We share valuable insights to help you succeed in starting and growing your business. From overcoming challenges to scaling your operations, our articles provide practical advice and strategies to support your entrepreneurial journey. Get inspired and take actionable steps toward building your dream business!
Turning Passion into Profit – Transforming Your Hobby into a Thriving Business Many dream of turning their beloved hobby into a flourishing business, but the transition from leisure pursuit to profitable venture requires strategic planning, dedication, and a leap of faith. Whether it’s crafting, baking, writing, or any other passion, here’s a roadmap to guide […]
Baking Up Sweet Success – Amanda Garman’s Journey to Confection Perfection In the quaint kitchen of Mini Snack Confections, a home-based bakery, the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air. This cozy space is the heart of Amanda Garman’s thriving business, a dream turned reality born from her desire to balance work and family […]
In the Beginning: Ray Fraser and the Rise of Vital View Technologies Our exploration of the entrepreneurial journeys of Notre Dame’s Idea Center MBA graduates begins with Ray Fraser, CEO of Vital View Technologies, Inc. His story is a remarkable narrative of transformation, from his roots in Hartford, Connecticut, to becoming a pioneering figure in […]
The Secret Sauce of Success: Embracing Company Culture in Small Business Hey fellow small business rockstars! Today, let’s talk about something more critical than morning coffee and Wi-Fi – company culture. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Culture, schmulture, I’m just here to keep the lights on.” But trust me, my entrepreneurial amigos, the secret […]
The Legacy of Light: Marie Nimtz and Marie June Photography In the glow of old black and white family portraits, the legacy of her grandmother June found its way into Marie’s heart. This isn’t just the story of Marie June Photography; it’s a tale interwoven with familial bonds, creative awakening, and a leap of faith […]
Inside the Eye of the Storm with Chandler Bos As I sat down with Chandler Bos, one of the founders of the Michigan Storm Chasers, I couldn’t help but feel the electric excitement that comes with talking about chasing the heart of a storm. In Michigan, where the weather can swing from serene to severe […]
Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates So you’ve crafted a killer proposal, landed a dream client, and now comes the tricky part: negotiating your rate. Fear not, brave freelancer! With a little preparation and savvy communication, you can secure a fair price that reflects your skills and keeps the client happy. Know […]
Wagging Tails and Winning Hearts: Rich Naponelli’s Pet Care Revolution in Michiana Meet Rich Naponelli: a man whose zest for life and love for animals has transformed the pet care scene in Michiana. Rich isn’t your average business owner; he’s a dynamo of energy and enthusiasm, driven by a mission to make a difference. For […]
Freelancer Frenzy – Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout Juggling multiple projects, chasing deadlines, and battling the ever-present email monster – freelancer life can be exhilarating, yes, but also utterly chaotic. Before you reach peak overwhelm and spontaneously combust, fret not! Let’s delve into some battle-tested strategies to keep your workload in check, deadlines […]
Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow @garyvee – Gary Vaynerchuk is a serial entrepreneur, author, and speaker known for his valuable insights on branding, marketing, and social media. His energetic and no-nonsense approach to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and educational. @elonmusk – Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is a […]
Celebrating Madam C.J. Walker: The Trailblazing Entrepreneur Who Paved the Way for Women in Business As I sit down to pen my thoughts about Madam C.J. Walker, my heart swells with admiration and gratitude for the woman who shattered glass ceilings and blazed a trail for female entrepreneurs like myself. Madam Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, was […]
Mastering Your Business – 7 Ways to Increase Influence with Colleagues, Prospects, and Clients. Outstanding small business leaders and successful sales team members draw a roadmap that guides themselves and their target audience closer efficiently and effectively. We have all met a person who can make anyone comfortable, engaged and trusting. What superpower gives you […]
GVC Mortgage South Bend: Welcoming You Home When Ryan Woodruff set out to bring GVC Mortgage to the greater South Bend area, his goal was clear – to build a mortgage lending team that puts homebuyers first. He wanted to create a branch that focused on guiding people through one of the most important financial […]
