjoy my interview with her NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Learn how @zhibathandbody makes goat milk skincare products in her Charlotte, North Carolina studio, and how her biz opened up after she got over herself! #indiebusinesspodcast #zhibathandbody #bathandbody #entrepreneur #cltentrepreneurClick To Tweet Important entrepreneurial insights from Kim Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Kim and I discussed in this episode. 1. Get over yourself For many years, Kim did not use social media because she looked at what everyone else was doing and didn't think she could be that perfect. But she got over herself and pressed forward, and today, she is killing the marketing game on a variety of platforms. Here's the realization that got her there in her own words — based on some advice she got from me over the course of several mentoring sessions: What I do have is me: my whole for real me and what I do. And once I gave in and trusted [Donna Maria's] advice, I wanted to share. And I do not have to look perfect to get it done. It was easy to strike that balance once I leaned into it. It's like gravy now. It's fun. 2. Don't keep it to yourself As Kim designs new products to take better care of herself, she iterates them in ways that appeal to her target customers and then offers them as part of her product line. For example, her popular coloring books complement her bath and body products and encourage people to care for themselves by relieving stress, being creative and enjoying a sense of childhood imagination which for adults can be an effective form of therapy. The lesson here is that you can use what you learn in your everyday life to create products that complement your core line. This is an organic way to evolve your brand, increase your income and create multiple income streams. 3. Wear your brand Kim excitedly shared how wearing her branded t-shirt featuring her tag line, her website address and the products and services she offers is a great lead generator. When you listen to this episode, pay special attention to the conversation about the work-life merger where we discuss the importance of using your life to support your business, and using your business to support your life. This is a fascinating concept that all independent business owners must embrace in order to reduce friction and enjoy what we here at IBN call “the Ultimate Trifecta” of a happy life, a profitable business and a meaningful legacy. This is a great example about how all three of those components complement each other and go so well together. Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Kim and I mentioned the following resources. Learn more about Zhi Bath & Body Follow Kim and Zhi on Instagram Taste of Charlotte Festival Kim in a Minute on YouTube Learn about the benefits of the Indie Business Network – for American makers and artisan entrepreneurs Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate the show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post The Joy of Getting Over Yourself with Kimberly Cross of Zhi Bath and Body – Indie Business Podcast Episode 96 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 95 of the Indie Business Podcast! On this episode, you'll meet Rachel Beyer of Artist Apothecary in Portland, Oregon. For Rachel, art has always been a passion. Her mother and grandmother taught her how to sew, and growing up, she took extra art classes every chance she got. So it's no surprise that her business is an outgrowth of a combination of her passion, training and expertise as an artist. After studying graphic design and fine art in college, Rachel realized she would not be happy with a life filled mainly with time spent in front of a computer — even it if was doing what she loved. So she began to study herbs and aromatherapy and eventually, integrated all of her skills and passions into an Etsy shop selling her artwork. She also became a published author and a freelance designer and craft blogger. This has grown into her amazing business of today, which is thriving — as is Rachel, doing what she loves on her own terms. I can't wait for you to hear more about Rachel's entrepreneurial journey — including how she manages her business while dealing with chronic pain, and how she remains balanced, happy and joyful all the while. Sit back, relax, and enjoy my interview with Rachel NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Learn how the founder of Rachel Beyer Artist Apothecary creates original artwork and handcrafted candles and aromatherapy products in her Oregon studio!! #indiebusiness #makersgonnamake #indiebusinesspodcast #rachelbeyerClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Rachel and I mentioned the following resources. Learn more about Rachel Beyer Follow Rachel on Instagram Learn more about the Indie Business Network – for American makers and artisan entrepreneurs Important entrepreneurial insights from Rachel Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Rachel and I discussed in this episode. 1. Don't try to be everyone's everything Over the years, Rachel has learned to be crystal clear on what it means to show up for herself first, in true and authentic ways. As she so succinctly and eloquently put it, Rachel has learned not to be everyone's everything, because that never works. 2. Honor your personal pace Rachel lives with what she describes as chronic pain challenges. These have taught her to listen deeply and intentionally to her body, and to create and honor her own personal pace in life and in business. Rachel has created what she describes as an ecosystem that allows her to adjust her schedule around what is going on in her life so she never has to push herself emotionally and physically beyond what is healthy for her. These are lifestyle benefits she never would have been able to enjoy if she was working full-time in a traditional work environment. 3. The importance of community While Rachel enjoys time in her studio in what she calls her “creative zone,” she embraces and understands that community is important as well, particularly as we move out of the pandemic. In addition to enjoying time in person with customers at shows and markets, Rachel's mom, sister and father help her with her business — especially during busy seasons. She also volunteers at a local community garden. Also, being a part of the Indie Business Network makes a difference to Rachel because it allows her to interact with like-minded artisan entrepreneurs who provide valuable support and feedback and answers to business questions. It's critical, she says, to be a part of communities — online and off — where you can find your people. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate the show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post The Power of Personal Pace with Artist Entrepreneur Rachel Beyer – Indie Business Podcast Episode 95 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 94 of the Indie Business Podcast! In this episode, you'll meet Chelsea Selby Randazza of Witch Baby Soap in Cranford, New Jersey. It was nearly a decade ago when, in her kitchen, baby strapped to her chest, Chelsea first started making and selling soap and bath bombs and realized there was a market for products for what she calls “weird and witchy” people like her. As she began to make more products like the ones she wanted to have for herself, Chelsea realized that a business was being born. After selling on Etsy for less than a year, Chelsea launched her own website with no business background, joined the Indie Business Network, and the rest is witchy history. Today, along with her husband, who has joined the business, Chelsea has a healthy online business selling direct to consumers, a popular subscription box, and several retail stores. I cannot wait to introduce you to Chelsea and her Witch Baby Soap brand, so sit back, relax, and enjoy my interview with Chelsea NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: The Witch Baby Soap startup story. (starting at 2:30) The “security” of working for yourself. (starting at 6:42) The core messages of the Witch Baby brand. (starting at 8:49) Innovating the “coffin bath bomb.” (starting at 11:44) How to create a product with a meaning and intention, and for a specific target market. (starting at 13:15) Chelsea's journey from Etsy to her own branded website on Shopify. (starting at 16:30) Opening her retail stores. (starting at 18:02) How Chelsea sells her products, and why she does not sell wholesale. (starting at 20:31) How Chelsea sets financial goals for her business. (starting at 22:53) Key business challenges and how Chelsea has overcome them. (starting at 27:15) Employees at Witch Baby Soap, and how they are spread across the various channels. (starting at 29:03) All about the Witch Baby Spell Box, Chelsea's quarterly subscription box. (starting at 30:22) How Chelsea keeps the innovation going in her business: “following the bread crumbs that life gives me.” (starting at 32:15) Why Chelsea begged her husband to quit his job and work Witch Baby with her. (39:45) What opportunities Chelsea sees on the horizon for Makers and creative entrepreneurs. (42:40) On this episode of the Indie Business Podcast, learn how the founder of @witchbabysoap grew her brand from Etsy to her own website with a subscription box + four retail stores -- and growing! Be inspired!! #indiebusiness #makersgonnamake #indiebusinesspodcast #witchbabysoapClick To Tweet Schedule Your Business Growth Coaching Call Thanks for listening to the Indie Business Podcast! Let's get started taking you and your maker business to the next level with a 45-minute complimentary personalized Business Growth Group Coaching Call. Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Chelsea and I mentioned the following resources. Online website platform: Shopify Online website platform: Etsy Witch Baby Soap on Instagram Witch Baby Soap website Indie Business Network (join today!) Important entrepreneurial insights from Chelsea Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Chelsea and I discussed in this episode. 1. Create more than products There are a million products out there, folks. For example, says Chelsea, there are tons of bath bombs on the market, but when Chelsea designs a bath bomb for the Witch Baby brand, she's designing more than a bath bomb. She's designing a bath bomb for a specific purpose, for a specific person in her specific target community. Her bath bombs have a purpose. When you create a product, Chelsea recommends that you take a similar approach. Create products with intention and meaning to your specific target customer. That meaning may not be obvious to everyone, but it will be obvious to the people you are targeting and that's all you need because those are the people you want to buy it. As she says, it's an “If you know, you know” kind of thing, and that's what matters to your customer and to your bottom line. 2. Chelsea on planning … According to Chelsea, focusing too intently on setting hard goals and expectations can stifle creativity and stunt natural growth and learning. Obviously, we all want to make a profit and grow our businesses, but growth year after year and month after month is not the natural way of things says Chelsea. And because she works closely with the cycles of nature in her business and her personal life, she has learned to temper her expectations. And this is close to a quote that I thought was especially meaningful: “Nature does not grow all the time. There are periods of dormancy and periods of working within to have a better growth cycle. There are also moments where things will break down, bu

As you know, IBN's proprietary entrepreneurial framework, the Maker Method, contains four sequential phases you must past through on the road to building a profitable business that makes you happy and successful and can generate income for life. Those phases are: Emerge > Engage > Evolve > Expand. Welcome to Episode 93 of the Indie Business Podcast, where we introduce you to a member who is planted firmly in the Expand Phase, and share a bit about how she got there. In this episode, you're going to meet Toushonta Hogan of Scentsational Soaps in Queen Creek, Arizona and Los Angeles, California. You'll hear us dig deep on a very powerful and personal level into Toushonta's journey from emerging her business two decades ago to expanding it today, all the time building her business around her life rather than the other way around. And, what does this have to do with living a success life as a maker entrepreneur? More than you may realize, in today’s times. I cannot wait for you to hear more from Toushonta and her Scentsational Soaps story, so sit back, relax, and enjoy my interview with Toushonta NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: Toushonta's backstory. (starting at 3:40) Now in the Expand Phase, how Toushonta duplicated herself and her business without skipping a beat. (starting at 7:27) How Toushonta makes and ships her products now that she's operating from two locations. (starting at 10:07) Toushonta talks how streamlining her product line has helped her build her business around the kind of life she wants to have. (starting at 10:58) Toushonta's many creative talents and skills and how she builds income streams around them. (starting at 12:53) How Toushtonta used the pandemic to “step into her own,” now that her children are in college. (starting at 14:09) Toushonta's current multiple income streams. (starting at 18:37) How Toushonta plans and organizes her multiple income streams into a social media marketing “pillar” system that makes business sense. (starting at 24:07) The importance of “finding your happy,” and how it has evolved over time. (starting at 27:51) Toushonta's biggest challenge and how she overcomes it. (starting at 30:20) What's next for Toushonta and her brands (starting at 34:00) “Digital products is everything right now.” (starting at 37:49) Toushonta says: “Keep sticking with the Indie Business Network,” and what to do to be successful in your business today. (starting at 42:33) On this episode of the Indie Business Podcast, learn how the founder of @Scentsational has moved to the Expand Phase of her business. Be inspired!! #indiestories #indiebusiness #makersgonnamake #indiebusinesspodcast #toushontacreatesClick To Tweet Schedule Your Business Growth Coaching Call Thanks for listening to the Indie Business Podcast! Let's get started taking you and your maker business to the next level with a 45-minute complimentary personalized Business Growth Group Coaching Call. Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Toushonta and I mentioned the following resources. Scentsational Soap on Instagram Toushonta Creates on Instagram Indie Business Network (join today!) Important entrepreneurial insights from Toushonta Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Toushonta and I discussed in this episode. 1. Build your business around your life After two decades in business, Toushonta has raised both her business and her children. Today, her life has evolved in ways that were not possible when her children were in the home. This newfound freedom has allowed her to evolve by duplicating herself so she can maintain homes in two states, California and Arizona, and still make her products and manage all of the details of her business and her life. If you have followed my teaching for any amount of time, you know how much I emphasize the importance of building your business around your life, and not the other way around. Toushonta's movement into the Expand Phase of her business is a great illustration of that. 2. Streamline your efforts to succeed Toushonta shared that her business model for product sales revolves around having streamlined to selling soaps only as her core line. She scratches her creative itch by making limited edition products to complement the soaps and boost sales, but soaps remain at the core and are the main focus of the business from a consistent profit center perspective. According to Toushonta, this streamlined approach allows her to be focused on making what sells the most consistently, and adding additional produce income streams on top of that to prevent boredom and remain creative and innovative, yet still profitable. 3. Come out from the shadows Toushonta described herself as an ambivert — that is, she is a

According to a 2020 report from the American Psychiatric Association*, 46.6 million Americans (nearly 1 in 5 adults!) live with a mental health condition, depression in particular, and suicide rates are rising. Welcome to Episode 92 of the Indie Business Podcast, where we shine a spotlight on one woman's mental health challenges, and how the intersection of aromatherapy and entrepreneurship help her overcome them. In this episode, I interview Lauren VanScoy of Essence One in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Lauren turned to aromatherapy after feeling anxious and depressed after the birth of her children. After being diagnosed by a health professional with major depression manifesting as anxiety, Lauren was prescribed traditional medication with a twist. Her doctor suggested she explore complementary alternatives, including essential oils. Lauren took this idea and ran with it, eventually becoming a certified aromatherapist and making blends to improve her mental health. When her friends started asking her to make blends for them, the old entrepreneurial itch started to get scratched, and Essence One was born. I cannot wait for you to hear more from Lauren and her Essence One story, so sit back, relax, and enjoy my interview with Lauren NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: Lauren's mental health story. (starting at 2:50) How Lauren's mental health challenges led to her business. (starting at 8:05) A unique take on Lauren's early business purpose and product launches. (starting at 9:30) Lauren talks best-selling products and sales venues. (starting at 13:30) How wholesale accounts have been helpful to Essence One. (starting at 17:00) Lauren shares her trade show stories and insider tips. (starting at 18:30) The biggest challenge Lauren faces on her entrepreneurial journey. (starting at 24:00) How Lauren's big time-allocation decision affected Essence One. (starting at 29:00) Lauren's words of advice for those thinking about making the move from a part-time business to a full-time passion. (starting at 45:00) On this episode of the Indie Business Podcast, learn how the founder of @EssenceOneLife conquered mental health challenges through entrepreneurship. Be inspired!! #indiestories #indiebusiness #makersgonnamake #indiebusinesspodcast #mentalhealthClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Lauren and I mentioned the following resources. Essence One website Essence One on Instagram Aromatherapy certification: Aromahead Institue Trade show: AmericasMart IBN member benefits: Facebook community and Indie Pods Important entrepreneurial insights from Lauren Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Lauren and I discussed in this episode. 1. Transitioning from solopreneur Lauren shared that one of her biggest challenges has been going from doing everything herself to hiring help. After she quit her job two and a half years after starting the business, she quickly hired her first part-time contractor. She now has employees, whom she hired in the middle of the pandemic. Lauren says it's kind of scary to let things go, but doing so freed her to actually lead the business and devote more time to administrative duties that are so important to effectively leading a business. 2. The value of handmade Even though Lauren uses outside companies to make some of her products for collaborative projects like subscription boxes with huge product requirements, she is dedicated to keeping production in-house. She likes the level of control and she also loves employing people in her community. Lauren acknowledges that making products by hand increases costs, but she also shared that people will pay more for the value of a well made handmade product. 3. Quitting your job to become a full-time entrepreneur As someone who quit her job to turn her passion into a business, Lauren encourages you to go for it. However, she cautions to make sure you are as financially stable as possible before doing so. No amount of passion can make up for a missed mortgage payment, and Lauren said that financial stability enabled her to focus on her business without additional worry. When she finally quit her job and focused on her business full-time, growth happened. Use your passion as fuel, and maintain a “why not try?” attitude Lauren says. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and

Welcome to Episode 91 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Tiana Coats of Winding Wick Candles, in Garland, Texas. Once upon a time, Tiana considered her position as a pharmacy technician to be her dream job. She eventually grew weary of doing the same thing every day, and began daydreaming about what she could sell to make a living online. This led to selling books on Amazon, which led to selling other things (like board games) on Amazon, which, of course, led to what she could sell that she made with her own hands. Candles seemed like a logical choice, and as you'll learn in this episode, Tiana could not have been more right about that! Her entrepreneurial journey started with selling on Etsy, but it most definitely did not end there. Today, Tiana sells on multiple platforms, has a successful YouTube channel, and recently opened a retail store. Grab your notebook and a cup of your favorite beverage, and let's go to business school with Tiana! Enjoy my interview with Tiana NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: The Winding Wick Candles back story, including running the business part-time at first. (starting at 2:15)Why Tiana uses YouTube, how she manages it, and some valuable tips. (starting at 13:00)Tiana's business model, including products and services and tips for selling on Etsy. (starting at 21:18)Tiana teaches people how to start a candle business. (starting at 25:37)How being naturally curious works in Tiana's favor. (starting at 30:37)YouTube as an income stream. (starting at 32:10)Studio vlogs vs. “how to” videos on YouTube. (starting at 34:11)Tiana's opening a retail store and productivity tips. (starting at 37:18)Tiana's words of advice for budding candle entrepreneurs. (starting at 49:30) Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Tiana and I mentioned the following resources. Winding Wick Candles websiteWinding Wick Candles on InstagramMarketing firm: Kamadu MarketingTiana's Channel: YouTubeVideo editing software: DaVinci Resolve and Movie MakerCopyright free music for creators: Epidemic SoundSeller's handbook: Etsy Seller HandbookVideo: How to Start a Candle Business From HomeGrow your YouTube channel: YouTube BuddyCalendaring tool: Google CalendarIBN member benefits: Facebook community and Indie Pods Michael's Tim from timber ridge gifts Standley handcraftedJoined a few FB groups insurance Important entrepreneurial insights from Tiana Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Tiana and I discussed in this episode. 1. Learning by doing I love how Tiana's experience shows that the best way to achieve a goal is to take action, even imperfect action. For example, when Tiana first started her business, she set up her own website. Sounds easy enough, right? She learned pretty quickly that having a website is great, but driving targeted traffic to that site is quite another, so she shifted gears and launched an Etsy store. This allowed her to get started by learning how to funnel Etsy's already existing traffic to her store. This kept her startup fees low and allowed her to see regular sales and build a fan base before investing too much money. When she re-launched her own website, it was far easier to drive interested buyers to purchase her products. 2. Opportunity spotting and problem solving Tiana's YouTube experience illustrates how important it is to spot opportunities to solve people's problems. When Tiana got started on YouTube, she made videos about her business journey. Her research showed that tons of people were searching YouTube for information about how to start a candle business, there were very few videos about the topic on the platform. She made one, and it scored big in terms of view and engagement. It also led to more growth of her channel and her candle business, and paved the way for her to expand her business to teach classes on how to start a candle business, and now, to open a retail store. 3. Tiana on resiliency Tiana's philosophy is not to be afraid of failure and uncertainty. She says if you keep learning, you can never become worse, you can only get better. This approach is genius in its simplicity, don't you think? If you stop learning, you get worse. If you keep learning, the worst thing that can happen is that you will get better. If that's not an incentive to learn something new every day, I don't know what is. Great advice and insight there from Tiana. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast,

