Blog

1:1 with Pepperlaner Stefanie Johnson

In our new 1:1 series, we talk to women who are full members in our Pepperlane community about their business and how they use Pepperlane to learn, grow and solve business challenges.

Apr 01, 2022

1:1 with Pepperlaner Lisa Dahl

In our new 1:1 series, we talk to women who are full members in our Pepperlane community about their business and how they use Pepperlane to learn, grow and solve business challenges.

Mar 18, 2022

1:1 with Pepperlaner Dr. Nancy Zare

In our new 1:1 series, we talk to women who are full members in our Pepperlane community about their business and how they use Pepperlane to learn, grow and solve business challenges.

Mar 08, 2022

The Untold Workforce Story of 20 Million Moms: Our Message to the Pepperlane Community on International Women's Day

It's International Women's Day and for Pepperlane, it's another day to celebrate our members who are building businesses for themselves but not by themselves inside Pepperlane's thriving small business community for mothers. Hear Sharon Kan,...

Feb 28, 2022

1:1 with Pepperlaner Melissa Mueller-Douglas

In our new 1:1 series, we talk to women who are full members in our Pepperlane community about their business and how they use Pepperlane to learn, grow and solve business challenges.

Feb 23, 2022

1:1 with Pepperlaner Debbie Brosnan

In our new 1:1 series, we talk to women who are full members in our Pepperlane community about their business and how they use Pepperlane to learn, grow and solve business challenges.

Feb 18, 2022

3 Alternatives to MLMs (2021 Update)

Not sure about multi-level marketing? These businesses offer flexibility for moms, too.Creating a fun and flexible business model that works for your life — without the multi-level marketing.

Feb 04, 2022

1:1 with Pepperlaner Kathy - Former Teacher, Turned Hormone Coach

In our new 1:1 series, we talk to women who are full members in our Pepperlane community about their business and how they use Pepperlane to learn, grow and solve business challenges.

Jan 27, 2022

Meet Renee: A Pepperlaner Making Motherhood and Entrepreneurship Work Magically and Musically Together

Renee Bordner is a long time Pepperlane community member who owns her own small business, a music studio called Note-worthy Experiences. A business owner who balances motherhood with growing her business, Renee’s also a dedicated boost leader for...

Aug 16, 2021

How I Changed My Mind About Motherhood: Empowering, Not Transgressive

My peers are often surprised when I say I want kids. But I’ve always known I wanted a family. I’ve also always had dreams of starting my own business. People don’t always associate being a high functioning business owner with driving a minivan to...

Jul 26, 2021

Five Ways to Take Care of Yourself and Your Business this Summer

Chances are you’ve glanced at your calendar recently and been shocked at the date…how is summer racing by so quickly? Between navigating our reintroduction to social gatherings, the delight in getting kids into camps, sports, and playdates, the days...

Jun 09, 2021

Grow

Why You'll Want to Lean Into Your Strengths to Cultivate Success

I have always been an education junkie. I’m endlessly curious and constantly looking things up when I’m reading articles, having conversations, or listening to podcasts (the internet is both my friend and my foe). I am obsessed with online courses...

May 24, 2021

Grow

How to Move Your Business Forward Post-Covid

The pandemic has changed the way everyone does business, from customer communications to virtual meetings and online delivery of services. Now is the time to curate the highlights from this experience and set your business up for success in the...

Apr 15, 2021

How I Launched My Service Business in One Night

I’ll let you in on a secret: my biggest career move was conceived out of the blue, in just one afternoon, over drinks. It doesn’t sound like a recipe for success, does it? And to those who know me, who know that I am a devoted planner with a passion...

Mar 24, 2021

5 Tips to Gain Traction in a Facebook Community Group

You’ve found your dream Facebook group: you love the content, it’s completely relevant, and you are totally vibing with the members. You wish you could meet them IRL and have a girls’ night complete with wine and braiding each other’s hair. You want...

Feb 15, 2021

10 Quick Tips from a Clubhouse Insider

I did it! I scored an elusive invite to Clubhouse, downloaded the app and….yikes. I promptly exited, pulled up Instagram, and scrolled through some home organizing before/after shots to chill out for a minute. Let’s be honest: the idea of learning a...

Feb 08, 2021

How to Start Your Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

Got an idea for a business but feel lost as to where to start? You are not alone! At Pepperlane, we are frequently asked for guidance on getting a business off the ground. We’ve created this guide to give you the step-by-step process for getting...

Jan 11, 2021

This new mom is helping local brands build strong identities - Meet Stephanie Audette!

This week's mama in the spotlight is graphic designer Stephanie Audette. Stephanie is a new mom (her baby is almost 5 months old!), on a mission to help small businesses in Worcester County, Massachusetts build strong brand identities. Nice to meet...

Jan 04, 2021

This Mom Brings Living A Vibrant Life To A New Level - Meet Padma Ali!

Dec 31, 2020

Why And How To Create A Strong Elevator Pitch

Download a free worksheet: Create a Strong Elevator Pitch Creating a strong elevator pitch is one of the most important things to focus on when you start a business. It will help you network and get...

Dec 28, 2020

5 Things You Need to Achieve Your Goals in 2021 + Free Guide

Goal setting can be challenging, but the effort you put in can pay off in big ways for your business. Let’s be honest, we all go into the new year with the best of intentions for our businesses, but it’s easy for the ebbs and flows of life to throw...

