Is your Shopify dashboard looking like a ghost town? You aren’t failing—you’re just experiencing the Summer Slump. ☀️📉

Every year, the weather warms up and small business sales cool down. In this episode of The Dirty Heifers, Margaret, Shauna, and Jessie break down exactly why engagement drops when the sun comes out and—more importantly—how to turn this "dead zone" into your most productive season of the year.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Psychology of the Slump: Why customers stop clicking when they head to the lake.
• Survival Strategies: How to pivot to tourist-town wholesale and "strategic restocking".
• The Holiday Headstart: Why June is actually the best time to make your Christmas soap.
• Fragrance Testing 101: Real talk on color morphing and scent retention.
• Mental Health for Makers: How to separate your self-worth from your daily notifications.

Don't let a slow week trick you into a "comparison spiral" or an unnecessary rebrand. Grab a cold drink, put on your "work helmet," and let’s get ready for the fall rush!.

Support our sponsor: ✨ Bawana Bath and Body – Creative serotonin boosts for makers who need to unplug!.

Subscribe for weekly unfiltered small business chaos!

Thinking about selling at a craft fair, farmers market, or pop-up shop? Watch this FIRST.

In this episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, we break down EVERYTHING no one tells you about vendor markets—from finding the right events to surviving your first show without losing your mind (or your profit 😅).

One of us is preparing for a massive 4-day festival with 100,000+ people, while the rest of us spill real, unfiltered lessons from years in the vendor trenches:

• How to find GOOD markets (and avoid total flops)
• Booth setups that actually attract customers
• What sells vs what just sits there
• Pricing psychology & why cheap markets can cost you MORE
• Mistakes that cost us time, money, and sanity
• Dealing with weird customers (yes… all types 😬)
• How to know if you made money… or just worked all day for nothing

Plus: 👉 The Word of the Week gets chaotic (as usual) 👉 Real stories from markets gone VERY wrong 👉 Practical tips you can actually use for your next event

Whether you're a beginner vendor or scaling your handmade business, this episode will save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.

#DirtyHeifers #SmallBusiness #CraftMarkets

Your reputation is the only thing people see before they ever buy your product—and in 2026, it's more fragile than ever. In this episode, Margaret, Shauna, and Mini Heifer dive deep into why reputation is the ultimate "currency" for small businesses.

We’re getting real about:

• The #1 mistake entrepreneurs make when a customer order goes wrong.
• How to build a bridge of trust with complete strangers online.
• The "Reprobate" behavior that is quietly killing your brand’s value.
• Why we refuse to talk politics on our business pages (and why you might want to stop too).
• The "To Delete or Not to Delete" debate: How to handle trolls and negative reviews without looking desperate.

Plus: Mini Heifer shares a chilling first-hand account of surviving Hurricane Katrina and the 48-hour journey back to a home that looked like a "box of matchsticks".

Is this the most honest small business episode we’ve ever recorded?

Welcome to our very first official Heifer Huddle: Wins, Woes & What’s Warshin’ — where we pull back the curtain on what’s actually happening inside our businesses this week.

From record-breaking wins to TikTok ad frustrations… from AI comment drama to fragrance formula fails… we’re talking about the real-life vicissitudes (yes, we used the word correctly 😏) of running a handmade product business.

In this episode:

• Jessie launches a brand-new product 👀
• Shauna battles a fragrance dupe that just won’t cooperate
• Margaret goes OFF about getting called out for using AI
• We talk slow sales, return customers, ad spending regret, and the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship
• PLUS surprise packages from July at Winston & Walter (you know we love a good unboxing)

If you’re a soap maker, small business owner, creative entrepreneur — or just someone who likes hearing the honest behind-the-scenes of building something from scratch — this episode is for you.

Because business isn’t just strategy.

It’s wins. It’s woes. It’s what’s warshin’. It’s vicissitude. And sometimes… it’s running 3 miles just to cope. 😅

👇 Tell us in the comments: What was YOUR biggest win or woe this week?

And if you’re binge-listening (we see you 👀), let us know what episode you’re on.

What happens when you outgrow your kitchen… but you’re not quite ready for a warehouse?

In this episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, we sit down with Joe from Kingston Oak Soap Company to talk about the real side of scaling a handmade business — the stuff nobody warns you about.

We get into:

• Master batching oils (beer brewers, oil drums, and redneck engineering included) • When to ditch products that won’t scale • The pricing anxiety that keeps makers stuck • Hiring help before you feel “ready” • Wholesale vs. retail vs. full-time job escape plans • Social media burnout and algorithm frustration • Why your real competition isn’t other makers

If you’ve ever asked yourself: “Am I underpricing?” “Can I actually afford to grow?” “Do I even want this to get bigger?”

This episode is for you.

Drop your answer to our Question of the Day in the comments: 👉 What are YOU afraid to scale in your business… and why?

Because growth isn’t just about bigger molds — it’s about bigger decisions.

What happens when the pillar of your industry vanishes overnight? In this heavy-hitting episode, Margaret, Jesse, and Shauna dive into the shocking cancellation of the HSCG 2026 conference and what it signals for the future of the handcrafted soap and cosmetic industry. We discuss why in-person connection is the "secret sauce" for makers and how grassroots meetups and events like SoapCon are stepping in to fill the void.

But the chaos doesn’t stop there. Margaret shares a terrifying first-hand account of being hacked on Shopify, revealing the exact tactics thieves use to drain bank accounts and redirect payouts—and why getting human help from big platforms is nearly impossible.

Whether you're struggling with the current "slow" economy or just need to know you're not alone in your business "bad decisions," this episode is a must-watch for every small business owner.

Plus: Stick around for our "Word of the Week" (Obsequious) and a Redneck Word of the Week that will have you feeling a little "T90"

In Episode 58 of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, a “nothing day” turns into a whole lot of everything. The Heifers dive into real-life maker chaos — from TikTok shop changes and platform burnout to snowstorms, supplier struggles, website headaches, and the weird mental spirals that come with running a handmade business.

This episode is part business, part therapy session, and part comedy hour. We talk about: • Platform fatigue & where creators are shifting next • TikTok Shop changes and ad burnout • Snowstorms, hospital call shifts & life interruptions • Supplier wins & website frustrations • Soapy superpowers, scent graveyards & market madness • The random thoughts that live rent-free in every maker’s brain

If you’re a soap maker, creative business owner, or just someone trying to survive entrepreneurship with humor intact — this one’s for you.

💬 Tell us in the comments: What’s your soapy superpower?

Follow The Dirty Heifers Podcast for honest, funny, unfiltered conversations about maker life, small business, and building something from nothing.

