June’s featured MOB artist Tori Daw, owner of Healistic Reserve, describes herself as a heart-centered creative who sees and appreciates art in many forms.

Tori sees art as encompassing many roles in her life. Before leaving the industry to stay home with her autistic son, she was a cosmetologist for seven years. Her business, Healistic Reserve, is her way of expressing the art of mindfulness, moon rituals, and intentional rest.

Tori says she has always been an artist to some extent, but with COVID slowing things down, she was able to freely and fully immerse myself in my art as a tool for immense healing.

​She says Brain spotting therapy sessions with Kim Ludeman fostered major breakthroughs in her healing and ability to trust myself in her art. Tori also says “I am always in awe of and inspired by women who show up authentically and fearlessly. They just vibrate on a higher level.”
When things are challenging, Tori says knowing everything she needs is already within her helps. “Whether that means motivation, inspiration, or compassion. It allows me to trust in the ebbs and flows of life,” she explains.

She would advise her younger self to “Trust your unique voice and expression. Its value is found in your authenticity."

When asked about the impact being a part of the MOB Alliance has had on her she says “The MOB has empowered me to look past the “Stay at Home Mom with a Cute Little Side Hustle” trope and take my business and the excitement I have for it seriously. It has connected me with like-minded business people who also understand what it means to be a mom.”

Tori says her favorite Alliance benefit is attending MOB networking events at no cost and receiving discounted tickets for MOBCON and MOBCON Minis. “Not only do they provide invaluable education through speakers, but that is where the connections are made. And they are truly meaningful connections. Collaborations are amazing, and the friendships are irreplaceable.”

Order Tori's mug here

Connect with Tori Daw online:
​
www.healisticreserve.com
www.instagram.com/healisticreserve
www.facebook.com/healisticreserve
Tiktok: @healisticreserve
www.pinterest.com/healisticreserve
www.twitter.com/healisticreser

​

May’s featured MOB artist, Jessica Johns, loves pizza and Star Wars, holds a black belt in Taekwondo, and enjoys Jujitsu.

She was raised in Montana and has been married to her high school sweetheart for 19 years. Jessica says she’s a proud baseball mom to her two sons and loves to laugh.

Jessica has always loved art, even as a little girl. “I would choose blank paper and crayons over a coloring book because I wanted to draw my own picture. I love that there are no rules in art! Art does not shut you in a box and tell you how to be or what to create. You can be your most unique and true self and share that with the world with a pen or paintbrush. That inspires me,” she explains. 

She says she is also inspired by the way art can evoke emotion in people. “My favorite thing is to create something beautiful, something fun, something special for someone, and see their smile and joy when they look at it. I create art to bring happiness to others.”

Last year, she made the decision to step into the art she has been creating her whole life and pursue it as a business.

Jessica names Michelle Obama as an influential figure. “I love her commitment to staying true to who she is and what she stands for, no matter what. She tells it like it is, doesn’t hide her personality and fights for things I also believe in!”

Her personal mentors are drawn from many places in her life who have shown her how to love, how to show up for each other, and how to be kind and fair.

Jessica says being a part of the MOB Nation is inspiring and she loves attending the weekly virtual  Meetups because of the connections and educational speakers.

​“The MOB has been such a great wealth of resources and connections for me. I officially joined the alliance this year and it was a fantastic decision! Not only is it inspirational to see other women, other moms, going after their goals, but everyone cheers you on, reaches out to help when you need it and is there to celebrate your success with you,” she explains.

When asked what advice she would give her younger self starting out, she says:

​“When you’re passionate about something, don’t let doubt get in the way of creating! Don’t let people tell you what you can’t do, how you need to dress, how you need to act, or what you can’t say or stand up for that you truly believe in! Don’t let anyone dim your spark or shut you into a box of mediocrity and sameness. Be fiercely you and stand up for yourself!”

Jessica also encourages everyone to  take a look at what you’re passionate about and make sure you incorporate that into your life. Passions should be pursued, maybe as a business, but also as something that can just fill your soul with happiness and light! It can be the bright spot that helps guide you through all the mess and ugliness that the world can be.

Order Jessica's mug here

Connect with Jessica:
www.instagram.com/jessicajohnsdesign
www.jessicajohnsdesign.com

You’ve heard it everywhere, “the money is in the list”.

As in, your email list.

You scour the resources online and you get started. You can’t wait to build your huge email list of adoring fans and eager customers.

I know. You’re still waiting.

There are truths that aren’t spoken about on the internet about building an email list.

First, the stuff you see online leads you to believe that building an email list is the way to earn major profits, even for brand new entrepreneurs.

Yes, email marketing is the most profitable digital marketing channel, by far.
Yes, building an email list is a smart idea, even for new entrepreneurs.

But what isn’t said is that building an email list for new entrepreneurs can be incredibly difficult.

You see people online who brag about getting thousands of people on their email list in 30 days.

It must be pretty easy, you think to yourself.

What you don’t know is how they did it. For example, they may have had a thousand people sign up for their list, interested only in a free giveaway.

A list of a thousand people that only want free stuff is worthless…they’re never going to buy from you.

Building a list of quality prospects interested in you and your business takes time.

Know this—a legit entrepreneur who is able to build an engaged email list in a jiffy is an outlier. So, if you’re slogging your way through it, and progress is slow, you’re not alone.

Second, you believe growing an email list is simple…build a lead magnet and they will come!

The truth? Yes, it’s simple. But not easy.

To create a good lead magnet, you need to know a fair amount about your ideal client. And for most new entrepreneurs, you just don’t have this info. Not yet.

