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 subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Ruminate and Reflect with Hannah Hon of Ruministics – Indie Business Podcast Episode 100 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 Jargon Gist – Indie Business Podcast Episode 98 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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, but those are opportunities for building back stronger. I try to just move through the ups and downs of business with very few expectations and take every day as it comes. I follow the bread crumbs life gives me. My ultimate goal is not to be the biggest or the most profitable brand. It's to be able to pay our bills, pay our employees and have a comfortable business. My advice is to have a plan, but don't be rigid. When you have a solid rigid plan you set yourself up for disappointment if you don't end up where you thought you were going to be. I'd rather go with the flow, where life takes me and be happy about that than be worried about getting to a specific goal post.” Chelsea 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 Chelsea, 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. Expect the unexpected Chelsea says that in a post-COVID-19 world, she makes it a point to stay ahead of potential issues by trying to expect the unexpected and staying ahead of potential issues. She pays more attention now than ever to worldwide news reports. For example, a few years ago, she recalls reports of Mexican cartels holding avocado farms hostage. This ultimately resulted in a rise in avocado oil prices which ultimately affected her costs. Had she not been paying attention to worldwide news that might otherwise not have seemed especially important to her, she would not have been able to anticipate the price rises and would not have been able to implement a backup plan in advance. Understanding how world events can affect your business is more important than ever now, and Chelsea does her best to stay as informed as possible, even in areas that may not seem relevant at first glance. Chelsea described herself as an ambivert — that is, she is an extrovert when she needs to be, and she is an introvert the rest of the time. It is very important for creatives to be able to integrate both the introverted and the extroverted parts of their personalities together to come out from the shadows. As Chelsea said, when she does this, she sees immediate results because people do want to see and get to know the creative personality behind the product brand. When done consistently, this always leads to new sales opportunities — and opportunities in general — 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, 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 Make More Than Products with Chelsea Selby Randazza of Witch Baby Soap – Indie Business Podcast Episode 94 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 an extrovert when she needs to be, and she is an introvert the rest of the time. It is very important for creatives to be able to integrate both the introverted and the extroverted parts of their personalities together to come out from the shadows. As Toushonta said, when she does this, she sees immediate results because people do want to see and get to know the creative personality behind the product brand. When done consistently, this always leads to new sales opportunities — and opportunities in general — 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, 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 Life in the Expand Phase with Toushonta Hogan of Scentsational Soaps – Indie Business Podcast Episode 93 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. * Source: American Psychiatric Association 2020 Foundation Impact Report The post Overcoming Mental Health Challenges Through Entrepreneurship with Lauren Vanscoy of Essence One – Indie Business Podcast Episode 92 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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, 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 Grow Your Business by Solving People’s Problems with Tiana Coats of Winding Wick Candles – Indie Business Podcast Episode 91 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 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 A Supportive Spouse or Partner is Key to Business Success with Jennifer Watt of Jenny the Hemp Goddess – Indie Business Podcast Episode 90 appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Lakisha McMillian of Simply Unique [Indie Stories: Episode 89: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 first on Indie Business Network®.

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 In this episode, Christie and I mentioned the following resources. CEVARI websiteCEVARI on InstagramCosmetic formulation classes: Formula BotanicaDesign and editing app: CanvaNewsletter app: KlaviyoIngredient 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 favorite podcast platform. Rate Indie Business Podcast, Tell Your Friends and Comment If you enjoy the Indie Business Podcast, please rate our show on Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Christie Krasteva of CEVARI [Indie Stories: Episode 86: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 In this episode, Christine and I mentioned the following resources. Sent Nudes websiteSent Nudes on InstagramNatural perfumer: Mandy AftelBotanical extract supplier: Perfumer's ApprenticeBotanical 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 Stories: Episode 84: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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, 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 Sara Jennetten of Blank Mason [Indie Stories: Episode 83: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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 Apple Podcasts, and be sure to subscribe there to receive automatic episodes as they are released. The post Nadja Renise of FEMMENOIRE [Indie Stories: Episode 82: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.

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. 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 Ayanna Jackson of Arbria Creations [Indie Stories: Episode 81: Podcast] appeared first on Indie Business Network®.