Sign the petition here: https://www.change.org/p/stop-frivolous-ada-lawsuits-targeting-e-commerce-small-businesses

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers Podcast, hosts Margaret, Jesse, and Shauna tackle a serious topic that often stays in the shadows until it’s too late: ADA website compliance. We are joined by Cindy Collins of Euphoric Herbals, who shares her firsthand experience of facing a legal summons and the reality of being targeted by "litigious" law firms.

Cindy pulls back the curtain on the world of "serial plaintiffs" and automated scanners that hunt for tiny errors on small business websites. We discuss why thinking you’re "too small to be targeted" is a dangerous mindset and provide a roadmap for makers to protect their brands.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The Lawsuit Reality Check: How Cindy discovered she was being sued and why settlement is often the only path for small businesses.
• ADA Essentials: What you need to know about alt text for images, color contrast, button labels, and accessible menus.
• The Widget Warning: Why accessibility widgets can provide a false sense of security and may actually make you a target.
• Actionable Steps: Three things you can do today—including adding an accessibility statement—to begin securing your site.
• Platform Protection: Understanding the difference between owning your own site versus selling on platforms like Etsy or Amazon.

It is far cheaper to fix your site now than to pay thousands in legal fees later. Join us for this essential conversation to ensure your business stays protected in 2026.

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers Podcast, we’re tackling the uncomfortable truth about what happens when "bare minimum" standards aren't met. Inspired by recent TikTok drama involving a creator shipping out moldy clay masks, hosts Margaret Connor, Shauna, and Jesse (Mini Heifer) dive deep into the fine line between a beginner’s learning curve and flat-out negligence.

Is social media making it too easy to start a business without learning the rules? We discuss the importance of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), how to handle pet hair and cross-contamination, and the "misfit" product dilemma. Plus, we share our own business "fails"—from moldy lotions to the "linty dish soap" incident.

In this episode:

• 00:00 – Intro: Learning Curve vs. Negligence
• 01:38 – Word of the Week: Malfeasance
• 03:11 – Southernism of the Week: "Mash on it"
• 08:15 – The TikTok "Moldy Mask" Controversy & Accountability
• 09:48 – Handling Pet Hair & Cleaning Protocols
• 13:38 – Why "I'm a Small Business" Isn't an Excuse for Bad Standards
• 15:22 – Did Social Media Lower the Barrier to Entry?
• 20:33 – Personal Horror Stories: When batches go wrong
• 22:31 – The Reputation Trap: How to handle subpar products

This episode is sponsored by Warm and Fuzzy Soapery—a brand built on quality, transparency, and the belief that respect for your customers is the bare minimum.

Support the show! Like, subscribe, and tell us in the comments: Where do YOU draw the line between a mistake and negligence?

Are you waiting for the "right time" to launch your dream? Spoiler alert: the right time is never coming. In Episode 55, Margaret, Shauna, and Jessie (the Mini Heifer) deconstruct the Myth of Ready—the dangerous idea that everything must be flawless before you hit "publish".

In this episode, we explore:

• The "Propaedeutic" Approach: Why treating your first steps as "preparatory training" is the only way to actually learn the ropes.
• Safety vs. Aesthetics: Why you can start with "messy" packaging but can never compromise on product testing and safety.
• Real-Life "Fails": From "scratcher" walnut soaps to website glitches that taught us more than any course ever could.
• Redneck Word of the Week: We take a trip to So So, Mississippi, discuss the inaccuracies of the Free State of Jones movie, and share a local ghost story about a glowing fireplace stain.

Whether you’re 80% ready or still in the "research phase," this episode is the nudge you need to stop overthinking and start doing. We're giving you permission to start messy—just don't start unsafe.

Special thanks to our sponsor: Country Lather Soapworks.

We can’t believe we’re saying this… but the Dirty Heifers Podcast just wrapped up our first full year 🎉🐄

In this special year-in-review episode, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna look back at everything we’ve packed into the last twelve months — the guests who trusted us with their stories, the conversations that hit harder than we expected, and the ridiculous moments that still make us laugh.

We talk about our imposter syndrome episode and how deeply it resonated with listeners, reminding us that when we share our experiences honestly, we’re never as alone as we think. Mental health, burnout, confidence, and self-doubt came up again and again this year — and so did the power of community.

And of course… it wouldn’t be a Dirty Heifers recap without revisiting the heifer hijinx: – Word of the Week chaos – Jessie buffering in real time – Accidental one-liners and long silences – Screen shares that somehow made everything funnier – Inside jokes that just kept snowballing – Moments that were never planned but absolutely made the show

This episode is equal parts reflection and ridiculousness — a celebration of growth, friendship, small business life, and letting yourself be imperfect on the internet.

Thank you to every guest, every listener, every commenter, and every Dirty Heifer who’s been along for the ride this year. We couldn’t have done this without you.

Stay dirty, heifers. 🖤

Is Die Hard really a Christmas movie… or are we all just fighting for sport at this point? 🎄🔥

In this festive, unhinged episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna dive headfirst into the most controversial holiday debate of all time. From Elf and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation to Gremlins, Batman Returns, Love Actually, and the claymation classics we grew up with, nothing is sacred.

We rank classic Christmas movies, break down controversial “Christmas-adjacent” films, argue over TV specials, roast Santa’s behavior in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and create brand-new fake words like nativeticulous. Expect hot takes, Southern sayings, nostalgia, movie trivia, and plenty of Heifer-level nonsense.

Whether you’re cooking Christmas dinner, hiding from your in-laws, or just need a laugh, this episode is your holiday chaos companion. 🎁 Choose your side. Press play. Stay dirty, Heifers.

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna pull up a chair for a little "real talk" about the unexpected side of running a bath and body business. While most makers start out focused on the craft, the journey quickly demands a whole new set of skills—from mastering video editing and product photography to the complex psychology of pricing and the constant art of on-the-fly troubleshooting.

The heifers share their personal experiences with shifting from a hobbyist mindset to a business owner mindset, including how they learned to value their work and stop the comparison trap. Plus, don’t miss our favorite segments: the Word of the Week (it’s not a pasta!) and a classic Southernism that might be an insult in disguise.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why video editing and social media are the skills you can't ignore.
• How understanding fragrance chemistry and suppliers "legitimizes" your brand.
• Jessie’s "macgyvered" solution for dispensing 100lb fragrance jugs.
• Moving past the fear of the camera and improving product photography.
• The psychology of pricing: Finding value in your bars

Valentine’s Day might look cute on Instagram — but behind the scenes? It’s cure time math, shipping stress, pink mica chaos, and customers who think “handmade” means “instant.”