Then, your lead magnet product should thoughtfully and intentionally prod your prospect along their buyer’s journey. Again, it may sound simple, but in reality, it’s not always easy to figure this out.

Here’s the thing—the lead magnet is part art and part science. When you’re first starting out, it’s going to be a lot more art than science, until you get more experience and objective data from real people (aka your ideal clients).

At first, give yourself some grace from the pressure of creating the one, perfect lead magnet.

Consider it a test.

And finally, you may have built the perfect lead magnet, but you’ll still have trouble getting people to opt in if no one knows it exists.

In other words, you still need to drive traffic to your lead magnet.

There’s a lot of moving parts to create a great lead magnet, so if you find yourself stuck at any point along the way, it’s completely normal. You’re fine!

Finally, you might believe that getting people to opt in to your email list is the hard part. Now that they’re on your list, selling is easy.

You’d be only half right.

Yes, it was hard to get people on your list in the first place.
Yes, it was hard to make sure they were the right people.

But there’s still more work to be done.

The next order of business is to nurture and build relationships with your subscribers in your emails. Are you greeting and welcoming your new subscribers into your world with an automated (and really epic) welcome series?

Then, because your audience isn’t necessarily ready to buy when you’re launching your program or unveiling a new product, you should consistently email your audience with quality and valuable emails.

They’ll buy when they’re ready, and usually only after you’ve built up your “know, like, and trust” factor with them.

So, if you’re ready to throw in the towel with your subscribers because you haven’t sold anything to them yet…don’t. It’s a long game.

To sum up, here’s the truth about building an email list and email marketing:

1. Building an email list can be an incredibly difficult and slow process, especially if you’re just starting out. Set realistic expectations and don’t get discouraged at the slow pace.

2. Creating a lead magnet is simple, but not easy. At first, it’ll be more art than science. Consider your lead magnet a test, and don’t forget that you’ll need to drive traffic to it.

3. Once you get people on your email list, you may not be able to convert them to a paying customer right away. Send your new subscribers through your welcome series, and nurture the relationship in their inbox over time to build your know, like and trust factor. Play the long game.


Like anything else that’s worthwhile in life, email marketing is hard. Stick with it and you’ll be rewarded with loyal subscribers who want to buy from you.


Congratulations, mama, for doing the hard things. You got this.

Jen helps you write e-mails and create sticky lead magnets that build relationships with your subscribers and get them itching to open, read, click, and, of course, buy your stuff! 

Connect with Jen here.

Here at the MOB Nation we are supporting, encouraging, and connecting mom business owners all year, but there is something extra special about Mother's Day!

This year, why not support a mom-owned business while you are finding gifts for the moms (and mom figures) in your life?

This round up includes just some of the variety you'll find on our Mom-Owned Business Member Directory. 

Happy shopping!

Show Mom a little extra love this Mother’s Day with Cherry River's CBD Bubble Bath Bomb Bouquet. Set includes four of Sweet Spring Bath Bombs scented with rose, violet, and vanilla, lovingly wrapped in a gift box before being shipped to your door, making this an easy at-home holiday you can celebrate with loved ones (or pamper yourself with some self-love in a box).

Each bath bomb contains 100 mg full-spectrum CBD hemp oil. Flowers not included.

Order here
Connect with Cherry River

What better why to celebrate Mother's Day than by celebrating and supporting another mother with the gift of a Gonzales Wine Club subscription!

You can customize your subscription with two levels of membership all which include swag, discounts, private events and direct communication with Cristina Gonzales, Winemaker & Owner.

Order here
Connect with Gonzales Wine

Let BeeBomber spoil the mothers in your life! Each gift box includes one Bee Soft organic luxurious hand and body Lotion, a Bee Kissed Organic Lip Balm, and a one of a kind custom pair of RoyaBoya Handmade earrings.

These stunning BeeBomber inspired earrings are a true work of art. Each piece has uniquely detailed handcrafted floral art on a bright yellow canvas, paired with a contrasting wood accent piece. You can’t help but smile and feel the joy when wearing these classy but chic earrings. Extremely light to wear. Many varieties to chose from.

Feel free to reach out to BeeBomber for a custom combination!

Order the gift box here
​Connect with BeeBomber

These wooden peg dolls are handpainted to look just like each member of your family. They are placed in a beautiful wooden shadow box customized with a painting of your home or another significant place.

A sentimental and meaningful piece of art that will bring joy for years to come.

Order here
Connect with Sudie's Corner

Magical Wooden Hair Sticks from the Woodland Wandolier - $38

Need your hands free, but still want to carry your wand? Wear it in your hair!

These exquisite hair sticks are made with a hardwood base that's strong and sturdy, ready to hold fine or thick hair.

Made with the same care and process as the Woodland Wandolier's magic wands, these hair sticks are a finished with a shiny leaf green lacquer and lush silver filigree pattern with white roses.
Order here
Connect with the Woodland Wandolier

Give yourself, your friends and loved ones a well-deserved “Me Time” break, alleviating stress in frustrating times.

SheSurvival Wellness and Humor Box includes:

• 11 cards with humor content to lighten your day
• Inhalation pouch from Cannafloria with fragrance of lavender – chamomile and hemp natural scent
• Mantra Mask repair and revitalization of skin
• Kush Queen relax CBD bath bomb
• Gold brass Purpose Jewelry Bracelet handcrafted by a survivor of human trafficking from International Sanctuary
• MyJane signature lip balm nano infusion of CBD – Champagne and raspberry flavor
• Vita Leaf CBD full spectrum CBD – 50 mg – 2 caplets per pouch (2 pouches)
• MyJane gold votive holder with vanilla-scented candle & Sleep Mask
• Door hanger: Keep Out – Woman in serious wellness recovery mode

Order here
Connect with Calm Better Days

For the book lovers in your life! The Music of Bees is a new release fiction book by local Hood River author EIleen Garvin.

