A woman with tattoos on her arms and shoulder, wearing a colorful tropical shirt and black shorts, sitting on a vintage black and wooden sofa, reading a beige Field Notes notebook, with a yellow retro rotary phone beside her, in a rustic room with peeling wall paint and yellow curtains.

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.