In this Valentine’s Day special, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna break down why soap makers are already thinking about February while everyone else is still recovering from Christmas. From planning releases months in advance to dealing with last-minute shoppers, fragrance fails, and heart-shaped regrets, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to get Valentine’s products to market.

Along the way, the heifers share their best and worst Valentine’s releases, customer chaos stories, partner struggles during busy seasons, and a Word of the Week that sounds like a medical condition but actually means “beautiful.” (Spoiler: Jessie absolutely nails it.)

Whether you’re a maker, a small business owner, or just someone who loves a little chaos with your romance, this episode is equal parts relatable, educational, and unhinged — in the best way.

💘 Soap talk 💘 Small business realities 💘 Valentine’s Day behind the scenes 💘 Pink mica trauma

Stay dirty, heifers.

Tonight on the Dirty Heifers Podcast, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna dive into… absolutely nothing. No outline. No topic. No sponsor. Just three small-business besties embracing pure chaos and meandering their way through life, business, soap making, and whatever random thoughts happen to crash-land in our brains.

We’re talking unhinged stories, behind-the-scenes maker life, weird customer moments, random life updates, new obsessions, red flags, comfort habits, and why we should probably never record without a plan again.

Jessie tackles our Word of the Week: “Meanderthal” (very on brand), Shauna gets roasted in a vocabulary sentence, and the heifers argue through a brand-new “This or That” category: Unpopular Comforts.

If you love casual, unfiltered, hangout-style episodes from makers and small-business owners who don’t take themselves too seriously, this one’s for you.

✨ New episodes every week! Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and stay dirty, heifers.

Integrating your online shop with social media sounds easy… until Meta sends you into a loop of missing product errors, your Facebook shop disappears into the void, and TikTok Shop tries to overthrow your entire inventory system.

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers Podcast, Margaret (Warm & Fuzzy Soapery), Jessie (Country Lather Soapworks), and Shauna (Bawauna Bath & Body) dive headfirst into the messy, glitchy, headache-inducing world of syncing your business with platforms like Meta, Facebook Shop, Instagram Shop, TikTok, and more.

We talk about: 💥 Why Meta integration is never a one-and-done task 💥 The chaos of missing pixels, broken shop buttons, and ghost product catalogs 💥 TikTok Shop madness and why some makers opt out 💥 How tech glitches genuinely impact small business owners 💥 The reality of dealing with customer support (the good, the bad, and the “try again later”) 💥 Advice for new makers who think connecting their shop will be easy (spoiler: good luck) 💥 And of course… a back-to-back hilarious This or That segment

If you’ve ever tried to connect your shop and ended up screaming at your screen, this episode will make you laugh, cry, and feel very seen.

New episodes drop weekly — hit subscribe, leave a comment, and tell us your WORST tech horror story.

Stay dirty, heifers.

In this episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, the Heifers get real about what happens when your hobby turns into a hustle—and then straight into burnout hell. From soap making and small business stress to the emotional rollercoaster of content creation, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna dive into the realities behind “doing what you love.”

They chat about creative burnout, social media pressure, balancing passion and profit, and what happens when your craft starts to feel like a chore. You’ll hear hilarious and honest takes on managing stock, handling customer expectations, and deciding when it’s time to rest—or outsource!

The Heifers also share their Halloween plans, personal burnout stories, and wrap things up with a light-hearted “This or That” game all about business, creativity, and soap-making chaos.

Whether you’re a soap maker, crafter, entrepreneur, or just trying to keep your spark alive in the daily grind, this episode is for you.

✨ New episodes every week! Subscribe for real talk, laughs, and the occasional cow pun.

This week, the Dirty Heifers roll up their sleeves and dig into the digital dirt — giving real, unfiltered feedback to Happy Soul Soap & Candle Co. on their social media game. From Instagram grids to TikTok reels, we’re breaking down what’s working, what’s missing, and how small businesses can glow up online without losing their handmade charm.

Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna bring their business brains and heifer humor to the table, sharing practical tips every maker can use — whether you’re selling soaps, candles, or anything in between. Expect plenty of laughs, honest opinions, and a few golden nuggets of marketing wisdom.

We’re talking about finding your brand voice, building community, showing your process, and staying consistent on social. Plus, we highlight how storytelling and authenticity (like Happy Soul’s beautiful origin story) can turn casual followers into loyal customers.

So grab your coffee, your phone, and your favorite bar of soap — because it’s time to clean up those feeds, y’all.

It’s officially spooky season, y’all — and the Dirty Heifers are showing up in full costume! 🐮🎃

In this chaotic and hilarious episode, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna react to the most over-the-top fall soaps on TikTok and beyond. From pumpkin spice swirls to glitter-packed creations that would make a unicorn blush, the heifers are dishing out their unfiltered thoughts, laughs, and soap-maker side-eye.

Along the way, they tackle everything from recipe-sharing etiquette to melt and pour magic, talk about what makes a soap ostentatious (yep, that’s the Word of the Week), and swap stories about the wins — and fails — of creative soap making.

The episode wraps up with the first-ever Heifers’ Choice Awards, where the ladies crown their favorite fall soap creations and celebrate the wild talent in the handmade soap community.

🧼 Expect laughs, glitter, cow puns, and plenty of inspiration for your next batch! 💬 Drop your favorite soap moment in the comments and tell us who you think should’ve won the Heifers’ Choice Award!

In this unscripted episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, the heifers go completely off the rails — from talking gumbo and gator meat to diving deep into the business of soapmaking, content creation, and small business chaos. Expect laughter, learning, and a whole lot of sass as Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna tackle everything from TikTok Shop drama to fragrance trends and the art of teaching others.

They cover the realities of running a handmade business — from avoiding personal-business money mix-ups to finding your signature product and keeping your creativity alive. Whether you’re a soapmaker, candle creator, or small biz hustler, this episode proves that sometimes the best conversations happen when there’s no plan at all.

💬 Highlights:

• Cajun cooking, gumbo, and gator talk (yes, really)
• “Flummoxed” and “fiddle fartin’” — the Heifers’ new vocabulary
• Challenges of selling on TikTok Shop and adapting to new platforms
• Why teaching, testing, and sampling fragrance oils matters
• The importance of signature products and fragrance trends
• Behind-the-scenes podcast chaos and what gets cut out
• How humor builds community in the handmade world

🎧 Tune in for relatable small business stories, laughs, and a reminder that even when you’re a little flummoxed, you’re still doing just fine.

In this episode of The Dirty Heifers podcast, the hosts get real about dealing with online trolls, hate comments, and unsolicited criticism. From the difference between helpful feedback and straight-up trolling to the emotional toll that negativity can take on small business owners and creators, they’re breaking it all down — heifer-style. 🐮

Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna share personal stories of online drama, dive into why trolls do what they do, and talk about how to turn negativity into motivation. Whether you’ve faced internet hate or just want to build a thicker skin while running your business online, this episode is packed with sass, laughs, and solid advice.