​The box includes exclusive recipe cards (recipes created by the author), local ingredients that you can use in the recipes, and a handmade dish towel with honey bees & lavender artwork made by local artist Lynn of Crisp & Tart.

Order here
Connect with Waucoma Books

This is a unique handmade apron with big roomy pockets and convenient no tie crossback straps. It’s super comfortable and stylish and useful.

Made by a mom!

Regular size fits zero to 16. 
Plus size fits 1x-4x (custom sizing also available)

Order Regular size
Order Plus size

Connect with Nancy's Handmade Goods

Extra bling at an affordable price, for any mom - no piercings required!

These ear cuffs are made with pave crystals for a fun, versatile, and stylish look!

Order here
Connect with Flor de Karonka

Mom hands do a lot of hard work and need some loving care - enter Hand Savior, a genius hybrid hand sanitizer, serum and brightener combined.

Made with CDC-approved levels of organic sugar alcohols that kill 99.9% of germs as well as hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture, Hand Savior is sure to brighten Mom’s day!

Naturally scented with Bergamot and Citrus so it smells divine!

Order here
Connect with Wild Lilac Wellness

If you find yourself needing a little extra self-care in your day, treat yourself or that special Mom in your life to a spa-day at home with this special limited edition self-care gift box.

Comes with a Luxurious Shampoo Bar, Facial Bar and Massage Soap Bar that will give you an amazing shower/bath-time experience. Also included is a wood soap dish, soap saver bag and facial pad.

Order here
Connect with Sacred Roots Soap Co

This stunning purple scarf has been dyed using natural logwood dye and the pigments of real leaves to create a one-of-a-kind botanical pattern. The silk fabric is soft and has a beautiful sheen. It feels so lovely around your neck! The natural dyes are permanent and washable.

The logwood dye made a rich purple background, which contrasts perfectly with the green and brown leaves. Real sumac and oak leaves were bundled with the fabric. Through a process of applying heat and pressure, the leaves left their pigments on the fabric in an exact replica of their shape. It is a beautiful piece of wearable art!

Order here
Connect with Cedar Dell Designs

Royaboya's handmade polymer clay and crochet earrings and other jewelry pieces are always one-of-a-kind. They make great gifts because you know that you are getting a wearable piece of art that is completely unique!

Roya loves to play with different themes, from floral, succulents, and other botanical to geeky tv show earrings to animal print and geometric jewelry!

Although these earrings have big, bold color and style, the polymer clay they are made from is very light!

Order here
Connect with Roya

This beautiful journal is the perfect gift for the creative mom.

The exterior is embellished with a print of Lea's original painting, "Transmission." 

The interior is filled with 120 pages of the perfect paper for all of mom’s musings. The pages are dot-graph filled for sketching, writing and bullet journaling. 5.5 x 8.5" makes it perfect for traveling. and it is spiral bound so it will open flat. These are locally printed and drop-shipped from Portland, Oregon.

Order here
Connect with Lea

Gift Mom a bath with intention this Mother’s Day- Lunar Bath Ritual Collections include everything she needs for a high-quality, organic, plant-based, decadent bath experience.

She will melt into a moisturizing *bath bomb* before exfoliating her stresses away with a *body scrub*, and finish with a luxe *body butter* to give herself the attention she deserves. The essential oil roller reminds her of her worth every time she applies it in the weeks following.

The crystal and empowering affirmation card compliment the experience and further foster a ritual of self-care and appreciation.

Mother’s Day falls two days before the next New Moon, making the New Moon Collection the perfect gift for calling in joy and abundance.

Order here
​Connect with Healistic Reserve

Handcrafted herbal eye pillow filled with herbs from our farm and organic flax. Custom blend of Roman chamomile, lavender, & peppermint is soothing and relaxing for moms who need a minute (or a few more!) to themselves.

Can be used heated or cooled, depending on your need, to ease sore, tired eyes, sinus pain, head stuffiness, and headaches. 

Order here
​Connect with Garden Delights Herb Farm

This collagen exlir should be called liquid gold! Easy to incorporate into a morning routine, this is a gluten free, dairy free, soy free, GMO-free product. Aging backwards, looking good and getting compliments? Yes, please!

Simple, easy and will help mom look and feel great!

Order here
Connect with Caren

Tired of waste and regular cotton rounds just not getting the job done? Try reusable cotton rounds from Heather's Treasures. Made from 100% cotton flannel. They are 2-ply and are made to last again and again.

Fabric rounds come in a charming glass jar. Choose from a wide selection of patterns and colors or just plain white is sure to please that special mom in your life. Use them and then simply put them in the wash. Each jar comes with a muslin bag for washing.

Order here
​Connect with Heather

Brandy Cummings, owner of Pivotal Origins, describes herself as a mama, food fanatic, lover of Sherlock Holmes, Functional Nutritionist, and aspiring archer.

“Shows I've binged watched include Dexter, The Office, Wentworth, and The Mentalist. I'm a huge fan of making lists (well, more like a fan of crossing things off lists). Observation is my superpower. I choose where to vacation solely on what food choices are available. I used to be a blackjack dealer, and have a very irrational fear of whales,” she says.

She loves working for herself because of the time it gives her to be with her daughter.

Brandy originally opened business as a generic holistic nutrition practice in 2016.