Welcome to Episode 90 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Jennifer Watt of Jenny the Hemp Goddess, in Armada, Michigan. Jenny's story perfectly illustrates the fact that a supportive spouse or partner is key to business success. Several years ago, Jenny and her family moved to a 10-acre farm and started selling eggs and produce. They phased that out once Jenny and her husband realized they were not farmers, and Jenny began a bath and body business with her sister, which eventually led to the launch of Jenny the Hemp Goddess in early 2019 with a hemp facial serum, a hand balm and a lip balm. Today, Jenny focuses on selling her products from her website, Amazon, Etsy, and via her email club, which you'll hear a lot about in this episode. You'll also hear Jenny describe how her husband's support is one of the keys to her success thus far. Not only does he offer physical assistance, but he also contributes an attitude of positivity, curiosity, experimentation and faith in his wife's ability to succeed. Finally, you'll enjoy the impromptu target audience coaching session I somehow ended up providing for Jenny during the second half of the podcast. That was a fun and unplanned surprise! Enjoy my interview with Jenny NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: The brilliant way Jennifer points to sales funnels on her webpage. (starting at 4:50)Jennifer details how her supportive spouse is a key to her business success thus far.. (starting at 6:10)How her daughter's bad reaction to an over-the-counter drug sparked Jennifer's interest in skin care, and how that influenced Jenny the Hemp Goddess. (starting at 9:37)How Jennifer uses her resources wisely to create her own market opportunities. (starting at 13:40)Jennifer talks about how her website is her best sales stream and how its all due to an Indie Business Network member benefit. (starting at 17:10)About Jennifer's hunt for the easy button, and how there isn't one. (starting at 21:00)The hoops Jennifer jumps through to take Jenny the Hemp Goddess across multiple marketplaces. (starting at 22:53)Jennifer and Donna Maria mine deep into the world of the target audience and pull out a whopper of a gem! (starting at 25:12)Event details, marketing tips, and how Jenny's husband is one of the keys to success and fulfillment in business. (starting at 38:00)Jenny's tips and advice for new entrepreneurs. (starting at 45:27) A Supportive Spouse or Partner is Key to Business Success with Jennifer Watt of Jenny the Hemp Goddess - Indie Business Podcast Episode 90 #indiestories #indiebusiness #makersgonnamake #indiebusinesspodcastClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Jennifer and I mentioned the following resources. Jenny the Hemp Goddess websiteJenny the Hemp Goddess on InstagramJenny the Hemp Goddess on EtsyIndie Business Member BenefitsJenny the Hemp Goddess on AmazonAnything You Want by Derek Sivers on Amazon and on Bookshop.org Important entrepreneurial insights from Jennifer Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Jennifer and I discussed in this episode. 1. The support of a great partner Jenny's husband, a retired firefighter, sounds like a dream, so this little segment is more about what to look for in a life partner than anything else. Jenny says that her husband will do pretty much anything she needs help with. As a big dreamer with great ideas, he believes in Jenny and her capabilities. He is always tossing ideas her way, but not only that. He does household chores, helps her organize her office and pitches in to label and pack products. 2. The importance of face-to-face Jenny says that she loves having an online business, but acknowledges that there is no substitute for meeting people face-to-face as often as possible. She does this as much as she can now, even in the midst of the pandemic, and has plans to eventually open her farm to visitors who can come and hang out with her, learn more about self-care with natural ingredients, and, of course, purchase her products. Road trip anyone?! … 3. Publish that newsletter! Jenny recently launched a regularly published newsletter and is finding great success. It's boosted her sales as it has also allowed people to get to know her better. She publishes bi-weekly and enjoys sharing events of interest that happen in her business, as well as sharing new products, sales and promotions and general behind-the-scenes looks at her lifestyle and business. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favor

Welcome to Episode 89 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Lakisha McMillian of Simply Unique, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Not only is Lakisha leading her business, but she also works full-time and is earning her master's degree. You'll enjoy learning about how Lakisha organizes her time for maximum efficiency using a basic notebook and pen and paper. You'll also be inspired (and maybe even a little bit convicted personally) by Lakisha's superbly proactive attitude, which is so important for all Makers and entrepreneurs from all walks of life to embrace. Lakisha's get-up-and-go mindset will motivate you to leave it all on the field when it comes to pursuing your goals. As Lakisha says, “If you don't know how to do it, figure out how to do it, and then go out and do it!” Enjoy my interview with Lakisha NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: Lakisha's journey to calling North Carolina home. (starting at 2:45)How Simply Unique got started, its growth and purpose. (starting at 3:45)How Lakisha juggles full-time work, grad school, and Simply Unique. (starting at 5:50)How Lakisha turned a forgotten craft project into a thriving business, and important steps. (starting at 8:04)Lakisha shares her process for keeping her scents fresh and interesting, and her line expansion. (starting at 12:37)About Simply Unique's product development and research. (starting at 14:30)How Lakisha handles powering through meltdowns. (starting at 17:16)Lakisha's tips on doing shows and markets (starting at 19:57)How Simply Unique focuses on the unique. (starting at 21:44)Lakisha's talks about her vision for the future of Simply Unique. (starting at 29:22)Words of advice for entrepreneurs getting started. (starting at 33:52)The brilliance of Lakisha's live, sphere-expanding Scentful Sundays events on Instagram. (starting at 35:50) Learn how Simply Unique Creations in Charlotte, NC turned a forgotten craft project into a thriving candle business. Be inspired!! #indiestories #makersgonnamake #indiebusinesspodcast #clt #candlesClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Lakisha and I mentioned the following resources. Simply Unique websiteSimply Unique on InstagramA plethora of planners at Michael'sCandle supply at Lone Star Candle Co.Timber Ridge Gifts on YoutubeStandley Handcrafted on YoutubeIndie Business Insurance Important entrepreneurial insights from Lakisha Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Lakisha and I discussed in this episode. 1. Write it down As a busy entrepreneur, full-time employee, and student, Lakisha has to be extra careful about how she manages her time. She says that writing things down is one of the keys to her progress. While she uses a formal planner to schedule events and shows, she loves using a basic notebook, pen and paper to keep a running list of the things she has to do. This helps her to break things down, and she really enjoys the sense of accomplishment she experiences when she gets to check things off her list. 2. Research, research and research Lakisha was very intentional about starting her business. She wanted to make sure everything was just the way she wanted it before she launched. She did a lot of advance research and made a bunch of prototypes to test on friends and acquaintances before actually selling her first products. She relied heavily on YouTube and Facebook groups where she was able to learn everything she needed to get started, and also found suppliers for the waxes and containers she needed to produce quality candles. 3. Lakisha's “I can learn anything” attitude. I love Lakisha's mindset on learning. It bears repeating word-for-word, so here is the quote from her. “Nobody goes into anything knowing everything. And that was the mindset that I had. I may not know what to do and how to do it now, but I can learn it and I can figure it out. And there's tons of information available to help you get there.” Mic drop! It is this mindset that paved the way for Lakisha's Scentfully Sunday platform which she talked about in the podcast. This attitude is the key to entrepreneurial success. Actually, it's the key to life success. Learn what you need to know, and then go out and just do it. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to rec

Welcome to Episode 88 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Brittany Hogan of Nefertem Holistic Skincare, in Park Forest, Illinois. For Nefertem co-founders Brittany and her husband, Andre, business is about so much more than money. The brand name itself borrows from Nefertem, the god of beautification in the ancient culture of the Nile Valley region where mathematics, science, philosophy, and astrology were birthed. As you'll hear in this episode, that ancient meaning and symbolism form the basis of the Nefertem product line, which consists of bath and body products designed specifically to help you create a space to reflect and evolve into the best possible version of yourself. You'll also enjoy hearing Brittany tell the Nefertem startup story, which includes quitting jobs, traveling cross the country, home schooling children and working with your spouse — some of it all at the same time. Enjoy my interview with Brittany NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: The ancient cultural origins of the Nefertem brand name. (starting at 2:40)How Nefertem started, and how family and lifestyle fit into the entrepreneurial picture. (starting at 4:36)How Brittany markets her products directly to consumers. (starting at 25:28)“Reflect & Evolve” YouTube series. (starting at 26:50)Brittany shares what it's like to work with her husband, Andre. (starting at 28:26)About Nefertem Bundles and how they infuse positive vibes and energy into the products. (starting at 32:58)Future plans for Nefertem. (starting at 37:28)How Brittany's children fit into the business. (starting at 39:18)How Brittany uses TikTok and Instagram. (starting at 44:17)Brittany's words of advice for new entrepreneurs. (starting at 49:05) Learn how husband-wife team @nefertemnatural quit jobs and moved cross country to start their business. Be inspired!! #indiestories #indiebusiness #makersgonnamake #indiebusinesspodcastClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Brittany and I mentioned the following resources. Nefertem Holistic Skincare websiteNefertem Holistic Skincare on InstagramMarketing firm: Kamadu MarketingYoutube channel: Nefertem on YoutubeIBN member benefits: Facebook community and Indie Pods Important entrepreneurial insights from Brittany Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Brittany and I discussed in this episode. 1. Advice for new, and possibly fearful, entrepreneurs For new entrepreneurs, Brittany advises simply to have faith. She says that life is too short to let your fears hold you back. Also, she says to surround yourself with other people who are launching or have launched their own businesses. Says Brittany, you cannot put a dollar amount on the value of a community like the one at the Indie Business Network where there is endless support and inspiration in the Facebook community and through participating in programs like out Instagram Pod Program. 2. Trusting the process Brittany encourages you to refuse to ignore signs that you should move your life in a different direction. When you feel a pull in your life to go in a different direction, try to be open and take the time to pay attention to the signs and think about what they mean. When you do this, Brittany says, you'll be rewarded with more signs to guide you. Brittany says that when she has followed the signs, and been open to them, she has experienced fewer life challenges. When she ignores signs, that's when the challenges show up. 3. Working with your spouse Brittany said that working with her husband, Andre, is very rewarding, and filled with both ups and downs. It's great, she says, to work a business with your spouse because you know that you always have each other's back. At the same time, you are neck deep in business every single day, day in and day out. This means that a lot of the conversation that might be focused on the two of you as a couple shifts to focus on the business. Her advice is to be careful that you and your partner don't become so intertwined in the business connection that you use sight of the spousal connection. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Brittany Hogan of Nefertem Holistic Skincare [Indie Stories: Episode 88: Podcast] appeared fi

Welcome to Episode 87 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Rhonda Walters of RareGlo, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Rhonda has been in the beauty business for over 40 years. She is a cosmetologist, a hair stylist, a salon owner, and a cosmetics formulator. And a mom and a long distance runner. And a long distance runner. Oh, and she recently celebrated her 40th wedding anniversary. I'm sure I am leaving out some highlights. In a word, Rhonda is amazing. When you listen to this episode, you will swear there is a tiny little nuclear reactor living inside of her. She has boundless energy and is a whirlwind of constant, yet focused, motion. This episode will motivate and inspire you to pursue all of your dreams to the fullest extent. If you are not on fire to make your mark in the world after hearing from Rhonda, then you might want to check for a pulse. Enjoy my interview with Rhonda NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: How Rhonda started Rareglo — kind of on a fluke. (starting at 2:35)A bit about Rhonda's hair salon, all 30 years of it. (Also, “building Eiffel towers on heads.”) (starting at 6:07)Rhonda's growth as a personal brand. (starting at 9:33)Rhonda's career in the travel industry. (starting at 11:00)How Rhonda runs her business, and what she wants to change. (starting at 15:50)How Rhonda handles her Instagram account and social media in general. (starting at 17:36)Rhonda's most popular products: Skin and Hair Butter and 3N1 Shea Mango Butter Bar. (starting at 25:22)The future of Rhonda's entrepreneurial endeavors. (starting at 27:35)Why Rhonda is not interested in selling her products wholesale. (starting at 28:42)Family matters. (starting at 31:17) Learn how beauty business veteran Rhonda Walters of Rare Glo Shea leverages her personal brand to produce sales! #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #makersgonnamake #beautybusiness #AmericanMakers #indiebusinesspodcastClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Rhonda and I mentioned the following resources. RareGlo websiteRareGlo on InstagramIntellectual property attorney: Radiance IP Law Important entrepreneurial insights from Rhonda Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Rhonda and I discussed in this episode. 1. Leaning into a face-to-face retail sales model Rhonda shared that she thrives when she is with her people, selling her products in person. Her best way of interacting with her customers is face-to-face because people want to see and talk to her. While selling online is great, says Rhonda, she is leaning into the way people respond to her and her products in person. And, at present, she's not really interested in selling her products wholesale at all. 2. Social media is about getting to know you Rhonda has heard from all kinds of people about how best to use social media, but at the end of the day, she says she gets results when she integrates her personality with her Rare Glo brand on Instagram. Allowing people to get to know her and what she's all about produces interest, engagement and sales, and she prefers leveraging her personality to just showing up every day and talking just about shea butter products all the time. 3. Rhonda's advice for when you are discouraged on your entrepreneurial journey Rhonda advises to stay the course and don't give up. It's tempting of course, because entrepreneurship is difficult, and we are all discouraged from time to time. But Rhonda says the tide turns right after you want to quit. The breakthrough is always after the darkness, and if you give up, you are not around to enjoy it. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Rhonda Walters of RareGlo [Indie Stories: Episode 87: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 86 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Christie Krasteva of CEVARI, in Charlotte, North Carolina. A self-described “nature girl,” Christie grew up surrounded by all types of entrepreneurs including farmers, auto body shop owners, construction engineers, charter boat owners, horticulturists and more. Having been exposed to entrepreneurship at a young age, Christie, who is also an herbalist, was inspired to turn her love for plants and the great outdoors into a business of her own. She kicked things off in 2017, and has poured every penny earned back into her business. Christie is a very detailed oriented entrepreneur who is not afraid to follow her gut. Her story of intentional brand creation and patiently putting the pieces together will inspire you to take your time and trust your intuition as you lead your business forward. Plus, you'll love how Christie talks about working with her husband in her business. Enjoy my interview with Christie NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: Christie shares her entrepreneurial story, including how she used a blog helped her get things going. (starting at 2:18) Christie on research, attention to detail, planning and patience. (starting at 8:27) Following her gut … and serendipity … (starting at 10:35) Working with her husband. (starting at 13:20) The meaning of the brand name: CEVARI. (starting at 16:16) A bit about the CEVARI line of products. (starting at 19:04) Why Christie is keeping her product line tight and small. (starting at 22:28) Christie's business model, including e-commerce, wholesale, plans for selling at physical events, and beauty award winnings. (starting at 24:10) How Christie markets her business using social media, newsletter, etc. (starting at 26:50) Most useful technological devices and favorite apps. (starting at 30:38) What's on tap for the future of CEVARI. (starting at 33:20) Christie's wisdom and words of advice to entrepreneurs, and one of her favorite inspiring quotes. (35:45) Through the power of video, people can see you and hear your voice, says Christie Krasteva of @cevarinaturals. This engagement paves the way for a deeper and more meaningful business relationship. #video #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #makers #makersgonnamakeClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode Since recording this episode, Christie has closed her business. During this podcast, we discussed the following resources. CEVARI website (now closed) Cosmetic formulation classes: Formula Botanica Design and editing app: Canva Newsletter app: Klaviyo Ingredient supplier: Formulator Sample Shop Important entrepreneurial insights from Christie Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Christie and I discussed in this episode. 1. Don't overcrowd your business Christie shared her philosophy of not overcrowding her business with too many products. Instead of having a bunch of products in her line, she prefers to create with an intentional perspective, having a few products that help people feel good about themselves, and that become a part of their daily self-care routine. Christie says she's taken her time and really trusted the process that everything will unfold as it should without her having to rush and be hassled and hustling all the time. 2. The power of video While Christie uses a variety of different social media outlets, including Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram, she really loves the power of video on any platform because it allows you to connect so well with your audience. People can get an understanding of who you are, and through the power of video, they can see you and hear your voice, and this engagement paves the way for a deeper and more meaningful business relationship. 3. Follow your heart, always Christie advises that, when you step into business, make sure you know ahead of time that it is a lot of hard work. It takes up a lot of time and it takes up so much of your mind and your body. It's important to remember to take time for yourself and remind yourself that it's OK to slow down and take a break. Follow your heart and follow your body, and allow it to tell you what to do so you are not always hustling and running from here to there, doing “all the things.” Take the time to not even think about your business for a while so you can recharge and replenish yourself when your heart and your body tell you that you nee to do that. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your

