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)