Dec 03, 2020

Here’s Why You Need a Plan — But Not a Business Plan

Dec 02, 2020

Grow

How Postpartum Depression Revolutionized This Mom’s Small Business

Kathrine Bright’s small business inspiration came to her while pregnant with her second son. On bedrest dealing with a difficult pregnancy, the fitness trainer’s thoughts of impending “baby weight” lit a spark.

Dec 02, 2020

Grow

Dare to Dream in Hard Times (I Mean Now!)

Uber, Groupon, Venmo, Square, Airbnb, Hewlett-Packard, Hyatt Hotels. All of these companies share something in common. They were started during times of economic downturns, times when people were ready to change how and where they do business. Times...

Dec 02, 2020

Grow

Say It Loud, Say It Proud: Motherhood is Good For Business!

Women and mothers are leaving the workforce at disproportionate rates to men in 2020. In the month of September 2020 over 80% of the 1.1 million Americans who left the workforce were women. With children learning remotely at home, and childcare...

Dec 01, 2020

Successful Shift After a Lay Off

Nov 25, 2020

Pepperlane's 2020 Holiday Gift Guide

Pepperlane wants to make it easier and more joyful for conscious shoppers like you to find the perfect gift AND support mom-owned small businesses. We worked with Pepperlane Members and curated a wonderful list of gifts for everyone on your list...

Oct 29, 2020

Starting a Business After Being Laid Off

After getting laid off, pushing to return to the corporate world is not your only option. Starting your own business is actually a smart strategic move for your career prospects and your mental health—which likely took a big hit when you lost your...

Oct 28, 2020

Pandemic Threatens Progress for Mothers in the Workforce. We Will Not Allow It.

A letter from our CEO and Co-Founder, Sharon Kan Dear fellow mother,

Oct 05, 2020

Remember to Visit the Forest: The Importance of Strategic Thinking

By Gail Goodman, Pepperlane Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer

Sep 21, 2020

How To Create Time For Your Business Now That School Has Started

By Anna DeSalvo

Aug 26, 2020

Best Support Services for Your Kids (and You)

There are many options out there to help your child (and you) be more successful this fall. Other moms are particularly well equipped to create solutions that will actually work for your family. These mom business owners (and Pepperlane Members)...

Aug 20, 2020

6 Inspiring Movies about Mom Entrepreneurs

Hollywood loves to make movies about mom entrepreneurs because—as we are wells aware at Pepperlane—these stories at SO INSPIRING! We hope you will see a bit of yourself in these real and fictional mothers who are building businesses on their own...

Aug 06, 2020

Why did I give my CEO job to a college intern?

At the beginning of the summer, I was asked to support the True Ventures TEC Fellowship program by finding a position for Bozhena, a rising junior from Boston College. At Pepperlane, we were thrilled to be part of the program and very happy to have...

Aug 06, 2020

From Learning to Leading: What I learned from being CEO

Aug 05, 2020

5 Ways to Infuse Antiracism Into Your Small Business

By Brandyn Campbell "The work of anti-racism is the work of becoming a better human to other humans." -Austin Channing Brown

Aug 03, 2020

Grow

How to Market When Your Business Is Not Cute: Advice from those who have done it

Are you struggling with marketing because your work does not create charming photo opportunities? Is it difficult to feature your clients in your marketing because you need to protect their privacy? Do you feel stuck because most social media...

Aug 03, 2020

Grow

Stop Saying No to Help

Women are programmed not to accept help. When a guest offers to help clean up after dinner: “Oh no! I’ve got it. You sit and enjoy yourself.” Or if help is offered at work, we worry it is a sign of weakness to accept assistance. We think we have to...

Jul 30, 2020

How to Use Facebook Live to Grow Your Business

Pepperlane Member Padma Ali, who has been using Facebook Live to grow her business for three years, recently went live in the Pepperlane Community Facebook Group to share her tips on how you can use this tool to increase your audience and connect...

Jul 22, 2020

Grow

Why Authenticity is Important and How to Do It the Right Way

At Pepperlane, we’ve supported thousands of moms as they create businesses on their own terms. While we know that there’s no silver bullet or secret sauce, there is one thing every successful business owner has in common... authenticity!

Jul 09, 2020

Grow

Best Time-Saving Tools for Mom Entrepreneurs

We all need ways to save time. With demanding businesses and the kids at home, every moment counts. The staff and the Pepperlane community worked together to compile a curated list of apps that can help you save time at home and be more productive...

Jul 09, 2020

Step Out of Line! Podcast Ep. 7 - A Conversation with Matt Rivera

Can asking a question help to change lives? Matt Rivera, Program Director of The Dream Support Network, is convinced it can. Matt helps run Ice Cream For A Dream, the signature event of the Dream Support Network, where he listens to more than...

Jul 07, 2020

Grow

Pepperlane Members: Summer Services Round-Up

Feeling a little stressed about what to do with your kids (or yourself) this summer? You're not alone. The summer of 2020 is like none we’ve ever experienced. Luckily some very smart Pepperlane members have created inventive and engaging services or...

Jun 30, 2020

Grow

4 Tips for a Productive Summer

With schools wrapping up for the year, this is a transition time for you and your family. Even though your kids have likely been home since March, there will still be a big shift in schedule and mindset with the end of the school year. If this...