Welcome to Episode 85 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Christine Mineart of Sent Nudes, in Oakland, California. Shortly before the pandemic lockdowns, Christine and her friends decided to create a day centered around making their own perfumes and then visiting a local perfume museum. They ordered all of the supplies, set a date, and then BAM, the pandemic hit. But while COVID-19 may have forced the friends to postpone their girls event, it inspired Christine to start her own fragrance business. In this episode, you'll hear the whole story, plus get some tips on how to integrate meaningful life experiences into your brand in ways that truly connect with your target buyer. Enjoy my interview with Christine NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: Christine Mineart goes from pastry chef to scientist to fragrance formulator. (starting at 1:55) Why it's important to Christine and her customers to know where ingredients come from. (starting at 7:34) The process of going from being interested in perfume, to making and selling it. (starting at 12:00) Christine's first perfume: Love in a Time of Corona, followed by Heaven's Mouth. (starting at 14:45) The story behind the brand name: Sent Nudes. (starting at 18:15) The amazing “Mix Tape.” (starting at 21:33) Why Christine published a digital magazine. (starting at 25:55) Christine's inspiration-based perfume making process. (starting at 34:27) Christine's advice for those wanting to start a business and keep a traditional job. (starting at 41:35) For perfumer Christine Mineart of Sent Nudes, the natural fragrance creation process is an extension of some thing or experience that has inspired her. #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #makers #makersgonnamakeClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode Christine has closed her business since this episode was recorded. Here are the resources we discussed in this podcast. Sent Nudes website (closed) Natural perfumer: Mandy Aftel Botanical extract supplier: Perfumer's Apprentice Botanical extract supplier: Eden's Botanicals Important entrepreneurial insights from Christine Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Christine and I discussed in this episode. 1. Integrating your authentic self into your brand Christine shared that, for her, the scent creation process is an extension of some thing or experience that has inspired her. It is not the result of feeling the need to create a new scent. The infusion of who Christine is as a person highlights the artistic nature of her work. She compares it to an artist who creates a painting. The artist and the work are integrally connected. A current tangible example of this is how Christine plans to integrate her training as a Reiki Master into her next fragrant creations. 2. Creating a digital magazine Christine's Sent Nudes Magazine is truly innovative, and it's not just another publication. It's a reflection of the fact that Sent Nudes stands for more than a lovely scented product. It also stands for a particular kind of way to experience life. Through the publication, Christine intends to spotlight the inspiration and radiance that can be found in the every day. This is a strong complement to her brand. I encourage you to think about how you can use content you create to reflect a similar experience for your best buyers. 3. Leading a business while employed full-time Christine's advice to anyone interested in leading a business while working full-time is simple: start slow and set realistic goals. She described how difficult it is for her to be creative when her basic needs are not met. If you start a business while you have a traditional job, you are not constantly worried about how you're going to provide for yourself. This gives you the mental space you need to create, and not be so stressed out all the time. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Christine Mineart of Sent Nudes [Indie Stories: Episode 85: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 84 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Patty Liu of Free Flow Botanicals, in Santa Cruz, California. As an educated herbalist and product formulator, Patty believes in offering a product line that helps people tend to their bodies from the inside out. In addition to a line of skincare, she also offers holistic coaching services and distance Reiki sessions to assist her clients in maintaining maximum well-being. Managing multiple income streams requires consistent self-care, and Patty dives into her personal self-care rituals in this episode. Her brand relies heavily on the ancient practices of her Asian women ancestors, and in this episode, Patty describes how this very personal connection is integrated into every product she makes. Enjoy my interview with Patty NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: Patty's professional and familial herbal and biochemical background and training (starting at 2:12)How Patty selected her brand name. (starting at 8:34)Patty's income streams: products, classes and services (starting at 9:39)How Patty stays organized, in particular based on her energy flows, and how you can organize your activities based on your energy flows. (starting at 12:16)Daily morning and evening rituals. (starting at 15:00)Patty on maintaining momentum. (starting at 19:28)Impact on Patty's business of Asian culture. (starting 21:27)Some of Patty's products and services, including courses, consulting, Reiki, etc. (starting at 27:58)Patty on Instagram. (starting at 35:37)How Patty gets help in her business. (starting at 42:55)What is on the horizon for Free Flow Botanicals. (starting at 44:30)Patty's startup tips. (starting at 46:06) Take time to plan what your goals are, what kind of lifestyle you want to have, what business problem are you solving, says Patti Liu of Free Flow Botanicals #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #makers #makersgonnamakeClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Patty and I mentioned the following resources. Free Flow Botanicals websiteFree Flow Botanicals on FacebookFree Flow Botanicals on Instagram3-year clinical herbalism training program: Berkeley Herbal CenterVersatile design tool: CanvaVideo and photo: InShotSocial media planning tool: LaterHiring tool: Hubstaff Talent Important entrepreneurial insights from Patty Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Patty and I discussed in this episode. 1. The power of a morning ritual Patty gave us an in-depth look at her morning ritual, including how she uses it to focus and prepare herself for the day. She credits her morning routine for sustaining her energy level throughout every day and into the evening. Patty also emphasized the importance of coordinating business tasks with different energy levels. For example, she does not like to sit after eating so the hours after dinner are perfect for packing orders, which requires her to be standing and moving around a bit, but which doesn't require a lot of brain power. 2. Repurpose that content, y'all While the Free Flow Botanicals Instagram page, including the feed, stories, Reels, IGTV and highlights may seem complicated and difficult to maintain, Patty said she is constantly repurposing existing content. She reminded us that the fact that our customers are inundated with content all day long means that we must often share the same content in multiple formats in order to attract their attention. It's a great reminder that we can successfully use content in more than one place, and at different times, so that we are not always having to reinvent the wheel from scratch every time we post. 3. Invest in a business coach Patty reminded us that one of the most important things we can do as entrepreneurs is to invest in a coach who has already done what we want to do. You and your business are worth it! Win a Maskne Skincare Set! Want to enter to win a Free Flow Botanicals Keep it Clear Maskne Skincare Set? Of course you do! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Patty Conscious Beauty (@freeflowbotanicals) Check out our Instagram for instructions on how to enter to win! Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Patty Liu of Free Flow Botanicals [Indie Storie

Welcome to Episode 83 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Sara Jennetten of Blank Mason, in Park Ridge, Illinois. With a newly proposed lease in her hand, Sara literally started her business the month the pandemic hit. She made an impressively quick pivot to the Internet and has not looked back. Her brand is all about the personalization and customization of scent. In this episode, you'll love hearing not only how Sara pivoted quickly to get her business off the ground in the middle of COVID-19, but also, how she has complemented her core line of fragrance offerings by adding a “choose your own fragrance” option so customers can select a scent formula that appeals uniquely to them. Enjoy my interview with Sara NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: About the Blank Mason brand and the pandemic pivot from brick and mortar to e-commerce. (starting at 2:15)Why a candle business? (starting at 4:43)The importance of customization and DIY. (starting at 5:56)The in-depth story of pivoting during the pandemic. (starting at 6:23)Customizing the website using WordPress and WooCommerce. (starting at 9:06)How Sara's eye for color and aesthetic helped her design her brand. (starting 11:33)Sara's approach to brand building by strategically focusing on what makes her brand unique. (starting at 14:20)Sara's plan to return to her original brick and mortar business model, including her approach to the experience she will deliver to her customers. (starting at 15:30)Sara's sales channels. (starting at 20:07)Sara's favorite social media channels, including use of Reels. (starting at 23:43)New products in the making. (starting at 25:00)Sara's right hand team members. (starting at 26:13)Aromatic cement beads! Cement! (starting at 25:46)Popular fragrances. (starting at 29:05)What Sara sees in the future for makers and creative entrepreneurs. (starting at 30:17) Education is the key to delivering a great experience to your customers, says Sara Jennetten of Black Mason Candles. #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #makers #makersgonnamake #business #candles #diyClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Sara and I mentioned the following resources. Blank Mason websiteBlank Mason on FacebookBlank Mason on InstagramWebsite hosting: WordPressE-Commerce platform: WooCommerce Important entrepreneurial insights from Sara Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Sara and I discussed in this episode. 1. The power of learning to do tech things yourself Sara's technical service providers not only help her design and maintain her website, but they also teach her how to perform some of the maintenance and updates herself. This empowers Sara, and is one of the main reasons she selected WordPress over Shopify. With her WordPress site, she has more control and ownership, and can use plugins and learn how to customize and organize them herself without having to pay a monthly fee for the privilege. 2. Give your customers an experience Don't you love the part where Sara emphasized the point that it is so important to give your customers, not just a great product, but also a unique experience? She talked about how, when she opens her brick and mortar, she will have “scent specialists” to guide and empower customers to learn about scent in an engaging environment. The experience is one of the important components of the brand that will draw friends and family back to it over and over again. 3. The future of the maker world Sara looked into the future to describe platforms that showcase the making process in a format that allows buyers to participate in the creation of the products, and then buy what they helped create right there on the spot. Can you imagine being able to do that? Well, maybe you can already. After all, almost anything is possible with technology these days! What a great concept to not only buy a product, but to participate in a meaningful way in its creation. That sounds so exciting to me! Enter to win a $45 gift card to a Blank Mason virtual “create-your-own-candle” experience Want to enter to win a $45 gift card to a Blank Mason virtual “create-your-own-candle” experience?! View this post on Instagram A post shared by BLANK MASON | Candles (@blankmasoncandles) The winner will be able to create their one of a kind custom candle: 1. Choose a scent2. Pick a mason3. Customize with your choice of botanicals and/or crystals If you don't win, don't worry! You can buy this experience here. Check out our Instagram for instructions on how to enter to win! Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, p

Welcome to Episode 82 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Nadja Renise of FEMMENOIRE, in Alpharetta, Georgia. Nadja's personal business story begins with the low self esteem she once felt, especially where her hair was concerned. Not only did a stylist leave her with a style that can only be described as a painful disaster, but at one point, Nadja became so frustrated with her hair that she chopped it all off. While the “big chop” solved some problems, it also created others. But it led Nadja to empower herself as an entrepreneur through what has become the FEMMMENOIRE brand. You'll love hearing about how Nadja has leveraged her naturally introverted personality to engage her target audience and create more sales oportunities And for those of you who may be feeling the stress of job insecurity, Nadja, who was laid off not too long ago, has some words of advice for you as well. Enjoy my interview with Nadja NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: The “accidental” birth of the FEMMENOIRE brand (starting at 2:50)The connection between self care and hair care, and self esteem — especially where black women are concerned. (starting at 6:39)How Nadja, an introvert, built the confidence to go from making a few products to actually starting a business. (starting at 12:44)Selling vs. serving. (starting at 13:45)Nadja's advice for leading a business while your children are young. (starting at 17:00)How to stay in your own lane. (starting at 18:27)How Nadja selected her brand name. (starting at 19:51)How Nadja markets and sells her products, including Instagram and using alerts and quizzes. (starting at 20:41)Nadja's post COVID-19 vision for her brand. (starting at 32:30)How adding body care products to complement hair care products has boosted Nadja's wholesale accounts. (starting at 34:00)Making connections through being open and educating people. (starting at 37:26)Working a traditional job while leading a business, then getting laid off. (starting 39:39)Best selling products. (starting at 43:06)Nadja's words of advice for would-be entrepreneurs who are facing potential job loss. (starting at 45:50) It's not about selling. It's about serving, says @shopfemmenoire #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #makers #makersgonnamake #business #salesClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Nadja and I mentioned the following resources. FEMMENOIRE websiteFEMMENOIRE on FacebookFEMMENOIRE on InstagramQuiz app: Octane AIWebsite hosting: ShopifyText message marketing: Postscript Important entrepreneurial insights from Nadja I want to review some of the significant business insights Nadja and I discussed in this episode. 1. Serving vs. selling Nadja says that the stress of selling was wearing her out, so she adjusted her mindset to embrace the notion of serving people simply by telling her personal hair stories and engaging people around their hair care journeys. It's an approach Nadja says works by leading to the engagement that naturally produces opportunities for people to want to buy her products. 2. Invest in yourself One of the chief words of advice Nadja offered was the importance of investing in yourself. She recommended engaging the services of a coach or a mentor or someone who is always in your corner to help you get to the next phase of your business experience. No one can do it all alone! I've been in business over 21 years, and I love my business coaches, and I always have at least one. 3. Strategic use of Instagram I am so impressed and inspired by Nadja's use of Instagram. I strongly encourage you to check it out. No matter what type of product you sell, Nadja's approach can be helpful to you. She talked about how she uses Instagram Reels to be light and entertaining, and how she uses Instagram stories as an eclectic mix of her life generally. Definitely check it out and get some ideas for how you can do the same sorts of things with your instagram account. Win a jar of Sweet Cream Curl Defining Moisturizer Want to in a jar of FEMMENOIRE Lemongrass Body Butter? I can tell you from personal experience: you do! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natural Hair Products & Tips (@shopfemmenoire) Check out our Instagram for instructions on how to enter to win! Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play or your favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on

Welcome to Episode 81 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Ayanna Jackson of Arbria Creations, in San Leandro, California. While Ayanna has a full-time job, which she enjoys, she has always had the itch to have a business of her own. As she encouraged her daughters to pursue their dreams, she realized that she was not pursuing hers. She decided to change all that, and Arbria Creations was born. Ayanna makes all of her products herself, and is fortunate to have the full support of her husband and daughters, each of whom helps in some capacity in her business. You'll love learning how Ayanna has changed her business model to accommodate the realities of the pandemic. And for those of you with a full-time job and a business, you'll enjoy hearing how she manages to integrate work, business, and family without losing sight of herself. Enjoy my interview with Ayanna NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: The story of the Arbria brand name. (starting at 2:24)How Ayanna “took the leap” to entrepreneurship, and integrates working her full-time job and leading her business. (starting at 5:58)Best selling products. (starting at 10:54)A typical day for Ayanna — doing all the things during a pandemic. (starting at 11:49)Ayanna's self-care routine. (starting at 16:24)How leading a business is setting a positive entrepreneurial example for Ayanna's daughters. (starting at 17:35)How Ayanna educated herself before starting her business. (starting at 23:56)How Ayanna sells her products, and how things have changed since the start of the pandemic. (starting at 27:59)How Ayanna ensures that her customers get to sample products they have never tried before. (starting 34:30)How Ayanna uses social media to connect with customers and prospects, and market her business online. (starting at 35:55)What Ayanna sees for the future of Arbria Creations. (starting at 41:13)Ayanna's advice for people who want to keep their full-time jobs, but want to start a business of their own. (starting at 42:55)What Ayanna expects to see from her traditional job as the pandemic begins to wind down. (starting at 49:47) Working full-time and managing your business is the ideal situation, says Ayanna Jackson of Arbria Creations. Keep your job so you can fund your business during its early years, and then you'll be able to achieve your goals. #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetworkClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Ayanna and I mentioned the following resources. Arbria Creations WebsiteArbria Creations on FacebookArbria Creations on InstagramEducation: School of Natural SkincareEducation: Formula BotanicaSocial media marketing app: PreviewSocial media marketing app: HootsuiteInspiration from Dolly Parton to start your business: 5 to 9 with Dolly Parton Important entrepreneurial insights from Ayanna Let's unpack some of the most significant business insights Ayanna and I discussed in this episode. 1. Self-care is critical Ayanna says that Saturday is her “making day,” the “fun” day of the week, and Sunday is her self-care day. She reminds us that, while our busy lives make it easy to skip self-care, in the end, taking care of ourselves is the most important thing we do in our lives. 2. Scheduling It was great to hear how Ayanna schedules everything so her life can run as smoothy as possible. Having a schedule frees her to enjoy her life more because everything has a specific time when it will get done, leaving the other times of the day for her to do whatever she wants to do. It's so interesting to see how the discipline of a schedule may seem limiting at first, but it's actually so freeing. 3. The pandemic pivot Before the pandemic, most of Ayanna's sales came through physical events. With the onset of Covid-19, however, she quickly pivoted to online sales, and had decided she will not look back. Ayanna said she never envisioned that she would stop participating in physical events altogether, but now that she has seen the growth of her business through online sales, and that she can host virtual sales events, there's no reason to go back to the days of recruiting her entire family to help sell products in person at shows. Win a bottle of Multi-purpose Body Oil Want to in a bottle of Arbria Creations Nourishing Body Oil? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arbria Creations/ Body Care (@arbriacreations) Here's how to win! Do these 3 easy and fast things by 11:59pm on Saturday March 28, 2021, to be entered to win: Follow @indiebusiness on InstagramFollow @arbriacreations on InstagramTag a friend on this Instagram post announcing this podcast episode Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here.

Welcome to Episode 80 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Mindy Cheng of Fyve Beauty, in Cupertino, California. In numerology, the number “five” represents humanity, and Mindy's Fyve beauty brand uses five ingredients in every product, “for all of humanity.” Mindy started her business in 2011 after creating a simple formula that helped her daughter's skin condition. By 2016, she had gone part-time at her traditional job, and at the start of 2017, she quit her job altogether to pursue her business full-time, and she never looked back. Mindy makes all of of her products herself and has the full support of her husband who occasionally helps her pack and ship out larger orders. You'll love learning about the intentionality with which Mindy leads her business, and how she combines running it while mothering two active children. Enjoy my interview with Mindy NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: From motherhood to full-time job to part-time job to full-time Fyve (starting at 2:30) Discussing the latest news of women leaving the work force due to the pandemic. (starting at 8:22) How Mindy selected her business brand name: Fyve. (starting at 13:00) An overview of how Mindy stays so organized, and learns how to do ANYthing. (starting at 15:15) Mindy on confidence. (starting at 18:00) How Mindy sells her products. (starting at 22:19) The products in Mindy's line, and what's hot right now. (see below for a chance to win a jar). (starting 25:02) Mindy's approach to packaging her products for that awesome customer experience. (starting at 26:00) Mindy's favorite tech tools. (starting at 30:18) Who helps Mindy in her business. (starting at 32:20) How Mindy manages it all. (starting at 33:30) Mindy shares the therapeutic process of making. (starting at 35:45) The power of defining your life however you want to define it. (starting at 37:17) Mindy's words of advice to product Makers. (starting at 39:48) It's OK to start with just one product, and do one product really well, says Mindy Cheng of @fyvebeauty #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #makers #makersgonnamakeClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode Since recording this episode, Mindy has closed her business. We discussed these resources on the podcast. Fyve website (closed) Fyve on Facebook Fyve on Instagram Learn anything: YouTube Social media scheduler: Later Online content editor: Canva Membership: Indie Business Network Important entrepreneurial insights from Mindy I want to emphasize something Mindy said that I thought was especially insightful. 1. Take baby steps Mindy started her business with two products in her line. That doesn't seem like a lot, but as you heard her say, even one product is enough to wear you out. There's so much to be done when launching a new brand that making and selling even one product can be exhausting. Starting small allows you to be intentional and careful without wearing yourself out. It also teaches you that baby steps can lead to big results. You don't have to have a ton of products in your line to build a solid brand. 2. You can learn to do anything you set your mind to Currently, Mindy does pretty much everything in her business, from creating new formulas; to ingredient and packaging sourcing; to most of the product photography; to packing and shipping. She has learned how to do so many things because she has an encyclopedia in her pocket in the form of the Internet on her smart phone. If she wants to learn how to do something, she looks it up and figures it out. These days nothing you need to know to build a business is beyond your reach if you have a cell phone and a WiFi connection. 3. Create the life you love Over and over, you heard Mindy repeat what she has heard me say so many times over the past two decades: create the live you love. Simply stated, Mindy doesn't do anything in her business that does not feed the lifestyle her business is helping her to create. Do your business how you want to do it, and use it to support the kind of life you want to live. Some super great insights there. Win a jar of Lemongrass Body Butter Want to in a jar of Fyve Lemongrass Body Butter? I can tell you from personal experience: you do! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fyve, Inc. | Clean Beauty (@fyvebeauty) Do these 3 easy and fast things by 11:59pm on Saturday March 20, 2021, to be entered to win! Follow @indiebusiness on Instagram Follow @fyvebeauty on Instagram Tag a friend on this Instagram post announcing this podcast episode Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is rel

