About

The smartest thing you can do is start.  - Unknown

Welcome to Upstart Smart, a resource and a network for solopreneurs and small business owners who are looking for advice and support to help them in their journey to becoming successful and independent.

I'm Amber Singleton Riviere, and I wear many hats.  I got my start in real estate when I was 21, which led to several business endeavors, including my web design company and, ultimately, the creation of Upstart Smart.

My goal has always been to learn how to survive and thrive as a solo entrepreneur.  I wanted to be completely self-reliant and independent.  I watched so many people, myself included, struggle throughout my life, and I wanted things to be different, so I set out on a path to create a self-sustaining business.  It once was about creating a million-dollar empire, but eventually became about just having the choice to do what I wanted to do when I wanted to do it.

The job of starting and running a small business is not an easy one.  Ironically enough, it comes with its own set of struggles and frustrations, and there are plenty of times when I think I must be crazy not to quit, but fortunately, with a little "sticktoitiveness," the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

What is Upstart Smart?

Upstart Smart a resource and a way for you to grow your business and learn how to be a solopreneur by sharing in the experiences of others.  There are three "moving parts" to this site - the magazine, the podcast, and the game.

The Magazine

The Upstart Smart Magazine is essentially our blog.  It covers all the aspects of being a solopreneur, including: smart THINKING, smart PLANNING, smart MONEY, smart GROWTH, smart MANAGEMENT, and smart LIVING.  Our contributors represent solopreneurs around the world who have experienced first hand the rewards and challenges the path of entrepreneurship has to offer.

The Podcast

Upstart Smart Radio provides you with on-the-go advice, tips, and updates about improving your business and career as a solopreneur.  Listen to interviews with other successful small business owners and experts who can offer insight to help you create a thriving business.

The Game

The Upstart Smart Game puts a unique spin on teaching you how to improve your business by letting you have a little fun while you're at it.  It's a fast-paced program designed to help you learn more about the different aspects of being a solo entrepreneur, while showing you ways to achieve balance and create a business and lifestyle by design rather than default.

Is Upstart Smart for you?

It is if:

  • You work for yourself, running your own business as a solo entrepreneur, work-at-home mom or dad, or freelancer.

  • You wear all the hats of your company, receptionist, marketing person, customer service rep.  The buck stops with you.

  • You want to take your business and life to great heights.  You really want to succeed and thrive, not just survive.

  • You want balance between the personal and business sides of your life.

  • You are always looking for ways to improve your life and business.

  • You are an action-taker, a big dreamer and thinker, and an optimist.  You believe in things you cannot yet see.

  • You're looking to connect with other like-minded small business owners and solopreneurs who can share in your dream and help you grow your business.

What's next?

If you're ready to take your business to the next level and direct the course of your life, then you're ready to be a part of Upstart Smart!  Subscribe to receive updates of new articles and podcasts, and most importantly, sign up to play the next Upstart Smart Game!

The shortest answer is doing.  - Lord Herbert