Thinking about starting over at 50 as an entrepreneur or anything else? It's actually more and more common but nobody talks about it. So, let's talk about it. Because as women who’ve reached middle age, we have so much to offer to others and ourselves. Midlife is a time when we analyze how we want to live the second half of our lives. AND decide what’s really important. It's an opportunity to release the expectations that in the past we felt we needed to live up to and now do things for ourselve...
Feb 19, 2022•48 min•Ep. 358
Let me cut to the chase. I’m not a betting girl but if I was, I think I’d win this wager. I’m placing my bet that YOU are full of BS. And not only that. I’m here to convince you that you should be showing that you’re full of BS to your community too. I’ve got you totally confused right now. Yes? I heard this BS statement from Ally Love … my favorite Peloton spin instructor. The reason I connect with her is she’s grounded in her thinking, clearly loves and seeks out the fun in life, has morals th...
Feb 16, 2022•9 min
Do you struggle with how much should you price your product? It's a question we all struggle with. If you’re not sure if you’re pricing your product properly … or already know you aren’t but haven’t reset your prices ( which of course means higher ) - then you definitely want to stick around and listen closely today. We cover is why NOW is the perfect time to get your pricing in line. And you'll learn how to get this done and off your “I know I need to do this list” once and for all. We cover ot...
Feb 12, 2022•50 min•Ep. 357
Do you feel like your life has become way too complicated? There are so many decisions to make, issues to consider, chores to get done, activities and doctor appointments to schedule AND all the tasks associated with your business. As adults we make 35,000 decisions a day! Couple this with Decision Fatigue - per psychiatrist Dr. MacLean “the idea that after making many decisions, your ability to make more and more decisions over the course of a day becomes worse.” So, we’ve got lots of decisions...
Feb 09, 2022•10 min
Do you ever wonder how people get ideas for the creative business or career they have today? In this case – how did my guest today go from thinking she’d be a professional ballet dancer and end up as a writer, editor, and recipe developer in the baking industry? It definitely wasn’t a straight line. Nor are most journeys. But in AnnMarie's story, I think you’ll be inspired and maybe even see parallels to the twists and turns you’re taking … and be motivated by the potential of where your path wi...
Feb 05, 2022•56 min•Ep. 356
Today let’s have a heart-to-heart conversation about competition. Yes, this breath-stopping, gut-wrenching topic. None of us get a pass from experiencing our physical and emotional responses when the subject of a competitor comes up. Just like others, you probably compare the quality and prices of your products, your social media following counts, and the many other unconfirmed stories you make up about all the ways they are more skilled, knowledgeable, or personable than you are. Listen in for ...
Feb 02, 2022•13 min
What is the most dreaded - but most important - activity in your business? Most of us would say, selling. Wouldn't it be great if that could just go away rather than constantly worrying about how to make more sales? Well, it can in a way. Obviously, you need to show your products so people can buy them. But guess what? The act of selling can be transitioned into an enjoyable activity that brings forth a purchase. Today, you’re going to hear why your current actions don't work – even though you p...
Jan 29, 2022•54 min•Ep. 355
Some makers are wonderfully content with a handmade business that balances nicely with the other priorities in their life. They get fulfillment and happiness in the process of making and never want to grow to the point where they can’t do that anymore. But, let’s say, you’ve decided “YES!” you want to grow your business to the next level. You’re close to or have already reached your limit. Maybe you’re delaying important tasks and even making errors, because you simply can’t keep up. Here are th...
Jan 26, 2022•10 min
I know you’ve been looking forward to more on this topic – Pinterest success! Today, you’re going to hear why Pinterest is still so valuable and how to get the most out of your pins. Including ways to attract the right people - your ideal customer. One thing I’m really enjoying about Pinterest is how very different it is from Facebook or Instagram. It didn’t start out that way, so if you haven’t had an update recently, you’ll find this really interesting. And honestly, it's so refreshing. Plus, ...
Jan 22, 2022•1 hr•Ep. 354
It’s here! This is the week of National Bakers Crafters Makers Day – on Friday the 21st to be exact. The ONLY way you wouldn’t know about this already is if you’re brand new here because I’ve been talking about it and there have been activities to participate in all month long. Things like submitting your handmade memories, sharing how your handmade products provide good to others, access to done for you social media posts and stickers - so you can be part of promoting the day, downloading my fr...
