Cake Therapy

Grief takes many forms, but for Kemi Sanni, it manifested as beautiful, fondant-wrapped works of art. After losing her mother suddenly, Kemi reconnected with her childhood passion for cake decorating—a skill she learned at her mother's side in Nigeria. What began as therapy evolved into Tessa's Cakes, a business named after her mother Teresa, honoring her legacy with every creation.

In this deeply moving conversation, Kemi reveals the delicate balance she maintains between her full-time career as a court mediator and her thriving cake business. She poses a question many creative entrepreneurs face: "Is your day job a cushion or a crutch?" For Kemi, it's both—providing security while potentially limiting her creative growth. Her candid reflections on this tension will resonate with anyone navigating multiple passions.

The most powerful moments come when Kemi describes those early days after her loss. With young children asleep, she would turn on gospel music and pray over every cake she made. "It felt like my ministry," she shares, describing how creating something beautiful from simple ingredients became a metaphor for finding meaning in grief. Her story beautifully illustrates how baking can serve as therapy, creating space for healing while honoring cherished memories.

Whether you're a professional baker, hobbyist, or simply curious about creative healing processes, this episode offers wisdom about authenticity, purpose-finding, and creating community through shared passion. Subscribe to the Cake Therapy Podcast for more conversations about the transformative power of baking and support the Cake Therapy Foundation's work helping women and girls through culinary arts.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

Dr. Altreisha Foster welcomes Adrianna Willis, founder and CEO of Mind the Crown, for a soul-stirring conversation about reclaiming your peace through intentional self-care. After nearly three decades in corporate America, Adrianna made the brave decision to walk away from her high-paying career to focus on her mental health and purpose-driven business—a choice that came after a defining moment when her inner voice simply said, "I quit," despite not being financially prepared for the transition.

Born from the isolation and racial tensions of 2020 following George Floyd's murder in Minnesota, Mind the Crown has evolved into a sanctuary for women—particularly Black and brown women—who habitually put everyone else's needs before their own. Adrianna shares how she creates accessible self-care experiences through "self-care parties" featuring activities like blindfolded painting, dreamboard creation, and planting succulents. These hands-on exercises deliberately pull women away from their phones and into the present moment, offering a respite from the constant demands of daily life.

The conversation delves deeply into the "superwoman syndrome" that plagues so many women, especially women of color. "You don't have to feel guilty for choosing yourself," Adrianna emphasizes, addressing the struggle many high-achieving women face in setting boundaries and allowing themselves to be vulnerable. She candidly discusses her own journey with therapy and setting boundaries—skills she's still developing but proudly embraces as crucial to protecting her peace "at all costs."

Looking toward 2025, Adrianna reveals her plans to launch coaching services specifically designed to help women aged 45-55 transition out of corporate environments while addressing the emotional weight of such significant life changes. Her approach encompasses practical advice—like taking inventory of responsibilities to determine what can be delegated, automated, or simply left undone—alongside tools like her "Woosa Journal" that encourage mindfulness and self-reflection.

Ready to prioritize your mental wellness? Follow @mindthecrownllc on Instagram or visit mindthecrown.com to explore Adrianna's self-care resources, upcoming events, and custom products designed to remind women everywhere to "treat yourself, don't cheat yourself."

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

Discover the transformative power of healing and resilience in our latest episode with Mr. Samuel Simmons, a leading authority on trauma within the African-American community. We embark on a profound exploration of how historical trauma impacts productivity and relationships, emphasizing the critical need to acknowledge male trauma. Our conversation with Mr. Simmons uncovers the intersection of historical trauma and community resilience, shedding light on the importance of understanding these dynamics to foster healthier communities.

Join us as we unpack the complexities of masculinity and healing trauma within family dynamics. Drawing from personal and professional experiences, we share insights into how therapy can connect past experiences to present behaviors, equipping Black men with tools to navigate trauma. We challenge societal expectations of masculinity, advocating for adaptability and leading by example in family roles, stressing the importance of redefining masculinity for the benefit of families and communities.

The journey continues as we address the intricate dance between individuality and community healing. We explore the pressures of cultural expectations and the impact of historical trauma on codependent dynamics. Through discussions on imposter syndrome and the path to self-acceptance, we emphasize the necessity of truth and accountability in healing. We wrap up by highlighting the profound impact of inter-generational trauma and the potential for healing through forgiveness and understanding, culminating in exciting announcements about upcoming community empowerment events in Minnesota.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

When passion meets purpose, magic happens. Jamaican pastry chef Chiantae Campbell exemplifies this through her remarkable journey from teenage baker to Food Network competitor and founder of Chic Little Cakes. Her story isn't just about beautiful confections—it's about cultural heritage, entrepreneurial wisdom, and finding joy through creating edible dreams.

Growing up in Jamaica profoundly shaped Chiantae's creative approach. "There's just this flair that we have," she explains, describing how her Caribbean roots influence her bold flavor combinations and striking designs. This cultural foundation gave her the confidence to experiment beyond traditional offerings, building a menu that stands out in Florida's competitive market. From custom cakes layered with cookie butter to seasonal fruit creations, her work reflects both technical mastery and cultural authenticity.