“After several ER trips to the hospital as a teenager (where they freely handed over narcotics and sent me on my way), I had to spend a decade figuring out that what I ate had a profound impact on how my body felt. I thought, this shouldn't have taken this long to figure out. I need to help others.”


When she was starting her family she realized the gap in care that happened during the entire preconception to postpartum period. “I experienced no support when I miscarried, no support during the first trimester after becoming pregnant again, no nutrition advice from a holistic or functional perspective, was told breastfeeding had failed on day two of my daughter's life, and spent the next six months suffering with postpartum anxiety,” she explains.

That experience led her to talk to other parents and realize her story and struggles were not unique. She decided to refocus her business to support people through their entire pan-natal™ phase of life (preconception to postpartum) so that no one had to feel like she felt. This purpose has been her guiding principle ever since.

Brandy says she admires JJ Virgin, creator of the Virgin Diet. “She launched it sitting next to the hospital bed of her son Grant while he was fighting for his life from a tragic car accident. Her family was depending on that income and she was committed to getting her son back to 110% when every medical professional was telling her it was never gonna happen. She succeeded in getting him to 110% and has since gone on to create a community of functional and integrative practitioners and her new mission is to change the lives of a billion people. I have no doubt she'll meet and exceed that too,” says Brandy.

She says her biggest business struggle has been time management and the challenges that come with working from home with a toddler during a pandemic. The lack of childcare and juggling all the things that need to happen at home. Brandy says the key to making it work is communication and strategy.

She would advise a new business owner to focus on revenue generating activities first. “When you sit down at your computer, it's amazing how fast 4 hours can go and all you did was check emails, pay bills, and other admin duties. Those are important too, but do something that can pay you back first. Write a blog, make a video, social media post, meet with clients, or book a session,” she explains.

When things are challenging, Brandy says she remembers her purpose and her why. “When I look around, our population is not heading in the right direction. Rates of chronic disease are going up, autoimmunity is at an all-time high, children are getting chronic illnesses younger and younger. The health of a person when they become pregnant can have a direct impact on their grandchildren through transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. To me, the ultimate in preventative care is to catch people two generations before they're born. If we want to turn this ship around for our grand- and great-grandchildren, the time to roll up our sleeves and get to work is now,” she explains.

Brandy says her ideal referral is someone who is already following a natural/holistic lifestyle or is open to moving towards that and someone who is interested in optimizing their chances for a healthy conception, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum by doing everything they can before they conceive.

She also works well with those who have struggled to get or stay pregnant, those with an autoimmune disease or other chronic illness, and those interested in how to best support their reproductive health.

She often works with people who have felt as if traditional western medicine has left them with fragmented bits of information that no one can seem to put together to help them figure out what’s happening in their body.

Brandy prides herself on being a practitioner who looks at her clients as whole people and can help them connect the dots and have a clear picture of their reproductive health. 

When asked what impact being a MOB Alliance member has had on her business, Brandy says “I have met some amazing people through the MOB. I have met people I will probably be friends with forever. This relationship building is so different from other networking groups and I really love it. When I rebranded, it was pretty much all amazing MOB work. My logo, social media templates, website, and photos all came from the MOB. I may be biased, but I think they look amazing!”

Her favorite MOB Alliance benefit is being able to attend so many virtual meetups.

Her offer to MOB Alliance members is:

10% off all my services and 15% off therapeutic-grade supplements

Connect with Brandy:

www.pivotalorigins.com
www.facebook.com/pivotalorigins
www.instagram.com/pivotalorigins
https://channels.marcopolo.me/pivotal-origins

April’s artist of the month, Ruth McCabe, came to creating art later in life. She was able to use art as a way to channel fear, frustration, and helplessness while her family dealt with a major mental health crisis.

“I needed something that I could pick up (or put down) at a moment’s notice. It turns out, doodling was good for that,” she explains.

Ruth says being a part of the MOB Alliance has pushed to further than she would have been able to go on her own.

“I have always been a ‘I’ll do it myself’ kind of person. One of the things that the MOB has brought to me is a group of trustworthy women who have demonstrated showing up for me. I didn’t even know I needed that,” she says.

She also says she loves the virtual Meetups! “I’m an extroverted introvert in a rural-ish area and in person meetups were unappealing to me. Getting up, showered, dressed, then driving an hour or more? I was likely to just stay home. But the virtual meetings have been a blast! Ladies from all over the country in my studio while I drink coffee in my PJs,” she explains.

She creates art using pen and paper, wood, leather, cork, engravings, and one-of-a-kind custom art.

Order Ruth's art mug here.

Connect with Ruth:

Instagram
Facebook
www.ruthmccabe.com

Family support is critical for trans children. Trans kids have a higher risk of suicide and depression than their peers. They experience higher rates of bullying. Having a parent who is supportive and safe can make a huge difference in a child’s life.

​Many parents of trans kids aren’t sure how to best support their child or may still be learning to understand their child’s gender identity. As a family therapist who has worked with many trans children and teens (and their parents), here are some ways that parents can provide support: 

Respect your child’s identity and pronouns and ask others to do the same

Affirming your child’s identity shows that you respect them. It’s OK if you mess up - you might be very used to referring to your child by a certain pronoun or name and it may take time to change. Just catch yourself, quickly correct and move on. Same if a relative or friend misgenders your child or teen - just gently correct and move on.


Stand up for your child by calling out transphobic behavior or language

Kids don’t always know how to navigate potentially painful or challenging situations when relatives, friends, or strangers make transphobic comments. Don’t be afraid to correct others or provide some education, and have a conversation with your child ahead of time about how they would prefer to handle it.