SisteRs Kreations & Treats: A Business Built on Faith, Family, and Resilience For Lisa Comer and her daughters Robyn and Kelly, baking has always been a part of their lives. But in October 2020, it became something more. What started as a shared love of creating and baking, became the inspiration for SisteRs Kreations & […]
Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free Kelli Stair and Alex Welsch always knew they wanted to run a business together but weren’t sure what type of business they wanted. As they explored franchise opportunities, one problem kept coming up: evenings in their backyard were anything but relaxing. “We’d spent so […]
Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success The Bold Leap from Corporate to CEO When Teri Pascone launched Bookkeeping Today, LLC full-time, she thought it would take years to build a business that could replace her corporate salary. Eight months later, she made her dream a reality. Teri walked away from the corporate […]
From Childhood Hustle to Thriving Business: How Cierra Scoops Keeps Growing Photo by Chuck Konkle When Cathy Konkle pitched a business idea to her 10-year-old daughter, Cierra, she had no idea it would turn into a decade-long success story. What started as a way for a young girl to earn some extra spending money […]
Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti The local small business landscape is a relentless race, where standing still is akin to moving backward. We are experiencing a hyper-competitive business market, where our companies must relentlessly evolve, adapt, and innovate to not just survive, but to truly thrive. Smart […]
Reclaiming Your Confidence: 6 Powerful Strategies for Business Owners Owning a business is an adventure—one filled with highs, lows, and plenty of unexpected twists. Some days, you feel unstoppable, ready to conquer every challenge. Other days, self-doubt sneaks in, making you question your abilities, decisions, and even your worth as an entrepreneur. If that sounds […]
Visionaries Who Shaped the Modern World Entrepreneurs are the driving force behind innovation, industry, and economic growth. From the assembly lines of the early 20th century to the digital revolutions of today, visionary leaders have transformed the way we live, work, and connect. I have been advised by several sources to study successful business owners […]
March 2025 – ARTIST OF THE MONTH Janice Lampos: The Artist Who Never Stops Creating Janice Lampos has never known a life without art. As long as Janice can remember, creativity has been part of her identity – from sketching as a child in a pre-TV era to painting vibrant cityscapes later in life. What […]
What does your Brand represent? When looking at your Brand, accountability may be the furthest from your mind, however, whether we realize it or not, our accountability can gain or lose us business, thus impacting our Brand. To whom are you accountable? Here are a few of my accountability partners: • Me! I must discipline […]
The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey Starting and growing a business takes more than a great idea—it takes courage. Every entrepreneur faces challenges, from financial risks to self-doubt, but success belongs to those who push forward despite fear. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the determination to act in spite […]
Alejandro Saucedo’s Success Through Grit and Grace Q: Alejandro, could you share what inspired you to start Indiana’s Elite Cleaning? A: I’m a third-generation professional cleaner, and my greatest inspiration has been my grandparents. They were originally migrant field workers, but they were offered the opportunity to leave the harsh conditions of that world through […]
From Hollywood Glam to Midwest Calm: Cindy Camp’s Blissful Beauty Every so often, I come across someone who leaves a lasting impression, a person whose story I know I’ll never forget. Cindy Camp is one of those remarkable individuals. She’s the spirited founder of My Blissful Escape, where she masterfully blends the allure of Hollywood […]
From Nomadic Beginnings To A Michiana Staple Gail and Steve Stavick embarked on a remarkable journey that would forever shape their lives. Setting aside any doubts, they sold all their possessions with the intention of starting fresh in the enchanting paradise of Hawaii. Though their dreams of island life did not come to fruition, they […]
LifeSaver Simplified: Mercie May’s Strategic Vision for Empowering Small Businesses LifeSaver Simplified, founded by Mercie May, stands out as a beacon for small businesses struggling with human resources (HR) challenges. With nearly two decades of entrepreneurial and HR experience, Mercie understands the multifaceted roles small business owners juggle daily. Her venture offers a unique solution […]
