Manifestation, Mindset, and Building a Successful Global Brand with Cheryl Sutherland, PleaseNotes
Turning a Dream Into Reality
On this episode of The Wild Party Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of catching up with my dear friend and powerhouse entrepreneur, Cheryl Sutherland—the founder and CEO of PleaseNotes. Cheryl’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. What started as a simple idea—creating sticky notes with positive affirmations—has now grown into a thriving business offering journals, guided workshops, and mindset-shifting tools that have impacted thousands of lives.
From launching her business on Kickstarter to securing major retail partnerships, Cheryl’s story is a masterclass in intuition, manifestation, and strategic growth. But beyond business, Cheryl is living proof that when you trust your gut and take bold action, anything is possible.
The Origins of PleaseNotes: A Business Built on Affirmations
Cheryl’s entrepreneurial journey began when she realized that despite investing thousands of dollars in personal development courses, she still struggled with self-doubt and low confidence. After walking away from a job that no longer served her, she asked herself:
"What if I could surround myself with affirmations?"
That question sparked the idea for PleaseNotes, starting with sticky notes filled with powerful messages to uplift and inspire. She knew she was onto something, but rather than take a massive financial risk, Cheryl opted to test her concept on Kickstarter. The campaign was a hit, exceeding its goal by 150% and giving her the confidence to expand her product line.
The Evolution: From Sticky Notes to Guided Journals
Though the sticky notes were a great start, Cheryl quickly realized that people needed more than just daily affirmations—they needed tools to help them go deeper in their self-reflection. That’s when she created the Clarity Journal, designed to help users uncover their passions, overcome limiting beliefs, and step into their best selves.
Her ability to listen to her customers and adapt has been a key factor in her success. Over time, she introduced the Gratitude Journal, Manifestation Planner, and a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Notebook, all of which have resonated with audiences worldwide.
The Power of Intuition and Manifestation in Business
One of the most profound lessons from Cheryl’s journey is the power of trusting your intuition. As entrepreneurs, we often second-guess ourselves, but Cheryl firmly believes that our gut instincts lead us in the right direction.
"People get stuck in overthinking. Instead of listening to what feels right, they let fear hold them back. When I had the idea for PleaseNotes, I didn’t waste time doubting it—I knew it was something special, and I acted on it."
She also credits manifestation and mindset work for her success. By setting clear intentions, staying open to opportunities, and visualizing her future, Cheryl has been able to attract the right people, partnerships, and business breakthroughs.
Marketing Strategies That Work: How Cheryl Grew PleaseNotes
Many entrepreneurs struggle with marketing, but Cheryl has mastered the art of making her brand visible. Here’s what has worked for her:
✅ Kickstarter & Pre-Sales – Testing ideas before launching them at scale.
✅ In-Person Events & Trade Shows – Building direct relationships with customers.
✅ Social Media & Community Engagement – Using Instagram to connect with her audience.
✅ Retail Partnerships – Getting her products into major bookstores and online marketplaces.
✅ Workshops & Subscription Services – Adding value beyond physical products.
Cheryl’s biggest takeaway for entrepreneurs? Show up and put yourself out there—whether it’s online or in person. “Your audience won’t find you if you’re hiding,” she says.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Like any entrepreneur, Cheryl has faced her fair share of setbacks. From unpaid invoices to bad business partnerships, she’s learned that sometimes, walking away from the wrong opportunities is just as important as pursuing the right ones.
"If something feels off, trust that feeling. When I tried to force situations that weren’t aligned, they always backfired. Now, I only move forward with things that feel right."
What’s Next for Cheryl and PleaseNotes?
As PleaseNotes approaches its 10th anniversary, Cheryl has big plans for the future. She’s focused on:
✨ Expanding her digital marketing strategies with Facebook and Google ads.
✨ Breaking into more retail stores like Chapters (Canada’s equivalent of Barnes & Noble).
✨ Growing her workshop and online course offerings to deepen customer engagement.
✨ Exploring media opportunities, including the possibility of her own TV show!
Her ultimate vision? A business that runs smoothly without her constant involvement, giving her the freedom to travel, create, and inspire on a bigger scale.
Exclusive Discount for Wild Party Listeners!
To celebrate this incredible conversation, Cheryl is offering Wild Party Podcast listeners 15% off all PleaseNotes products! Just visit PleaseNotes.com and use the code WILD at checkout.
Final Thoughts: The Magic of Following Your Purpose
Cheryl’s story is proof that success isn’t about having all the answers upfront—it’s about taking action, trusting your instincts, and adapting along the way.
"Sometimes, it takes time to find your purpose. But when you do, and you commit to it, everything starts to align."
To hear the full conversation, check out this episode of The Wild Party Podcast—available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
🎧 Listen now and get inspired to manifest your own success! 🎧