Learn more about the transgender community

Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and PFLAG have great resources for parents. (A list of resources can be found at the end of this blog post)


Advocate for your child or teen at school

Make sure that they have access to a bathroom they can comfortably and safely use. Help your child make a plan for how to communicate their pronouns and preferred/chosen name with teachers. Talk with teachers and school leadership about how they can be more inclusive in their policies and language.


Be open

Many parents express concern that their child or teen’s gender identity is “just a phase” or that they are “too young” to identify as trans or understand gender.

Research shows that children develop an understanding of gender from preschool age. Some children identify as trans from a very young age and some come out as trans in their teen years or later.

Your child’s gender presentation and expression may shift over time as they learn more about themselves and feel more comfortable sharing their identity publicly, and that is OK - it doesn’t mean that they are confused or that it’s a phase.

Your role as a parent is to support your child’s process and to trust and accept them when they share their identity with you. 

Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Non-binary Youth

Transgender and Non-Binary People FAQ (a good place to learn terminology and basic 101 information)

Making Your Feminism Trans-Inclusive 

​PFLAG - Opportunities to connect with other parents of transgender youth

Being an Effective Advocate for Your Child

Family is Still Family Campaign from National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance (NQAPIA)

Mom, I'm Not a Girl - a short film about raising a transgender child

Kaleigh’s mission is to help parents understand their young children’s frustrating and challenging behaviors and teach them new tools and skills to connect with their children and foster the social and emotional skills needed to succeed in life.

​She is trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy, a counseling method focused on attachment and healing parent-child relationships after exposure to trauma or violence in children ages birth-6.
Connect with Kaleigh at Family Roots Therapy.

March is Credit Education Month, and many parents and caregivers are looking for ways  to explain this topic to their children. For many individuals, money is a topic that was not  discussed in their home growing up. There can be a wide range of emotions and personal  experiences with money that cause adults to avoid this topic all together. My mission as a  financial coach is to empower my clients to succeed financially. Understanding what creates a  credit score and where credit comes from is part of the financial education I offer. 

Debit vs. Credit 
Most of our children, ages 18 and under, have watched as we make purchases with  either debit and credit cards. Since these cards look almost identical explaining the difference  between the two forms of payment is important.

Debit cards are connected to money in a  bank account, typically a checking account. When people use a credit card the money has  been loaned to the card holder, and if that money is not repaid in full by a set date the lender  can charge an interest rate.

In 2021, almost any place of business that accepts a credit card  will also accept a debit card for payment. As COVID-19 safety precautions increase, more  businesses are only accepting card payments. Studies from shown that American families have  an average $14,564 of credit card debt. 

Credit Scores 
In 1989, the credit reporting company Fair Isaac Corporation created the general  purpose FICO score. This score is calculated by looking at a borrower’s relationship with debt.

There are five categories that are reviewed to determine the score:

Payment History (35%)
Amounts Owed (30%)
Length of Credit History (15%)
Credit Mix (10%)
New Credit (10%).

However, the FICO website states, “Your credit report and FICO Scores evolve frequently.  Because of this, it's not possible to measure the exact impact of a single factor in how your  FICO Score is calculated without looking at your entire report. Even the levels of importance  shown in the FICO Scores chart above are for the general population and may be different for  different credit profiles.” That’s pretty confusing.
There are other credit scores depending how the scoring model is used and who’s  reporting the information. Those different reporting agencies are Equifax, Experian and Trans  Union, and those three have their own credit score called a Vantage Score.

A Vantage Score  can access someone that has had credit for a short amount of time. The FICO score is the most  referenced credit score and when people are discussing this topic they refer to the FICO Score  and the credit score as the same thing. Regardless of what score is looked at, do you need a  credit score? No, and I teach my clients how to avoid all forms of debt.

Living without Debt 
My husband, Richard, and I were married in 2011, and within a month of our marriage  we realized that we had $60,000 in debt, $100 in savings and $9 in our checking account.

We  were scared, overwhelmed, but seeing those numbers on a spreadsheet was the motivation  we needed to change our relationship with money. That $60,000 was a mixture of student  loans, credit cards and car loans. Richard was stationed at a military base that offered a free  financial planning course, Financial Peace Military. We learned how to create a budget, track  our spending and we paid off all of our debt within two years.

Since November 2013, we have  lived debt free. When we travel, we use debit cards. Be sure to call ahead to hotels or car  rental companies before traveling to confirm how much of a security deposit will be needed.  We have bought our vehicles with cash. The dealership we worked with in California accepted  a personal check.  

Be Honest with Your Kids 
Regardless if you are in the “Credit is Good” or “Credit is Bad” camp being honest with  our children is necessary when discussing the topic of finances.

n this day and age, we talk  with our children about several topics that were considered off limits a few decades ago. If  you can talk with your kids or teens about race, politics, or religion, then consider discussing  personal finances.

Explain why you are making certain purchases and not others. With many  of us shopping online, model how you are selecting purchases with a specific goal.
Americans have on average $35,000 in student loan debt. If you have struggled with paying  off school debt, talk with your children about what you wish you had known before signing up  for those loans.


Learn From Others
In 2019, Chris Hogan released his book “Everyday Millionaires.” The book reviewed the  surveys from over 10,000 individuals with a net worth of a million dollars or more.

95% of  those interviewed saved up for large purchases. 92% of millionaires developed a long-term  plan for their money. 70% of millionaires saved more than 10% of their income during their  working years.

However, one of the most memorable statistics was that 73% of the individuals  in the study had NEVER carried a credit card balance in their lives.

