9 American Makers That Give Back to Earth-Friendly Charities

It’s almost Earth Day! It’s no secret that shoppers in 2021 are superfans of companies that give back. In fact, studies show that nearly three-quarters of Americans consider a brand’s charitable contributions when making a purchase. Consumers are clamoring to buy from brands that support the planet, but with our Indies, it’s more than a…

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Patty Liu of Free Flow Botanicals [Indie Stories: Episode 84: Podcast]

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…

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9 Clever Ways American Makers Use Recycled and Upcycled Materials

Reduce, reuse, recycle and upcycle! For many everyday citizens, “out of sight, out of mind” is good enough for discarded materials. But not for these magician-level makers! Our Indies are pros at transforming something old into something stunning and new! Not only are they experts at repurposing materials, but many of them give you the…

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QCity Metro Presents: Donna Maria’s 5 Phases of Entrepreneurship

Join me on Thursday, April 15 at 6pm ET for a lively entrepreneurial discussion hosted by QCity Metro editor and publisher Glenn Burkins. During informative event, Glenn will interview me about my signature five phases of entrepreneurship: The Indie Method. The event is free, and you can register here. Join Glenn and I as we…

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Sara Jennetten of Blank Mason [Indie Stories: Episode 83: Podcast]

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…

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12 Toast-Worthy, Beverage-Inspired Products from American Makers

Coffee, wine, cocktails, beer — beverages can serve up major inspiration for bath, home, and skincare products. Whether it’s the invigorating aroma of a morning cup of joe or an intoxicating beverage at a boozy backyard BBQ, beauty brands are tapping into libations when brewing up their next product offerings. Is a busy week already…

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Nadja Renise of FEMMENOIRE [Indie Stories: Episode 82: Podcast]

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…

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9 Must-Watch American Makers on YouTube

Think YouTube is all cat videos and skateboard tricks? Think again: Every month, YouTube racks up more than 700 million views of beauty and skincare content. The platform is a treasure trove of entrepreneurial opportunity—and not that we’re biased (we are SO biased!) — our members are truly killing it with video! YouTube Video is…

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9 Colorful Spring-Ready Products From American Makers

Spring has sprung! Shed a few layers and allow your skin to soak in some much-needed sun. It’s the time of year when we bid your goodbyes to blasé winter blues and grays and welcome a brilliant rainbow of vibrant florals and cheerful pastels. Sidewalks and gardens come alive with brilliant pops of pretty pink…

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Ayanna Jackson of Arbria Creations [Indie Stories: Episode 81: Podcast]

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,…

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Mindy Cheng of Fyve, Inc. [Indie Stories: Episode 80: Podcast]

Welcome to Episode 80 of the Indie Business Podcast! Today’s Indie Story introduces you to Mindy Cheng of Fyve Beauty, in Cupertino, California. In numerology, the number “five” represents humanity, and Mindy’s Fyve beauty brand uses five ingredients in every product, “for all of humanity.” Mindy started her business in 2011 after creating a simple…

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9 Sparkling Crystal-Infused Products From American Makers

They sparkle, shine, and certainly catch the eye, but did you know that crystals and quartzes are supercharged with unexpected beauty and wellness benefits? From illuminating your skin to uplifting your mood and helping manifest your deepest desires, these twinkling gemstones sure pack a punch. How can you infuse these good vibes into your daily…

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Indie Business Retreat 2022: Michès Playa Esmeralda: Dominican Republic!

I am excited to announce Indie Business Retreat: Playa Esmeralda: Dominican Republic: January 9 – 14, 2022! If you already know you are ready to register, do so here. (Deposits are due now.) As the leader of an online membership-based business for over 20 years, I am a pioneer when it comes to using technology…

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