Jun 23, 2020

Step Out of Line Podcast

Step Out of Line! Ep. 6 - Amy Errett, Founder and CEO of Madison Reed

Amy Errett is a leader’s leader. As the Founder and CEO of Madison Reed, and a Partner at one of the top VC firms, True Ventures, Amy brings unmatched energy, and an unwavering belief in herself and her mission. She is truly magnetic, and is the...

Jun 23, 2020

Grow

Pivoting Your Business: 6 Inspiring Stories from Pepperlane Members

As the Coronavirus shutdown continued, many business owners began looking for ways to pivot their business, or even temporarily pursue entirely new business ideas. We connected with our Pepperlane members to hear how they approached the need to...

May 20, 2020

Pepperlane Round-Up: Virtual Services for Busy Moms and Business Owners

May 20, 2020

Pepperlane Round-Up: Virtual Family Support for Busy Moms and Business Owners

We have all had moments where we wished we could just have someone come into our homes to cook dinner, serve it, clean up the dishes, and maybe fold a little laundry. Is that too much to ask?!

May 19, 2020

Pepperlane Round-Up: Virtual Business Services for Busy Moms and Business Owners

In today's climate, it is safe to say we are all stretched a bit thin. Schools have been closed, activities canceled, playdates postponed...and yet we are still needing to work hard to move our businesses forward. It can be easy to feel as though...

May 15, 2020

The Most Important Thing Your New Business Needs: Your First Client

A few years ago, I left my full time job and struck out on my own as a self-employed product management consultant. I had a baby and wanted to create a schedule that better fit my new role as a mother. Even though I had plenty of experience and...

May 12, 2020

From Laid Off to Back On Track - Anna's Journey to Pepperlane

"Getting laid off was a huge blow to my confidence. I’ve always had pride in my career, and no longer being wanted by my employer made me question my value. As I was processing what this meant for my career, I took the leap to start my own business,...

Apr 29, 2020

Laid Off? How to Stay in the Game Through Self-Employment

The responsibility to keep a family safe and sane during extended stay-at-home orders often falls largely on mothers. Many mothers who had carefully balanced work and family care are now faced with managing it all with little or no outside support....

Apr 09, 2020

Step Out of Line! Podcast Ep. 4 - A Conversation with Saeed Arida

In Episode 4 of Step Out Of Line!, our host, Sharon Kan sits down with Saeed Arida, Founder and Chief Excitement Officer of NuVu Studio.

Apr 01, 2020

Online Networking: Tips, Tricks, and Strategies from our Community

There is an art to effective networking and this remains true when you are connecting with people online. As many of us move into virtual spaces for events (like our Pepperlane Boosts) and community, knowing how to have a productive online...

Mar 26, 2020

Step Out of Line! Podcast Ep. 3, Part 2 - A Conversation with Nataly Kogan

In Episode 3: Part 2 of Step Out Of Line!, our host, Sharon Kan continues her conversation with Nataly Kogan, artist, storyteller and the founder of the Happier method.

Mar 26, 2020

New Pepperlane Business Profiles: What You Need to Know

We are excited to announce that we have redesigned our Business Owner Profile Pages—your mini-website within the Pepperlane Hire a Mom Marketplace. The new design goes live across all pages on Monday, April 6th. If you have questions about timing or...

Mar 20, 2020

Step Out of Line! Podcast Ep. 3 - A Conversation with Nataly Kogan

Mar 20, 2020

Step Out of Line! Podcast Ep. 2 - A Conversation with HeatherJean MacNeil

Mar 20, 2020

Step Out of Line! Podcast Ep. 1 - A Conversation with Sharon Kan

Mar 20, 2020

Now Streaming: Step Out of Line! Podcast with Sharon Kan

From Sharon Kan, CEO and Co-Founder of Pepperlane… Today I am excited to share with all of you my new podcast Step Out Of Line! This podcast stems from my curiosity about why people take turns in their lives, and how they think about following their...

Mar 18, 2020

How to Grow … When Business is Slow

When the going gets tough, the tough gets creative.

Mar 09, 2020

Providing Exceptional Service During Concerning Situations

Preparing for the unexpected is an inherent part of being a business owner and a mom. Honestly, dealing with whatever comes our way as mothers is one of the greatest skills we can use in business.

Mar 04, 2020

Pepperlane Round-Up: Top Social Media Time-Saver Apps

There’s no doubt you have a lot on your plate. Between being a busy mom and running a business, there are honestly no extra hours in the day.

Feb 28, 2020

Boston Globe: Busy Middle-Class Families Look to 'Household Managers'

Increasingly, the demands women face to "do it all" are making moms look for extra hands to help get it all done. The role of 'household manager' has, as a result, begun to increase in demand and is becoming an essential tool in the arsenal of busy...

Feb 05, 2020

Capturing the Right Photos for Your Business

When it comes to your marketing strategy, there are few things as important as great visuals. The phrase “a picture says a thousand words” has never been more relevant. Now more than ever, buyers want to have a meaningful connection with the...

Jan 29, 2020

Spending Too Much Time and Money on Marketing?

Let’s set the scene: You’ve taken a big step and launched a business that fits into your #momlife. You’re pumped about setting out on your own and you’ve got some great people cheering you on. You launch your business and start trying to attract...