💬 What you’ll hear in this episode:

• The difference between trolls and constructive critics
• How online hate affects mental health and creativity
• Real-life stories from the Heifers’ own comment sections
• How to use negativity as fuel for growth
• Why community support makes all the difference

If you’ve ever had to deal with an online hater — this one’s for you.

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment (especially if you’ve ever had to clap back at a troll).

In this episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, we’re talking all about seasonal burnout — you know, that crash-and-burn feeling after the holiday hustle when you’re running on caffeine, fumes, and questionable life choices. We break down the signs, causes, and effects of burnout on small business owners and makers, especially during busy seasons like the holidays and craft fair marathons.

From forgetting to eat (or living on cold pizza) to ghosting your customers because your brain’s tapped out, we’ve been there — and we’re spilling the messy, hilarious, and oh-so-relatable truth. But it’s not all doom and gloom: we’re sharing real-life coping strategies, from self-care and saying no, to leaning on community and planning ahead so burnout doesn’t steamroll your whole year.

So grab your coffee (or your wine), kick back, and commiserate with us Heifers as we tackle burnout with honesty, laughter, and a little sass. And hey — we want to hear from you: how do YOU deal with burnout?

In Episode 40 of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, we’re calling out the “soap purity police” and diving into the drama of gatekeeping in the soap-making community. From the debate over fresh vs. powdered goat milk to fragrance oils vs. essential oils, we break down why there’s no one right way to make soap.

We talk about why shaming other makers is bad for business, the importance of education over judgment, and why collaboration will always beat competition. At the end of the day, customers care more about quality, scent, and feel — not whether you followed someone else’s “purity rules.”

Whether you’re team cold process, hot process, or melt-and-pour, this episode is for you. Let’s stop tearing each other down and start lifting each other up.

👉 What gatekeeping have YOU seen in the maker world? Drop your stories in the comments — we’d love to hear them!

In this episode, Margaret (Warm and Fuzzy Soapery), Jessie (Country Lather Soapworks), and Shauna (Buona Bath & Body) pull back the curtain on the reality of running a bath and body business. From the shock of how much time goes into video editing to the surprising ease of scaling production, the heifers discuss the "rainbows and unicorns" they expected versus the spreadsheets and shipping boxes they actually got.

In this episode, we cover:

• The "Redneck Word of the Week": Learning how to say "Eskatawpa" (and why it matters if you're a Three Doors Down fan).
• The Content Struggle: Why making engaging marketing content is often harder than the actual soap making.
• The Box Debate: Does packaging really drive sales, or is it just for the "shelf-appeal" in wholesale?.
• Scaling Up: Why making 100 bars isn't actually 10 times harder than making 10.

Special thanks to our sponsor: Warm and Fuzzy Soapery.

This week the heifers are getting nerdy, goofy, and a little soapy. 🧼 From family chaos to pop culture tangents, we’re sharing the lessons we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) on our soap-making journeys.

We talk safety tips (yes, lye burns are real, y’all), why record keeping can save your business, and how to actually price your soap without selling yourself short. Plus—branding, contests, community support, and a round of “This or That” that proves we should probably never play games unsupervised. 🤠

Whether you’re just starting out or knee-deep in batter and fragrance oils, this episode is packed with real talk, laughs, and reminders that soap making should be fun.

💬 Tell us in the comments: what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your soap-making or small biz journey? 👍 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more heifer hijinks!

In this episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna get real about the world of networking, small business community, and makers supporting makers. Spoiler: it’s not about collecting business cards or being a slick schmoozer—it’s about finding your people.

The Heifers spill stories about how they officially met at a soap conference (yes, a networking event… where Margaret was absolutely hiding by the free coffee), what real support between makers looks like, and why “community over competition” isn’t just a cute phrase—it’s the backbone of running a sustainable creative business.

You’ll hear: 🐮 Relatable (and hilarious) networking fails. 🐮 Tips for overcoming networking anxiety when you’d rather hide behind your booth. 🐮 Green flags vs. red flags when meeting new makers or suppliers. 🐮 A round of “Networking Nightmares”—their comedic take on awkward scenarios we’ve all been trapped in.

Whether you’re a soap maker, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will have you nodding along, laughing, and maybe even rethinking how you connect with others in your industry.

In this episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna sit down with the fabulous Isabele (“Izzie”) Vezeau from Aromatic Fragrances International (AFI) to sniff out the truth about fragrance oils. Ever wonder how scents are made? Or what it takes to dupe your favorite Bath & Body Works candle? We’re talking fragrance science, scent notes, custom blends, and all the behind-the-scenes drama of the fragrance world.

Izzie spills the beans (and oils) on the challenges fragrance houses face—from supply chain chaos to picky makers who don’t test their products—and clears up some common misconceptions. We dive into the mystical world of top, middle, and base notes, how fragrances behave differently in soap vs. candles, and what goes into creating a custom signature scent.

You’ll also hear about unusual requests, scent duplication secrets, fragrance marketing tips, and what trends are heating up in 2025. Plus—don’t miss our Word of the Week, some classic Heifer banter, and a big announcement about a contest hosted by our friend July at Winston and Walter Artisanal (with us Heifers as the judges).

If you’re a soap maker, candle maker, or small business owner trying to make your products smell irresistible—this episode is your new best friend.

This week on the Dirty Heifers Podcast, we’re calling BS on one of the oldest business myths out there: “the customer is always right.” 🙄

Spoiler alert: they’re not.

Join Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna as we swap stories about nightmare customers, red-flag requests, and those times when keeping a “loyal” customer would’ve cost way more than the order was worth. We dig into where this phrase even came from, why it doesn’t hold up in today’s world, and how small businesses can (and should) set boundaries that protect their sanity.

We’ll talk handling complaints without losing your cool, knowing when to offer solutions vs. when to walk away, and why clear policies are your best friend. Oh — and you know we couldn’t resist a side tangent on pricing, influencer marketing headaches, and the wild misconceptions people still have about small business profitability.

At the end of the day, the right customers make this crazy journey worth it. The wrong ones? Well… let’s just say we’ve got stories. 😂

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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Stay connected with us on social media:

📍 Facebook: The Dirty Heifers

📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

What does it take to truly connect with an audience online—and keep them coming back? In this episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, we sit down with the one and only Helen Polisi (@themuthership)—TikTok Queen, podcast host, content coach, cancer survivor, and now proud grandma! 🌟

Helen shares her incredible journey from commercial director to social media educator, and how she turned boredom during the pandemic into a thriving brand that empowers creators of all ages. From viral baking videos to stop-motion tutorials, and from battling cancer in real-time with her followers to teaching big-name brands how to show up authentically online, Helen’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and creativity.

