The Hills Are Alive

From a fresh start to running an all singing all dancing business.

In 2001, Nic and Andrea Hills took a bold step to regain control of their lives. Quitting their jobs, they launched The Hills Are Alive on eBay, building a business from scratch that allowed them to raise their daughter while generating a sustainable income. Over the past 22 years, their journey has been one of resilience, evolution, and commitment to sustainability.

Their passion for second-hand goods became the cornerstone of their business. By choosing to buy and sell preloved items, Nic and Andrea not only built a thriving enterprise but also championed an eco-friendly ethos. In 2014, they took their mission a step further by launching a YouTube channel to share their experiences and expertise. Their content ranges from tutorials on “how to sell on eBay” to behind-the-scenes insights into sourcing stock and managing a home-based business.

Today, their primary channel boasts over 68k subscribers, nearly 2,000 videos, and an impressive 16.6 million views. What started as a simple effort to share knowledge has blossomed into a hub for a like-minded community of thrifters and eBay sellers. From organising yearly reseller meet-ups to running charity events and hosting weekly live broadcasts, Nic and Andrea have made community-building central to their journey.

Yet, their efforts extend beyond content creation. Over the past two years, they have invested in a map-based app to promote local thrifting events and locations, further supporting the sustainable shopping movement. “It’s about more than just selling,” Andrea shares. “It’s about inspiring others to embrace second-hand and make a difference.”

The financial freedom they achieved through eBay has been transformative. The couple were able to purchase a home and eventually become mortgage-free — a milestone that reflects the success of their hard work and dedication.

As they celebrate 10 years of their YouTube journey, Nic and Andrea find themselves at the heart of a thriving reselling community. Their story is a testament to how eBay can empower individuals to build not only a business but a meaningful life. For The Hills Are Alive, it’s always been about more than profit—it’s about purpose, sustainability, and inspiring others to start their own journeys.