Let that one set in. Being  intentional with your money is a skill that takes practice, but there is no better time than now  to start.

​Colleen teaches her clients how to organize their finances and take control of funding their future goals.
As a former middle school and 4th grade teacher, she specializes in working with teens and their parents showing the young adults how creating a plan for their time and money now will positively impact their futures. She also works with couples that are sick and tired of being broke. Connect with Colleen.

When it comes to business funding the topic of crowdfunding almost always comes up at some point. It seems easy, straightforward, and low risk, but is more complicated than it seems at first. 

​If you're considering crowdfunding to raise money for your new business or next expansion, this blog post will walk you through the ten key steps you need for success.

The podcast version of this blog post can be found at the Adventures in Marketing podcast here.

Validate Your Product or Idea

Your friends and family are usually your best supporters, but they may not be your ideal audience. Once you’ve shared your idea with people you know, make sure you go outside of your immediate community to get solid feedback and suggestions.

Be prepared for people to not like or understand your idea. That is completely normal. Take the best suggestions and ideas from those who are your idea customer and let the rest go.

Pick Your Platform

Although Kickstarter has become almost synonymous with crowdfunding, it isn’t the only platform. When you’re looking at options be aware that each crowdfunding platform has its own pros and cons including different fees, processes, and payment schedules for each one. Here is a quick breakdown of the different platforms and how they compare to each other.

Most crowdfunding platforms have some kind of onsite training to help you be successful on their platform. If you’re looking for a crowdfunding site with a robust support and mentoring system, IFundWomen is a terrific crowdfunding platform that also includes a grant program that is free to apply for and a division to support women of color.

Nail Down Your Messaging

If your audience isn’t clear about why you are crowdfunding, what your plans are, and why they should support you - you’ll lose them.

No matter how excited and invested you are in your new product or service, you still need to be able to communicate the details to your would-be backers. Your messaging is more than your tagline or promotional video - it will run throughout every piece of your crowdfunding campaign, so dig into what you are creating and why.

This is another place you’ll need feedback from strangers and those who don’t know you, It is important to remember that, if things go well, you’ll reach an entirely new audience during your crowdfunding adventure and you’ll want to make the best possible first impression.

Make Your Rewards Pop

Let’s be honest - You’re backers want to support you, but they also want something for themselves. Once upon a time a $60 t-shirt was a fine reward, but those days are long past.

You’ll need to get creative to come up with rewards and reward packages that both entice and reward your backers.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

66 Killer Indiegogo and Kickstarter Crowdfunding Reward Ideas

How to Design Great Crowdfunding Rewards

10 Crowdfunding Rewards for Your Backers

96 Reward Ideas from the Kickstarter blog


Plan Your Promotion

Crowdfunding for success means you need to take time to plan and prepare.

When done well, crowdfunding can feel like an extra job - so treat it like that from the beginning. Set regular times to prep, launch, and promote your crowdfunding activities.

Make any graphics you’ll need ahead of time. Write copy, create videos, gather early testimonials, understand your rewards - all in advance so you don’t feel as if you are scrambling to get things done or miss deadlines because something else came up.

Giving yourself extra time means you’ll have time to expand your reach by sending press releases, connecting with press, and others who can help you share your crowdfunding project.


Gather Your Team

All of those friends and family who swear they are ready and willing to help you? This is the time to put them to work.

However, don’t expect them to be mind readers or understand how they can best help you. Unless they have a marketing background or experience in crowdfunding they likely won’t know what to do beyond sharing a link.Don’t be shy about putting them to work!

Treat your biggest fans like your mini army by giving them clear instructions about how they can support you, exactly what you need from them, and when you need it. Some may prefer to have you provide them with copy or talking points (especially if they are shy or nervous) while others may want to do it on their own.


Build Interest Pre-Launch

A big piece of succeeding in marketing something is showing up. So make sure you are talking about your upcoming crowdfunding adventure frequently.

Build a buzz and keep it going by sharing the journey along the way on social media pre-launch. Let your potential backers see how excited you are to share this new product or service you are launching.

Resources for building buzz pre-launch:

Create Your Crowdfunding Success Plan

Creating Buzz

Keep Going
​
As excited as crowdfunding can be in the pre-launch and launch phases, it can be a stressful sprint to the finish line.

If you’re feeling fatigued, you aren’t alone. Even when your crowdfunding campaign is humming along and doing create, promoting one thing so heavily when you’re not used to it can be draining. This feeling isn’t unusual and is why pre-launch prep work is so important.

If your crowdfunding campaign has stalled, don’t give up! Here are ways to help revive it and get you back on track!

How to Give CPR to Your Dying Kickstarter

Six Steps to Revive a Stalled Crowdfunding Campaign

What to Do When Funding Stalls


Get Your Second Wind

You’re almost to the finish line - just another week or even a few days to go, but you’re exhausted and you’re convinced no one wants to hear even one more word about your project.

What do you do? Find your second wind and keep going to help push your campaign to success!

Reach out to all of your supporters, make a final campaign update, get everyone excited one more time and the last hours and minutes tick by.

What to Do in the Last 24 Hours of Your Crowdfunding Campaign

The Final Push of Your Crowdfunding Campaign
.

Celebrate the Outcome

You did it! You made it to the end of your crowdfunding project. Hopefully your planning, promotion, and hustle paid off and you reach your goal. If you don’t, know that you aren’t alone. Only 22% of crowdfunding campaigns reach their goal.

Whatever the outcome, celebrate the wins and successes along the way. Don’t forget to celebrate yourself, too. You’ve done something unique and challenging and put yourself and your business out there in a brand new way.