Jan 19, 2022•6 min
Are you selling crafts at fairs? Or are you selling online only? I had the chance to talk with a married couple who are experts on selling at markets. Their story is so interesting because they both had this passion as they were growing up – and the combination of their experiences together is really powerful. You’ll see what I mean in a minute. But if you haven’t considered selling crafts at fairs and shows before, it’s something to consider for this year - it might change everything for you. A...
Jan 15, 2022•56 min•Ep. 353
January is a big deal here at Gift Biz Unwrapped because this is the month of National Bakers Crafters Makers Day. Today, I want to explain why I created the day in the first place and its significance. Making handmade products comes from the soul. It’s an investment of time and energy. The results are one of a kind and enrich our lives by surrounding us with beauty and individuality. They provide happiness for both the creator and its recipient – something our world needs and continually seeks ...
Jan 12, 2022•9 min
Today's show is about a very important topic that can truly change how you think about your business AND how others perceive you in relation to your business. We're talking about your brand story. Answer honestly here. Do you currently hesitate when asked about your business? Do you stumble over what to say or answer timidly with very little confidence? Why do we do that? I mean, you’re around your products every single day. You should stand proud and speak confidently about what you offer and i...
Jan 08, 2022•46 min•Ep. 352
National Bakers Crafters Makers Day and is marked in the National Day Archives as celebrated on January 21. But we’ll be celebrating all month long and you’ll hear a lot more about it as we continue through the month. Today, I want to share with you the development of the theme and the corresponding logo we’re using for NBCMD this year. I think that my experience will give you ideas of how to move through this project if you’re either creating a logo for the first time or updating or completely ...
Jan 05, 2022•12 min
Happy New Year 2022! I have a special show for you today, all about the future. In this episode, you'll hear ways to be happier and bring more joy to your days so you can create a new way of being in 2022. My guest La’Vista is the founder and CEO of 31 Marketplace, an agency that helps overworked solopreneurs do what they love without sacrificing themselves and experiencing burnout. She accomplishes this by blending systemization and self-care - topics that she and her guests speak candidly abou...
Jan 01, 2022•52 min•Ep. 351
Choosing a theme word that will direct your year. Have you heard of this concept before? It’s similar to the idea of identifying a major goal and then developing tasks and activities underneath that goal with the idea that, once completed – your goal will have been achieved. The difference with an annual word is it goes deeper. There’s usually an emotional element included in your word even though on the surface it looks very business-oriented. I also find selecting an annual word to be very cla...
Dec 29, 2021•10 min
Today's show is a bit special ... because it goes live on Christmas day! So I'm doing something a little different with this episode. There are no promotions and only a little bit of learning. How can I not when we have such an expert with us today? Just like last year, Heidi shares an excerpt from her latest book. As well as some behind-the-scenes of her life as an author, her holiday traditions, and even some storytelling tips you can use for your business. Although passionate about writing fr...
Dec 25, 2021•42 min•Ep. 350
Enjoy my rendition of an old Christmas classic - revised to fit our handmade business community. Enjoy and listen closely, you'll hear some priceless lessons that Amanda, our shop owner, learns from Jolly Old St. Nick. CONNECT with me here: Website | Facebook | Instagram SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a rating and review . I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an im...
Dec 22, 2021•6 min
These days, "storytelling" is a buzzword online. But you may wonder what it's really all about. If so, stick around, because today we're diving into what is storytelling for business. We’re always searching for ways to stand out and be recognized. Particularly when there are probably thousands of others who make a product similar to yours. Here’s a secret … most people approach the visibility issue the wrong way. They try to make their product “better" or price it lower. But that's not the way t...
Dec 18, 2021•50 min•Ep. 349
How is it that some people get so much accomplished and others struggle to do one simple project? Obviously, there can be extenuating circumstances – like interruptions, emergencies or simply the lack of interest or desire to do whatever project you’re laboring over. But that doesn’t erase the fact that it needs to get done. It just so happens that one of my super powers is productivity. I know it’s one of my strengths, for real, because I’m classified as a “Follow-Through” on the Kolbe Personal...