Welcome to Episode 79 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Patricia Nizalowski of Green Valley Herbal, in Grand Junction, Colorado. Patricia is a massage therapist and health and wellness coach who purchased her business based more on her enthusiasm for the brand and less on on traditional business and financial considerations. You'll enjoy hearing about how Patricia purchased her business under less than desirable circumstances, and is slowly turning the financial corner. You'll also be inspired by her passion for the brand, and the courage and fortitude she is displaying as she manages a business that came with so many unforeseen challenges. Enjoy my interview with Patricia NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: How Patricia came to Indie Business, and how she started her business. (starting at 1:35)Patricia shares the process of purchasing Green Valley Herbal. (starting at 3:25)What Patricia considered when buying the company, which had been in financial distress. (starting at 6:24)How Patricia figured out how to handle the financial distress by changing product pricing. (starting at 9:00)Patricia's typical day. (starting at 11:22)Patricia's background as a massage therapist and natural health and wellness practitioner and coach (starting at 14:00)How Patricia markets her products and massage therapy services. (starting at 16:06)How Patricia's family members help her make products and manage the business. (starting at 23:05)How Patricia decides what products are good enough to be in her line. (starting at 25:18)Customizing products for consumers and for private label. (starting at 28:12)How Patricia has pivoted during COVID-19. (starting at 32:40)A bit about some of Patricia's products. (starting at 37:22) Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Patricia and I mentioned the following resources. Green Valley Herbal's WebsiteGreen Valley Herbal on FacebookCommunity: Goddess Girlfriends NetworkEducation: Evergreen Clinic of Natural MedicineEntrepreneur services: Energize Colorado Important entrepreneurial insights from Patricia I want to emphasize something Patricia said that I thought was especially insightful. 1. About buying a business … Patricia didn't know what to look for as the potential buyer of a company, but she had a passion for the brand — so much so that she didn't want to pass up the opportunity. She's happy with her decision as she looks back on it, but one of the issues she's having trouble sorting through is a full restructuring of the company's product pricing by doing such things as raising prices, standardizing packaging, and in some instances, keeping the same price but decreasing product size. It's a massive undertaking. Costs and product pricing are two of the important things you'll want to in advance if you're considering buying a business. 2. Filling a market need Patricia's experience highlights the importance of aiming your products at specific marketplace needs. For example, her Working Hands product was renamed Washing Hands as the pandemic created additional demand for moisturizers as people washed their hands more in the wake of COVID-19. She was able to rename an existing product to accommodate increased marketplace demand. That's a great strategy! Enter to win the Goddess Aromatherapy Mist Collection Would you like to be entered to win the Green Valley Herbal Goddess Aromatherapy Mist Collection? Here are the three aromatherapy blends you'll get: Awaken (peppermint and grapefruit essential oils); Bliss (tangerine, rosewood & lavender essential oils); and Tension Tonic (lavender and rosemary essential oils). Doesn't that sound amazing?! Here's how to enter to win! All you have to do is share this blog post on Twitter (you can use the “Tweet This” option below), and tag @indiebusiness on Twitter by Saturday, March 13 at 11:59pm ET. We'll check you out and pick a winner at random and notify you via Twitter DM. Welcome to Episode 79 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Patricia Nizalowski of Green Valley Herbal, in Grand Junction, Colorado.Click To Tweet And if you don't win, you can buy them here. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The po

Welcome to Episode 78 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Isabel Alvarez of Albisa Candles, in Los Angeles, California. Isabel makes candles that are reminiscent of her Cuban heritage. After the pandemic, Isabel hopes to hire outside help, but for now, it's truly a family business at Albisa, with Isabel making all of the candles and her husband doing all of the packaging and shipping — with a little help from the couple's 9-year old son as his studies permit. You'll love the story of how Isabel went from making very intricately designed customized candles to crafting the small but beautiful line of candles and wax melts that are anchored by their viral best selling Cuban Bread line, and which includes scents like Cafe Con Leche, Noche Buena, and Havana Nights, which Isabel says smells like “a good looking Cuban man.” Enjoy my interview with Isabel NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: The story behind the Albisa brand, the brand name and the logo. (starting at 1:57)The infusion of all things Cuban, and the Cuban Bread candle, into the Albisa brand. (starting at 7:26)Transitioning from customizing candles to selling a standard line. (starting at 10:25)Finding your people. (starting at 13:00)The Havana Nights story, and how it led to creation of the Albisa collection. (starting at 14:50)From candles to wax melts. (starting at 37:00)How Isabel uses social media, and why she likes to do a lot of it herself, an how that leads to increased sales. (starting at 38:47)Hiring help. (starting at 41:10)How the pandemic has affected sales. (starting at 43:17)What Isabel sees in Albisa's future, including changes to shipping and receiving, and even more fun in her business. (49:30)How taking the time to connect personally with customers and buyers enhances Isabel's life. (52:10)Isabel's advice to new Makers. (starting at 43:36) Clarify your brand to embrace what is meaningful to a specific type of person so you can break through the noise, have a greater impact, and enjoy more sales, says @albisacandles #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetworkClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Melissa and I mentioned the following resources. Albisa Candles's WebsiteAlbisa Candles on FacebookAlbisa Candles on InstagramEducation: Brick House BrandingBlog: My Big Fat Cuban FamilySocial media scheduling app: Planoly Important entrepreneurial insights from Isabel 1. Find your people During the conversation, Isabel kept reminding us of how important it is to find your people and your niche. You cannot be all things to all people. Clarify your brand to embrace what is meaningful to a specific type of person so you can break through the noise, have a greater impact, and enjoy more sales. 2. Personalize your brand Over and over again, Isabel shared that the personal connections she has with her clients and customers benefit not only them but also herself personally. The impact of the work she and her family do together adds such meaning to other people's lives that it alone is one of the things that keeps her going when the going gets tough — as it often does for entrepreneurs. Isabel says that people respond to the personal touch, so even though it's more work, she loves and plans to continue taking the time to connect personally with her people. 3. Ditch perfection Isabel reminded us several times that people don't want perfect. They want real. Instead of avoiding promoting your business because you are afraid you won't be perfect on video or whatever, embrace promotional opportunities that arise naturally because you are not perfect. Enter to win a Cuban Bread Candle Want to win one of Albisa's Cuban Bread candles? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Home of the Cuban bread candle (@albisacandles) How to Enter to Win! Do these 3 easy and fast things by 11:59pm on Saturday February 20, 2021, to be entered to win! Follow @indiebusiness on InstagramFollow @albisacandles on InstagramTag a friend on this Instagram post announcing this podcast episode Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Isabel Alvarez of Albisa Candles [Indie Stories: Episode 78: Podcast] appe

Welcome to Episode 77 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Laura Luther of Olive My Skin, in Oxford, Connecticut. Laura first owned the Southbury Soap & Candle bath and body business business nearly 20 years ago. After closing down following a challenging divorce, Laura launched Olive My Skin in 2012, and since then, has added several complementary brands, including Olive My Home and Olive My Lips. Laura recently signed a lease to open a new retail store in the Georgetown section of Redding, Connecticut, so you'll soon be able to visit and buy her products in person. Road trip anyone?! I definitely cannot wait to do that. Enjoy my interview with Laura NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: How Laura went from “making stuff” to selling $300 in soap, lotion, and lip balm at the Christmas bazaar at the local firehouse (starting at 1:23)The birth of the “Olive My” brand and how the name came to be. (starting at 4:40)How Laura rotates her candle fragrance offerings throughout the year. (starting at 6:10)Selling candles in a pandemic, and how Laura pivoted from almost all wholesale to almost all retail in the midst of COVID-19. (9:12)How product photography works for Laura's brand (starting at 16:51)Who helps Laura in her business. (starting at 18:26)Laura on tooting your own horn. (starting at 26:40)Some of the technology Laura uses to run her business. (starting at 27:39)The importance of educating your customers. (starting at 28:53)The infamous zip code candles. (starting at 30:44)Laura's registered trademarks. (starting at 34:45)Laura is going to open a store. (starting at 36:41)Having the same business for a long time, does not mean doing the same thing for a long time. (starting at 37:50)Entrepreneurship is not for everyone. (starting at 38:50)Laura's words of advice to new Makers. (starting at 40:26)Laura's praise for the Indie Business experience. (Thank you, Laura!) (starting at 42:43) Lead and manage your business in ways that bring you joy, regardless of what other people say, says @olivemyskin #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetwork #olivemyskinClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Melissa and I mentioned the following resources. Olive My Skin's WebsiteOlive My Skin on FacebookOlive My Skin on InstagramWholesale resource: FaireWebsite platforms: Shopify and SquarespaceEmail marketing platform: KlaviyoLive video: Facebook LiveMembership: Indie Business Network Important entrepreneurial insight from Laura 1. Do what you love Laura reminded us that you should do what you love to do, regardless of what others think. As she mentioned in our conversation, she has been told by many people that she should not be the primary person making most of the products in her line. But Laura says that, while she has help making some things, she finds the making process therapeutic and fun, so she will continue to do it until it is no longer fun and therapeutic and fun. The lesson here is to lead your business in ways that bring you joy, regardless of what other people say. 2. Educate your customers Laura says that she enjoys the process of educating her customers so they know the ins and outs of why her products are a good choice for them. In particular, she says, making sure people know how to use her products safely and and telling them about the safe ingredients contained in her products add a great deal of value to her brand. Educated consumers buy more products, so Laura makes sure to keep her target audience informed about the things that are important to them. 3. Product photography is everything Well, maybe not everything. Laura says that she knows people buy her products in larger numbers, especially the candles, in large part because of an emotional connection they feel to a scent or mood they want to create. Her product photographer is skilled at capturing images that reflect people's emotions. As a result, Laura sells more candles. As you heard her say, you cannot underestimate the power of a beautiful branded lifestyle photo. Enter to win an Olive My Skin Sprinkled Alchemist Cupcake Candle Want to in a Sprinkled Alchemist Cupcake Candle? Of course you do! See how to enter to win below the image! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Olive My Skin (@olivemyskin) How to Enter to Win! Do these 3 easy and fast things by 11:59pm on February 11, 2021, to be entered to win! Follow @indiebusiness on InstagramFollow @olivemyskin on InstagramTag a friend on this Instagram post announcing this podcast episode Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it i

Welcome to Episode 76 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story introduces you to Ciara Fritsch, of Pure Body Nantucket, in Nantucket, Massachusetts. A native of Ireland, Ciara arrived in America in 1994 and settled in Nantucket where she met her husband. While she helps him manage an antique store on the island, her personal and entrepreneurial passion is leading Pure Body Nantucket, which she launched in 2016. Ciara graduated with honors from the Natural Product Manufacturing program at the American College of Healthcare Sciences. Her mission is providing effective, organic and plant-based skin care products using great quality ingredients. Enjoy my interview with Ciara NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that interests you most: How Ciara came to America to start a new life, meet her future husband, and a new business. (starting at 1:23)Ciara, the cautious risk taker. (starting at 6:50)The process of starting Ciara's business. (starting at 10:48)How Ciara's husband helps her in her business, and how she helps him in his. (starting at 15:00)The structure of Ciara's business: physical presence (at her husband's antique shop), online sales, physical markets, wholesale to retail stores in New England. (starting at 15:40)Ciara's feedback and experience about selling at farmer's markets. (starting at 18:35)How COVID-19 led to free shipping, and massive increase in sales. (starting at 22:56)Ciara's favorite parts of her business. (starting at 27:35)Setting up a website. (starting at 30:10)Ciara does all of her own photography (30:53)Ciara's thoughts on automation and systems when it comes to social media marketing. (starting at 34:49)Who helps Ciara in her business. (starting at 37:47)Building a business around what you want your life to look like. (starting at 40:51)Ciara's best selling product (and you can win a bottle of it — see below!) (starting at 40:55)Ciara's advice to new Makers. (starting at 43:36) The incentive of free shipping brings people back to my website over and over again, and they often refer their friends simply because they won't have to pay for shipping, says @purebodyack #indiestories #indiebusiness #indiebusinessnetworkClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Melissa and I mentioned the following resources. Pure Body Nantucket's WebsitePure Body Nantucket on FacebookPure Body Nantucket on InstagramEducation: American College of Healthcare SciencesEducation: Evergreen Clinic of Natural MedicineFarmer's Market: Sustainable NantucketWebsite design: Neha: Email [email protected]: Indie Business NetworkAntique store: The Antiques Depot: 2 South Beach Street, Nantucket: 508-228-1287 Important entrepreneurial insight from Ciara I want to emphasize something Ciara said that I thought was especially insightful. So often, we do not want to offer free shipping because shipping is a huge expense. Ciara intentionally decided in favor of free shipping for orders, regardless of size, and she says that not only is it a great incentive generally, but it's also a great way to thank your customers for paying full price for your products. Ciara says she really does not like having sales, and the incentive of free shipping brings people back over and over again, and they often refer their friends to her store simply because they will not have to pay for shipping — even if they purchase just one thing. I think this is something for all brands to consider, especially since having to pay for shipping is one of the chief reasons shoppers abandon their carts and don't return. Win a bottle of Nourishing Body Oil Want to in a bottle of Pure Body Nantucket's Nourishing Body Oil? View this post on Instagram A post shared by purebodynantucket (@purebodynantucket) Here's how to win! All you have to do is share this blog post on Twitter, and tag @indiebusiness on Twitter by Saturday, December 5 at 11:59pm ET. We'll check you out and pick a winner at random and notify you via DM. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Ciara Fritsch of Pure Body Nantucket [Indie Stories: Episode 76: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 75 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Indie Story is about Lisa Kennally of Wild Air Skincare, in Centerbrook, Connecticut. Lisa makes spa products with ingredients inspired by the beauty and seasons of New England. Her brand is partially inspired by the time as a child she spent with her mom making spa products using ingredients in their kitchen. Lisa discovered Indie Business through one of our websites that featured spa product recipes, and the rest is history. As you'll enjoy learning in this episode, Lisa sells her products to spas, and pivoted a bit to accommodate COVID-19. Enjoy my interview with Lisa NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: How Lisa's drive to learn to make her own skincare products led her to Indie Business. (starting at 1:33)Lisa's intention of being in business for herself, and words of wisdom for other parent entrepreneurs — especially in light of COVID-19. (starting at 5:54)How Lisa landed her first spa account. (starting at 8:20)Wild Air core scents: Cranberry Orange, Chocolate, Lemon Verbena and more. (starting at 11:55)The importance of story and relationships. (starting at 13:53)How retail sales have picked up some of the slack from the loss of wholesale sales during COVID-19. (starting at 15:51)Boosting sales using segmented email blasts and Facebook Live. (starting at 18:30)Lisa's appearance on the Artisan Made Show. (25:20)How Lisa organizes her production. (27:51)Lisa's supportive family, and moving from home to an outside production facility. (30:55)Advice on finding and managing an outside production facility. (starting at 34:34)Lisa's future plans (starting at 38:20)Advice and words of wisdom from Lisa (starting at 40:40) Add products to your line as part of a well thought out strategy, not a knee jerk reaction to an off-the-cuff customer remark or something a magazine says is hot and trendy. - @wildairskincare #indiebusinesspodcast #americanmakersClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Lisa and I mentioned the following resources. Wild Air Skincare's WebsiteWild Air Skincare on FacebookWild Air Skincare on InstagramSpa Association: Colorado Spa AssociationWebsite platform: ShopifyShipping plugin: ShippoWebsite announcement bar plugin: Quick Announcement Bar A few of the entrepreneurial points Lisa and I discussed in this episode Don't make every thing.Lisa confirms that you cannot be all things to all people. She has narrowly defined her product line you can have thousands of different product collections, but Lisa says this is a recipe for disaster. Everyone has ideas and suggestions, but you have to stick to your target audience and your brand, and nail a few things well. Lisa manicures, pedicures, and massages, Lisa does not make it. She also limited her line to seven scents reflecting experiences or scents that inspired her impressions of New England. Shift to Facebook live.Lisa had always wants to highlight some of her spa customers, and COVID-19 provided a great opportunity to start using Facebook live to simultaneously highlight her clients and products. This is a great way to pivot during the pandemic. Since spa owners are having a difficult time attracting customers, the additional lift can only help them, and while it also promotes the Wild Air line as on the shelf at a great spa. Be intentional when adding new products to a line.Lisa's business has been steady for years because she has been focused on serving a very specific niche. When she adds a new product to her line, it is the result of a well thought out strategy and not a knee jerk reaction to an off-the-cuff customer remark or something a magazine says is hot and trendy. For example, because she has had to pivot a bit to accommodate COVID-19, Lisa's newest products (the first she's launched in years), lavender sugar scrub and lavender body butter, are specific responses to COVID-19 and consumers love for lavender. Lavender is not a scent that her spa buyers have expressed much of an interest in, but due to a need to boost consumer sales, Lisa added lavender scented products because that's what consumers asked for.You can enter to win some of Lisa's new Lavender Sugar Scrub below!! Enter to win Wild Air Lavender Body Scrub! Want to win some of Lisa's new Lavender Body Scrub? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wild Air Skincare (@wildairskincare) on Jul 30, 2020 at 11:57am PDT Entering to win is easy. Just (1) share this blog post on your Facebook profile page using the share link at the top of this page; and (2) leave a comment below with your favorite part of the podcast and the link we can go to verify your share, no later than 11:59pm ET on Friday, November 13, 2020. The drawing will take place on Saturday, November 13, 2020, and you'll be notified via Facebook Mess