The conversation takes a masterclass turn as Chiantae shares three transformative business lessons: delegate what you're not great at, know your worth when pricing, and stay perpetually curious. "We have to understand that the service we provide is worth every penny we say it's worth," she emphasizes, tackling the common struggle many creative entrepreneurs face when valuing their work. Her candid admission about initially doubting her Food Network opportunity resonates with many who struggle to fully embrace recognition despite their talent.

Beyond business strategy, Chiantae offers practical advice for aspiring bakers, detailing essential tools and ingredients that elevate homemade creations. She balances technical guidance with spiritual wisdom, crediting faith as the foundation of her success. Her perspective that "baking gets me out of my head and decorating gets me in my zone" perfectly captures why creating in the kitchen can be deeply therapeutic.

Ready to embrace your creative potential? Subscribe to The Cake Therapy Podcast on YouTube and all major platforms to join our community of passionate bakers and entrepreneurs building their dreams one layer at a time. Your support helps fund our foundation's work empowering women and girls through baking.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

Natasha Givens transforms cannabis and cake into art with purpose. As the creative force behind Cream Cakery (also known as Natty Kakes), she's turned her twin passions into a platform for healing, advocacy, and destigmatization.

Our conversation traces Natasha's remarkable journey from her Caribbean roots to corporate America, where she thrived as an art director before workplace challenges pushed her toward a different path. What began as a creative outlet—making a three-tiered cake for a friend's baby shower—eventually blossomed into something unexpected when she rediscovered baking during her pregnancy in 2019. "It felt like revisiting an old friend," she shares, describing how baking became her therapy during a crucial life transition.

Most fascinating is Natasha's evolution into cannabis-infused baking. After experiencing the plant's medicinal benefits firsthand for anxiety and PTSD, she became captivated by its potential. Despite concerns about stigma—especially as a mother—she leaned into cannabis education, developing signature butters and oils while building a client base that includes everyone from traumatized first responders to older women processing grief. "I have clients who still use my products and tell me how I helped them through a really dark time," she reveals, her voice filled with emotion.

As Minnesota navigates cannabis legalization, Natasha positions herself at the forefront of creating an equitable industry while expanding her vision to include a boutique flower store. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? "Be driven by your heart. Take time to listen to what's inside you and go back to your childhood—what lit you up?" Her own six-month break from corporate America has stretched into six years of purposeful entrepreneurship, showing how following your passion can lead to unexpected healing—for yourself and others.

Discover how Natasha is blending flour and flower into medicine, art, and community at @nattykakes on Instagram.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

Resilience takes many forms, but for Eboni of Ebi Cakes, it came wrapped in fondant and buttercream. In this deeply personal conversation with Dr. Altreisha Foster, Eboni courageously shares how she transformed from corporate banker to celebrated cake artist through one of life's most challenging detours.

When most cake decorators share their origin stories, they often reminisce about childhood baking with grandmothers. Eboni's path couldn't have been more different. After making a serious mistake at her banking job that resulted in termination and eventual felony charges, she found herself a single mother with few employment options. What began as simply making birthday cakes for her children to save money unexpectedly flourished when a Barbie cake she posted on Facebook garnered attention and order requests.

"Baking for me was a way to disconnect from my reality of the unknown," Eboni reveals. As she navigated legal proceedings and an uncertain future, cake decorating became her sanctuary—a creative space where she could focus entirely on bringing joy to others while temporarily escaping her own worries. Each successful cake delivery built not only her business but her confidence and path toward self-forgiveness.

Without formal training, Eboni taught herself through trial and error, developing a signature style that has now earned her spots on television and a devoted clientele. Her latest venture, DIY cake kits, allows others to experience the therapeutic joy of cake decorating without professional skills. From her favorite "under the sea" designs to her preference for fondant's versatility, Eboni's technical insights are as valuable as her emotional wisdom.

Ready to find your own slice of cake therapy? Subscribe to the podcast and visit caketherapy.org to learn how baking can become both emotional healing and entrepreneurial opportunity. As Eboni powerfully reminds us: "If I got through that, anybody can."

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

Chef Leah DiBernardo's remarkable culinary journey defies conventional paths, weaving together the threads of family tradition, environmental stewardship, and passionate storytelling. From her idyllic childhood on an Oregon farm where her American-Italian family embraced a "food hippie" lifestyle—growing their produce and butchering their own animals—emerged a profound understanding of food's connection to land and health.

The transformative moment came when her grandmother Conchetta taught young, shy Leah to make gnocchi while singing "Jingle Bells" at the top of her lungs. This joyful culinary awakening sparked a lifelong relationship with cooking, though her path first detoured through film school and a successful career creating MTV campaigns and music videos with artists like Mariah Carey. It wasn't until becoming a mother in 2001 that Chef Leah returned to her culinary roots, dismayed by the processed foods served at her daughter's school.

What started as Delights Fine Food, an organic catering company launched with her sister in Temecula, evolved into Eat Marketplace (Extraordinary Artisans at the Table) when the 2008 economic downturn demanded reinvention. With just $5,000 and existing equipment, Leah created a haven for sustainable, locally-sourced food that nurtures both people and community. Her partnership with Rancho Family Medical Group to create health-focused cooking videos underscores her core philosophy that "the farm is our pharmacy."