How To Build A Strong Freelance Network Freelancer Synergy: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering the Gig Jungle Let’s face it, the freelance life can be a thrilling rollercoaster. One day you’re basking in the glory of landing a dream client, the next you’re wrestling with rogue invoices and wondering where the next project will come from. […]
The Inventive Legacy of Beulah Louise Henry As a passionate entrepreneur with a penchant for innovation, I have always admired individuals who have left an indelible mark on the world through their ingenuity and creativity. One such trailblazer who continues to inspire me is Beulah Louise Henry, a remarkable woman whose inventive spirit and entrepreneurial […]
Spotlight on Valerie Baker-Wynn: The Heartbeat of Windblown Travel From Passion to Profession Valerie Baker-Wynn, the driving force behind Windblown Travel, LLC, in South Bend, Indiana, discovered her calling in the travel industry through a serendipitous turn of events. She found herself traveling with friends on a trip that was very poorly planned by someone […]
Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend In the heart of South Bend’s East Bank District, you’ll find a dynamic creative community space called Stockroom East. Officially opening its doors in 2021, this multifaceted venue offers a blend of coworking, event hosting, and live music performances, attracting a diverse crowd from […]
The PC Doctor Is In: Joe Lightner’s Prescription for Small Business Tech Health In the rapidly evolving world of technology, where change is the only constant, Joe Lightner, known affectionately as The PC Doctor, has carved out a niche in the small business sector. His journey from a radio broadcaster to a computer technician exemplifies […]
Riverbend Apparel and Promotions: A Family’s Journey Through Adversity to Success When Becky Mackowicz decided to take a leap of faith in October 2019 and purchase Riverbend Apparel and Promotions with her husband John, she had no idea what challenges lay ahead. As a branding company specializing in embroidery and screen printing on promotional items […]
6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process As a small business owner or entrepreneur, managing projects effectively is essential to your success. A well-structured project management process not only keeps you organized but also helps you deliver consistent results for clients and stakeholders. Here’s a straightforward guide to setting up a project management […]
Hedwig Kiesler: The Ingenious Innovator Behind the Glamour In the annals of Hollywood history, few names evoke as much intrigue and admiration as Hedwig Kiesler. Known to most by her screen name, Hedy Lamarr, she was more than just a stunning actress of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Beyond the silver screen, Kiesler was a […]
Micolette Perri: Bringing Compassion and Order to Chaos When life feels overwhelming, and clutter encroaches on peace of mind, Micolette Perri steps in with skill, empathy, and Faith. As the owner of Perri’s Organizational Services, LLC, Micolette has built a business by helping people reclaim their spaces and sense of calm. Her journey hasn’t been […]
Liz Georges – Finding Purpose Through Vibrant Soul Coaching Liz Georges’ journey to becoming a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and mental mastery coach was anything but conventional. With a career path that included serving in the military, working in primary care, and even selling cars, Liz’s professional life has been marked by exploration, adaptability, and […]
How To Deal With The Challenges Of Freelancing Freelancing Freedom: Conquering the Challenges and Embracing the Hustle Ah, freelancing. The land of limitless potential, flexible schedules, and… well, a fair share of challenges. From navigating tricky client situations to staying motivated when the coffee runs dry, the solopreneur life throws its fair share of curveballs. […]
Igniting Change: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs at the Women’s Entrepreneur Summit As C2 Your Health Women’s Initiative Inc. (501(c)3) 7th Annual Women’s Entrepreneur Summit – Round Tables for Success draws near, there’s an undeniable sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. For founder Cindy Cohen, RN, BS BA, this event is more than just a […]
Rolling Out Success: Ched Hawthorne and His Mobile Flooring Revolution In the bustling world of home improvement, few businesses can claim the kind of convenience and customer-focused service that Ched Hawthorne brings to Michiana. As the owner of Floor Coverings International of Michiana, Ched has taken an established business model and put his unique […]
We share valuable insights to help you succeed in starting and growing your business. From overcoming challenges to scaling your operations, our articles provide practical advice and strategies to support your entrepreneurial journey. Get inspired and take actionable steps toward building your dream business!