Welcome to Episode 74 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Kirsten Conner of Flourish Beauty Lab in White River Junction, Vermont. Kirsten is a retail store owner and product formulator who makes artisan products designed for people who are super sensitive to ingredients and fragrances. Her main focus is on hair care. She sells her products at her Vermont retail store, at her website, and via wholesale. In this episode, I talk with Kirsten about several aspects of her business, including how she is navigating the many aspects of COVID-19 and what she sees on the horizon for the future of Flourish in particular and American Makers in general. Enjoy my interview with Kirsten NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: A little about White River Junction, Vermont, and the story behind Kirsten's amazing retail store. (starting at 2:14)About Kirsten's business model and income streams. (starting at 6:35)How Kirsten uses technology to maintain personal interaction and connection with her customers. (starting at 7:10)How and when Kirsten decided to start a business, and how Flourish came to be. (starting at 11:35)Why focus on hair care when there are so many other options? (starting at 16:38)The importance of educating your customers. (starting at 19:20)Why Kirsten maintains a blog, and how it delivers traffic and sales. (starting at 19:47)Why Kirsten uses WordPress with Woo Commerce as her website platform. (starting at 23:30)How Kirsten's online sales have quadrupled during COVID-19. (starting at 25:15)How wholesale orders have been affected by COVID-19. (starting at 27:33)Big lesson: paring down your product line. (starting at 29:39)What Kirsten has to say about the explosion of e-commerce in the hair care arena. (starting at 32:12)How Kirsten chose the “Flourish Beauty Lab” brand name. (starting at 36:40)Flourish employees and what they do; how Flourish Beauty Lab operates behind the scenes and how COVID-19 is impacting in-store retail sales (starting at 39:14)Words of wisdom from Kirsten (starting at 46:45) How sales have quadrupled during COVID-19, and other stories from the trenches, from Kirsten Connor of @flourishbodyvt. #makerstoriesClick To Tweet Resources and Links In this episode, Melissa and I mentioned the following resources. Flourish Beauty Lab's WebsiteFlourish Beauty Lab on FacebookFlourish Beauty Lab on InstagramOnline chat software: Live ChatWebsite platform: WordPressE-commerce for WordPress: Woo Commerce A few of the entrepreneurial points Kirsten and I discussed in this episode The personal touch closes the sale.Kirsten's business is high touch because, she says, being personally connected to her customers is important to her. This manifests itself physically at her retail store, but also virtually by her use of the live chat option on her website. The more personal and immediate your response to your prospects, the more likely you are to close the sale.Blog posts drive traffic.Kirsten shared that many people find her products because of her blog posts. For example, she blogs about the everyday hair problems people have, and when they search those types of topics online, some of them will land at Kirsten's site where they will get their questions answered at the same time as they have opportunities to buy the products that will solve their problems. This is such a great example of blogging for business in action.The importance of streamlining.Kirsten said that one of the things she advises generally for all Makers is to maintain a streamlined product line. She recalled for us a time when she had 60 stock keeping units (SKUs) in her line, which made buyers go completely cross-eyed. Even today, she continues to pare things down, including discontinuing three-quarters of her body care line so she can focus even more on hair care products. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Kirsten Conner of Flourish Beauty Lab [Maker Stories: Episode 74: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 73 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Melissa Troupe of MochaWhip in West Palm Beach, Florida. Melissa makes whipped vegan body butter with ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, and aloe juice. Mocha Whip products can be found online and at dozens of Whole Foods Market locations throughout Florida. As you'll enjoy learning in this episode, Melissa launched Mocha Whip in December 2017, and the first products were sold in March 2018. It's a local family business in every sense of the word, as the State of Florida is where the products are made and where the brand's physical retail footprint is. It's focused, intentional, and, as you'll see, successful. Enjoy my interview with Melissa NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: How Melissa's hobby went from passion project to taking over the entire first floor of the family home. (starting at 1:50)How Melissa knew it was time to move her business out of her home, and how she did it. (starting at 5:10)How Melissa's family helps her run the business, with each person having specific strengths, contributions, and responsibilities. (starting at 12:20)How a failed hair extensions business led to the launch of Mocha Whip, and what the Mocha Whip brand stands for. (starting at 11:25)Why vegan is important. (starting at 18:38)About those “cuties” and “swirlies.” (starting at 19:15)Melissa gets nerdy, talking her approach to social media marketing, and offering some sage advice. (starting at 21:55)How Melissa sells her products: online, wholesale. (starting at 31:00)Best selling fragrance. (starting at 31:47)Why it's important to Melissa that Mocha Whip products be handmade in-house by her and her team. (starting at 32:37)What Melissa sees for the future of the handmade industry. (starting at 33:45)Melissa's words of advice for new entrepreneurs. (starting at 37:23) People like people. They are not going to fall in love with your logo, says @HeyMochaWhip on Indie Business Podcast. #makerstoriesClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Melissa and I mentioned the following resources. Mocha Whip's WebsiteMocha Whip on FacebookMocha Whip on InstagramOnline wholesale platform: FaireRetail stores: Earth Fare and Whole Foods A few of the entrepreneurial points Melissa and I discussed in this episode The importance of writing things down.Melissa shared that journaling her ideas and the steps she wants to take to move her business forward before she actually takes them is a game changer. Once things get crazy, she says, it's really hard to think, so being able to go back and read thoughts you recorded when you were thinking straight is invaluable. It's like giving yourself a good pep talk, and it's how Melissa says she gets to appear to have it all together, even when she really doesn't.Managing the family side of the family business.Being in business with so many family members is peaceful for Melissa because each family member has their own lane. Melissa emphasized how important it is to recognize the strengths of each individual and ensure that the business is set up in ways that allow them to maximize them. It's also important to stay in your lane and to not be in each other's space.Why Instagram is Melissa's favorite online marketing tool.Melissa says that, for business, currently, Instagram is her preferred online marketing tool versus Facebook because it has the highest engagement. Additionally, unless you are purchasing ads, Facebook's transition to favor more personal and non-business sharing, has made it more difficult for marketers to share brand messages on the platform. For that reason, Melissa prefers Instagram these days, but she also recognizes that all of that could change next week considering how quickly things can shift and change with social media. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. The post Melissa Troupe of Mocha Whip [Maker Stories: Episode 73: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 72 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story features Alana Rivera of Etta + Billie in San Francisco, California. As you'll learn in this episode, this is not Alana's first appearance on Indie Business Podcast. After you enjoy this episode, I encourage you to listen to the first episode we did with Alana over five years ago (link below) because it will provide a super fun overview of how things have evolved in her life and her business during the past several years. Enjoy my interview with Alana NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Alana went from using soapmaking as a distraction, to using it as a business. (starting at 4:13)How living and working in San Francisco positively impacts Alana's entrepreneurial engine (starting at 6:00)The San Francisco Maker vibe that Alana taps into and loves. (starting at 8:00)Alana's transition from home manufacturing to a facility outside her home. (starting at 10:13)How having a baby have temporarily shifted Alana's priorities, mindset, and how the runs her business. (starting at 17:32)What Alana says you should consider if you are an entrepreneur contemplating parenthood. (starting at 28:35)How to follow Alana, and a little bit more about her products, artisan products for foodies. (starting at 39:50) On Indie Business Podcast, @ettaandbillie discusses the experience of choosing to curb business growth after becoming a parent. #makerstoriesClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Alana and I mentioned the following resources. Etta + Billie's first appearance on Indie Business PodcastLocal manufacturing non-profit: SF MadeEtta + Billie's WebsiteEtta + Billie on FacebookEtta + Billie on Instagram A few of the entrepreneurial points Alana and I discussed in this episode How parenthood changes everything.Alana talked about how challenging it is to be a parent and an entrepreneur. For those of you listening who are contemplating parenthood, Alana shared that being flexible is critical. She also mentioned how important it was for her to allow herself to “grieve” the life she had before a child was introduced into the situation. I think this is so wise. it may be hard for people who are not parents to fully understand the meaning behind that, and how it is not a negative thing, but really just a reality. Your life and your business will change if you decide to become a parent.Acquiring help and studio space.Alana has moved from her home office and manufacturing studio to a small space, to now, two spaces. She also has two full-time employees, two part-time employees, and a seasonal employee. This is a lot to manage, and Alana pointed out how getting help with her child is one of the chief things that has allowed her to integrate things so that all aspects of her life come together in a manageable way.Growth on your own terms.I love how Alana shared honestly that, for her, choosing parenting has also meant choosing a slower growth for her business. Not everyone will make a similar choice, but it is so freeing to know that you can choose what is right for you and not what other people think or say is right for you. A business does not have to be huge to be successful. Not only that, as Alana and I discussed, you can always change your mind and grow faster or grow more slowly as your journey unfolds. As she said, you are in the driver's seat! Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. The post Alana Rivera of Etta and Billie [Maker Stories: Episode 72: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 71 of the Indie Business Podcast, all about how to make your business support your life! If you’ve listened to even just a few of our interviews with amazing Makers and Creative Entrepreneurs, you’ve surely noticed that most of them have one powerful personal entrepreneurial purpose in common. Here it is: they are all determined to grow a business that allows them to maintain a certain type of very specific lifestyle. Of course, they are not ignoring the hallmark requirement that business be profitable, or that the products and services they offer fill a tangible and specifically identifiable market demand. Having said that, Indie Business Podcast guests tend to be more concerned that business not interfere with the type of way they want to enjoy their lives. They took the traditional business model that most of us grew up with, and turned it on its head so that it performed in ways that allowed them to simultaneously prioritize lifestyle and profitability, and they just went for it. In this episode of Indie Business Podcast, I personally dive deeply into this topic, which is one of my favorites, and share the top 10 strategies you can use to make sure that your business support your specific lifestyle desires. Enjoy this episode NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the strategies I share in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Plan and re-plan. (starting at 3:47)Track everything. (starting at 8:40)Work in batches. (starting at 10:53)Get input from other people. (starting at 14:35)Embrace change and risk-taking. (starting at 17:00)Don't overthink change. (starting at 20:04)Practice developing your leadership skills. (starting at 21:53)Journal your journey. (starting at 24:48)Bring your family along with you. (starting at 27:07)Declare what you want, and be intentional about it. (starting at 29:30) Yes, profitability is important, but so it making sure your business supports your specific lifestyle desires! Here are 10 tips from our founder and CEO, @donnamaria.Click To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Pam and I mentioned the following resources. Maker MastermindJoin the Indie Business Network Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook and Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Make Your Business Support Your Life: Indie Business Podcast: Episode 71 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 70 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Marissa Bethoney of Precious Skin Elixirs in Boxford, Massachusetts. Marissa left a decade-long career as a jeweler to create a business that allowed her to feel better about simultaneously leading a business and being a mother. As you'll enjoy learning in this episode, Marissa's business is more about how she wants to live her life and positively impact women than it is about selling beauty products. Enjoy my interview with Marissa NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Marissa shares about the intrigue of “elixirs,” and how she transitioned from jewelry maker to beautypreneur. (starting at 2:22)How working with the energy and power of gemstones informs Marissa's brand. (starting at 4:45)How Marissa started Precious Skin Elixirs. (starting at 5:45)How Marissa combines entrepreneurship and motherhood. (starting at 9:58)Why Marissa is glad she was not on social media, including Instagram, when she started her business (starting at 15:04)Marissa's favorite ways to use Instagram, and the importance of discipline when it comes to using it. (starting at 17:44)How Marissa sells her products wholesale and retail, using a combination of word-of-mouth, a newsletter, and social media. (starting at 23:09)How Marissa uses Instagram TV specifically to sell her products. (starting at 26:00)The most challenging part of leading a business, according to Marissa, and how she overcomes it (starting at 32:16)Marissa discusses her (current) best selling product, and how her product lines are identified by skin rhythms in conjunction with natural elements (starting at 39:55)Marissa shares her approach to business as a lifestyle. (starting at 46:04) Advice from Precious Skin Elixirs: on how to combine high tech with high touch to produce sales results! #makerstoriesClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Marissa and I mentioned the following resources. Precious Skin Elixirs websitePrecious Skin Elixirs on FacebookPrecious Skin Elixirs on Instagram A few of the entrepreneurial points Marissa and I discussed in this episode Making the patchwork quilt work.Marissa talked about how she pieces things together behind the scenes in her business so her life can work as it should. This is a great encouragement for other mom business owners out there who may be thinking that the lack of “neatness” is somehow not normal. It is normal, especially when you have children, and Marissa reminds us that that is OK.Using Instagram video to connect with buyers.Marissa said that she jumped into Instagram TV because she wanted to connect more closely with her customers. She generates ales simply by being herself in her bathroom, on a video, showing people how to use her products. People go from watching her and getting her live recommendations to her website to make their purchases based on her advice. This is a great example of how to combine high tech and high touch to produce sales results.Go small.Marissa pointed out that not every business has to be big, and that she prefers to stay small. I love her her approach because it is a super reminder that you can grow as an entrepreneur, and your business can grow too, but you don't have to build out a mammoth empire to be personally fulfilled and financially rewarded as an entrepreneur.You may enjoy more about this mindset in my blog post Six Keys to Going Big in Business Without Growing Big in Business. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please take a moment to rate this show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Marissa Bethoney of Precious Skin Elixirs [Maker Stories: Episode 70: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 69 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Pam Rodgers of Stella Chroma, a nail polish brand in Richmond, Indiana. Pam started her business in 2012, and today, she manages the business while holding down a full-time job as a nurse practitioner. Since starting Stella Chroma, Pam has taught her husband, her son and her son's fiancé how to make nail polish. It's truly a family business built around Pam's desire for a specific type of lifestyle … and you know what a high value prize that is. Enjoy my interview with Pam NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Pam kicks things off from her car, sharing a bit of how she uses technology to go from podcast interview to lunch to errands to her day job, etc. (starting at 2:33)How Pam started her business, as a result of her nail biting habit, including her Etsy experience. (starting at 4:37)Nail Polish Ingredients and Making 101. (starting at 10:45)How Pam sells her products, including closing her Etsy shop and switching exclusively to Shopify for online sales. (starting at 19:11)How Pam boosts online retail sales using Facebook ads, a Facebook page, a Facebook group, Instagram, and a Shopify app. (starting at 22:31)The hardest parts about business, according to Pam, and how she organizes her life around her business and her full-time job. (starting at 31:45)Pam's love for cows, slow but steady entrepreneurial growth, and her grand but loose plan to become a “a cattle farmer who makes nail polish.” (starting at 36:45)Recommended entrepreneurial book choice. (starting at 41:18)Pam's recommendations for new Indie nail polish entrepreneurs (starting at 42:20)Final words of wisdom from Pam (starting at 49:30) Advice from #IndieBusinessPodcast: @stellachroma says don't rush your business! It's not a race. Do your research to ensure you'll have a long and prosperous entrepreneurial journey. #makerstoriesClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Pam and I mentioned the following resources. Check out our June 2014 interview with Pam hereStella Chroma's WebsiteStella Chroma on FacebookStella Chroma on InstagramStella Chroma's Facebook groupSales boosting automation: Kit for ShopifyBooks: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown, and a few books books by Bernadette Jiwa (check our book store for these and other book suggested by our members!)Online market: Etsy A few of the entrepreneurial points Pam and I discussed in this episode Use technology wisely.Pam's experience shows that you can use technology without getting into the weeds. As she described, she chooses her technology wisely. She picks the technological options that are the most effective and which require her to do the least work and keep up with the least amount of technological updates and changes.Leading a business while maintaining a full-time job.In a word, Pam is disciplined. She described how she wakes up at the same time every morning during the workweek, works her business for two hours, then turns her attention to her full-time job. Her lunch breaks are spent either running errands or working her business using email or social media. She works on Stella Chroma in the evenings only when necessary, so she can decompress and spend time with her family.If you want it, you'll figure out a way to get it.Pam says that, if it's what you want, you'll find a way to get it. She cautions that you must keep in mind that what you start off going for may not be exactly what you end up with, but what you are meant to do will happen if you keep working at it. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook and Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Pam Rodgers of Stella Chroma [Maker Stories: Episode 69: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 68 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Amber Malcom of Shabby Chick Cleaners in Duncan, Oklahoma. After being in business for just over three years, Amber has already appeared on several episodes of a popular home shopping show, entirely dismantled and re-built her business model, and is now completely debt free. Oh, and she owns the only business in the world where you can buy your cleaning products at a drive-through window. As you'll enjoy learning in this episode, Amber does not let any grass grow under her feet. She is energetic and unforgettable, as you surely know if you've seen any of her Facebook live videos where she cleans toilets wearing a colorful apron and a fresh flower in her hair. Enjoy my interview with Amber NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Introduction to Amber and how health challenges during a pregnancy led her to close her thriving law practice, move to a farm, and start making and selling cleaning products. (starting at 2:16)How Amber grew from her kitchen to a 6,500 square foot manufacturing facility and a home shopping show appearance within 24 months. (starting at 6:36)How Amber found mentors, incubators, and financing to help her grow. (starting at 7:41)How Amber built out her wholesale business via local festivals and trade shows nationwide. (starting at 10:17)The pros and cons of the wholesale trade show lifestyle. (starting at 14:16)Amber's husband quit his job to work in her business! (starting at 16:55)Why is't important to adjust who we are based on whether we are representing our brand or we are “off,” and not working at all. (starting at 23:19)How (and why) Amber transitioned from a wholesale business model to the direct sales business model she has now. (starting at 26:26)Amber shares the details of how she manages her direct sales business, including all about the “cleaning coaches.” (starting at 31:38)The only place in the world where you can buy cleaning products at a drive-through window. (starting at 35:36)The video with the bananas and the ants … “so gross, yet so effective. (starting at 38:14)How participating in an incubator helped Amber. (starting at 39:57)How you can become a Shabby Chick Cleaning Coach. (starting at 42:46)Why Amber was “miffed” that she had to join IBN in order to procure the product liability insurance she needed to get her business started. (starting at 48:05)Amber's top success tips for small business owners. (starting at 49:09)Amber's best tip for being in business with your spouse. (starting at 50:55)What the future holds for Amber and Shabby Chick Cleaners. (starting at 51:51) Advice from @shabbychickok: The answer is always NO if you don't ask. #makerstories #greencleaning #safelaundry #greenlifeClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Amber and I mentioned the following resources. Shabby Chick website: Shabby ChickShabby Chick on Facebook: Shabby ChickShabby Chick on Instagram: Shabby ChickBusiness incubator: Red River Technology CenterBusiness funding: REI Oklahoma A few of the important entrepreneurial points Amber and I discussed in this episode Gather and use customer feedback.Amber shared that one way she acquired new wholesale stockists was by asking consumers to share the names of retail stores they thought might like to carry Shabby Chick products. Consumers always have favorite stores, and they often know the store owners by name. Using a real store customer as a referral is a great way to get an audience with a retail store owner, and this approach helped Amber expand her wholesale footprint quickly.Ask.Amber reminds us that the answer is always “no” if you don't ask. If Amber can find resources in a tiny town like Duncan, you can find resources in your area as well. But only if you look around, and ask for what you want.If you work with your spouse, separate work and home.Keep work and home separate. Amber cannot dive in home stuff stays at home while work stuff stays at work. It's easier said than done though, Amber says, but it is vital to make the effort to keep things separate. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all

