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Hey Bootstrapper,

Each week, I deliver a fresh, feminist-inspired, creative marketing email to your inbox...let's dive in!

Prefer to listen to this podcast style? You're in luck! Check it out here!

I've been pretty quiet on social media lately. For those of you following me on Instagram, I've not been my usual online self.

The political climate right now is A LOT. The bad news is overwhelming, and I have been feeling tired of all the uncertainty and fear. And I'm not even American. The Canadian political system is also showing concerning signs, and as women entrepreneurs, we need to talk about it.

Because let's be real: business is inherently political.

You might think that you shouldn't share your political opinions with others because you're scared to rock the boat—but do you really want to work with people who aren't aligned with your beliefs? Like it or not, your values as a business are an incredibly important part of your brand identity.

There's this collective anxiety that seems to be hanging in the air, affecting how we show up, how we create, and how we run our businesses.

To be honest, I've been questioning whether I truly want to even be on platforms run by billionaires falling in line with the orange man (is it time for a static grid?!).

There will be more surveillance, censorship, and algorithms working against voices that don't want to fall in line. That's why this newsletter and my website are the most important priorities for me right now. Because they are spaces I own and can control without worrying about being silenced or shadowbanned for speaking my truth.

I recently came across a post by @theshabbycreekcottage that put words to what I've been feeling. She described what we're witnessing as an "Extinction Burst of the Patriarchy," – and honestly, it was like someone finally turned on the lights in the dark room I've been sitting in.

An extinction burst happens when a system (or behaviour) is about to be eliminated, so it fights harder to survive. She used the example of a vending machine that doesn't work—people will shake and kick it in frustration before accepting that it no longer functions.

What does that look like right now? Increased political extremism and control over women's bodies, desperate attempts to erase marginalized voices, pushes to reassert outdated gender roles (hello, trad wives), and anti-progress movements. It's terrifying because it's so desperate.

But here's the good news: The patriarchy wouldn't be reacting so strongly if they weren't afraid and losing control. They wouldn't be fighting so hard if they weren't genuinely threatened by the progress we've made and continue to make.

We're in uncharted territory. It's scary. We must protect our energy, continue our activism efforts, support one another, and grow our communities of like-minded people.

Yes, even in business. I might say, especially in business, because economic power is one of the most effective ways to create lasting change in this capitalistic world.

So, what can you do as a business owner?

You can share your values and beliefs on your online platforms and stand up for others when needed. This doesn't mean you need to debate politics in every Instagram caption, but it does mean being clear about what you stand for and who you serve. When you see injustice related to your industry or community, use your voice – even when it feels scary.

You can support women-owned, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC-owned businesses and choose to purchase less from big corporations, especially those funding the oppression. Look at where your business dollars are going – from your hosting provider to your office supplies. Small shifts in spending can create a massive collective impact.

You can continue to vote, protest, and push for progressive policies. Refuse to comply with systems that perpetuate harm. This might look like changing your business policies, being more inclusive in your marketing, or simply using your platform to amplify voices that need to be heard.

And as Gina said, "Build the future you want to see while the old structure crumbles."

This is perhaps the most powerful thing we can do. Create businesses that operate with integrity, value people over profit, and demonstrate that another way is possible.

They want you to feel powerless, tired, scared, and upset... so you give up. Don't. Have hope. Take small steps.

It's as simple as being your authentic self and ensuring your business reflects your values so it attracts people who also align with them.

Your words matter. Your beliefs matter.

Your small business is helping SMASH the patriarchy one client, one sale, one authentic connection at a time.

Never underestimate the power of what you're building.

Freshly Baked ​The Female Founders Journal by Pearl Spark Pages: In case you missed it, my branding client's kickstart is live and is over halfway funded! Check it out if you would like to support a Black Women-owned business that is helping women founders merge entrepreneurship with mindfulness. I had the pleasure of doing the branding for Pearl Spark Pages and the typography for the front cover. I can't wait to get my hands on my copy, and you should, too!! Sneak Peek of my New Website: I got my branding photos done recently and am busy getting my new website ready to go live. Here's a little peek at the new home page! Also, being your own client is the HARDEST thing ever!!