In this episode of Not So Small we sit down with photographer Alyssa Lund-Kyrola to learn more about her journey to realizing her dream of being a full-time artist. Alyssa shares how she built two distinct brands: Alyssa Lund Photography, focused on families and weddings, and Illuminate Boudoir, dedicated to self-affirming, inclusive boudoir photography. She opens up about the challenges of navigating the pandemic, the decision to hire a studio manager, and dives into the power of storytelling through photography. We also discuss her latest project, Dear Body, which merges portraiture with personal reflections to promote self-love. Tune in to hear how Alyssa blends artistry with deep personal connection, proving that photography is about so much more than just pictures.

Guest Info

• Business: Alyssa Lund Photography / Illuminate Boudoir
• Guest: Alyssa Lund-Kyrola (she/her)
• Alyssa Lund Photography Links: Website • Instagram
• Illuminate Boudoir Links: Website • Instagram

Community Shoutout

• Business: Cake Plus-Size Resale
• Links: Website • Instagram

Other Links:
Dubsado

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Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Sam Bauman (she/her)
• About the Host: Sam is the President of Mellowlark Labs, a Twin Cities-based small business consulting agency. She has a masters degree in counseling psychology, a field she worked in for several years before applying her skills in business, and is certified in Organization Development.

Podcast Website

Sound Editing By: Adam Rondeau
Podcast Art By: Andy Bauman (website)

In this episode of Not So Small, we sit down with Sarah Evert, a clinical social worker and the owner of S.E.E. Psychotherapy. Sarah specializes in working with clients struggling with perfectionism, and she shares how her own search for fulfillment and autonomy led her to build a private practice that challenges traditional therapy norms.

Sarah talks about the power of community in private practice, and how social media has transformed the way she connects with both clients and fellow therapists. She also reflects on the importance of making therapy feel accessible and the lessons she’s learned from setbacks along the way. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a mental health professional, or someone navigating perfectionism, this conversation offers insights into building a business that truly aligns with your values.

Guest Info

• Business: S.E.E. Psychotherapy
• Guest: Sarah Evert (she/her)
• Links: Website • Instagram

Community Shoutout

• Business: Golden Age Design
• Links: Website • Instagram

Other Links:
Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Joyful Life

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Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Sam Bauman (she/her)
• About the Host: Sam is the President of Mellowlark Labs, a Twin Cities-based small business consulting agency. She has a masters degree in counseling psychology, a field she worked in for several years before applying her skills in business, and is certified in Organization Development.

Podcast Website

Sound Editing By: Adam Rondeau
Podcast Art By: Andy Bauman (website)

In this episode of Not So Small, we sit down with Cody-John Marks, the owner of Drop Dead Gorgeous in Northeast Minneapolis. As an esthetician, Cody shares how his personal journey with self-confidence and beauty standards inspired him to create a welcoming space for anyone who has felt excluded by traditional beauty norms.

Cody opens up about the challenges of launching a business during the pandemic, the risks he has taken to grow, and the importance of setting boundaries for work-life balance. He also reflects on the power of healing touch, the role of authenticity in building lasting client relationships, and the ways his community has supported him along the way. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to redefine success on their own terms and create a business rooted in passion, inclusivity, and self-care.

Guest Info

• Business: Drop Dead Gorgeous
• Guest: Cody-John Marks (he/him)
• Links: Website • Instagram

Community Shoutout

• Business: Nail Ninja
• Links: Website • Instagram 

Other Links:
Gloss Genius

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Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Sam Bauman (she/her)
• About the Host: Sam is the President of Mellowlark Labs, a Twin Cities-based small business consulting agency. She has a masters degree in counseling psychology, a field she worked in for several years before applying her skills in business, and is certified in Organization Development.

Podcast Website

Sound Editing By: Adam Rondeau
Podcast Art By: Andy Bauman (website)

How do you create a real estate business that truly embraces inclusivity and sets a new standard for others to follow? Join us as we explore this compelling question with Mariah Hamm, a trailblazing queer realtor and the visionary force behind Hamm Real Estate Co in the Twin Cities. Mariah shares their journey of building a nurturing, value-aligned brokerage that prioritizes clients' comfort and respect. From the pivotal decision to obtain a real estate license to establishing a space where clients can be their true selves, Mariah's story is one of resilience and transformation. This episode is not just about real estate—it's a testament to how steadfast effort and a unique vision can redefine an entire industry and inspire others to seek similar growth and fulfillment.

Guest Info

• Business: Hamm Real Estate Co
• Guest: Mariah Hamm (she/they)
• Links: Website • Instagram

Community Shoutout

• Business: The Mustache Cat
• Links: Website • Instagram

Send us a text

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Sam Bauman (she/her)
• About the Host: Sam is the President of Mellowlark Labs, a Twin Cities-based small business consulting agency. She has a masters degree in counseling psychology, a field she worked in for several years before applying her skills in business, and is certified in Organization Development.

Podcast Website

Sound Editing By: Adam Rondeau
Podcast Art By: Andy Bauman (website)