We also dive into: ✨ The importance of listening to your audience (yes, even the teens in your comments 👀). ✨ How fleeting trends can be—and why authenticity always wins. ✨ Building community vs. chasing numbers. ✨ What it’s like being recognized as a “grandfluencer” (spoiler: Helen wasn’t having it 😂). ✨ How to stay creative without burning out.

This episode is equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and inspiring—you’ll walk away with practical tips and a reminder that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.

💬 We’d love to hear from you:

• Have you ever had a viral moment (big or small)?
• Do you feel pressure to keep up with social media trends, or do you create at your own pace? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’ll be reading and responding!

👉 Listen now on your favorite podcast app

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Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

Check out this week’s guest at:

You can check out Helen Polise (The Muthership) at https://stan.store/themuthership

Watch Helen try the Nikki Manaj tutorial here: https://www.tiktok.com/@themuthership/video/7533458368598478110

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna tackle the most “wonderful” time of the year for small business owners — the holiday season. Spoiler alert: if you’re just now thinking about Christmas, you’re already behind. We swap war stories about running out of time (thanks, soap cure dates), share how we learned the hard way that August is basically December for makers, and debate whether glitter on holiday soap is festive or a nightmare. Between stressing over supply orders, plotting product lines, and trying not to cry into our shipping tape, we also manage to throw in some self-care tips and a few laughs. Because nothing says “holiday spirit” like caffeine, chaos, and way too much peppermint fragrance.

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Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

It’s episode 33, y’all, and we’re talking all the essentials for small business owners — from tools and tech that actually make your life easier, to self-care strategies that might just keep you from losing it entirely. Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna sprinkle in laughs, real talk, and plenty of “did that really just happen?” moments as they share must-have gear, marketing tips, and operational hacks.

If you run a small business, make soap, or just like watching three southern ladies make business advice hilarious, this episode is for you.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays Join the Herd Follow The Dirty Heifers! 🌿🐄 Stay connected with us on social media: 📍 Facebook: The Dirty Heifers 📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers 📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers 📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers Check out our personal businesses: 🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery 🧼 Jessie – Country Lather Soap Works 🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, hosts Margaret, Shauna, and Jessie delve into the multifaceted role of AI in small businesses, particularly in the handmade soap industry. They discuss the practical applications of AI for scheduling, content generation, and creative brainstorming, while also addressing the potential downsides, such as the risk of losing personal creativity and the impact of AI-generated content on traditional makers. The conversation highlights the balance between leveraging AI as a tool and maintaining authenticity in creative endeavors. In this episode, the hosts discuss the implications of AI in business, touching on its accuracy, privacy concerns, and the potential loss of authenticity in creative work. They explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI-generated content and its impact on various industries, including handmade products. The conversation emphasizes the importance of balancing AI use with human creativity and the need for individuals to adapt to the evolving technological landscape. The episode concludes with final thoughts on the necessity of engaging with AI while maintaining a personal touch in business.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

This episode is sponsored by Wholesale Supplies Plus. Use discount code: Dirty15 for 15% off all your crafting needs. Some exclusions apply

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, the hosts engage in a light-hearted conversation filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful discussions. They explore various topics, including personal grooming, language fun with a 'Word of the Week' segment, historical perspectives on women's health, and listener engagement through a Q&A segment. The hosts share their favorite soap products, teaching experiences, and humorous interactions with students. They also discuss a viral TikTok incident, play a fun 'This or That' game, and share experiences from craft shows, all while reflecting on their upcoming move to Tennessee and the cultural differences they anticipate. In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics ranging from the challenges of rebranding and the upcoming school year to personal updates about family and holiday preparations. They share insights on school schedules, the impact of summer slide on students, and the complexities of school uniforms. The conversation also delves into the soap-making process, new product development, and the challenges of content creation in the age of social media. The episode wraps up with personal anecdotes and reflections on family matters, highlighting the messy yet magical side of running a small business.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, the hosts delve into the multifaceted world of packaging for small businesses. They discuss the critical role packaging plays in branding, customer perception, and product protection. The conversation covers various types of packaging, the importance of design, and the challenges faced by small business owners in creating effective packaging solutions. Listeners are treated to personal anecdotes about packaging failures and successes, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the intricacies of soap packaging, discussing everything from design aesthetics to sustainability. They explore the importance of visual appeal in attracting customers, the challenges of sourcing eco-friendly materials, and the balance between practicality and aesthetics. The discussion also highlights the significance of effective packaging as a marketing tool and the potential pitfalls when dealing with packaging suppliers. The episode wraps up with a fun 'This or That' segment, offering insights into personal preferences in packaging choices.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

Ever wondered what actually happens before fragrance oils arrive at your soap studio?

We got exclusive behind-the-scenes access inside Aromatic Fragrance International (AFI) — and what we saw completely changed how we think about fragrance suppliers.

We toured NINE buildings, watched robot-assisted fragrance production, explored a fragrance library with thousands of scents, and learned how fragrance oils are made, tested, stored, and customized for soapmakers.

If you're a soap maker, bath & body creator, candle maker — or just fragrance-obsessed — this episode pulls back the curtain on what really happens inside a professional fragrance manufacturer.

Inside this episode: ✔ How fragrance oils are actually produced ✔ Why suppliers make batches to order (not shelf stock) ✔ The truth about “thousands of mystery ingredients” myths ✔ How fragrances are optimized differently for soap vs candles ✔ What surprised us most touring a 9-building facility ✔ Why networking with suppliers can change your business ✔ Advice every new maker needs before buying fragrance oils

Plus… yes, they even had fragrances that smelled like gasoline, WD-40, and burning flesh 👀

Whether you're scaling your handmade business or just starting your soapmaking journey, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.

Follow the Dirty Heifers: 🐄 Warm & Fuzzy Soapery 🐄 Country Lather Soapworks 🐄 Bawana Bath & Body

Leave a review if you enjoyed the episode — it helps more makers find the show 💛

🎬 Ready to level up your content game? In this episode of The Dirty Heifers podcast, Margaret, Shauna, and Jessie pull back the curtain on the wild world of video editing apps. From fan-favorites like CapCut and InShot to lesser-known gems, the Heifers break down what works, what flops, and what could secretly cost you more than you think.

💥 Expect spicy opinions, real-life editing mishaps, and a no-holds-barred look at the sneaky fine print hiding in those "free" app terms of service. Whether you're editing on your phone in the pickup line or grinding out reels at midnight, this episode is packed with tips, laughs, and hard-earned advice to help you cut through the noise.

