We are trying out a new format for the July 2012 edition of #HandmadeChat. Rather than having a guest “speaker” on our weekly topics, we will have a guest “facilitator.” I will introduce the facilitator and the topic. The facilitator will then lead the discussion, inviting anyone with something to share to join in and…
One of the reasons I’ve been posting less frequently lately is because I have been preparing for a new website launch. More about that later. For now, I wanted to let you know that this blog is currently undergoing a hosting transfer. For the next few days, you may notice intermittent downtime as content is…
Are you ready to clear the clutter and allow more positive energy to flow through your business and your life? Feng shui offers a powerful, low-cost way to harness powerful energy forces that can transform your life and create a supportive environment where you can thrive. Today, dM will interview Tisha L. Morris, author of…
It’s Monday and I’m ready for another super week. There’s lot of great stuff happening at Indie as we close out June and head into July. For one, Team Indie and I are working hard to launch a new website for you. There are many moving parts to my business and this move will consolidate…
Last night, our topic on #HandmadeChat was How To Wholesale Your Handmade Products. Our special guest was Alyssa Middleton, founder and CEO of Vintage Body Spa and the Bath and Body Academy, and IBN’s Louisville, Kentucky, Local Director Alyssa Middleton. Alyssa has been leading Vintage Body Spa since 2007, and her premium spa and bath…
If you’re like me, you are a huge fan of ABC’s Shark Tank, the show that airs each Friday night featuring five wealthy investors called “Sharks” who consider pitches from entrepreneurs seeking funding for their business or product. Earlier this year, four brothers from Tampa, Florida, pitched their line of Nardos Natural skin care products…
Q: “Dear Indie Business: I need your advice on something. I have been getting a lot of inquiries from people asking how I got my products into Whole Foods Market and other stores. Should I give this information away or write an ebook on the process? I have found when I try to help others…
Do you want to (continue to) be a successful business owner? I do. It’s what I invest most of my time doing, really — performing activities that help me serve my members more effectively. Ideas pop into my head all the time. Thank goodness for my team members, who receive a steady stream of dM’s…
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I love kale, and even better, so do my kids. It’s a super healthy veggie, and it’s easy to prepare and enjoy without messing up your fitness routine. This weekend, we devoured this easy Asian Kale Salad. Just wash a big, huge bunch of kale, and separate and discard the stems. Chop up the leaves…
A few days ago, USA Today published More Companies Quit Blogging, Go With FaceBook Instead. Huh? I don’t get it. You know I don’t get it, especially if you read this 2009 post about why a blog adds more long term valuable to your business than a FaceBook Page could ever add. Sure, it takes…
What do you see when you survey the small and independent business landscape? You won’t be surprised to know that I see a world of opportunity. You won’t be surprised to know that I see a world or challenges. Let me explain. Opportunities Let’s start with the opportunities. You can do it. The world is…
Donna Maria introduces her new assistant and right hand, Lauren Riemer.
Donna Maria introduces IBN’s New Member & Community Manager, Lydia Fiedler.
Donna Maria shares tips to help you lead your business through the sea of constant “beta” and change that accompanies entrepreneurship.
Donna Maria shares an overview of HR 4262: Cosmetic Safety Enhancement Act of 2012.
Donna Maria shares video and points raised at the House Energy & Commerce Committee’s hearing entitled Examining The Current State of Cosmetics.
Donna Maria interviews Alfred Edmond, Jr. of Black Enterprise Magazine about health and fitness, the “creative economy,” social media, and small business success.
Donna Maria shares tips to help you organize multiple Twitter accounts without being overwhelmed.
Donna Maria interviews Kristin Zhivago, the Revenue Coach, about simple techniques you can use to maximize your sales.
Donna Maria shares a bit of the fun from #Indie Cruise MasterMind 2012.