Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria Dierkes-whitson
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Back in 2015, I hit a major low point in my life. My chronic Lyme disease had worsened to the point where I had to quit my job and move back home. It was a defeating and humbling experience. After spending some time feeling embarrassed and stuck, I realized I needed to shift my mindset. From my bed, I started brainstorming what I could do, rather than focusing on what I couldn’t.
I began with beadwork, crafting chokers, earrings, bracelets, and hatbands, which I sold to others. To my surprise, it took off and brought me a sense of purpose and joy. That small success inspired me to keep going. I taught myself graphic design and launched a website offering home decor and lifestyle products I had designed. It felt incredible to channel my creativity into something meaningful.
During this time, I also earned my Master Herbalism and Naturopathy degree. I had always been drawn to holistic healing and wellness, and I wanted to not only heal myself but also help others on their health journeys. This passion led me to launch my second business, Dakoda Herbals, where I create and share herbal remedies, educational content, and products like our signature teas and hangover strips.
Each step of my journey—from beadwork to becoming a certified herbalist—has been a reflection of resilience, creativity, and the desire to help others feel empowered in their own lives and health.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road – something I think most small business owners can relate to. One of the biggest challenges has been getting organic traffic and building awareness for my brands. It’s a slow process, and there have been times when I’ve bitten off more than I could chew, which made things even harder.
Since day one, I’ve had to teach myself everything—marketing, graphic design, website management, product creation – you name it. Wearing multiple hats in each of my ventures has been both rewarding and exhausting. There were times when I doubted myself or felt overwhelmed, especially while balancing my own health challenges.
But through trial and error, I’ve learned how to work smarter, lean on my creativity, and stay resilient. And I am still learning. The struggles have ultimately taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of staying connected to my purpose, which keeps me moving forward even on the tough days.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Dakoda Goods & Co. ?
My business, Dakoda Goods & Co., is a reflection of my creativity and passion for design. It’s an online home and lifestyle store, with Dakoda Herbals as an integrated extension of the company. Dakoda Goods is known for its eclectic, western-inspired designs, offering unique home decor, lifestyle products, and gifts. Dakoda Herbals, on the other hand, focuses on herbal wellness, with products like handcrafted teas, herbal pet remedies, and innovative solutions like our hangover strips and sleep strips.
What sets us apart is our mission: to bridge the gap between traditional herbal remedies and modern health needs. We’re committed to creating high-quality, sustainable products that empower people to achieve balance, vitality, and emotional well-being. I believe in educating my customers about the incredible potential of herbal remedies while offering tools to help them feel their best.
I’m especially proud of our menopause tea, which supports women navigating one of life’s most challenging transitions. The herbal wellness market is growing, but many niches—like menopause support and pms support—are still underserved. Dakoda Herbals strives to meet these needs with thoughtful, effective solutions that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
More than just selling products, I see Dakoda Goods & Co. as a community where people can feel inspired and uplifted. My journey with Lyme disease taught me the power of resilience and natural healing, and it’s an honor to share that wisdom with others through my work.
I want your readers to know that Dakoda Goods & Co. is more than just a brand—it’s a journey of healing, creativity, and empowerment. What we aim to provide is not only high-quality products but a deeper understanding of how natural remedies can support vibrant health. Each product is crafted with care to help people feel their best, both physically and emotionally.
Through Dakoda Herbals, we also offer educational resources that empower individuals to take charge of their health with natural alternatives. I want readers to know that I’m here to support them with products and knowledge that nurture the mind, body, and spirit—whether they’re seeking help with stress, sleep, physical health, mental health, or just looking for a more holistic approach to health.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The Covid-19 crisis has taught me that we need to listen to our bodies more than ever, especially when it comes to our physical, mental, and emotional health. The challenges we faced during that time highlighted how interconnected all aspects of our well-being truly are. We often forget how much control we have over our health, but there are so many tools at our disposal—like herbal remedies, mindfulness practices, and self-care routines—that can help us support optimal health in every area. This realization has deepened my commitment to empowering others to prioritize their health, both through the products we offer and the knowledge we share.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dakodagoods.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dakodaherbals
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DakodaGoods