Takeaways

CapCut's terms of service raised concerns about ownership of content.

Editing software should be user-friendly and efficient for creators.

Understanding terms of service is crucial for content creators.

Mobile editing apps are becoming increasingly popular among users.

Features like cloud saving and multi-layer timelines are essential.

The transition from free to paid features can frustrate users.

Editing apps should cater to the needs of small business owners.

Professional editing software may be too complex for casual users.

Auto captions can enhance accessibility for viewers.

Learning from online tutorials can improve editing skills.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers Podcast, hosts Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna discuss the significance of giving back as small business owners. They share personal experiences and motivations behind their charitable contributions, the challenges of balancing giving with profitability, and the importance of involving customers in their charitable efforts. The conversation emphasizes the personal fulfillment that comes from giving and offers advice for other small business owners looking to make a difference in their communities.

Takeaways

Everyone has a way to give when they can.

Managing charitable donations can feel onerous.

You can't give from an empty cup.

It's important to figure out what you're passionate about.

Giving back feels good and enriches lives.

You can't give to everybody, focus on a few causes.

Good record keeping is essential for donations.

You can support a great cause by putting a basket together.

Involving customers in charity can enhance community engagement.

Transparency in charitable giving builds trust.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Giving Back

08:31 Charity and Community Engagement

15:00 Engaging with Charitable Causes

16:20 Involving Customers in Charity

17:52 Creative Ways to Donate Soap

19:51 Collaborations with Charitable Organizations

23:49 Unexpected Benefits of Giving Back

27:58 Challenges and Burdens of Charitable Giving

31:55 Navigating the Ethics of Charity

36:21 Lessons Learned from Charity Work

37:27 The Importance of Branding and Customization

38:27 Impact of Donations on Customer Loyalty

39:56 Transparency in Donations and Customer Trust

40:49 Setting Goals for Giving Back

41:33 Balancing Profitability with Philanthropy

43:57 Personal Fulfillment through Giving

44:56 Advice for Small Business Owners on Giving

46:13 Lighthearted Charity This or That

51:27 short moo intro:outro.mp4

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, the hosts discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with the slow season for small businesses. They explore the emotional toll of low sales, strategies for utilizing downtime for growth, and the importance of planning ahead for busy seasons. The conversation also touches on what not to do during slow periods, lessons learned from past experiences, and creative marketing strategies to engage customers. The hosts share personal anecdotes and advice for new entrepreneurs navigating their first slow season.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, host Margaret Connor and co-hosts Jessie and Shauna welcome Jeri Anne Huffstutler, the founder of Southern Natural, a goat milk soap brand. Jeri Anne shares her inspiring journey from struggling with eczema to creating a successful skincare line. The conversation covers her initial challenges, the transition from farmers markets to online sales, and the leap to selling on Amazon. Jeri Anne discusses the importance of family support, maintaining product quality while scaling, and her passion for product development. The episode concludes with a fun lightning round of preferences related to soap making and business.

Takeaways

Jeri Anne struggled with eczema for 12 years before discovering goat milk soap.

The idea to make goat milk soap came to Jeri Anne during a prayer.

Jeri Anne's brother encouraged her to sell on Amazon, leading to significant growth.

Maintaining quality while scaling is a challenge for many small businesses.

Jeri Anne enjoys experimenting with new products but finds it hard to find time.

Family and community support have been crucial to Jeri Anne's business success.

Jeri Anne's business has evolved from farmers markets to multiple Whole Foods locations.

The transition to using goat milk powder simplified the soap-making process.

Jeri Anne has four employees, many of whom are family members.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jeri Anne and Her Business

03:21 Jeri Anne's Journey with Eczema and Soap Making

05:54 The Journey Begins: A Prayer for Guidance

09:16 From Goat to Soap: The Birth of a Business

12:46 Breaking into the Market: Craft Fairs and Whole Foods

15:16 Taking the Leap: Selling on Amazon

19:52 Navigating Challenges: The Amazon Experience

24:46 Scaling Up: Maintaining Quality in Growth

31:09 Reflecting on Success: Proud Moments and Future Goals

34:33 Exploring Sales Platforms

37:34 The Role of Social Media in Business

42:37 The Journey of Building a Business

44:59 Family and Community Involvement in Business

51:51 Fun and Lighthearted Moments in Business

52:27 short moo intro:outro.mp4

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lather Soap Works

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

This week’s guest:

https://southernnaturals.com/

Summary

In this episode of Dirty Heifers, hosts Margaret and Shauna discuss the challenges of balancing family life and business. They explore the illusion of balance, the guilt associated with neglecting self-care, and the dynamics of involving family in business. The conversation highlights the importance of communication, support systems, and the humorous interruptions that come with juggling responsibilities. Ultimately, they emphasize that it's okay to admit that sometimes we don't have it all together and that self-care is essential for maintaining mental health. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of self-care, managing guilt, and making tough choices. They share personal anecdotes about finding time for themselves, the impact of family support, and the realities of juggling responsibilities. The discussion also touches on the significance of setting priorities and the need for grace in the face of imperfection. The episode concludes with a lighthearted game that highlights the humorous side of managing chaos in life and business.

Takeaways

Balance is often an illusion, and it's okay to admit that sometimes we don't have it all together.

Juggling family responsibilities and business can lead to burnout and feelings of guilt.

Self-care is often neglected, especially by women, but it's essential for mental health.

Family members can play a role in the business, but it can also lead to distractions.

Finding time for oneself is crucial, yet many feel guilty for taking that time.

The chaos of family life can often interrupt work, leading to humorous situations.

It's important to prioritize family events, but guilt can arise from not spending enough time on business.

The conversation highlights the importance of communication and understanding within family dynamics.

Creating boundaries between work and family life can be challenging but necessary.

The discussion emphasizes the need for support systems in balancing work and family. Self-care is essential for maintaining sanity.

Family support can significantly ease the burden of responsibilities.

It's okay to let go of certain expectations to maintain balance.

Guilt is a common feeling among parents and entrepreneurs.

Finding time for oneself is crucial for personal well-being.

Prioritizing family time over business opportunities is often necessary.

A perfect day is often unrealistic but worth envisioning.

Learning from mistakes is a vital part of entrepreneurship.

Organization can help manage chaos in both home and business.

