Fanatical DreamHer

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Dr. Hanh Phi, founder of Nouvelle Dentistry in Greenwood Village, Colorado. Known for her patient-centered approach, commitment to comfort and education, and award-winning practice, Dr. Phi shares the journey that led her from a curious student exploring multiple career paths to becoming a respected leader in dentistry.

Growing up in a refugee family, Dr. Phi describes how discipline, hard work, and a passion for learning shaped her path. While she never had one singular dream as a child, her experiences in healthcare and mentorship from exceptional dentists helped her discover a profession that combined science, artistry, leadership, and service. Along the way, she learned that success is not a destination but an evolving journey.

Through stories of perseverance, leadership, overcoming self-doubt, and building a thriving practice in a traditionally male-dominated profession, Dr. Phi offers powerful encouragement for women and girls pursuing their own dreams. Her story is a reminder that exploration, mentorship, and courage can open doors you never imagined possible.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:31) Why success feels like a journey rather than a destination
• (02:17) Exploring multiple interests before finding a career path
• (02:56) Working in healthcare, engineering, and dental practices during college
• (03:47) Studying biochemistry and microbiology at the University of Denver
• (04:11) Mentors who inspired her love of healthcare and science
• (05:25) Discovering dentistry through hands-on experience in dental offices
• (07:21) The challenges and pressures of dental school
• (09:24) How dentistry transformed her into a stronger leader
• (11:29) The unique blend of science, art, and service in dentistry
• (13:45) Finding fulfillment through helping anxious patients overcome fear
• (15:52) Starting a practice as a young Asian female dentist in an affluent community
• (17:25) The growing impact of women and women of color in dentistry
• (19:45) Encouraging young people to explore before choosing a path
• (20:49) The influence of her refugee family and their sacrifices
• (22:06) Advice for aspiring healthcare professionals
• (23:28) Why helping fearful patients find confidence keeps her motivated
• (25:13) Why her mother remains her greatest inspiration

Notable Quotes:

• "I never felt that I reached my dream because my dream was always evolving."
• "Once you have that little seed of, 'Oh, I think I can do this,' I felt more empowered to lead others."
• "Art is very important in dentistry."
• "Women can flourish in a profession that is very much a male-dominated profession."
• "There is no limit to what we can be."
• "Try it out first. Explore."

Takeaways:

• Dreams can evolve over time rather than appearing all at once.
• Mentorship plays a critical role in discovering career passions.
• Leadership develops through experience, confidence, and service to others.
• Exploring different opportunities can reveal unexpected strengths and interests.
• Women and women of color continue to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated professions.
• Empathy and compassion are powerful tools for building trust and lasting relationships.
• Family sacrifice and support can create opportunities for future generations to pursue their dreams.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://nouvelledentistry.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nouvelledentistry/ @nouvelledentistry

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this heartfelt and deeply reflective episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with poet and author M. Rowan Nowak, whose books We Choose Repair and The Ritual of Living explore healing, identity, grief, growth, and the quiet courage of becoming yourself.

Meredith shares how poetry first entered her life after 9/11, when she wrote her first poem in fourth grade as a way to process fear and confusion she could not yet explain. Over the years, writing became a private refuge—a place to explore emotions, experiences, and truths she struggled to say out loud.

Through vulnerable honesty, Meredith discusses overcoming fear of being seen, publishing her work for the first time, and learning that creativity does not need to come from perfection or performance. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is not linear, that becoming is sacred, and that our voices matter exactly as they are.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:01) Introduction to M. Rowan Nowak and her poetry collections
• (01:29) Writing her first poem after 9/11 as a fourth grader
• (02:38) Using poetry as a private way to process emotions
• (03:30) Returning to poetry in eighth grade with "Bringing America Home"
• (04:28) The themes behind We Choose Repair and The Ritual of Living
• (06:06) How writing helped Meredith redefine self-worth and identity
• (07:11) Publishing during a season of personal uncertainty and job loss
• (08:04) Sharing poetry publicly for the first time on Facebook
• (09:24) Readers responding emotionally and sharing their own stories
• (09:49) Influences like Maya Angelou and learning through lived experience
• (10:55) Realizing her poetry was creating genuine human connection
• (11:53) Overcoming fear, anxiety, and imposter syndrome through publishing
• (13:47) Self-talk centered around honesty and continuing to show up
• (14:53) Holding her first printed book and stepping out of hiding
• (15:48) Support from her husband, family, and growing community
• (17:03) Reading from her poem "Imposter Syndrome"
• (19:10) Advice for women learning who they are becoming
• (21:02) Encouragement for aspiring writers to trust their own voice
• (22:15) Favorite quote about beginnings quietly forming
• (26:04) Previewing upcoming books and future writing projects