Dec 15, 2021•11 min
Did you ever think of starting a business - maybe a lemonade stand when you were little? I think it's almost a "rite of passage" as a kid - dipping a toe into making money yourself. Sometimes it sparks a dream for the future that unfortunately slips away as we start "adulting" and overthinking things. Today, you're hearing from two very young entrepreneurs who didn’t even know how to make their product before they decided to partner up and go into business. Hear how much fun Paisley and Riley ar...
Dec 11, 2021•48 min•Ep. 348
Making a customer feel special is where it’s at. Think about your experience from the customer end. Most of the time when you buy something, in a retail shop for sure but also online, it’s a one and done transaction. You make the purchase, get a thank you or a confirmation of the order being received … and that’s it. No further communication and if there is any – it’s probably a bounceback discount to place another order. Don’t get me wrong that additional discount is great – but it’s very steri...
Dec 08, 2021•10 min
Have you ever wondered how to start an Etsy printables shop? Wonder no more because in this episode we're diving into how to create a new revenue stream for your business with digital downloads. Selling printables and digital downloads is one business model that is very compatible with the life of a busy mom or fitting in a side gig. If you haven’t started your business yet, or are looking to expand on what you’re currently selling but not add to your backend shipping tasks, this may be the perf...
Dec 04, 2021•44 min•Ep. 347
Little did I know then but 12 years old, I created my first process. It was a system to run through each and every holiday season to ensure all gifts were purchased, wrapped and ready. This was prompted due to a disaster I share in the podcast. Over the years, it’s been perfected to include the more “adult” elements of gift giving and holiday planning. And it’s been a life-saver that I’d like to share it with you today. You may not think this is very business-related – as are most of the topics ...
Dec 01, 2021•9 min
You've heard of branding and marketing and sales. But have you heard of micro-weirding? Well, buckle up because that's what we're diving into today. Have you ever stopped to think about how you decide where you’re going to spend your money? Yes, a special eye-catching graphic or creative reel may lead you to discover a new brand. But more than likely, this weekend you’re checking out the deals from companies you already know and support. How did that happen? How did they get on your favorite lis...
Nov 27, 2021•50 min•Ep. 346
Welcome to Gift Biz Unwrapped, the twice weekly show that brings you inspiration and direction on how to start and grow your handmade product business. I’m your host, Sue Monhait, CEO of Gift Biz Unwrapped where we offer all sorts of support materials over on the website of the same name. On Saturdays, I feature a guest who shares their experience and insights as a handmade product creator who is now monetizing their craft. Or I bring on a service provider who gives tips and strategies based on ...
Nov 26, 2021•1 min
Way back in 1997, this new arena called social media arrived on the digital landscape. Since that time, social media has been a fast and active playground with new platforms emerging, others dying and still others growing and morphing into versions that barely look like their original selves. They rise and fall in popularity and target audiences change too. Think of what happened with Facebook - once being for the younger generations who have mostly now abandoned ship for Instagram. And still ot...
Nov 24, 2021•10 min
What are three strategies for business growth that many small businesses ignore? That's right - we're talking about networking, mentorship, and publicity. Today, I have the great fortune of talking with a proven professional in business development. You’re going to hear her story about starting the business as a side gig while working a 9-5 job and attending to four babies. So, for anyone out there who says it can’t be done … let’s rethink that! Lisa shares what her life was like then, how she g...
Nov 20, 2021•48 min•Ep. 345
People with high integrity are known as being trustworthy, dependable and someone you can rely on. Living with integrity is important because it can determine the depth of your relationships and the success of your business. When you start showing up as I describe in this episode, you build your integrity muscle. Along with that comes the feeling of achievement and a boost to your self confidence. Not only does the world look brighter and more interesting, YOU are proving to yourself that you ha...
Nov 17, 2021•10 min
Today we’re discussing emotional branding for small business. In the past, we’ve talked a lot about the visual aspect of your brand. The colors, your logo, signage - even your business name. Now, we’re approaching branding from a different angle. I’m sure you’ve heard Maya Angelou's quote about it not being what you say or what you do but how you make someone feel. "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them...
Nov 13, 2021•45 min•Ep. 344