Humor can be a great coping mechanism for stress.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, hosts Margaret, Shauna, and Jessie dive into the world of customer requests in the soap-making business. They share their experiences with strange and unique customer requests, discuss the challenges of custom orders, and explore the balance between customer service and brand integrity. The conversation highlights the importance of setting clear expectations, knowing when to say yes or no, and the humorous side of dealing with quirky customer demands. The hosts also touch on the complexities of pricing for custom orders and the need to maintain a cohesive brand identity while catering to customer desires.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Indie Brands and Collaborations

00:12 Understanding Customer Requests and Custom Orders

02:58 The Word of the Week: Idiosyncratic

05:47 Redneck Word of the Week and Customer Experiences

09:10 Navigating Niche Requests in Custom Orders

13:36 The Challenges of Shampoo and Conditioner Bars

16:27 Building Customer Loyalty Through Customization

20:15 The Risks of Making Health Claims

24:40 Managing Custom Orders and Pricing Strategies

29:21 Custom Orders and Customer Service

33:58 Balancing Custom Requests and Brand Integrity

36:36 Navigating Custom Order Challenges

40:43 Setting Boundaries with Custom Requests

41:57 Creative Custom Soap Ideas and Limitations

47:13 short moo intro:outro.mp4

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lathers

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

Welcome to another episode of The Dirty Heifers Podcast, where your favorite trio of makers tackles the nitty-gritty of running a small business in a digital world.

This week, we're diving headfirst into the world of websites and online storefronts—breaking down popular platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Etsy. We explore the pros and cons of each, share personal horror stories and hard-won lessons, and highlight why owning your domain and prioritizing SEO is essential for long-term success.

From DIY website headaches to the benefits (and potential pitfalls) of hiring a pro, we’re covering it all—including a lively round of “Farm Fresh Feedback,” where we critique a real maker’s social media presence and offer tips for improvement.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your online game, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and the real talk you’ve come to expect from the Heifers.

🐄 Stay Dirty Heifers!

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📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lathers

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

Check out this week’s guest at:

Check out this week’s Farm-fresh Feedback Focus:

Facebook - fb.me/hearthandharvestwoodcrafts

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jessica.kate459?_t=ZP-8w5T3jljMEw&_r=1

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, hosts Margaret, Shauna, and Jessie engage with Chris and Jonathan from Howell's Products, exploring their journey from a family cabinet-making business to becoming one of the largest manufacturers of wooden soap dishes in the United States. The conversation delves into themes of craftsmanship, sustainability, and the challenges of scaling a handmade brand. The founders share insights on quality control, sourcing materials responsibly, and the importance of community and marketing strategies in their growth. They emphasize their commitment to American-made products and the significance of maintaining quality while expanding production. In this episode, Jonathan and Chris from Howells Products discuss their journey in the handcrafted soap accessory business, sharing insights on marketing challenges, unique custom requests, the importance of product testing, and the dynamics of running a family business. They explore various e-commerce platforms, including Amazon and TikTok Shop, and emphasize the significance of communication with customers and suppliers. The conversation also touches on the balance between work and family life, and the strategies they employ to navigate the complexities of their business.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret – Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie – Country Lathers

🫧 Shauna – Bawauna Bath & Body

Check out this week’s guest at:

https://howellsproducts.com/

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, hosts Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna welcome Jessica Simon from Mississippi Candle Company. Jessica shares her inspiring journey from making candles as a form of grief to building a successful business that thrives on social media, particularly TikTok. The conversation covers the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of pivoting during tough times, and the role of family and community support. Jessica discusses her strategies for scaling her business, navigating the complexities of social media marketing, and the lessons learned along the way. The episode emphasizes the significance of trust in employees and the need for small business owners to adapt to changing market conditions.

Takeaways

• Jessica started making candles as a way to cope with grief.
• Her first sale came unexpectedly from a Walmart cashier.
• COVID forced her to pivot her business strategy.
• She gained confidence through early sales and community support.
• Jessica's husband encouraged her to sell candles to casinos.
• She faced challenges with shipping and product quality.
• TikTok became a game-changer for her business growth.
• She emphasizes the importance of nurturing employee relationships.
• Jessica believes in spending on people over ads.
• Trusting employees is crucial for scaling a business.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lathers

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers Podcast, the hosts delve into the often-overlooked emotional challenges faced by small business owners. They discuss the weight of isolation, decision fatigue, and the pressure of social media comparisons. The conversation also touches on the guilt associated with taking breaks and the resilience required to keep going despite the challenges. Through humor and candid sharing, they create a relatable space for listeners navigating similar struggles in their entrepreneurial journeys. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the various challenges and triumphs of being small business owners. They explore the importance of support systems, defining success, and the feelings of inadequacy and jealousy that often accompany entrepreneurship. The conversation also delves into the invisible work behind content creation and the motivation that drives them to keep going, particularly the desire to build a legacy for their families.

Takeaways

The hidden loneliness of small business ownership is often overlooked.

Decision fatigue can drain creativity and joy from the craft.

Social media often presents a curated version of reality, leading to unhealthy comparisons.

It's essential to take breaks to avoid burnout and maintain productivity.

Guilt over resting can hinder personal and professional growth.

Having a support system is crucial for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

AI tools can help alleviate decision fatigue in business operations.

Everyone experiences messiness in their lives; it's not just you.

Resilience and stubbornness are key to overcoming thoughts of quitting.

Acknowledging the emotional weight of entrepreneurship is the first step towards addressing it. Stubbornness and fear of disappointing loved ones can be powerful motivators.

Support systems are crucial for overcoming challenges in business.

Success can be defined in many ways, including personal fulfillment and community impact.

Making a difference in the community is a significant aspect of success.

The importance of collaboration and community among business owners cannot be overstated.

Finding a support system is essential for solo business owners.

The mental gymnastics of scaling a business can be exhausting.

Content creation involves a lot of behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed.

Feelings of inadequacy and jealousy are common among entrepreneurs.

Family serves as a primary motivation for many business owners.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

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📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lathers

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

This week’s Heifer Huddle is exactly what you’d expect—business updates, industry surprises, moving chaos, and a whole lot of laughter along the way. 🐄✨

We kick things off with a truly sesquipedalian Word of the Week before diving into what’s happening behind the scenes in our soap businesses right now—from paint-your-own bath bombs for kids (and why lip-safe mica matters!) to unexpected TikTok Shop compliance violations under the INFORM Consumers Act.

We also talk about:

• preparing inventory before a move
• filming boundaries between home and shop life
• April Fools supplier emails that fooled some of us
• surprise order bursts without posting content
• appliances mysteriously breaking right before moving (why does that always happen?!)
• and the usual off-the-rails Dirty Heifers moments you’ve come to expect

It’s real talk about small business life, creative pivots, and the chaos that happens between batches.

Pull up a chair and join the herd. 🧼💬

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, the hosts dive deep into the complexities of pricing for handmade businesses. They discuss the importance of perceived value, various pricing strategies, and the emotional aspects of pricing, including imposter syndrome. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with pricing adjustments and the impact of market trends on pricing decisions. Additionally, they introduce a new segment called 'Farm Fresh Feedback' aimed at helping small businesses grow through constructive feedback.