Welcome to Episode 67 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Sandy Engels of The Purple Sage in Ethel, Louisiana. Sandy purchased her brand from another entrepreneur eight years ago, shortly after she discovered that her friends and family members were interested in buying the soap she had been making for fun. As you'll enjoy learning in this episode, Sandy is naturally introverted, but celebrates the fact that being a business owner has given her levels of confidence and self esteem she does not feel she would have achieved had she not been an entrepreneur. Enjoy my interview with Sandy NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: How Sandy first learned to make soap and other cosmetics products, and how that led to her starting The Purple Sage. (starting at 1:53)How Sandy decided to turn her soapmaking hobby into a business. (starting at 6:44)How Sandy keeps procedures and systems together in her business so she stays on track, runs the business well, and still has time to be creative. (starting at 8:56)Sandy's love for selling her products at festivals and fairs, face-to-face to buyers. (starting at 11:43)How Sandy integrates her business and personal life into an integrated whole. (starting at 12:55)How to know if you would be good at selling your products at festivals and fairs, what type of work is involved. (starting at 16:14)Sandy's business model, split between shows, wholesale, and online sales. (starting at 17:42)How Sandy selects shows that fit her brand. (starting at 19:14)Sandy's favorite social media outlets. (starting at 21:40)Sandy's favorite thing about having a business of her own. (starting at 23:28)A bit about Sandy's product line (starting at 29:07)Sandy's one piece of advice to help a new entrepreneur be successful in business (starting at 35:04)What's on tap for the future at The Purple Sage (starting at 38:19) Advice from The Purple Sage: Build your email list! #makerstoriesClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Sandy and I mentioned the following resources. The Purple Sage website: The Purple SageThe Purple Sage on Facebook: The Purple Sage on FacebookThe Purple Sage on Instagram: The Purple Sage on InstagramFestival: Georgia Apple FestivalEmail newsletter services: MailChimp and KlaviyoE-commerce platform: ShopifyPlanner: Passion Planner A few of the entrepreneurial points Sandy and I discussed in this episode Plan and systematize everything.It's a basic tip that makes a big difference. Sandy uses a paper planner to write things down so she doesn't miss a beat in terms of her schedule and events. She also maintains separate notebooks with all of her recipes and product processes. She describes it as the “gold” of her business. What gets written down gets done and done correctly, and this is great advice for any entrepreneur.Take advantage of opportunities to meet and talk to your customers.While traveling to shows and selling at events is a lot of work, Sandy says she loves it because it gives her an opportunity to sell her products in ways that are not possible online. Standing in front of customers forces Sandy to sell and gives her a chance to really get to know her target customer. There's nothing like face-to-face and the energy that comes from connecting and showcasing the benefits of a product in person.Develop an email marketing strategy.Sandy says that, if she could only give a new entrepreneur one single piece of advice, it would be to set up and use an email newsletter to nurture and maintain relationships with customers and prospects. I definitely echo that advice, as I have been publishing a newsletter for 20 years and agree with Sandy to the value of making this investment as early as possible in your business. Binge Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via Apple Podcasts). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook and Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Maker Stories: Episode 67: Sandy Engels of The Purple Sage [Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 66 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Zondra Wilson of Blu Skin Care in Los Angeles, California. Zondra started her business after a career as a television news anchor. When she began to feel like something was missing, she left the broadcast world and then, as she says, Blu Skin Care came along — as a result of a message from God himself. So, you know we have to hear that story. But the Zondra party definitely does not stop with a skin care line. She is also a real live Hollywood based working actress, a certified personal trainer, an author, and a Sunday school teacher. Who says you have to do one thing all your life? Or even one thing at a time? Zondra manages to fit in all the fun and all the income streams simultaneously without missing a beat. As you'll enjoy learning in this episode, she Zondra pools the multiple aspects of her personality into a cohesive business whole. She manages to remain focused and productive on each project as she does it, avoiding the chaos many entrepreneurs face when they try to do more than one ting at a time. We discuss how she does that in this episode. Enjoy my interview with Zondra NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Basic introduction to Zondra and how her midwestern broadcast career led her to Hollywood. (starting at 2:40)How Hollywood led to Blu Skin Care, and a bit about the organic certificate process. (starting at 7:23)How Zondra explains to consumers the benefits of buying organic personal care products, including that her products must be edible in order to maintain her certified organic status. (starting at 17:22)Zondra shares how she combines all of her income streams into a cohesive whole using one social media outlet on Instagram. (starting at 21:06)Zondra speaks on the opportunities we all have now as multi-passionate entrepreneurs, and the importance of “no filter” social media. (And how she recently worked with one of the world's most well known entertainers.) (starting at 23:58)How Zondra pushed through the early years when customers were few and far between, and things were not moving fast enough. (starting at 28:00)The importance of identifying and embracing your “why.” (starting at 31:23)How Zondra identifies the physical venues where her products sell best. (starting at 32:05)How Zondra runs all of her business interests pretty much by herself. (starting at 33:45)Zondra does not work, and she makes more money selling books than she does in her skin care product business (starting at 37:15)What the future holds for Zondra and Blu Skin Care. (starting at 44:00)Zondra's words of wisdom and encouragement to help you be successful in your life as a multi-passionate entrepreneur, and the importance of failing fast. (starting at 45:59) Advice from @bluskincare: Find your people #makerstories #organicskincareClick To Tweet Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Zondra and I mentioned the following resources. Blu Skin Care online: Blu Skin Care LLCBlu Skin Care on Facebook: Blu Skin Care LLC on FacebookBlu Skin Care on Instagram: Blu Skin Care LLC on InstagramOrganic certification: CCOFEntertainer: Cardi BClothing line: FUBUPublicity: Help a Reporter (HARO)Zondra's and Keith's book: Faithful, Forty and Fabulously FitZondra's prayer journal: RestorationFitness instructor: Keith Bossier A few of the important entrepreneurial points Zondra and I discussed in this episode Create additional income streams from things you are already doing. Zondra reminds us that income can be found in places we might be prone to overlook. For example, as a fitness instructor, Zondra owned and maintained a treasure trove of intellectual property that she was not monetizing simply because she was not thinking about it. But when she felt led to write a book, she realized that the content was already there. All she had to do was organize it in a way that made sense. The project was actually easy because once she got started, the resources needed to complete the project literally appeared.Surround yourself with people who believe in you. People will often try to talk you out of what you feel in your heart that you want to do. Zondra says that if you have a dream, don't give it up. Her personal way of handling things is to stay in prayer a lot, so she can think things through from a spiritual perspective In this way, she never has to wonder whether she's doing the right thing for her — no matter what anyone else says.Make sure you love what you are doing. Zondra points out that you may not make a lot of money in your business in the early days, and if you don't love what you are doing, you'll end up frustrated and unhappy. Your love for your work will see you through those tough times so you can maxim

Welcome to Episode 65 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Joanne Voelcker of Mt. Airy Lavender in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Joanne started her lavender business after a long career in the financial services industry during which time she worked in Belgium. It was then that she fell in love with lavender so much that she decided she had to grow some herself. Joanne started Mt. Airy Lavender Farm just a few short years ago, and she already knows its where her long-term passion is. It's not just the business that she loves, or even the lavender. As you'll enjoy learning in this episode, it's also about the contribution she can make to her local community as she simultaneously preserves a farm that's been in her family for generations. Talk about having your heart in your business! Enjoy my interview with Joanne NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Basic introduction to Joanne and how her corporate career led her to lavender. (starting at 2:15) How Joanne's journey from hobbyist to business owner. (starting at 6:40) Joanne found a community of people who helped her learn what she needed to know to be successful. (starting at 11:28) How Joanne's business helps her preserve the family farm, and why this is important to her. (starting at 14:04) A bit about the lavender conference and the importance of being intentional about making your business complement your lifestyle. (starting at 14:44) The structure and systems that actually make the farm work. (starting at 17:10) Joanne shares some of the products in her line. (starting at 19:04) How farm events and workshops are the most popular offerings in Joanne's business. (starting at 21:46) Unpacking work-life balance. (starting at 25:30) What being Indie means to Joanne. (starting at 29:30) About the US Lavender Grower's Association. (starting at 32:45) Joanne's words of wisdom to help you be successful in your business. (starting at 37:39) Know what you want to accomplish in the long run, but focus day-to-day on mini-goals.Click To Tweet Joanne Voelker, Mt. Airy Lavender Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Joanne and I mentioned the following resources. Mt. Airy Lavender Farm online: Mt. Airy Lavender Farm Mt. Airy Lavender Farm on Facebook: Mt. Airy Lavender Farm on Facebook Mt. Airy Lavender Farm on Instagram: Mt. Airy Lavender Farm on Instagram Lavender association and conference: Lavender conference Here is a quick review of a few of the important entrepreneurial lessons Michael shared in this episode Don't let your business take over your lifestyle. Joanne works hard to protect her work/life balance. One of the reasons she does not want to open a retail store is that it would require her to be tied to a specific schedule, which she feels would take away form the kind of life she wants to live. By hosting periodic events at the farm, she gets the best of both worlds. She invites the community to come to events on a regular basis, but not on a basis that would require her to be open during times of the day when she would rather have her and her team focused on other things. The importance of processes. Joanne stressed the importance of processes. For example, from when to plant and harvest, to when to weed and water, Joanne has everything written down so routine processes can be tacked over and over again efficiently and without having to reinvent the wheel each time they need to perform the same task again. Celebrate your successes. Joanne reminded us of how important it is to celebrate every single success we enjoy, no matter how small. Instead of looking at a huge mountain you must climb, break things down into chunks or even quarters so you can jut go one step at a time. Joanne says that this approach not only keeps the ball moving forward, but it motivates her to continue. It also have the bonus effect of preventing her from becoming distracted with bright shiny objects that will impede her progress. Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Maker Stories: Episode 65: Joanne Voelcker of Mt. Airy Lavender [Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network

Welcome to Episode 64 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Michael McPolin of Birch & Main in Port Jefferson, New York. Michael has tons of professional experience in the retail world. When you combine that with his passion for shopping (he can't stop), it will be clear why his retail store is a huge success. Michael started his business in 2012. He quit working for other people's retail stores in 2016 to manage Birch & Main full-time. Michael is a self-described candle addict, so it's no wonder that the first product he made was candles. He says he burns candles all day and all night, regardless of the season or the temperature. He is fun to talk with and listen to. Michael has a lot to share about the importance of taking a “glass full” approach to your business. Settle in, light a candle (Caramel Nut Crunch please!), and take some notes. Enjoy my interview with Michael NOW! Click the arrow to enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Basic introduction to Michael and his rich background in the retail industry. (starting at 2:18) The “I have a dream” moment that propelled Michael to open a retail store. (starting at 5:24) Why Michael closed one of his two retail stores to focus on one store, group classes, and wholesale growth. (starting at 6:05) How Michael worked a full-time job and his own business for four full years, including how he views the sacrifices made. (starting at 6:44) How black spots on the ceiling in his home led to making and selling candles. (starting at 10:07) Michael's journey from making candles only, to adding other products like bar soap, body lotions and butters, and more. (starting at 13:29) Michael shares great tips and insights to help you create imagery that reflects your brand. (starting at 15:18) Why Michael decided to open a retail store. (starting at 17:47) The benefits of wholesale, and why you should consider wholesaling your products. (starting at 22:16) Why Michael does not rely on himself only to create new fragrances for his product lines. (starting at 24:45) Controlling some of the costs of managing a retail store, including using minimal packaging, taking out a personal loan, and engaging in deliberate planning. (starting at 27:35) What's on tap for the future of Birch & Main. (starting at 29:47) Michael's words of wisdom to help you be successful in your business. (starting at 33:01) Don't be afraid, if something's not working, to cut it loose and say BYE.Click To Tweet Michael McPolin, Birch & Main Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Michael and I mentioned the following resources. Birch & Main Candle online: Birch & Main Candle Birch & Main Candle on Instagram: Birch & Main Candle on Instagram Wholesale platform: Faire Wholesale platform: Stockabl Here is a quick review of a few of the important entrepreneurial lessons Michael shared in this episode Stay true to your brand. Michael shared how important it is to create a vision for your brand, and then stay true to that vision by reflecting it in the graphics and images you share on social media. Retail store ownership is an opportunity. Michael does not see local retail store ownership as “limiting” compared to selling online. In a retail store, he says, you can tell your story to your community and interact with real people. You can experience scented products together, and help buyers make the perfect purchase. Michael says that he is an integral part of the Birch & Main brand, and he loves to personally see his passion through the eyes of his customers. Wholesale: just do it. At first, it was difficult to sell individual products at a 50% discount to retail buyers, but once Michael did it, he says he never looked back. Wholesale forms the basis for more sales because stockists purchase over and over again, and their retail store customers allow you to introduce your brand to far more people than you could ever do on your own — even if you have a website and/or your own retail store. It's been worth it to Michael to give up the increased profit on each item sold for the return of more people buying his products in more places. You never know a chance is yours until you take it.Click To Tweet Michael McPolin, Birch & Main Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there

Welcome to Episode 63 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Kayla Fioravanti of Ology Essentials and Work+Shop Create outside Nashville, Tennessee. For many of you, this may be a re-introduction, since Kayla has been a guest on Indie Business Podcast a few years back when her business was going in a different direction. If you missed it, you can listen to that episode here. Today, Kayla is in the midst of a massive shift, and this episode will be useful to you if your business (and your life!) is encountering shifts of its own. I highly recommend that you listen to my previous interview with Kayla so you can get a really good foundation for how she got where she is today. Kayla is a serial entrepreneur, having sold one business several years ago, and then taking a little break while her children were in their early teen years, and today, launching two new brands at the same time. Kayla has a wealth of insight and experience, and she drops some really great golden nuggets in this episode. Enjoy my interview with Kayla NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Basic introduction to the brands Kayla is currently managing. (starting at 2:57) What does it feel like to raise a baby (your business), and then when someone else buys it, let it go completely, and what did Kayla do next? (starting at 7:00) Just because you had one successful business, does not mean you know how to build a brand new one in a different field. (starting at 12:00) How attending Maker Mastermind Live and going through the Indie Method helped Kayla begin to build her new brands. (starting at 14:00) A typical day in Kayla's life, and the things she does that are foundational and super important (hint: blogging, engaging via social media) . (starting at 16:00) Kayla's take on the importance of having a geographical physical component to your business, and how they all fit together and provide entrepreneurial leverage — each for the other. (starting at 20:00) Some things to consider when you enter into business partnerships. (starting at 28:00) Top mistakes new entrepreneurs make when they are getting started in business. (starting at 33:14) Tips for failing well. (starting at 38:26) Kayla shares what she sees on the horizon for Makers, Handmade, and Artisan Entrepreneurs. (starting at 42:40) Kayla's thoughts on the tension between “showing up personally” for your customers, and enjoying the freedom and flexibility that entrepreneurship produces in your life. (starting at 46:45) There is nothing wrong with failing in business. In fact, it's a really important part of being successful.Click To Tweet Kayla Fioravanti, Ology Essentials and Work+Shop Create Episode 62: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Kayla and I mentioned the following resources. Kayla's personal brand website: Kayla Fioravanti Kayla's aromatherapy website: Ology Essentials Kayla's retail store in Franklin, Tennessee: Work+Shop Create, visit at 1020 Westhaven Blvd., Franklin, Tennessee. Entrepreneurial training curriculum: Indie Method In-person entrepreneurial training: Maker Mastermind Live Business Kayla founded with her husband: Essential Wholesale Website designer: “Jennifer” at Eco-Office Gals Review of a few of the important entrepreneurial lessons Kayla shared in this episode Test new websites, and then test them again! I love Kayla's advice that we test, test, test, and then test again a new website before it goes live. Of course, there will always be something to fix … I've launched enough websites to know that … but the big things should not go sideways because you can test them in advance. Avoid a lot of new site launch hassle by over testing rather than under testing. Be teachable. Kayla mentioned that one of the main reasons why investors and buyers were interested in the business she sold a few years back is because she was genuine about the mistakes she had made in business. As Kayla said, no serious investor is going to be really interested in your brand if you have always done everything right. Failure allows you to show that you are teachable, and that you can bounce back when things don't go your way. And in business, we all know that things absolutely eventually do NOT go your way. Show up for your customers. Kayla shared the importance of showing up in person for your customers, and not just leaving engagement to automation or even qualified assistants. You cannot have meaningful conversations with your target audience if you are not there to lead the discussions and to guide them as they make buying decisions where your brand is concerned. Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If