Jan 24, 2020

HubWeek Feature: Lessons from One of the Top Female Leaders in Tech - Gail Goodman

Pepperlane Chief Product Officer Gail Goodman joined HubWeek to kick off their first Curated Conversations of 2020. HubWeek Co-founder and Managing Director of The Boston Globe Linda Henry hosted Gail for a chat about her years of experience as the...

Jan 22, 2020

Members Who Mean Business Spotlight: Chef Lauren D’ Agostino

For chef Lauren D’Agostino, the journey from pastry chef and cake creator to plant-based chef and author was a path paved in personal growth and self-discovery. Today, she’s preparing to launch her second cookbook, Cooking with Essential Oils (now...

Jan 15, 2020

How I Finally Made Space for My Big Goals

I’m not all that big on New Year’s resolutions, but I do like to chase big goals. At the beginning of 2019, I decided this was the year I would make some real progress on my biggest personal goal: running a marathon in all 50 states. I know that...

Jan 08, 2020

5 Things You Need to Achieve Your Goals in 2020 + Free Bonus

Jan 01, 2020

4 Tips to Get Back to Work After a Break

Dec 11, 2019

6 Easy Ways to Manage Holiday Stress and Still Have Fun

'Tis the season to be joyful, generous, and sometimes, completely depleted!

Dec 04, 2019

Get More Done with These Insider Home Office Space Tips

The secret to getting focused, inspired, and making the most of your limited time may be more straightforward than you think.

Nov 27, 2019

We Have So Much to Be Thankful for

Building a business, much like raising a child, can't be accurately described by any cliché, and there’s no one size fits all. Both experiences take us deeper inside ourselves than we thought possible. Both lead to a range of emotions—elation,...

Nov 13, 2019

The Gift Everyone Actually Wants

There are so many reasons to stop gifting more “stuff.” For one, the planet appreciates it, and, as new studies are showing, busy families do too!

Nov 06, 2019

We’re Starting a Movement for Mothers and This is Our Secret

Most of us have a vision of what type of parent we’ll be before we actually have kids. We’re confident that we can continue to pursue our dreams, while being fully present and involved in all the little moments.

Oct 30, 2019

Get the Most Out of Your Marketing- 5 Simple Ways to Win

If you’re looking for another boring list of the 1000 marketing things you absolutely must do right now—think creating YouTube channels, showing up on every social media site, starting a podcast, branding, SEO tactics, etcetera— then you’ve come to...

Oct 23, 2019

15 Great Books for Small Business Owners

If you’re reading this, you know it’s not easy to start, run, and grow a business all on your own. Tack on the duties of motherhood and life in general, and finding time to learn and expand your horizons can seem downright impossible!

Oct 16, 2019

20 Featured Businesses that Can Help You Get It All Done

With a million apps and unlimited screens all around us, you’d think it would be easier than ever to find great help that you can count on.

Oct 02, 2019

Why I Joined Pepperlane: CTO (and super Dad) Chris Quirk

I’ll never forget the day in 2010 when I was exhausted and sick, lying on the living room floor, barely able to sit up. My wife was traveling for her job. I’d just gotten our two young children— ages 9 months and 2 years at the time— to bed.

Sep 26, 2019

Introducing Chris Quirk: New Pepperlane CTO

Pepperlane is thrilled to announce our new Chief Technology Officer, Chris Quirk. Chris's main priority will be to build the engineering team as Pepperlane continues to grow its software-as-a-service marketplace, aimed at offering mothers tools to...

Sep 26, 2019

9 Ways to Make Your Pepperlane Profile Shine

Let’s face it, technology has given us a very short attention span! With only a few seconds to capture the attention of your reader, making sure you say the right things quickly is more important than ever.

Sep 24, 2019

Gail Goodman Named to Boston Business Journal's Power 50

The 2019 Power 50 was just released and Gail Goodman (Pepperlane CPO) has been named to the list. This list was compiled to highlight individuals identified by their industry peers and coworkers as people who are making a significant impact and are...

Sep 22, 2019

Sharon Kan and Gail Goodman: Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Women's Networking Event

"How many successful female entrepreneurs who have sold their businesses have stepped up to help others reach that level of success? How many have become role models?"

Sep 18, 2019

Grow

Make Authenticity Your Business Building Superpower

What if we told you there’s something you can do that will cost you nothing and help you attract even more customers?

Sep 11, 2019

Coaching

Mastering Your Mindset with Pepperlaner Jessica Miller

Today we’re excited to highlight Pepperlaner and success coach Jessica Miller who recently hosted a thought provoking “Ask Me Anything” segment in our Facebook community all about mindset. Jessica Miller (right) with Amy Falk (left) at Boost in...

Sep 04, 2019

Want to Attract More Clients? Find Your X Factor.

Marie Kondo has an X factor.

Aug 22, 2019

9 Phrases Busy Mamas Can Say to Inspire Productivity

In this article on Motherly.com, Sharon shares her inspiration for starting Pepperlane, along with 9 helpful phrases to inspire busy moms.

Aug 21, 2019

The 4 Best Time Management Tools for Small Business Owners

Do you find yourself writing everything on post-it notes or on your whiteboard, only to have them disappear to various corners of your house or turn into your children’s art project?

Aug 14, 2019

Sales

How to Wow Your Clients: Tips on Seamless Onboarding That Leads to Retention

Congratulations, you got a new client!