Takeaways

Pricing can feel like a guessing game for many business owners.

Understanding perceived value is crucial for setting prices.

Calculating costs accurately is essential before pricing products.

Many small business owners struggle with imposter syndrome when pricing their products.

It's important to consider the quality and uniqueness of handmade products when pricing.

Raising prices can be necessary for business growth and sustainability.

Different pricing strategies can be employed based on market conditions.

Personal experiences with pricing can vary widely among business owners.

Transparency with customers about pricing changes can build trust.

The new 'Farm Fresh Feedback' segment aims to support struggling small businesses.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Market Strategies

00:36 Understanding Pricing Strategies

05:34 Calculating Costs and Pricing

13:46 Value-Based Pricing and Perceived Value

16:31 Pricing Strategies for Small Businesses

30:57 Understanding Your Value and Pricing Psychology

40:51 Lighthearted Banter and Hydration Humor

41:13 The Emotional Side of Pricing and Imposter Syndrome

43:09 Adapting to Market Changes and Pricing Strategies

45:06 Innovative Business Ideas and Community Support

45:38 Introducing Farm Fresh Feedback Segment

46:44 Closing Thoughts and Future Topics

47:54 short moo intro:outro.mp4

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, hosts Margaret, Jessie, and Shawna welcome Kitty from Dichotomy Creations to discuss the Soap Donation Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to collecting and distributing handmade soap to those in need. The conversation explores themes of altruism, community support, and the unique approach of Kitty's soap line, which is inspired by serial killers but focuses on the victims. Listeners learn about the operational aspects of the Soap Donation Center, the challenges it faces, and creative ways to support the cause. The episode concludes with a fun rapid-fire segment and a reminder of the impact that handmade soap can have in the community.

Takeaways

The Soap Donation Center collects and distributes handmade soap to those in need.

Altruism is about selfless concern for the well-being of others.

Dichotomy Creations embraces the idea of being a contradiction.

Kitty's soap line focuses on victims of serial killers, not the killers themselves.

10% of profits from certain soaps go to charity organizations.

The donation process for soap is straightforward and tax-deductible.

Community support is crucial for the success of the Soap Donation Center.

Creative ways to support include donating soap, time, or money.

Every bar of soap donated can make a significant difference.

Embracing your weirdness can lead to unique and impactful business ideas.

Check out Kitty from Dicotomy Creations

Soap Donation Center

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🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

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Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, the hosts dive into the world of wholesaling for small businesses, discussing their personal experiences, challenges, and strategies. They explore the importance of collaboration with local businesses, the intricacies of pricing strategies, and the pros and cons of wholesaling. The conversation is lively and filled with insights, making it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the wholesale market. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of wholesaling, discussing strategies for selling, networking, and establishing successful retail partnerships. They share insights on setting minimum orders, identifying red flags in potential partnerships, and the importance of effective communication with store owners. The discussion also touches on the psychology of pricing, the significance of brand kits, and the lessons learned from their experiences in wholesaling. Additionally, they explore the challenges of managing reorders and the necessity of building a wholesale email list to maintain relationships with retailers.

Takeaways

Wholesaling can be both a dream and a challenge for small business owners.

The word of the week, 'arduous', reflects the challenges of wholesaling.

Starting with wholesaling can be intentional or accidental, as shared by the hosts.

Collaborating with local businesses can lead to successful wholesale opportunities.

Experiences with wholesale accounts can vary greatly, with some being short-lived.

Pricing strategies for wholesale can significantly impact profit margins.

Understanding the pros and cons of wholesaling is crucial for small business success.

Consignment can be risky and may not be suitable for all businesses.

Communication with wholesale clients is key to maintaining good relationships.

Utilizing wholesale platforms like FAIR can provide additional exposure for products. Networking is crucial for successful wholesaling.

Setting a minimum order can filter out uncommitted buyers.

Identifying red flags in retail partnerships is essential.

Creating a wholesale line sheet helps streamline the process.

Understanding tax exemptions can save money in wholesale purchases.

Learning from past mistakes is vital for growth.

Pricing strategy affects perceived product quality.

Building a wholesale email list can enhance communication.

Starting small in wholesaling can lead to better understanding.

Effective communication with store owners is key.

Follow The Dirty Heifers! 🌿🐄

Stay connected with us on social media:

📍 Facebook: The Dirty Heifers

📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lathers

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body

Summary

In this episode of the Dirty Heifers podcast, hosts Margaret, Jessie, and Shauna delve into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome that many small business owners face. They share personal experiences, discuss the importance of community support, and explore strategies for overcoming self-doubt. The conversation highlights the significance of celebrating small wins and surrounding oneself with uplifting individuals to combat feelings of inadequacy. The hosts emphasize that imposter syndrome is a common struggle, particularly among women, and encourage listeners to recognize their achievements and value in their respective fields. In this episode, the hosts delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome, sharing personal experiences and insights on how it affects their lives and businesses. They discuss the importance of representation, the struggles behind success, and the need for community support. The conversation also touches on the connection between imposter syndrome and gatekeeping, emphasizing that many people feel unworthy of their achievements. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to acknowledge their feelings and seek support from their peers.

Takeaways

Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for small business owners.

Community support can significantly alleviate feelings of isolation.

Celebrating small wins is crucial for building self-esteem.

Surrounding yourself with positive influences helps combat self-doubt.

Imposter syndrome can affect anyone, regardless of success level.

Women may experience imposter syndrome more prominently due to societal expectations.

It's important to have friends who will call you out on your shortcomings.

Self-doubt can manifest even in successful individuals.

Recognizing the journey and progress is vital for overcoming imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is a common experience among many individuals, especially in creative fields.

It's important to have a support system that can help you navigate feelings of self-doubt.

Many successful people have faced failures before achieving their goals.

Acknowledging your struggles can help normalize the conversation around mental health.

The connection between imposter syndrome and gatekeeping can hinder community growth.

Finding your tribe can provide the encouragement needed to overcome self-doubt.

It's okay to ask for help; no one has all the answers.

Success does not come without its challenges and struggles.

New Episodes Drop Thursdays

Join the Herd

Follow The Dirty Heifers! 🌿🐄

Stay connected with us on social media:

📍 Facebook: The Dirty Heifers

📍 Instagram: @thedirtyheifers

📍 TikTok: @thedirtyheifers

📍 YouTube: Dirty Heifers

Check out our personal businesses:

🛁 Margaret –Warm & Fuzzy Soapery

🧼 Jessie –Country Lathers

🫧 Shauna –Bawauna Bath & Body