Pull up a log, pass the snacks, and crack open the creative canteen! We’re trading stories by the campfire. Field Notes is where we share reflections on ethical marketing, creative ecosystems, and what it looks like to build work that cares for people and planet. These essays explore care-centered business, relational community building, and creative practices rooted in liberation and integrity. Think of this space as an evolving notebook, ideas gathered in the field and shared in community.
Field Notes
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Where the word 'brand' actually comes from and why performing your values is easier than practicing them. Read more…
Learn about what building a brand in Portland, Oregon actually requires, beyond the aesthetic. Read more…
Not all content is disposable! A platform-by-platform guide to what actually keeps working. Read more…
A sustainable approach to marketing solo, without burning out or hiring a team you don't need. Read more…
The Archives: Reflections on Ethical Business and Creative Practice
Ethical Personalized Marketing: How to Build Trust Without Exploiting Your Audience
Personalized marketing can be a powerful tool for building trust and connection, but when done wrong, it can feel invasive or manipulative. In this guide, we’ll explore how to create ethical, human-centered marketing strategies that respect your audience’s privacy, nurture relationships, and foster long-term engagement—without pressure tactics or data exploitation. Learn how to personalize your marketing in a way that feels good for both you and your audience.
Rethinking Success: Holistic Business Metrics Beyond Profit
Success isn’t just about revenue. Discover holistic success metrics that measure impact, fulfillment, and sustainability in your business.
What’s the Difference Between a Business and a Brand?
Building a strong online presence requires understanding the difference between a business and a brand. Your business sells products and services, while your brand tells the story and creates emotional connections. This blog explores how to develop both in alignment with your values, empowering you to stand out authentically and sustainably. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs ready to build with heart and purpose.
A Creative’s Guide to Building a Values-Aligned Editorial Calendar
Ditch the rigid content planning systems. Learn how to create a flexible, sustainable, and values-aligned editorial calendar made for creative entrepreneurs and artists.
How to Build a Memorable Brand: 4-Step Brand Awareness Strategy for 2025
Learn how to create a meaningful brand awareness strategy that prioritizes clarity, connection, and authenticity. A 4-step guide for conscious brands.
Gender Inclusion in Design: Embracing Diversity and Breaking Stereotypes
Discover how to create gender-inclusive designs that go beyond traditional binary norms. Learn actionable strategies to make your branding and visual storytelling more inclusive, accessible, and representative of diverse identities.
The Ins and Outs of Crafting a Code of Ethics for Your Business
A code of ethics is more than just a set of values; it’s a framework that guides your business decisions, shapes your brand reputation, and builds trust with your community. This guide provides practical steps for creating a meaningful code of ethics, with examples and tips tailored to small businesses. Learn how your code of ethics can support sustainable growth, ensure transparency, and create a positive impact on both people and the planet.
Brand Photoshoot Ideas: How to DIY Your Brand Photos
Discover how to plan and execute your own brand photoshoot with creativity and purpose. Learn budget-friendly tips, essential tools, and unique ideas for capturing authentic, professional-quality brand photos that align with your business.
Thinking Beyond Sustainability: Why Businesses Must Embrace Regeneration and Restoration
Sustainability alone isn’t sufficient to address the challenges facing our planet and communities. This blog explores how small business owners can embrace regenerative and restorative approaches to create lasting impact. From ethical practices to rethinking waste, overconsumption, and community engagement, discover actionable steps to redefine success for your business while prioritizing people and the planet.
The Four Stages of Business Development: When to Seek Branding and Marketing Support
Discover the four stages of business development and learn when to hire branding and marketing experts to elevate your business. From startup to sustain, align your strategy, systems, and design with your goals for sustainable growth.
What It Means to Practice Sustainable Business and How To Build Sustainability Into Your Business Strategy
Learn what it means to practice sustainable business in 2024. This guide explores sustainability strategies, the Triple Bottom Line, and actionable steps to create lasting impact.
What is Conscious Business? A Guide to Purpose-Driven Impact
Discover what conscious business means and how to align your operations with ethical, sustainable practices. Learn practical steps to measure your business impact in 2024.
The Role of Branding in Shaping Consumer Behavior and Societal Norms
Explore the multifaceted role of branding in shaping consumer behavior and societal norms. Discover how ethical branding and authenticity can drive meaningful connections and social impact in today’s marketplace. Join us at DoGoodBiz Studio as we redefine branding for a better future.
You’ll notice many of these essays circling shared questions around ethical marketing, creative ecosystems, and what it means to build business at a more human pace. We hope you enjoy.