Most remarkably, Chef Leah's vision extends beyond personal success. She's actively working toward giving Eat Marketplace ownership to her predominantly female staff, continuing her commitment to lifting other women in the culinary world. As she looks toward writing books, teaching, and supporting her daughter's creative ventures, she emphasizes the importance of discernment—making thoughtful choices about our paths and the people we surround ourselves with.

Join us for this inspiring conversation about sustainable food systems, women's entrepreneurship, and creating a legacy that's "good, clean, and fair for everyone." Subscribe to hear more stories of culinary innovation and personal transformation that nourish both body and soul.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

What does it mean to create a truly sacred space for black girls in a world that seldom allows them to simply exist without explanation? Neda Kellogg, founder of Project Diva International, joins us to share how her personal journey through childhood trauma and homelessness sparked a mission that has transformed the lives of over 1,500 young Black women over the past 17 years.

Neda reveals the alarming 182% increase in suicide rates among black girls since 2001, highlighting why dedicated spaces for their emotional and mental wellbeing aren't just beneficial—they're life-saving. Through her innovative "I Am Method" (I Align Me), she guides girls to articulate their authentic selves and create vision maps that align with their truth. The results speak volumes: a 99% graduation rate and less than 1% teenage pregnancy among program participants.

We dive deep into the challenges of being a Black girl in today's world, from navigating educational systems that don't reflect their culture to finding therapy modalities that actually work for them. Neda's approach embraces both traditional and alternative healing practices, including baking therapy, boxing, swimming, and equestrian therapy. Her vision extends beyond temporary interventions—she's working toward building a Self-Mastery Campus in Minnesota where Black girls can truly belong while inviting others into a space designed with their needs at the forefront.

If you've ever wondered what's possible when we create environments where young people can show up in their "true alignment," this conversation will inspire you. For Black girls feeling lost or disconnected, Neda offers this powerful advice: "Identify a Black woman that you can, for real, be your true self with." Connect with Project Diva International at projectdiva.org to learn more about their transformative work.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

Discover the remarkable blend of social work and culinary art therapy with our guest, Courtney Fields, a registered social worker and passionate baker from Canada. Courtney shares her transformative journey of healing through baking, revealing how it became her refuge during a period of grief. She explains how this personal therapy evolved into Fields and Flour, her unique business where she combines her expertise in social work with the joys of baking. The episode sheds light on how activities like baking can enhance mental well-being and inspire personal growth, offering a fresh perspective on therapeutic practices.

Explore the therapeutic potential of creative activities! We discuss how activities such as baking can help create a safe, comfortable atmosphere that encourages open dialogue in therapy sessions. The concept of activity-blended sessions is introduced, where the traditional client-therapist barriers dissolve, fostering collaboration and reducing stigma. From tackling anxiety and perfectionism with hands-on exposure therapy to using baking as a tool for mindfulness and problem-solving, the conversation highlights the benefits of integrating these practices into mental health support for people of all ages.

Courtney also takes us through the entrepreneurial journey of establishing Wildflower Fields, an innovative space that combines a bake shop with counseling services. This model supports low-cost counseling programs and encourages community engagement. We delve into the creative approaches Courtney employs to make therapy more accessible and effective. Whether you're a baking aficionado or someone seeking alternative therapeutic methods, this episode offers a wealth of insights into the powerful intersection of baking and mental wellness.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts

Unlock the secret to transforming your kitchen into a sanctuary of mindfulness and tranquility. We promise that by the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with the tools to turn the simple act of baking into a journey of self-care and personal growth. Together, we explore the Cake Therapy app and its unique approach to engaging all five senses, setting the stage for a grounding experience before you even preheat the oven. Imagine your breath syncing with the rhythm of the stirring, each ingredient a testament to care and gratitude. As the cake bakes, you will find peace in the moments of stillness, and joy in the creative process of decorating.

As we reflect on the art of mindful baking, we invite you to recognize and embrace the full spectrum of emotions that arise from mixing to decorating. Feel the stress of the day melt away, replaced by the comfort and satisfaction of crafting something beautiful with your hands. This episode is a celebration of creativity, dedication, and the love poured into every culinary creation. Join us in recognizing the therapeutic power of baking, where the slow rise of a cake mirrors the rise of your own spirit. Whether you're experienced or a novice, this approach to baking will nourish both your body and soul.

Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcast. Share the episodes and let's chat in the comments.

Support the Cake Therapy Foundation:
1.   Cake Therapy - Cake Therapy (thecaketherapyfoundation.org) 
2.  Buy Me A Coffee : The Cake Therapy Foundation (buymeacoffee.com)
3. Buy The Book: Cake Therapy: How Baking Changed My Life   https://a.co/d/76dZ5T0 

4. Buy The Book: Lessons I Never Learned from My Father: Things We Missed Out On and How They Still Impact Me https://a.co/d/9wLOguc 

Follow Sugarspoon Desserts on all social media platforms @sugarspoondesserts