However, you’re not quite done yet. You still need to wrap up your campaign, thank your donors, and plan your next steps.

How to Wrap Up a Crowdfunding Campaign

23 Lessons Learned from Crowdfunding

The first full week in March is Women in Construction Week. This is a chance to highlight women in construction and their contributions. 

Women in Construction Week was created by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). 

The NAWIC was created for many of the same reasons the MOB was created - it gave women a chance to network, learn, and receive both personal and business support. 

This week, we're thrilled to highlight MOBs (mom owned businesses) who are also in the construction industry!

Heather Sánchez-Gibson, Evolution Remodel

”I feel really powerful being in this male dominated industry. It is Girl Power at it’s finest and I am excited to be an inspiration for my own girls and other women out there. Life is what you make it so if you want it...go get it, girl!”

About Heather:

I am a wearer of many hats and love the spontaneity and adventure life has to offer. I am a mother of three, a wife, a realtor, a property manager and a contractor. Life is never dull and I prefer it that way!

In my spare time (and yes, I allow for spare time every week), I love to read, go for walks, seek out new restaurants, travel, dance, cook and laugh until my stomach hurts with friends. I stay grounded with meditation, music and movement.

What Heather loves about the work she does:
I love to find new projects and meet new people. I am always learning in every situation which I appreciate and anticipate as I grow as a professional and individual. I really love seeing the finished product and the happy look on people’s faces. I am honored to be a part of beautifying someone’s space.

Heather’s advice to her younger self:
Networking is key! Meeting other professionals, uplifting them, and referring business to them will energetically propel you forward. Keep giving and it will come back to you.

About the impact the MOB has had on her business:
I have met some amazing women in my industry and I am so appreciative of this. Not only do we refer business back and forth but they are a great support system and encouraging group. This brings a lot of joy to my life and business.


www.evolutionremodelpdx.com
www.facebook.com/evolutionremodel 
www.Instagram.com/evolutionremodelpdx

Tricia Johnson, PDX Arrow Painting & Construction LLC

“In the MOB I am around strong 'Go To' women that have the 'like mind' that has always set me apart. Finally I can have a community around me that gets my passion and desire.”

About Tricia:

“I am a mom of 4, my eldest daughter is 26 and married. My sons are 20, 14, and 9.  I love being active especially in Portland area with great trails and hiking. I started riding bikes with my boys. I love being in Portland for all it offers like trails, hiking, art, and beautiful scenery.  I also own PDX Arrow Painting & Construction here in Portland. I started out painting apartments and quickly moved to residential homes. Over the 23 years I have adjusted to managing and operating my company. I have had experiences from fine finish work, gold leafing, steeple jacking, commercial work and always residential painting and renovation.”

What Tricia loves about the work she does:

I love the creative side working with clients on style and design. I also love creating order. Taking spaces from the before to the after; not only takes organizing my team and scheduling, it transforms a space to a new order. I aim to make the remodel and painting process feel smoother. There is so much emotion that happens when, especially interior spaces, become chaos. Organizing the schedule for this to feel more comfortable and being understanding to my clients living in a transitional phase of their home.

It has been my goal to create connections, support and improve my community, and offer a company experience that leaves people feeling calm and respected.

Tricia’s advice to her younger self:

There are so many moments that give doubt. It's a part of working in a competitive field. I live by the idea that there is always enough work for everyone. I aim to get the projects that fit my company and that means some projects are not meant for me. 

Learn to budget, set aside project money, and reinvesting back into the company so you can better balance your income. Set goals and decide how growth will look for you.

About the impact the MOB has had on her business:
​
I run a women-owned business in a man’s field. It leaves me working around a lot of men. As a single mom, I don't have time outside of work to socialize or really have friends when I am working a lot. The MOB has connected me with women who have become social and business friends. I am in a community of moms and women that give me some connection with my feminine side.  I love how the women in the MOB want to support each other and even when we are in the same field can be supportive of each other - there is plenty of work for each of us!

www.goarrowpaintingpdx.com
www.Facebook.con/pdxarrow
www.instagram.com/pdxarrow

Hannah Woods, Serenity Windows LLC
“Being able to do things the way I want. Having that control in my life has been life altering; it has empowered me and stimulated an abundance of personal growth.”

About Hannah:

I am a hardworking, work from home, homeschooling, mother of four. I’m a persistent overachiever who is still learning to embrace self care and how to say no. I was raised in the construction industry but never thought I would stay in it. I have been a licensed general contractor for nearly a decade and have done everything from the ground up. When I made the switch to only windows and doors it was one of the hardest business decisions I have ever had to make; I only wish I had done it sooner. I am now able to focus and grow my company in a solid direction that aligns with my personal goals.
​
What Hannah loves about the work she does:

I started my first construction company so that I could be a stay at home (work from home) mom. Being able to be home with my children has always been my driving force. And my children are who eventually pushed me to find my path to windows. After a pregnancy scare with my youngest child, I had to face the fact that I was working myself into the ground and it was time to make a serious change. That change took time, and a lot of back and forth; which led to opening my new company during a global pandemic. It has been quite an adventure to say the least. And throughout the chaos I have started to find my new calm.

I have always enjoyed helping people.  Windows aren't just something you want; they are something you need. They dramatically increase the comfort of your home and atmosphere. I enjoy bringing that serenity to people's homes. From picking out the product; to the install, I am there every step of the way helping my clients have the best possible experience.

Hannah’s advice to her younger self:

Don't be afraid of change - with growth comes change, new dreams, and so many wonderful possibilities.