Turning Passion into Profit – Transforming Your Hobby into a Thriving Business Many dream of turning their beloved hobby into a flourishing business, but the transition from leisure pursuit to profitable venture requires strategic planning, dedication, and a leap of faith. Whether it’s crafting, baking, writing, or any other passion, here’s a roadmap to guide […]
Baking Up Sweet Success – Amanda Garman’s Journey to Confection Perfection In the quaint kitchen of Mini Snack Confections, a home-based bakery, the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air. This cozy space is the heart of Amanda Garman’s thriving business, a dream turned reality born from her desire to balance work and family […]
In the Beginning: Ray Fraser and the Rise of Vital View Technologies Our exploration of the entrepreneurial journeys of Notre Dame’s Idea Center MBA graduates begins with Ray Fraser, CEO of Vital View Technologies, Inc. His story is a remarkable narrative of transformation, from his roots in Hartford, Connecticut, to becoming a pioneering figure in […]
The Secret Sauce of Success: Embracing Company Culture in Small Business Hey fellow small business rockstars! Today, let’s talk about something more critical than morning coffee and Wi-Fi – company culture. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Culture, schmulture, I’m just here to keep the lights on.” But trust me, my entrepreneurial amigos, the secret […]
The Legacy of Light: Marie Nimtz and Marie June Photography In the glow of old black and white family portraits, the legacy of her grandmother June found its way into Marie’s heart. This isn’t just the story of Marie June Photography; it’s a tale interwoven with familial bonds, creative awakening, and a leap of faith […]
Inside the Eye of the Storm with Chandler Bos As I sat down with Chandler Bos, one of the founders of the Michigan Storm Chasers, I couldn’t help but feel the electric excitement that comes with talking about chasing the heart of a storm. In Michigan, where the weather can swing from serene to severe […]
Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates So you’ve crafted a killer proposal, landed a dream client, and now comes the tricky part: negotiating your rate. Fear not, brave freelancer! With a little preparation and savvy communication, you can secure a fair price that reflects your skills and keeps the client happy. Know […]
Wagging Tails and Winning Hearts: Rich Naponelli’s Pet Care Revolution in Michiana Meet Rich Naponelli: a man whose zest for life and love for animals has transformed the pet care scene in Michiana. Rich isn’t your average business owner; he’s a dynamo of energy and enthusiasm, driven by a mission to make a difference. For […]
Freelancer Frenzy – Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout Juggling multiple projects, chasing deadlines, and battling the ever-present email monster – freelancer life can be exhilarating, yes, but also utterly chaotic. Before you reach peak overwhelm and spontaneously combust, fret not! Let’s delve into some battle-tested strategies to keep your workload in check, deadlines […]
Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow @garyvee – Gary Vaynerchuk is a serial entrepreneur, author, and speaker known for his valuable insights on branding, marketing, and social media. His energetic and no-nonsense approach to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and educational. @elonmusk – Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is a […]
Celebrating Madam C.J. Walker: The Trailblazing Entrepreneur Who Paved the Way for Women in Business As I sit down to pen my thoughts about Madam C.J. Walker, my heart swells with admiration and gratitude for the woman who shattered glass ceilings and blazed a trail for female entrepreneurs like myself. Madam Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, was […]
Mastering Your Business – 7 Ways to Increase Influence with Colleagues, Prospects, and Clients. Outstanding small business leaders and successful sales team members draw a roadmap that guides themselves and their target audience closer efficiently and effectively. We have all met a person who can make anyone comfortable, engaged and trusting. What superpower gives you […]
GVC Mortgage South Bend: Welcoming You Home When Ryan Woodruff set out to bring GVC Mortgage to the greater South Bend area, his goal was clear – to build a mortgage lending team that puts homebuyers first. He wanted to create a branch that focused on guiding people through one of the most important financial […]
