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 Upstart Smart and the Rock Your Genius audio network.

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 several "moving parts" to this site.

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 entrepreneurs and small business owners around the world who have experienced first hand the rewards and challenges the path of entrepreneurship has to offer.

The Audio Content

There are two forms of audio content - Upstart Smart Radio, which is show on the Rock Your Genius network, and Candid Conversations.  Tune in for 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 Board of Direction

Upstart Smart's Board of Direction Program provides you with an advisory board, mentor, and accountability partner in one!  It's designed to help you navigate the (often treacherous) waters of business ownership and is an affordable alternative to one-on-one coaching.

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 updates from this site in the sidebar, and be sure to check out the Board of Direction.

The shortest answer is doing.  - Lord Herbert