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marlee kivens

Pampered Chef Gave Marlee Independence

The inspiring journey of Marlee Kivens, a Pampered Chef Independent Consultant who has embraced remote work to manage her Spina Bifida health challenges and achieve a new level of independence.


S3 E8 How Pampered Chef Helps Marlee Kivens Achieve Work-Life Balance with Spina Bifida Work From Home Forever

In this inspiring episode of the Work From Home Forever, host Don sits down with Marlee Kivens, a Pampered Chef Independent Consultant who turned a simple kitchenware party into a thriving remote career.Marlee shares how Pampered Chef’s accessible products helped her gain independence as a person with Spina Bifida, allowing her to cook without assistance.She discusses her transition from in-home demonstrations to fully virtual events, the skills she had to learn—like social media and Zoom—and how working remotely gives her the flexibility to manage her health.Marlee’s story is a powerful example of how remote work can empower individuals with disabilities to build successful, fulfilling careers on their own terms.Connect with Marlee:Pampered Chef: KivensKitchenKornerFacebook: KivensKitchenKorner⁠________________________ Do you love the show? Check out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠official merch page⁠⁠⁠ ⁠on Etsy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and support the show!________________________

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Meet Marlee Kivens

Marlee’s story began over nine years ago when she first encountered Pampered Chef at a home party. With Spina Bifida, Marlee had relied on a personal care attendant (PCA) to help with meal preparation. However, she found that the conventional kitchen products were too cumbersome for her needs. After discovering the user-friendly tools offered by Pampered Chef, Marlee decided to join the company, and it quickly became a turning point in her life.

The accessibility of Pampered Chef products allowed Marlee to prepare meals independently. This newfound autonomy was not only a practical benefit but also a significant emotional boost. “Within a month of starting with Pampered Chef, I was able to let go of my PCA for meal preparation and manage everything on my own,” Marlee shares. The flexibility of working with Pampered Chef meant she could create meals comfortably and efficiently, leading to a more independent lifestyle.

Before joining Pampered Chef, Marlee worked in various administrative roles, including helping run her father’s business. Despite the challenges of working with a disability, she learned valuable skills that later supported her transition into remote work. However, it was the shift to virtual consulting during the pandemic that truly transformed her career. Marlee adapted to using social media and Zoom to host virtual parties, which not only allowed her to reach more clients but also aligned with her health needs.

The flexibility of remote work has been crucial for Marlee. It allows her to schedule work around medical appointments and health issues, ensuring she can continue to support herself financially while managing her health. “Pampered Chef has given me a lifeline,” Marlee says. “It allows me to live for today and make the most of every moment, despite the challenges I face.”

Marlee’s journey highlights the power of remote work in creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Her story is a testament to how the right tools and support can make a significant difference in someone’s life, offering both independence and the ability to thrive professionally and personally.

Thank you for tuning in to today’s episode. Marlee’s experience with Pampered Chef underscores the importance of accessible work environments and the positive impact they can have on individuals facing health challenges. Stay inspired, and remember to explore opportunities that align with your needs and goals.

Connect with Marlee


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Q&A with Marlee

Why did you want to Work From Home Forever?

I am a person with a physical disability who works from home. Many I know who have disabilities don’t work because they feel they can’t.

How long have you been Working From Home, Forever?

5 years part time 4 years full time.

What tradeoffs, if any, did you make in order to Work From Home Forever?

I had to learn Zoom and be more active on social media.

How do you manage work/life balance Working From Home, Forever?

I work my own hours. I make my own schedule around family events and doctor appointments.

What’s your best advice to others who want to Work From Home Forever?

Just do it! Don’t think about it. Live for today, not tomorrow.

What are your three must-haves to Work From Home, Forever?

1 – Phone

2 – Flexibility

3 – Computer

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