Welcome to Episode 62 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Valerie Reed of Valana Minerals in Pahoa, Hawaii and San Diego, California. Valerie is the founder, CEO, and lead formulator at Valana Minerals where she creates vegan mineral makeup specifically for women of color. In addition to leading her business, Valerie is also a sociology professor at a California community college, plus she is the host of the newly introduced Unapologetic Rejuvenation retreat which she will host in July 2018. This episode builds upon our previous interview with Valerie from nearly four years ago where she shares how she started her business. If you have not listened to that, you might want to do so before diving into this one. In this episode, you'll hear how Valerie has expanded her business over the past four years. Enjoy my interview with Valerie NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Valerie shares how where she lives positively impacts her overall personality and how she expresses herself. (starting at 2:50) Valerie brings us up to date on how she has expanded her business, including how she overcame the depression and “exhaustion to her soul” that resulted from overwhelm and the temptation to close her business. (starting at 7:30) A bit about the process Valerie used to release the stronghold of depression, including rediscovering her artistic side, and emerge with a new enthusiasm for her business. (starting at 9:48) The gradual process Valerie went through to recapture herself, including delegating more, and how she ultimately decided not to close Valana Minerals. (starting at 13:34) The birth of Valerie's business and life coaching services. (starting at 15:24) A bit about how Valerie runs her business, including employees and contractors who help her make her products and how she divides her time between Valana Minerals and her job as a college professor. (starting at 18:24) Valerie's advice for entrepreneurs who want to maintain their businesses and their traditional jobs.(starting at 21:39) A bit about the Unapologetic Rejuvenation Retreat. (starting at 26:00) As an entrepreneur, you've got to take care of your business without wearing yourself down personally.Click To Tweet Valerie Reed, Valana Minerals Episode 62: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, Valerie and I mentioned the following resources. Valerie's website: Valana Minerals Retreat: Unapologetic Rejuvenation Retreat Social media: Valana Minerals on Persicope Valerie's business coaching certification: Dr. Steve G. Jones, Ed.D Master business coaching certification Valerie's life coaching certification: Dr. Steve G. Jones, Ed.D Master Life Coaching Certification Review of a few of the important entrepreneurial lessons Valerie shared in this episode Give yourself the freedom to evolve. Valerie's journey stresses how important it is to pay attention to your life and your business in ways that advance both without tearing yourself down personally. She talked about her husband's illness and how she had to change the way she handled circumstances in her full-time job so she could assess whether her life had space for her business any longer. When she decided that it did, it was only because she made some tough decisions. And that leads us to … Make required changes without adversely impacting relationships. Valerie shared the importance of becoming skilled at saying “no,” in ways that promote clarity without doing unnecessary damage to existing relationships. The example she gave in the interview was great, and you can edit that for your particular purposes. Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Maker Stories: Episode 62: Valerie Reed of Valana Minerals [Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 61 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to D'Shawn Russell of Southern Elegance Candle Company in Raeford, North Carolina. D'Shawn, a teacher by trade, started making candles as appreciation gifts for her co-workers. Everyone raved about them, so she started selling them at the local farmer's market and craft shows. After teaching for 20 years, D'Shawn experienced a brief but life-changing conversation with her school principal that confirmed she'd had “enough.” She quit her job shortly thereafter, and began making and selling her candles full-time. In this episode, you'll hear D'Shawn tell her Maker Story in her own words, plus you'll hear all about how she used grit and determination to secure her first studio space — the only one available in her entire county. One of the best things about this episode is the get-it-done entrepreneurial mindset D'Shawn displays. As she shares her experiences and how she makes business decisions, you'll see exactly how her approach has helped to propel her business to great success in just two years. Enjoy my interview with D'Shawn NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: D'Shawn shares the story of how she started her business, including transitioning from her full-time teacher job to selling her handmade candles at local farmer's markets and craft shows. (starting at 2:50) Why D'Shawn tells people not to quit their day jobs. (starting at 7:30) How D'Shawn has organized her product line. (starting at 9:48) How the Southern Elegance Candle Co. sales strategy has evolved from the “shotgun approach” to one that is more selective. (starting at 13:34) D'Shawn shares her Amazon selling experience, and what she recommends you consider in terms of where you sell your products. (starting at 15:24) D'Shawn shares what guides all of her business decisions. (starting at 18:24) D'Shawn shares how she hired her first employees. (starting at 21:39) From a single wide trailer to a retail office maker space. (starting at 26:00) D'Shawn shares that she is determined, plowing forward even in her county, which is economically depressed (starting at 27:37) The importance of family support (starting at 30:39) D'Shawn is grateful for the options she is able to make in her life and her business. (starting at 33:56) Why D'Shawn is not interested in opening a retail store, and what is on the horizon for Southern Elegance Candle Co. (starting at 39:51) About the fur coat and the convertible Jaguar (starting at 41:25) D'Shawn's limited edition holiday scents (starting at 43:00) It is hard work. It is worth it. I am sticking with it, says @dshawnr about her candle business.Click To Tweet D'Shawn Russell, Southern Elegance Candle Company Episode 61: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, D'Shawn and I mentioned the following resources. D'Shawn's website: Southern Elegance online D'Shawn's Instagram: Southern Elegance on Instagram Online shop: Etsy Online megastore: Amazon Ecommerce platform: Shopify D'Shawn's county: Hoke County A business decision is good, until it's not. (via @secandleco)Click To Tweet D'Shawn Russell, Southern Elegance Candle Company Summary of D'Shawn's tips for Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs Decide to do it, and then figure out how you'll actually do it later. In business, you have to make decisions without knowing how you'll carry them out. D'Shawn shared that the most important thing is to just decide. The details will come later. Gather your supporters. Know what your supporters are good at and what they are willing to do to help you, and leverage that. Don't let your business take over your life. if your business it taking over too much of your personal life, ti does not have t. I don't need a multi company if that means I have to sac my relationship with my husband and my son. You don't have to explain yourself. Do what is best for you at any give time in your life and your business. You don't have to explain your decisions to anyone else. If you serve pizza three days in a rose because that's what works, then do that. There's no right way to do it. There's only what works for you, your family, and your business. This is my race, and I'm going to run it the best way I know how. (via @dshawnr)Click To Tweet D'Shawn Russell, Southern Elegance Candle Company Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rat

Welcome to Episode 60 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Sierra Zamarripa of Lovewild Design in New York, New York. Sierra grew up in the East Village outside her parents' antique shop. Her entrepreneurial instincts were first honed by keeping herself busy doing things like offering shoe shine services in front of the store, or selling 1980's costume jewelry and milk shakes to passersby. Sierra's grandmother, a native of Mexico, was also an entrepreneur who sold nylons and handmade scarves, and eventually became an esthetician. Sierra has joined her ancestors on a fun entrepreneurial journey, and as a mother, today, she's passing the torch to her young baby daughter. You'll learn all about that and more in this episode, which is also filled with Sierra's tips and insights to help you be more successful on your entrepreneurial journey. Enjoy my interview with Sierra NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Sierra shares the story of how she started her business, including how her family's business inspired her. (starting at 3:23)Why we are seeing more people embracing an entrepreneurial lifestyle these days. (starting at 7:05)The story of the Lovewild Design brand. (starting at 8:59)What it was like for Sierra to part ways with a business partner, and her tips to navigate similar situations well. (starting at 11:55)Sierra's experiences with Renegade Craft. (starting at 13:52)Sierra shares her product line, including experiences and tips for offering customized products for your customers. (starting at 16:28)Sierra discusses details associated with her business planning process. (starting at 20:06)The cool story of how Sierra opened her retail space. (starting at 26:57)What it's like to work with your mom and your baby daughter. (starting at 32:51)How Sierra sells her products: retail, wholesale, in-store, shows, etc. (starting at 36:30)What Sierra sees on the horizon for Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs (starting at 40:23)Sierra's best advice to get your business started on the right foot. (starting at 42:02) Here are the custom plantable seed coins Sierra made for my signature Indie Cruise Retreat this year. Here is Sierra and her sweet mom and daughter, both of whom work with her in her business. That's three generations of entrepreneurial women!! How awesome is that? Episode 60: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, we mentioned the following resources, or, in the case of many of the certifications, Lisa provided links after the podcast was recorded, so you would have access to all of the wonderful resources Sierra has used to build out her impressive resume. Social media: InstagramMaker show: Renegade Craft Fair: BrooklynBoutique business conference with Donna Maria: Maker Mastermind LiveRetreat: Indie CruiseRetail store: Home Goods Plan your business according to what works for you. (via @lovewilddesign)Click To Tweet Visit Lovewild Design and maybe even meet Sierra in person at her shop located at 348 South Fourth Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211. The hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 11 to 5 (but Sierra says you are likely to catch them there at other times as well). Summary of Sierra's Tips for Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs Business collaborations don't have to last forever. Sierra told us about how she and her former business partner parted ways. She said that the circumstances were a little “tricky,” but over time, things evened themselves out. Her former partner now helps in her business from time to time. Sierra was honest about how she felt the business partnership was not working for her, and this honesty helped her transition in the friendship without losing it altogether. Plan your business according to what works for you. Sierra described her business planning process as, well, not so much planning. When she has a new idea, she tests it as soon as possible, and learns quickly whether or not the new product will fly. If it does, she keeps the product … and if usually does! Make customization efficient Sierra advises that, if you customize products, make the customization process efficient. For example, make sure you have a template for whatever you offer. In Sierra's case, you can only get one shape, or one color, and so forth, so the actual customization does not require layers of different processes. Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my sh

Welcome to Episode 59 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Dawn Fitch of Pooka Pure and Simple in Newark, New Jersey. While employed as a professional graphics artist nearly 20 years ago, Dawn received a health diagnosis that caused her to change her life. Along with her diet, she decided to alter the types of bath and body products she used. With the encouragement of her friends, she started making products for herself. Eventually, she set up a booth at a local show and what do you know? She sold out of everything. Since at the time, Dawn had been laid off at her corporate job, it was the perfect time to dive in to see if she could birth a real business. And so she did! You can get the rest of the story in today's episode. You'll learn all about that and more in this episode, which is also filled with Dawn's tips to help you be more successful on your entrepreneurial journey. Enjoy my interview with Dawn NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Dawn shares the story of how she started her business, including transitioning from the traditional work world to her own business. (starting at 2:47) Growing your life as you also grow your business, according to Dawn. (starting at 8:16) Dawn's thoughts on integrating your business and your personal brand. (starting at 10:17) What Pooka stands for. (starting at 18:08) Dawn shares the ins and outs of her rebrand, including the vendors she used and recommends. (starting at 22:13) Dawn's social media video strategy. (starting at 34:00) How Dawn successfully integrates her business and her personal brands online. (starting at 38:20) How Dawn sells her products: retail, wholesale, and in her New Jersey showroom. (starting at 41:17) Developing my personal brand has opened up revenue streams and opportunities. (via @pookalita)Click To Tweet Dawn Fitch, Pooka Pure and Simple Episode 59: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, we mentioned the following resources. Book: Making Aromatherapy Creams and Lotions Personal brand: Martha Stewart Book: The Martha Rules Graphic art and design company: Artoholiks Printing company: Lightning Labels Containers and packaging company: Containers and Packaging Social media site: Instagram Instagram Boomerang video app on iTunes: Boomerang Instagram Boomerang video app on Google Play: Boomerang Indie Business Network member: La Shonda Tyree of Nyah Beauty Indie Business Network member: Scarlett Rocourt of WonderCurl Dawn's products: Pooka Pure and Simple Dawn's personal website: Dawn Fitch Authenticity helps you grow your brand and makes business ownership more fun. (via @pookalita)Click To Tweet Dawn Fitch, Pooka Pure and Simple Summary of Dawn's Tips for Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs Use video snippets to tell your brand story. Dawn confirmed what we all know. People love video, and today, you can turn your smart phone into a storytelling machine. If you enjoy using video to tell your story, you may not need to plan things out very far in advance. If recording and posting videos is not one of your favorite things to do, you may need to be more regimented just to make sure it gets done. Make sure you have some kind of system in place to connect with the people who are most likely to purchase your products. Don't stress over your weaknesses. Dawn said that she did not have her rebrand launch activities perfectly lined up months in advance because her personality is not quite that rigid. Project management is not her strength. She simply knew what she had to do, gave herself the time to do it, and rolled things out slowly, one logical step at a time. This prevented her from stressing out unnecessarily, and she still got the job done by focus on what she's really good at: engaging her customers and having a good time. Inject your personal brand into your business brand. Dawn says that making sure her customers enjoy a bit of the real her as a part of their product buying experience has served her well. She's careful to keep the brand separate, but the benefits of maintaining both of them far outweigh any of the potential drawbacks. Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, T

Welcome to Episode 58 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today's Maker Story introduces you to Lisa Wynne Salvatore of Purely Lisa in Greenwich, Connecticut. Lisa has 9 certifications in the natural arts arena, and her Connecticut-based offices provide in-person services to help women achieve and maintain health from the inside out. Lisa's product business is a natural deodorant, which as you'll hear, has been certified by the Clemson University Organic Certification Program. You'll learn all about that and more in this episode, which is also filled with Lisa's tips to help you be more successful on your entrepreneurial journey. Enjoy my interview with Lisa NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Lisa shares her love for all things natural, starting at the age of 16 with influence from her runway model mother, and how she combined it all into a business. (starting at 2:33) How and why Lisa formed her business, and why she focuses exclusively on one single product, Pure Pitz. (starting at 8:33) How Lisa is evolving from wholesale only to adding more retail and direct to consumer sales via her website and social media, and video in particular. (starting at 16:18) How a “trial and error” approach has worked for Lisa over the years. (starting at 21:01) A bit about the organic certification process through the Clemson University Organic Certification Program (not the USDA), and the difference between the USDA certification and the one Pure Pitz has from Clemson University. (starting at 22:08) Lisa's first steps to take when mapping out your product line. (starting at 29:41) Lisa discusses whether to invest resources to associate your products with some kind of certification. (starting at 30:16) More discussion of the benefits of selling direct to consumers, and how Lisa is using video and humor to reach people on a personal level about body odor … a very personal matter. (starting at 31:12) The importance of multiple income streams, and what Lisa's are. (starting at 35:40) Lisa's advice for new entrepreneurs, and her words of encouragement for Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs. (starting at 38:01) Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you love. - Rumi (via @purepitz)Click To Tweet Lisa Wynne Salvatore, Purely Lisa Episode 57: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, we mentioned the following resources, or, in the case of many of the certifications, Lisa provided links after the podcast was recorded, so you would have access to all of the wonderful resources Lisa has used to build out her impressive resume. Nutrition certification: Institute for Integrative Nutrition Massage therapy certification: Swedish Institute of Massage Therapy Health and nutrition counseling certification: Columbia University Teachers College Fellowship: Institute for Human Individuality Book: Eat Right 4 Your Type Meditation certification: McLean Meditation Institute Aromatherapy certification: Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy USDA organic certification program: USDA National Organic Certification program Organic certification program: Clemson University Organic Certification program Entrepreneurial reality show: Shark Tank Entrepreneurial news: Amazon's purchase of Whole Foods Market Lisa's deodorant: Pure Pitz Consulting with Lisa: Email Lisa at purelylisa [at] gmail.com It's important to sell direct to your customers, that's going to be the way of the future.Click To Tweet Lisa Wynne Salvatore, Purely Lisa Summary of Lisa's Tips for Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs Find the intersection of your passion and what resonates with your customers. Lisa says that there's no way to be success in anything if you are not wholly passionate about it. She has combined who she is as a person with a desire to create a product that people can purchase and use over and over again. She also has numerous manufacturing efficiencies built into her business. Find those wherever you can as well. Earn a certification that's important to your customers If something is important to your customers, there is probably a meaningful certification for it. Seek them out and see if one of them could complement your brand message and increase consumer trust as you market your products. Sell directly to your customers to tell your story While Lisa says that wholesale is a big part of her business, she is boosting her online direct to consumer sales because it's the only way she feels she can really stand out in a crowded market these days. After spending a lot of money on things like search engine optimization services, and getting practically no return, Lisa says that using video on Facebook and Instagram is one of the best ways to make trustworthy connections with her customers Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to b

Welcome to Episode 57 of the Indie Business Podcast! In this episode, I'll introduce you to Danielle Vincent of Outlaw Soaps in Colfax, California. Danielle started her business five years ago when she became restless at her job at the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). Restless though she was, she's the first to acknowledged that the digital marketing and business planning experiences she enjoyed at OWN have proven to be extremely valuable to her at Outlaw Soaps today. Danielle sells her products on her branded website, and also at Whole Foods Markets. She has also invested considerable resources in selling on Amazon. This episode treats you to a behind-the-scenes look at how Danielle and Russ, her business partner husband, keep things humming in their business. It's also chock full of resources and tips you can use on your own entrepreneurial journey. Enjoy my interview with Danielle NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Danielle shares her startup story, and how being challenged and wanting a different type of life took her from OWN to Outlaw Soaps. (starting at 2:37)Danielle shares the methodological product development approach she uses at Outlaw Soaps, which includes things like market evaluation, understanding product development costs, identifying specific selling criteria, stock forecasting, and classifying scent profiles. (starting at 6:09)Danielle describes the Outlaw Soaps subscription options. (starting at 10:20)Why “It's not ‘sales' if you really mean it,” and this is brilliant, so don't miss it. (starting at 13:41) It's not 'sales' if you really mean it.Click To Tweet It's not 'sales' if you really mean it.' quote='It's not 'sales' if you really mean it. - Danielle Vincent of Outlaw SoapsClick To Tweet Where Danielle sells Outlaw Soaps products, by “finding her right customers wherever they are,” including why she sells her products on Amazon which Danielle says is “on its way to taking over the world.” (starting at 18:23)What it's like to work with your spouse. (starting at 24:41)How Danielle hired her first employees, simply by sharing her brand story. (starting at 28:20)Danielle's thoughts on the mindset needed to be successful as an entrepreneur. (starting at 35:50)How responsibilities and tasks are divided between Danielle, Russ (her husband-business partner), and their employees. (starting at 40:06)How Danielle markets her business. (starting at 41:58)Why we live in the best time for entrepreneurs, and also, spear fishing. (starting at 46:46)What social media outlets work best for Danielle's business, and how she uses them. (starting at 47:42)Why Danielle decided to pay more for Shopify than less for other e-commerce platforms, and the importance of focusing on net return on investment. (starting at 49:20)What's on the horizon for Danielle and Outlaw Soaps, including some upcoming books. (starting at 52:00) The faster you go from 'Oh No!' to 'How is this an opportunity?,' the better off you are.Click To Tweet Danielle Vincent, Outlaw Soaps Episode 57: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: Outlaw Soaps website: Outlaw SoapsUpcoming book: Danielle's Inner Unicorn WorkbookConsultant: Lucky Break ConsultingBoutique business conference with Donna Maria: Maker Mastermind LiveSoapmaking business training: Modern SoapmakingSoapmaking workshop: Central Soapers WorkshopBook: To Sell Is Human: by Daniel Pink, available in the Indie Business Book StoreBook: Good to Great by Jim Collins, available in the Indie Business Book StoreChildren's toy BB gun: Red Rider BB gunNatural foods distributor: UNFIDigital marketing app for Shopify: Kit Our email list has the consistent highest return on investment of any marketing activity.Click To Tweet Danielle Vincent, Outlaw Soaps Summary of Danielle's Tips for a Maker Business Success Find your customers wherever they are   Danielle says that her customers are focused on buying online, and most of them buy everything on Amazon. As a result, she is committed to selling on Amazon. Your customers may buy elsewhere. It's your job to figure that out, and then go where they are to sell your products. Newsletter • Newsletter • Newsletter   Danielle mentioned that her newsletter drives more sales than anything else. If you don't have one, get one. Now. Today. Keep your eye on your net return on investment   It's so important not to focus solely on the short term gains that result from any particular daily business activity. Danielle talked about how she made the decision to commit to a more expensive online platform, rather than a less expensive one, because she was looking at the long term benefits of doing so, and not just a

