About Smart Online Journey
Mary Emmer is the founder and primary author behind Smart Online Journey. She created the site to help beginners, small business owners, and side-income seekers cut through the confusion of building an online presence, with practical guides, tools, and a touch of humor.
Who Am I?
Hi, I’m Mary, the creator of Smart Online Journey, and the gal behind the screen. Yes, there’s really a human behind the screen:) I created this site to be a practical, no-fluff guide for anyone who wants to build an online presence, create a side income, or simply learn how to navigate today’s digital world without getting lost in the jargon. Here’s my Welcome post, in case you missed it.
I’ve been self-employed for decades, and am still running a travel business I created back in the early ’80s. I know, it makes me sound like a dinosaur! Along with that, I have several blogs and digital projects. Juggling different ventures has given me a wide perspective on what it takes to start and grow something online – and how confusing it can feel when you’re just beginning.
At some point while exploring the world of online business (affiliate marketing, freelancing, and blogging), I discovered Wealthy Affiliate – a platform that provided the training, tools, and community I needed to bring all those moving parts together. It’s where I still recommend beginners start, because it actually teaches the skills you need to succeed. Start here to learn more about that.
And when I’m not working on one of my businesses, you’ll often find me with a good book in hand – or spending my winters in Europe, where travel always finds its way into my story.
Why Smart Online Journey?
Because starting something new online can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a “baby boomer” like me! I believe in mixing clear advice with a dash of humor, so you’ll feel like you have a guide (and a friend) walking alongside you.
What You’ll Find At Smart Online Journey
- Beginner-friendly posts about affiliate marketing and online business basics
- Smart tools and resources to help you get started
- Encouragement for building your Plan B (or C, or D) online
I know what it’s like to start fresh, and I also know it’s never too late to launch something new. So whether you’re brand new to online business or just curious about what’s possible – you’re in the right place.
Funny Facts About Me
- I run more than one blog (because apparently one rabbit hole isn’t enough).
- I’m a geeky travel agent turned online entrepreneur – and yes, I still spend every winter in Europe.
- My guilty pleasure? Romance novels. Zero shame – it’s market research and entertainment.
- I consider coffee an essential business tool. No coffee, no content.
- Odd fact: I’ve loved cooked spinach (even the canned kind) since I was a kid. Don’t judge.
- I once said “just one more side project,” and now here we are.
Your Next Step
Thanks for stopping by Smart Online Journey. Whether you’re here to explore side income ideas, learn the basics of online business, or just get a clearer path forward, my hope is that you’ll find resources here that make the online world feel a little less overwhelming (and maybe even fun). So grab a coffee, poke around, and start here.
This site isn’t about overnight success. It’s about building something real, one smart step at a time.
Curious about the platform that helped me get started? Check it out here.
Want To Contact Me?
I’d love to hear from you. The best way to contact me is through my profile inside Wealthy Affiliate. You can get your free starter account below.