Aug 07, 2019

Grow

4 Proven Ways to Improve Client Loyalty and Create Raving Fans

Ever wonder why some small businesses constantly have a steady stream of clients, while others struggle to keep or find new clients?

Aug 05, 2019

VentureFizz Podcast Talks With Gail Goodman, Chief Product Officer at Pepperlane

Pepperlane's Chief Product Officer Gail Goodman recently spoke with Keith Cline on the VentureFizz podcast about her career path, her previous role as CEO of Constant Contact, and why she's so excited about Pepperlane's mission to help mothers build...

Jul 31, 2019

Save Your Time, Money, and Sanity by Outsourcing Work

The most valuable resource you have as a business owner is time: it’s easy to waste and you can’t make more of it. Often it seems like there are never enough hours in the day to get it all done which is why learning to outsource some of your work is...

Jul 25, 2019

How to Make Your Customer Testimonials Shine

What do you trust more when it comes to deciding on a service: an advertisement, or a personal recommendation?

Jul 17, 2019

Start Building Your Email List Today (And Why You Need To)

It’s a beautiful morning, the birds are singing sweetly outside your window, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee is wafting in as you snuggle on your soft and cozy bed (and cross your fingers that your children don’t wake up). What do you do...

Jul 10, 2019

9 Ways to Be A Better Networker

Do you know what’s worse than mom guilt? Finding a stack of business cards at the bottom of your purse that you meant to follow up with six months ago and well, completely forgot about...

Jul 03, 2019

Can You Work a Flexible Schedule and Still be Successful? Our Community Weighs In

Oh, #cubiclelife…

Jun 26, 2019

Embrace the Magic of Collaboration Over Competition

Jun 19, 2019

Spending Money to Make Money—The Smart Way

Jun 05, 2019

Closing Sales with Confidence — Easy, not Sleazy!

Let’s play a little word association game. What’s the first thing that pops to mind when I say “sales”?

May 31, 2019

Sharon Kan Featured as one of Boston's Bright Entrepreneurial Minds

For all of us at Pepperlane, we know Sharon is exceptional. Her drive and vision has brought Pepperlane to life. We are thrilled that Sharon has been featured as one of Boston's Bright Entrepreneurial Minds in a recent Readwrite article.

May 29, 2019

Balance work and family

Win Summer Vacation — With Kids and Business

May 24, 2019

Bloomberg Baystate Business Radio Features Gail Goodman and Pepperlane

"Pepperlane is helping moms...have a third option. They can go to work. They can stay at home. And now, they can be entrepreneurs on their own terms" shared Gail Goodman on Bloomberg Baystate Business Radio.

May 24, 2019

Pepperlane Featured on WBZ Radio

"We are letting moms create businesses that fit into their lives and letting them define success on their own terms," shared Gail Goodman on WBZ Radio.

May 21, 2019

Why I Joined a Startup, but not as CEO

Today more than ever, we need to create a culture where women are supporting women. This idea is uncommon in our society, especially in the business world and we think it is time for a change.

May 14, 2019

Gail Goodman Joins Pepperlane Team

Pepperlane, a SaaS-enabled marketplace inspiring an entrepreneurial revolution among stay-at-home mothers, has welcomed tech titan Gail Goodman to its team. The company has secured $4 million in venture capital from early-stage venture capital firm ...

May 14, 2019

Today is an exciting day...

Dear Pepperlaners,

May 08, 2019

Let’s Celebrate Mother’s Mind Day

When I became a mom, my world turned upside down. I was no longer interested in the same things as before — suddenly the conversations I wanted to have were all about the kids. I was planning my time — my life — around my kids. I wasn’t even...

May 02, 2019

5 Quick and Easy Social Media Tips

Managing your social media can feel a lot like managing that big pile of laundry on the floor. You know that when you’re on top of it, you feel better and everything runs more smoothly. But there are so many other pressing issues in front of you,...

Apr 25, 2019

5 Killer Pieces of Business Advice from Mom Entrepreneurs

Starting a business is certainly not easy. It can be difficult to know where to focus or how to stay in the right mindset to manifest success. On top of that, it can easily feel like you’re alone in these struggles.

Apr 18, 2019

4 Moms Share Their Business Inspiration — Their Kids

What drives you? Everyone has a different reason to pursue our passions. Recognizing what drives you is not always easy, but this deep motivation can truly be what pushes us to take action.

Apr 11, 2019

How to Stand Out from the Crowd

Do a quick search, and you’ll find a million articles on how to differentiate your business from the crowd. Improving the customer experience, showing value, defining your niche, providing exceptional customer service: those are all solid...

Apr 11, 2019

How (not) to Run a Successful Service Business

Mar 21, 2019

The Best Podcasts for Business and Motherhood

Looking back, I hardly recognize my pre-mom life. Once I became a mom, one of my main struggles was reconciling that the ambitious, career-minded, and driven person I used to be was now relegated to finding success in simply doing a load of laundry...

Mar 20, 2019

Easy and Effective Networking for Moms

Networking. What does that term bring up for you?

Mar 13, 2019

Balance work and family

It's High Time to Build a Life Raft for U.S. Moms

According to a recent Psychology Today article, an in-depth 5 year study of work and motherhood confirms that mothers are drowning in stress, particularly in the U.S. This isn't exactly front page news to parents, but the article makes a point...