Welcome to Episode 56 of the Indie Business Podcast! In this episode, I'll introduce you to Hassan Sayyed of Haus Urban and Creative Hustle Podcast. As you listen to Hassan share his story, it's easy to see how he is a natural fit for a career in the performing arts. You'll also get the sense that, for Hassan, one single career path is not enough. Hassan has fully embraced his natural gift of gab, using it to drive his brand in multiple outlets, each of which complements the other. In this episode, Hassan shares how he uses his personal brand to attract, entertain, and influence his target audience to purchase his products. You'll also get some tips for how you can leverage who you are to sell more of your products. Enjoy my interview with Hassan NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, interspersed with some of Hassan's best Tweetables, and with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: Hassan shares how his “gift of gab” as a child paved the way to his life as a performing artist on stage and screen, and the injury that led to him creating his first handmade cosmetic product. (starting at 2:58) Things people tease you about when you're a child are your super powers when you become an adult.Click To Tweet Hassan Sayyed, Haus Urban and Creative Hustle Podcast Hassan's “aha” moment, when he began to see the business opportunity and a target market in professional performers. (Listen carefully to how well he knows his audience, and to how he identified his target *before* he started creating products for them.) (starting at 7:27) The clever meaning behind the Haus Urban brand name. (starting at 10:48) The natural intersection between who Hassan his, his life background, and his business, and how he uses his story to sell more of his products. Hint: “I'm not selling cosmetics. I'm selling hope and encouragement.” (starting at 12:58) I'm not selling products. I'm selling hope and encouragement.Click To Tweet Hassan Sayyed, Haus Urban and Creative Hustle Podcast Some of the challenges Hassan has overcome in his entrepreneurial journey. (starting at 13:01) A key to success for Hassan has been embracing his position as “the authority,” and how you can do the same. (starting at 14:41) As an entrepreneur, you must learn how to enroll people in your vision.Click To Tweet Hassan Sayyed, Haus Urban and Creative Hustle Podcast Why your “why” is more important than whatever it is you sell, and how you circulate that message in an efficient and cost effective way using social media. (starting at 17:19) About the Haus Bunnies. (starting at 19:06) How Hassan uses social media, mainly Instagram, YouTube and Twitter, to grow his brand. (Don't miss the part where Hassan says he spends a lot of time “laughing, and cracking jokes and being outraged” on Twitter.) (starting at 21:42) Sales is just a conversation. You have to be willing to show up and have conversations. (starting at 26:09) About the Creative Hustle Podcast, which Hassan says is a “really great brunch party”! (starting at 28:00) About I Been Drinkin', and how he uses the show to help his customers get to know him without feeling like they have to buy something. (starting at 28:00) Episode 56: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: Entrepreneurial training: Maker Mastermind Live Experience Social media: Instagram Social media: Twitter Book: Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck: Available in the Indie Business Book Store Summary of Hassan's Tips for Your Business Success Know your whyAs Hassan said, you didn't just wake up on morning and decide to make something. There's a story there, a real experience, and sharing that with others is one of the ways you will positively influence people to purchase your products. Use social mediaHassan said that social media is the best way to get your message out there today. He loves Instagram in particular for how visual it is. He also uses Twitter and Youtube to have conversations and have fun with other people without making them feel like he's trying to sell them something all the time. Be the authorityHassan said that until he embraced his position as the authority on the topic of cosmetics products for people who perform, he found it difficult to position his products for natural sales opportunities. I love how he relates to people by allowing them to see themselves in his story. I was the expert because I decided that I was.Click To Tweet Hassan Sayyed, Haus Urban and Creative Hustle Podcast Connect with Hassan Sayeed of Haus Urban and Creative Hustle Podcast Visit Hassan Sayeed of Haus Urban and Creative Hustle Podcast at his Haus Urban site and Creative Hustle Podcast site. You can also follow him on Twitter and Instagram for a good time. And be s

Welcome to Episode 55 of the Indie Business Podcast! In this episode, I'll introduce you to Paul Chambers of The Gentleman's Box and The Subscription Summit. A few years back, through his web design company, Paul was asked to design a website for a subscription box company. Seeing more than just a website design gig, Paul offered to design the site in exchange for part ownership in the box. Today, the Gentleman's Box, reaches thousands of subscribers in several countries, with grooming, apparel and lifestyle supplies for the modern gentleman. In this episode of Indie Business Podcast, Paul shares details about how The Gentleman's Box works, and also offers tips to help you manage a profitable and fun subscription box business. He also shares his upcoming event, the Subscription Summit, and why you should go if you are interested in succeeding in your subscription box business. Enjoy my interview with Paul NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Podcast Episode Show Notes Here are the topics discussed in this episode, with time stamps to help you find the information that most interests you: How The Gentleman's Box started with a simple web design gig, and how the Subscription Summit evolved out of that. (starting at 2:45) Paul shares his view about the rise of subscription boxes as a business model, starting with Birch Box and other examples experiencing rapid growth, and how subscription boxes are changing how consumers shop. (starting at 5:40) Two types of product-based subscription boxes: curated and repeat purchase, and the growth of customized box experiences. (starting at 8:04) How micro companies can create recurring revenue from their most popular products. (starting at 10:50) Look at the unit economics of your subscription box idea, and a few places where you can cut costs by building out your first five boxes first. (starting at 14:09) What are the best ways to spread the word about your subscription box? (Facebook, Instagram, and influencer marketing) (starting at 16:38) Creating the best customer experience through email, texting, Facebook messenger, etc. (starting at 17:51) How to forge relationships with influencers, including negotiating to get the best win/win situation. (starting at 18:50) How to encourage buyers to share their box experience on social media, including giveaways, using hash tags and challenges to create awareness and encourage social connectedness. (starting at 20:29) What sort of marketing collateral should you put in your subscription box? (starting at 22:05) How do you handle subscriber burnout and subscription cancellations? (starting at 23:47) Innovating by giving your boxes a monthly personality or theme. (starting at 25:14) How do you pitch yourself for a box, and what are the biggest turnoffs? (starting at 26:20) “The Gentleman's Council” focus group (starting at 27:06) Tips for curating relationships with product suppliers and other partners (starting at 28:00) Why The Gentleman's Box did fulfillment in-house, then outsourced it, then brought it back in-house using a local non-profit that employs mentally and physically handicapped individuals to do box fulfillment (starting at 29:46) Summarizing the steps that need to be taken and the hats that need to be worn, from start to finish, to get a subscription box out the door (starting at 31:07) About the The Subscription Summit (starting at 33:43) Summary of tips for a successful subscription box (starting at 37:40) If you build a good product, and truly care about what you are doing, people will share it.Click To Tweet Paul Chambers, The Gentleman's Box and the Subscription Summit Episode 55: Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: Mastermind opportunity: Maker Mastermind Live: Boston Subscription box conference: Subscription Summit Subscription box: The Gentlemen's Box Subscription box: Birch Box Subscription box: Hello Fresh Subscription box: Blue Apron Recurring billing app for Shopify: ReCharge for Shopify Recurring billing app for BigCommerce: PayWhirl for BigCommerce Subscription box: Cratejoy Custom boxes in lower quantities: Pack Lane Customer relationship software in the cloud: Zendesk Male grooming influencer: Alpha M Red swimsuit incident: The Instagram promotion that was so successful that it failed Distribution center: Ascendia Distribution center: Fostdick Fulfillment An Indie Business Network Member in the Gentleman's Box Check out one of our members, AJ Murray's, and their Kentucky Bourbon Lotion, featured in the May 2017 Gentleman's Box! Summary of Paul's Tips for a Successful Subscription Box Lay out your boxes first: Take the guesswork out by ironing out all the kinks in advance. Use a spreadsheet or even physical box prototypes if you'd like — whatever works for you to get your proposed subscription box totally laid out in advance. Run your numbers: Make sure you have a solid profit margin or a plan to get to o

Welcome to Episode 54 of the Indie Business Podcast! This time, it's just me. No guest, and I have something fun and exciting to share with you today. Indie Business Podcast has helped so many people gain the skills and confidence, and enjoy the mentoring, they need to be successful as Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs. My listeners tell me they love the format, and they look forward to each episode. So what's up with the changes? I'll tell you in this episode, and I think you're going to like it. But first, a quick word about change. I rarely, if ever, try to make things change. What I notice in my life is that change becomes necessary. In other words, the circumstances of life are always shifting, and if I stay the same in the midst of those shifts, I become stagnant and bored. (And probably also boring …) Change is hard on the front end. It's work to sit still and think about what is happening, notice the patterns and shifts, create a plan that embraces and maximizes those shifts, and then execute that plan. It's even a long sentence. But if you're thoughtful and intentional about responding to change, you always come out ahead in the long run. I'm putting my money where my mouth is on this one. Things are going great with the Indie Business Podcast, yet I am changing it — not because I want to or planned to, but because the new shifts call for it. Here are three ways the Indie Business Podcast will change. You can listen or you can scroll down to read. Let's get started. Click the arrow to listen NOW! If you're intentional about responding to change, you always come out ahead in the long run.Click To Tweet Donna Maria Coles Johnson, Indie Business Network Episode Show Notes A short bit of the history of the Indie Business Podcast, since 2005. (starting at 2:50) Indie Business Podcast is going back to its roots, interviewing authors and speakers who are experts in a field that can help your business grow. (starting at 4:45) Why I am making this change. (starting at 4:57) The difference between the Indie Business Podcast and the new Maker Mastermind Show. (starting at 6:03) Yes, I'm a little nervous, and want your feedback. (starting at 7:57) Episode 54: Resources in this Episode Maker Mastermind Live: Live event for Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs Podcast archive: Binge on lots of my episodes at this link Featured Maker Mastermind Show guest: Adoratherapy Maker Mastermind Show Co-host: Christine Laureano of Ba6 Marketing Live video on Facebook: Facebook Live Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on share on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Episode 54: Exciting Changes at Indie Business Podcast! [Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 53 of the Indie Business Podcast! In this episode, I introduce you to Briar Winters of Marble & Milkweed in New York City. Briar launched her business in 2010 after a career as a pastry chef in a Manhattan hotel. The tagline for Briar's business is “analog beauty,” a mindset that very much represents the simplicity and elegance of her handmade products. On Indie Business Podcast, Briar shares about how she manages her business, including why she chose Squarespace to host her website, and why she insists on making each and every product herself. You'll love hearing a little about Briar's approach to entrepreneurship, and how she has formed a beautiful collaboration with other like-minded entrepreneurs to support and uplift each other personally and professionally. Enjoy my interview with Briar NOW! Click the Arrow to Enjoy the Indie Business Pocast Episode Show Notes The inspiration for the Marble & Milkweed brand. (starting at 2:21) How Briar transitioned from her chef career with the support of her foodie colleagues, by doing part-time work and freelance projects. (starting at 5:07) The story of “marble & milkweed” as a brand name, and how intuitive the naming process was for Briar. (starting at 9:32) How Briar uses imagery to reflect her brand message and story. (starting at 14:25) Briar shares the Plant Fam community, and how it came together to share sources and encourage and cross promote each other's businesses. (starting at 15:30) Briar's favorite Instagram editing tools, and her approach to Instagram and social media in general. (starting at 20:05) The website design and hosting platforms Briar has chosen, and why. (starting at 22:48) Why Briar makes every product she sells, and has no employees or interns. (starting at 24:50) How Briar continues to define her life on her own terms, controlling her business growth, and resisting what she calls the “pressure to conform to a certain trajectory in your business,” yet manages to have her products in woman-owned retail stores nationwide — and in Australia too! (starting at 25:55) How Briar has pared down her product line, which allows her to focus on seasonal items and limited editions. (starting at 29:44) What is “analog beauty?” (starting at 33:34) Briar's best selling product. (starting at 36:43) Briar's words of encouragement to Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs. (starting at 38:16) What being Indie means to Briar. (starting at 39:36) “ Indie means experiencing freedom about what my life is like, and how I can direct that process.Click To Tweet ” Briar Winters of Marble & Milkweed Episode 53: Resources in this Episode Recommended image editor: VSCO on for iOS devices and Android Community: PlantFam. (More on building community around your brand). Website platforms: Squarespace and Shopify Social media scheduler: HootSuite Social media management: Sprout Social Social media management: Sprout Social Etsy site: Marble & Milkweed on Esty Blog post resource: 6 Keys to Going Big in Business Without Growing Big in Business Marble & Milkweed best seller: 6 Cardamon Butter Connect with Briar and Marble & Milkweed Visit Briar and Marble & Milkweed at her website, like her on Facebook, and follow her on Instagram. Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to binge listen to previous episodes, you can do that here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Episode 53: Briar Winters of Marble & Milkweed [Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 52 of the Indie Business Podcast! In this episode, I introduce you to Nieves Rathbun of By Nieves in Petrolia, California. Nieves's business started out of an unexplainable passion for skincare products and perfume. She describes her brand as a kind vintage, but also modern, and she's done an exquisite job of creating a special niche for herself at shows and in Indie boutiques and spas in cities around the country. You'll love hearing a little about Nieves' approach to entrepreneurship, and how she did not have a big and grand plan when she started out. She describes her growth as organic, and she grew a little at a time by selling a few things, then buying a few supplies, then selling a few more things, and then buying a few more supplies. You'll also benefit from the mindset tips Nieves offers to help you embrace and appreciate the intersection between who you are as a person and who you are as an entrepreneur. Enjoy my interview with Nieves NOW! Listen to the Audio Episode Show Notes The inspiration for the By Nieves brand. (starting at 2:19) How Nieves saw a need in the market, and how she began to fill that need, starting with sharing a body balm with friends. (starting at 5:34) How Nieves started selling her products starting with salons and spas, and moving to craft fairs, which Nieves describes as “a great marketing opportunity.” (starting at 7:00) How Nieves knew where she wanted to sell her products at the very beginning of her business, even though she didn't have a “real grand plan,” and how “every baby step informed the next step.” (starting at 8:21) How Nieves moved from San Francisco to The Lost Coast, and the challenges of living “in the boonies.” (starting at 9:45) How the By Nieves is a lifestyle brand, and how her products (one in particular) tells a beautiful story. (starting at 12:06) Nieves shares how to build your business in a way that conveys real meaning into the heart of your customer, including overcoming the fear of selling your unique self. (starting at 15:11) Nieves tips on building a show booth that stands out, using what appeals to you and combining your style with things you notice and like at other shows. (starting at 17:54) How the intersection between your personal brand and your business brand creates the momentum you need to authentically pursue what success means to you. (starting at 23:03) How Nieves is taking some of her personal time back at this stage in her life and business. (starting at 26:31) How Nieves decides which shows to do and which ones to skip, and how she has scaled back on events. (starting at 26:58) How Nieves divides up income streams: shows, wholesale, online retail. (starting at 28:11) The value of selling your products in person. (starting at 29:20) Using entrepreneurship as your own personal confidence training ground, and how this translates into increased success. (starting at 31:50) The hardest part of managing business today. (starting at 33:05) “Your business and your brand have a life of their own now,” and how that feels to Nieves. (starting at 34:40) The hardest part about living on the Lost Coast. (starting at 34:40) Nieves' favorite tech tool (and you will love this) (starting at 37:43) What being Indie mean to Nieves. (starting at 38:07) “ I can have as small a niche as I want, and it's still a lot of people.Click To Tweet ” Nieves Rathbun of By Nieves Connect with Nieves of By Nieves Visit Nieves and By Nieves at her website, like her on Facebook, and follow her on Instagram. Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to listen to previous episodes, you can find them here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Episode 52: Nieves Rathbun of By Nieves [Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

Welcome to Episode 51 of the Indie Business Podcast! In this episode, I introduce you to Mike Neustrom of Prairie Lavender Farm in Bennington, Kansas, and of the United States Lavender Growers Association. Mike's lavender business is an outgrowth of a promise to his wife to settle wherever she wanted, after he ended a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Navy. Their destination was near her hometown, and after he got there, Mike needed “something to do.” The next thing you know … he's a lavender farmer. (Of course!) Over the years, Mike continued to see a need to support and promote lavender as an official “crop” in the United States, and to connect “lavender-preneurs” in a more formal way. Along with some of his lavender producing colleagues, he launched the United States Lavender Growers Association, and today, he serves as its president. In this episode, Mike talks about how lavender is grown and harvested in this country, and how you can become involved as a grower, producer, or just a lover of lavender. You'll also hear how you can meet Mike and me at their upcoming lavender conference in Mesa, Arizona, where I'll be speaking on the topic of Effective Marketing Strategies in an Age of Too Much Technology. If you'll be there, leave a comment below so I can be sure try to meet you personally. Enjoy my interview with Mike NOW! Listen to the Audio Episode Show Notes The beginnings of Prairie Lavender Farm and a bit about how lavender is grown and harvested. (starting at 3:30) Mike's pre-lavender life, and how he stumbled upon the idea that he should start a lavender farm. (How hard could it be, right?) (starting at 4:35) Mike shares about trends in American farming generally, and lavender in particular. (starting at 8:05) How Mike organizes harvesting and manufacturing at Prairie Lavender Farm, including his annual lavender festival. (starting at 9:45) About the United States Lavender Growers Association, which has 349 members as of the time of this podcast. (starting at 11:05)About the upcoming US Lavender Conference from January 25-28 in Mesa, Arizona. (starting at 18:09) “A purpose of the US Lavender Growers Association is to get the US to classify lavender as a “crop”.Click To Tweet”Mike Neustrom of Prairie Lavender Farm and the United States Lavender Growers Association Explore Additional Resources All things lavender: Visit the United States Lavender Association's website US Lavender on Facebook: United States Lavender Growers Association on Facebook US Lavender on Twitter: United States Lavender Growers Association on Facebook Lavender cookbook: The Lavender Cookbook Connect with Mike and Prairie Lavender Farm Visit Mike and Prairie Lavender Farm at his website and like them on Facebook. When you visit, be sure to ask about Mike's next upcoming annual lavender festival! Binge on all of my Indie Business Podcast Episodes If you want to listen to previous episodes, you can find them here. Subscribe to Indie Business Podcast If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please subscribe so you can get each episodes as it is released. You can subscribe on iTunes (on iPhone) or Stitcher (via Google Play or via iTunes). Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate my show on iTunes, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. If this podcast has inspired you to break all the rules, build your own corporate ladder, and create the life you love, please share on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The post Episode 51: Mike Neustrom of Prairie Lavender Farm and US Lavender Growers Association [Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.