About the impact the MOB has had on her business:
​
As a woman in a male dominated industry the MOB has given me so many great connections to other women in the industry who I have built wonderful relationships with.

www.myserenitywindows.com
www.instagram.com/serenitywindowsllc
www.facebook.com/myserenitywindows 

Ashley Ortiz, Bella Vista Painting & Drywall

“Others in the same industry are not your competition/enemy, they are your community. Unify it. Lift it up together!”

About Ashley:
​
I own Bella Vista Painting & Drywall with my husband, Luis. I have 3 beautiful children, two boys,  13 and 9, and one girl, 12. I live in Vancouver, WA and love all things black, shopping,  food and MOB-ing!! I love to support other women in business and help lead them to the right places to network!

What Ashley loves about the work she does:

Meeting people and wowing them with the transformations.

Ashley’s advice to her younger self:

Don't underprice yourself! Price your worth and the right clients will come.

About the impact the MOB has had on her business?

The MOB has literally grown my business from day one!! My very first client was a MOB and I will always be grateful! I track my sales referral source and everything always ties back to MOB! My largest supporters/referral always ties back to the MOB!

www.lapaintingllc.net
www.facebook.com/bellavistanw
www.instagram.com/bellavistanw 

Alison Brown, Roof Rite Services, Inc.

“If you feel inspired to do something, do it!”
​
About Alison:

I’m a nearly 40 year old, adventurer at heart, Oregonian, mother of 3 and wife to Trent, the other owner of our business. I love being independent and in control of my own destiny.

What Alison loves about the work she does:
We love being able to interact with so many people and provide such an essential and important service.

Alison’s advice to her younger self:
Don’t be afraid to take risks, but be wise about it. Stay out of debt! Take networking seriously and use it to grow your business.

About the impact the MOB has had on her business:
The MOB has been key to helping us grow our business not only through customer referrals, but in finding a lot of other services to grow our business in addition to the educational opportunities available.

www.roofriteservices.com
www.facebook.com/roofriteservices

Michelle Maryatt,  Budget Blinds of Central Portland

About Michelle:
My first loves are my three kiddos and my amazingly supportive husband.  One is in college, one is in high school, and I have a first grader who keeps me young and on my toes!  I have owned Budget Blinds Central Portland for 16 years. Started in partnership with my parents, who are now retiring, we have an office and showroom in close-in NE Portland.  If not designing and managing the business, you can find me at the Oregon Coast taking long beach walks and hunting for agates.

What Michelle loves about the work she does:

I love helping clients make their house a home!  We do more than just cover a window.  We provide privacy, light control, security, warmth and beautiful design.  You can change the whole look and feel of a room with window treatments.  Being invited into someone's home to help them is such a privilege.  I don't take it for granted!

Michelle’s advice to her younger self:

Keep true to your vision.  Ask for advice from those whom you trust, but always know that you have the answer in you.  Always to the right thing and stay on point with your moral compass when dealing with clients.  Take the difficult things first and don't procrastinate.  Last but not least- learn how to delegate the things you can!  You got this!

About the impact the MOB has had on her business:

I love being a part of a group of like minded empowered mom's.  We are a force to be reckoned with!
www.budgetblinds.com/central-portland-or
www.facebook.com/BudgetBlindsCentralPortland
www.instagram.com/budgetblindscentralportland

Maria Amador, Rip City Roofing & Exteriors LLC

I'm so thankful to be in the MOB. It truly is life changing. I was ready to give up and then the MOB happened. I love learning about other MOBs and helping out as much as I can. I thought it was just me in the contractor business, but it turns out there are many of us and I love it!

About Maria:

I’m 29 and a mother of four boys. Family is everything to me. I love to learn about new things. I like challenges. I've had my company for three years. I just learned about the MOB and it has been life changing. I'm excited for what's to come!

What Maria loves about the work she does:

I love that I can offer good quality labor, my foreman has more than 14 years of experience, and I know what is happening 100% of the time. I love that I control my business. I decide. I'm in charge. I'm the boss. Roofing is all men so I like that I'm different and can connect with women without feeling belittled by men. Knowledge is power and my powers are strong. My business has so much potential I can see it. I’m ready to grow.

Maria’s advice to her younger self:

Pay attention to marketing. I had no idea the difference marketing can make in a business!

About the impact the MOB has had on her business:

Since I joined the MOB in January, I've done five jobs and have three more starting this week. The MOB is a blessing.

www.facebook.com/RipCityRoofingandExteriorsLLC 

Heather Stephens, NorAm Financial Services, Inc


About Heather:
​
Mrs. Stephens received her Accounting Associate of Applied Science and Business Administration Associate of Applied Science degrees from Clark College—and has more than 15 years of accounting experience. Mrs. Stephens is a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, IRS tax returner preparer and is a National Notary Association-certified notary.

She also has extensive experience with certified-prevailing wage payrolls, as well as construction- and manufacturing-specific job cost bookkeeping. In her spare time, Mrs. Stephens tries to keep up with her ever-growing (extremely active) daughter Brooklyn, enjoys watching Formula 1 racing, plays tennis and has started golfing.

What Heather loves about the work she does:

I love being able to provide financial clarity to my clients. Showing them how important it is to budget, job cost, and read financial reports brings such a sense of accomplishment when it all clicks.

Heather's advice to her younger self:

Focus on what you bring to the table. It’s okay to outsource things in your business so you can build your business.

About the impact the MOB has had on her business:
​
The MOB network has been instrumental to my business health and community. I’ve met some amazing colleagues and they believe in community over competition.

https://noramfinancialservices.com/services
https://www.facebook.com/noramfinancialservicesinc