Mar 07, 2019

Daring to Change the Story for International Women's Day

On International Women’s Day, it feels good to take a few moments to think about how far we’ve come — because in a lot of ways, we’ve come pretty far — but it would be shortsighted to stop there.

Mar 07, 2019

Sales

4 Questions to Ask to Get Better at Sales

You’ve done it. You’ve increased your web traffic by 200%. All mere mortals must bow down before you. You are a marketing goddess. You eat SEO for breakfast. You are on cloud nine and are dutifully waiting for new sales to start rolling in. And...

Feb 28, 2019

How These Moms Turned a Hobby into a Successful Business

Do you ever find yourself dreaming, “I wish I could make money doing [insert whatever it is you love doing]”?

Feb 27, 2019

How to Not Feel Bad About Yourself All the Damn Time

Yesterday morning was one of those mornings. My kiddos, aged 2 and 4, were still dead asleep at 8am. Then 9am. My husband had to be at work early that day, so this was my problem to deal with. I dutifully dragged them out of bed, put my daughter's...

Feb 21, 2019

Best Time-Saving Apps for Mom Entrepreneurs

You’re busy keeping your family and your business alive and thriving. Your life and your schedule are full, and you’re looking for ways to maximize your time — and your systems — so that you can spend more time doing the things you love.

Feb 20, 2019

Time Management

Time Management Tips for Moms to Create a 25-Hour Day

Ok, ok…maybe not. We can’t actually add an extra hour to the day, as much as moms might love that! But by strategizing your workflow, and staying in the zone through batching, you can improve your productivity significantly and find extra time...

Feb 14, 2019

Balance work and family

How to Balance Work and Family for a Strong Mom Economy

We need you, a mother, to be a participant in this economy. And while yes, we need you as a conscious consumer, you’re also needed as a business owner. Having more women like you in business has a huge impact on how we ALL live. Research shows that...

Feb 07, 2019

Pricing

Are You Charging Enough? How to Price Your Services

We've all been there; you're talking to a potential client. The conversation is progressing well, you're getting excited about the prospect of a new project, but then you come to the topic of pricing... you freeze. "What if I say a number that's too...

Jan 31, 2019

3 Ways to Improve Your Sales Process Immediately

I’ve talked with dozens of women-owned businesses, and the very top pain point I hear is, “I’m trying to find new clients.” I hear from so many that they’re looking for more and more channels to find new people to “tell my offering”. From what I...

Jan 31, 2019

Quick Tip

How to Setup an Email Filter

Before we start, a quick note on why this is important. Studies have shown that responding to a new lead within FIVE minutes is 100 times more effective than replying in just 30 minutes. Setting up an email filter is a great way to make sure your...

Jan 24, 2019

3 Alternatives to MLMs

Not sure about multi-level marketing? These businesses offer flexibility for moms, too.Creating a fun and flexible business model that works for your life — without the multi-level marketing.

Jan 17, 2019

Sales

10 Ways to Optimize your Sales Funnel

When you meet another awesome connection, what do do you?Exchange business cards, and follow up with an email suggesting coffee. And if they don't respond... do you have a process to stay in touch? Creating relationships in your business is just...

Jan 17, 2019

For the Joy of Cooking: Becoming an Accidental Small Business Owner

Becoming a small business owner seems to often be either a lifelong passion or something you just fall into.

Jan 10, 2019

5 Things to Start (and Stop!) with your Email Newsletter in 2019

Designing an effective email newsletter is a low cost way to market to your audience. To maximize your time & effort, incorporate our newsletter tips to engage, and ultimately convert, your audience.

Jan 02, 2019

How To Juggle Your Business, Family, and Personal Life from Work from Home Moms Who Are In It

Between building a business and caring for your kids, it can be hard to find the time to think about what you need, let alone scheduling time to follow through.

Dec 18, 2018

Need a Break? How to Take Time Off from Your Business

You started your business so that you’d have more freedom and flexibility in your work-home life, but now that you've started, it seems impossible to step away for a vacation without losing momentum, or worse, clients. We get it! But did you know...

Sep 11, 2018

Lead A Life of Success and Significance: What 9-11 Has Taught Me

“Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?”- Alan Jackson

Sep 06, 2018

How to Transform Your Service From Nice To Have to a Need-to-Have

You finally came up with that completely perfect website that you’re so proud of. But once you launched and opened your doors for business, you quickly realized that folks didn’t seem so interested in your services, after all. What went wrong?

Aug 21, 2018

You Can't Pour From An Empty Cup: Why Self-Care Isn't Selfish

Remember those days before you had kids when sleep was an actual 8+ hour event, meeting up with friends resulted in long, unfurling conversations into the night; and you actually took care of your body and mind? The gym was non-negotiable and you...

Aug 16, 2018

Communicating with Confidence: Create Your Customer Avatar

Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and think of your dream client.

Aug 09, 2018

Pepperlane Pathway

How the Pepperlane Pathway Can Help You With Business Growth

Pepperlane was started when our founder, Sharon Kan, realized motherhood was good for business growth. After all, moms have so many skills and ingenious ideas and services they can offer the world. But as mothers, we're so busy, it's almost...

Jul 19, 2018

Grow

Tired of Your Business Ideas Falling Flat? Here's How to Validate Them First

We see you. You’re an ambitious woman who juggles a ton and has big dreams. And you’ve probably thought about breaking free and finally launching that dream business you’ve had on your mind for years.