SisteRs Kreations & Treats: A Business Built on Faith, Family, and Resilience For Lisa Comer and her daughters Robyn and Kelly, baking has always been a part of their lives. But in October 2020, it became something more. What started as a shared love of creating and baking, became the inspiration for SisteRs Kreations & […]
Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free Kelli Stair and Alex Welsch always knew they wanted to run a business together but weren’t sure what type of business they wanted. As they explored franchise opportunities, one problem kept coming up: evenings in their backyard were anything but relaxing. “We’d spent so […]
Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success The Bold Leap from Corporate to CEO When Teri Pascone launched Bookkeeping Today, LLC full-time, she thought it would take years to build a business that could replace her corporate salary. Eight months later, she made her dream a reality. Teri walked away from the corporate […]
From Childhood Hustle to Thriving Business: How Cierra Scoops Keeps Growing Photo by Chuck Konkle When Cathy Konkle pitched a business idea to her 10-year-old daughter, Cierra, she had no idea it would turn into a decade-long success story. What started as a way for a young girl to earn some extra spending money […]
Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti The local small business landscape is a relentless race, where standing still is akin to moving backward. We are experiencing a hyper-competitive business market, where our companies must relentlessly evolve, adapt, and innovate to not just survive, but to truly thrive. Smart […]
Reclaiming Your Confidence: 6 Powerful Strategies for Business Owners Owning a business is an adventure—one filled with highs, lows, and plenty of unexpected twists. Some days, you feel unstoppable, ready to conquer every challenge. Other days, self-doubt sneaks in, making you question your abilities, decisions, and even your worth as an entrepreneur. If that sounds […]
Visionaries Who Shaped the Modern World Entrepreneurs are the driving force behind innovation, industry, and economic growth. From the assembly lines of the early 20th century to the digital revolutions of today, visionary leaders have transformed the way we live, work, and connect. I have been advised by several sources to study successful business owners […]
March 2025 – ARTIST OF THE MONTH Janice Lampos: The Artist Who Never Stops Creating Janice Lampos has never known a life without art. As long as Janice can remember, creativity has been part of her identity – from sketching as a child in a pre-TV era to painting vibrant cityscapes later in life. What […]
What does your Brand represent? When looking at your Brand, accountability may be the furthest from your mind, however, whether we realize it or not, our accountability can gain or lose us business, thus impacting our Brand. To whom are you accountable? Here are a few of my accountability partners: • Me! I must discipline […]
The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey Starting and growing a business takes more than a great idea—it takes courage. Every entrepreneur faces challenges, from financial risks to self-doubt, but success belongs to those who push forward despite fear. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the determination to act in spite […]
Alejandro Saucedo’s Success Through Grit and Grace Q: Alejandro, could you share what inspired you to start Indiana’s Elite Cleaning? A: I’m a third-generation professional cleaner, and my greatest inspiration has been my grandparents. They were originally migrant field workers, but they were offered the opportunity to leave the harsh conditions of that world through […]
From Hollywood Glam to Midwest Calm: Cindy Camp’s Blissful Beauty Every so often, I come across someone who leaves a lasting impression, a person whose story I know I’ll never forget. Cindy Camp is one of those remarkable individuals. She’s the spirited founder of My Blissful Escape, where she masterfully blends the allure of Hollywood […]
From Nomadic Beginnings To A Michiana Staple Gail and Steve Stavick embarked on a remarkable journey that would forever shape their lives. Setting aside any doubts, they sold all their possessions with the intention of starting fresh in the enchanting paradise of Hawaii. Though their dreams of island life did not come to fruition, they […]
LifeSaver Simplified: Mercie May’s Strategic Vision for Empowering Small Businesses LifeSaver Simplified, founded by Mercie May, stands out as a beacon for small businesses struggling with human resources (HR) challenges. With nearly two decades of entrepreneurial and HR experience, Mercie understands the multifaceted roles small business owners juggle daily. Her venture offers a unique solution […]