Jul 12, 2018

How to Set Up a Facebook Ad with your Pepperlane Profile

It’s easy to get caught up in the unrelenting noise of conventional wisdom in business and life. We feel this sense of urgency to fit the mold of the latest marketing trends, try to figure out how to create an ad for our business, start blogging to...

Jul 03, 2018

Grow

Math Tutor Kate Milkosky Makes Startup Success Look As Easy As 1, 2, 3

Today we're talking to Kate Milkosky, a math tutor who runs her own successful business teaching kids how to master their math challenges for lifelong success. She's turned the concept of a traditional tutor on its head and into a thriving business...

Jun 21, 2018

Four Ways to Harness the Power of the Pepperlane Network

Strong women lift each each other up and support each other through the complicated roles we play from business owners to mothers to friends and daughters. Our lives aren’t static and don’t fit into a specific mold, and that’s why we need a thriving...

Jun 07, 2018

It Takes a Village: The Six Mothers You Need in Your Life

Our CEO Sharon Kan shares her take on why every woman needs these six mothers in her life.

May 22, 2018

Self-care

Can Self-Care be Your Secret Weapon?

After returning to work with my second child, I was exhausted and felt stuck. Although I loved my employer and colleagues, the increasing signs of burnout were hard to ignore. More than once after driving for nearly an hour, and hustling into the...

May 02, 2018

Grow

Mothers, It’s Time for Us to Monetize our Work!

Picture this: a company posts a listing for a Head of Operations position. The job requires 135+ hours of work weekly, requires the employee to be on call 24/7, and demands that the candidate be knowledgeable in psychology, medicine, personal...

Apr 26, 2018

Introducing our Host, Trynka Shineman, Vistaprint CEO

We're grateful to Vistaprint for hosting Pepperlane Connect at their campus, and to their CEO, Trynka Shineman, who'll not only offer words of welcome on May 11, but who'll share her own story of leading a successful business while raising her kids.

Apr 25, 2018

Grow

Making Your Business Work for You: Estimating Costs and Time

For many of us, starting and running a business means freedom: freedom to work when, where, and how we want. It can mean we’re better able to freely share our talents and passions with the world. But how do you structure your business (and your...

Apr 23, 2018

Announcing our Pepperlane Connect Keynote Speaker & Panel Moderator

We're beyond excited to announce that on May 11, two incredibly powerful women and role models will be joining our second conference, Pepperlane Connect 2018: Path to Possibilities. Read on to discover their stories, and register below.

Apr 17, 2018

Grow

3 Simple Strategies to Convert More

Starting a business is an incredible feat. The pride you should feel after putting in countless of hours into your website, filling out the correct paperwork, and meeting with the right people who helped your dream become a reality is really quite...

Apr 11, 2018

A Note from our CEO, Sharon Kan

Dear Pepperlane Community,

Apr 10, 2018

Grow

Need to Give Your Business a Jolt?

Whether it’s a steaming hot latte, a date with your favorite citrus scrub or cuddle date with your kiddos, every business mom has a trick or two up her sleeve that's her go-to when she needs to get herself energized to tackle her busy schedule.

Apr 05, 2018

3 Easy Steps to Become the Most Social #GirlBoss Around

We all know we need social media to grow our businesses, right? But it can seem so daunting!

Apr 04, 2018

Three Ways to Get Over the One Emotion That’s Holding You Back

There are endless reasons why entrepreneurial moms feel like they struggle to maintain that ever-elusive work-life balance.

Mar 27, 2018

Grow

When Your Business Makes You Cry

There may be no crying in baseball, but there's definitely crying in business. That’s been my personal experience anyway, and that of every woman entrepreneur I’ve ever worked with.

Mar 20, 2018

Steps Towards Success

We’ve all heard it at one time or another.

Mar 08, 2018

Grow

This International Women’s Day, We Call on Mothers

Dear Pepperlane community,

Mar 06, 2018

Grow

8 Legal Considerations for Your New Business

Congratulations! You’re embarking on the exciting journey of starting a new business. This is an incredibly brave and rewarding journey, but it can also be a daunting one. You’ve come up with a great business concept, but where do you start? And how...

Mar 01, 2018

Grow

Lean Marketing: Tips + Tricks for Teams of One

There are 1,440 minutes in a day.

Feb 28, 2018

Is This the Parenting Framework You’ve Been Searching For?

She refuses to clean up her room. He won’t stop playing Xbox. She keeps getting out of bed after bedtime. He whacks his brother for touching his basketball. And that’s just a tiny sample of the daily challenges we face as parents. It’s exhausting!

Feb 27, 2018

Grow

Need an Extra Pair of Hands? Hire or Help a Mom!

When you’re a mom, everyday chores from errands to laundry to meal prep can take up your entire day. When you’re a mom with a business… you’re lucky if you have time to change out of the clothes you slept in the night before!

Feb 22, 2018

5 Daily Success Rituals & Morning Routines for Entrepreneurs (& Moms!)

We all want to be more successful and happier, both as moms and entrepreneurs, right? While there are a million ways to get started, one of the simplest things we can do to set ourselves up for success is to craft morning routines and daily rituals...

Feb 20, 2018

3 Secrets to Help You Navigate the Ups and Downs of Entrepreneurship

Owning your own business is an exciting, exhilarating journey. Diving headfirst into the unknown offers a sense of freedom and endless possibility. But, when you’re still juggling a home and family life, entrepreneurship can also feel completely...

Feb 15, 2018

Do You Have What it Takes to be an Entrepreneur? (Spoiler Alert: You DO!)

One of the things we most often here from moms who are just getting started with Pepperlane is that they don’t see themselves as women entrepreneurs, and they’re not sure they have what it takes to start a business or to be a small business owner.

Feb 12, 2018

Ask the Expert: How to Craft the Perfect Elevator Pitch

Today's Ask the Expert post is from Robyn Mather, a personal brand expert.

Feb 06, 2018

How a Virtual Assistant Helps Solve Business Email Problems

Today's blog post comes from Hingham, MA-based virtual assistant Zoe Pirnie, who shares how she helps businesses solve email problems big and small!

Feb 02, 2018

Pepperlane Boost

4 Reasons Why Pepperlane Boosts can DOUBLE Your Business

One of the most common questions we get from Pepperlane business owners is around where they should focus in when it comes to marketing. We hear that many of you struggle with how to best optimize your time—whether that's determining how to get...

Jan 29, 2018

Ask the Expert

Ask the Expert: How to Present Yourself to Get More Confidence, Influence, and Clients

Today's Ask the Expert post is from Robyn Mather, a personal brand expert.

Jan 24, 2018

Sharon Kan

A New Voice at Pepperlane

Dear Pepperlane community,

Jan 16, 2018

Ask the Expert: How to Reach Your Financial Resolutions

Jan 10, 2018

Why You Should Respond to a New Customer Inquiry like a 911 Call

Here's some research that took us by surprise: the odds of making contact with someone who makes an inquiry to your business on the web drop dramatically over just the first 5 hours.

Dec 31, 2017

Yes — You CAN Start a Business. And the Best Time is Now!

You’re here. You’re standing at the edge of the proverbial cliff and thinking about jumping into business for yourself. Your palms are a little sweaty. You might even be a little scared. OK… your palms are dripping and your heart is beating a...

Dec 27, 2017

Ask the Expert

Ask the Expert: How to Ring in the New Year on a Budget!

Welcome to Ask the Expert, a new blog series featuring the expertise of our many talented business owners on Pepperlane. We're kicking things off with timely advice from event planner extraordinaire Von Marie Moniz. New Year’s Eve is the best night...

Nov 19, 2017

Pepperlane Press Release

Introducing the MOB NW, a New Pepperlane Partner

Pepperlane was born in Massachusetts, but we've been working with an ambassador, Charryse Bigger, in the Portland, OR area to build our first out of state chapter. As part of that effort, we are launching a new partnership with the MOB NW/The MOB...

Nov 15, 2017

Pepperlane Press Release

Zola President & COO Rachel Jarrett joins Pepperlane Advisory Board

Jarrett will lend consumer and ecommerce expertise to Pepperlane, a platform that helps mothers transform their skills into micro-businesses that let them work flexibly

Nov 03, 2017

55+ Skills & Talents You can Turn into Your Own Micro-Business

We know many mothers are excited by the possibilities of flexible micro-businesses (small businesses that allow you to work on the schedule you determine), but many aren’t sure exactly what skills and services they could sell.

Oct 31, 2017

Pepperlane Press Release

Former Paint Nite COO Joins Mothers’ Micro-Business Platform Pepperlane

October 31, 2017, Cambridge, MA—Pepperlane, a Cambridge, MA-based platform that empowers mothers turn their skills and passions into micro-businesses that allow them to work flexibly, announced that it has hired seasoned operational executive and...

Sep 08, 2017

Announcing the Winners of Pepperlane's First Build a Business Competition in Lexington!

Yesterday at our members conference To Begin, Begin we had the privilege of awarding the winners of our first ever Build a Business Competition in Lexington. We launched the competition earlier this spring to celebrate our first chapter in Lexington...

Sep 07, 2017

Grow

Introducing Payments on Pepperlane: Get Paid, Faster!

Everything we do at Pepperlane is meant to support our mission of empowering mothers to start and grow businesses that fit into their lives. We’ve heard from many of our members that asking for money is awkward and figuring out how to actually...

Jul 31, 2017

5 Ways to Make Your Life Easier When Starting Your Business

Jul 11, 2017

This Pepperlane Business Will Inspire You to Get Started!

We know the thought of starting a business can be intimidating. It doesn’t have to be. Sometimes it just starts with a skill, a passion, or a crazy idea. Or sometimes it’s the answer to a problem.

Jun 27, 2017

International Women's Day

The Only 5 Things you Need to Launch a "Website" for Your Business

You’ve decided to take that special skill of yours and turn it into a business. Exciting!

Mar 08, 2017

Reflecting on International Women's Day 2017

On March 8, the world celebrates International Women’s Day. Though it’s not particularly well known in the US, it started here in 1909 as a labor protest. Observed all over the world, International Women’s Day is a day of action, in which...

Feb 27, 2017

International Women's Day

Support Women-Led Businesses for International Women’s Day

March 8th is International Women’s Day and this year’s message is #BeBoldForChange by helping to forge a better working world - a more gender inclusive world. And that is what Pepperlane is all about - helping women leverage the talents they have to...

Feb 20, 2017