How To Build A Strong Freelance Network Freelancer Synergy: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering the Gig Jungle Let’s face it, the freelance life can be a thrilling rollercoaster. One day you’re basking in the glory of landing a dream client, the next you’re wrestling with rogue invoices and wondering where the next project will come from. […]
The Inventive Legacy of Beulah Louise Henry As a passionate entrepreneur with a penchant for innovation, I have always admired individuals who have left an indelible mark on the world through their ingenuity and creativity. One such trailblazer who continues to inspire me is Beulah Louise Henry, a remarkable woman whose inventive spirit and entrepreneurial […]
Spotlight on Valerie Baker-Wynn: The Heartbeat of Windblown Travel From Passion to Profession Valerie Baker-Wynn, the driving force behind Windblown Travel, LLC, in South Bend, Indiana, discovered her calling in the travel industry through a serendipitous turn of events. She found herself traveling with friends on a trip that was very poorly planned by someone […]
Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend In the heart of South Bend’s East Bank District, you’ll find a dynamic creative community space called Stockroom East. Officially opening its doors in 2021, this multifaceted venue offers a blend of coworking, event hosting, and live music performances, attracting a diverse crowd from […]
The PC Doctor Is In: Joe Lightner’s Prescription for Small Business Tech Health In the rapidly evolving world of technology, where change is the only constant, Joe Lightner, known affectionately as The PC Doctor, has carved out a niche in the small business sector. His journey from a radio broadcaster to a computer technician exemplifies […]
Riverbend Apparel and Promotions: A Family’s Journey Through Adversity to Success When Becky Mackowicz decided to take a leap of faith in October 2019 and purchase Riverbend Apparel and Promotions with her husband John, she had no idea what challenges lay ahead. As a branding company specializing in embroidery and screen printing on promotional items […]
6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process As a small business owner or entrepreneur, managing projects effectively is essential to your success. A well-structured project management process not only keeps you organized but also helps you deliver consistent results for clients and stakeholders. Here’s a straightforward guide to setting up a project management […]
Hedwig Kiesler: The Ingenious Innovator Behind the Glamour In the annals of Hollywood history, few names evoke as much intrigue and admiration as Hedwig Kiesler. Known to most by her screen name, Hedy Lamarr, she was more than just a stunning actress of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Beyond the silver screen, Kiesler was a […]
Micolette Perri: Bringing Compassion and Order to Chaos When life feels overwhelming, and clutter encroaches on peace of mind, Micolette Perri steps in with skill, empathy, and Faith. As the owner of Perri’s Organizational Services, LLC, Micolette has built a business by helping people reclaim their spaces and sense of calm. Her journey hasn’t been […]
Liz Georges – Finding Purpose Through Vibrant Soul Coaching Liz Georges’ journey to becoming a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and mental mastery coach was anything but conventional. With a career path that included serving in the military, working in primary care, and even selling cars, Liz’s professional life has been marked by exploration, adaptability, and […]
How To Deal With The Challenges Of Freelancing Freelancing Freedom: Conquering the Challenges and Embracing the Hustle Ah, freelancing. The land of limitless potential, flexible schedules, and… well, a fair share of challenges. From navigating tricky client situations to staying motivated when the coffee runs dry, the solopreneur life throws its fair share of curveballs. […]
Igniting Change: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs at the Women’s Entrepreneur Summit As C2 Your Health Women’s Initiative Inc. (501(c)3) 7th Annual Women’s Entrepreneur Summit – Round Tables for Success draws near, there’s an undeniable sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. For founder Cindy Cohen, RN, BS BA, this event is more than just a […]
Rolling Out Success: Ched Hawthorne and His Mobile Flooring Revolution In the bustling world of home improvement, few businesses can claim the kind of convenience and customer-focused service that Ched Hawthorne brings to Michiana. As the owner of Floor Coverings International of Michiana, Ched has taken an established business model and put his unique […]