Notable Quotes:

• "Writing gave me a place to be very honest."
• "I'm scared, but I'm tired of hiding."
• "I don't have to be fearless or perfect to be faithful to what matters."
• "Sometimes that's all courage really is—just showing up for yourself day after day."
• "It's okay to still be becoming."
• "Becoming is not a lesser chapter, it's a sacred one."

Takeaways:

• Creativity can become a powerful tool for healing and self-understanding.
• Vulnerability often creates the deepest human connection.
• Your worth is not determined by productivity or performance.
• Fear of being seen can be overcome one honest step at a time.
• Becoming yourself is an ongoing journey, not a final destination.
• Writers should trust their authentic voice instead of comparing themselves to others.
• Healing and growth can coexist with uncertainty and imperfection.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://www.mrowannowak.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m.rowannowak/ @m.rowannowak • Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/M-Rowan-Nowak/author/B0GQ6396WJ?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1779800610&sr=8-2&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c936d04b-604a-4a4f-8593-8de87295d114

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Kristina Hughes, founder of Frame Your Feline, to talk about entrepreneurship, creativity, resilience, and the power of reinvention.

Kristina shares her incredible journey from actress, comedian, and pageant competitor to becoming a successful serial entrepreneur. Alongside her husband Brian, she created Frame Your Feline—a modern cat shelf system designed to combine feline enrichment with beautiful home décor. What started as a creative solution for their own cats evolved into an innovative company featured on Shark Tank and embraced by cat lovers around the world.

Throughout the conversation, Kristina opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship, overcoming manufacturing challenges, learning to hustle through rejection, and the importance of taking bold action even when the outcome is uncertain. Her story is a reminder that dreams are built step by step through persistence, creativity, and courage.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:01) Introduction to Kristina Hughes and Frame Your Feline
• (01:27) Continuing forward after Shark Tank without a deal
• (02:27) Kristina's background as a performer, entrepreneur, and business owner
• (03:15) Learning hustle and entrepreneurship through acting and promotional work
• (04:08) Creating Holden Log and Performer Track for entertainers
• (06:34) The inspiration behind Frame Your Feline
• (07:31) Early childhood lessons about hard work and competition
• (08:47) Winning a school reading competition and discovering personal drive
• (10:06) Moving to Los Angeles with $800 and chasing her dream
• (13:56) Developing the first Frame Your Feline prototype during COVID
• (17:58) The moment they realized the product was truly special
• (19:52) Major manufacturing challenges and overcoming setbacks
• (23:16) Self-talk, mantras, and the importance of personal growth
• (25:03) Receiving the call from Shark Tank after submitting online
• (27:58) Celebrating success even without securing a Shark Tank deal
• (29:20) Rescue work helping cats and dogs find homes
• (34:33) Kristina's advice for entrepreneurs: "Be bold."
• (35:33) The importance of taking targeted action daily

Notable Quotes:

• "We turn your cat into a living meowster piece."
• "Deal or no deal, we're always moving forward."
• "You have to run your business like a business."
• "Every day and every way I am better and better."
• "Be bold."
• "If you stay at home and you don't do anything, you're not going to go anywhere."

Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurship often begins long before a business officially launches.
• Rejection and setbacks are part of the process, not the end of the journey.
• Innovation often comes from solving personal problems creatively.
• Taking bold action creates opportunities that waiting never will.
• Building a successful company requires adaptability and persistence.
• Community, mentorship, and learning from others are essential for growth.
• Success should be celebrated, even when outcomes don't look exactly as planned.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://www.frameyourfeline.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frameyourfeline/ @frameyourfeline • Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Caitlin Brozna-Smith, founder of Bella Diva World Dance in Denver, Colorado—a thriving dance studio built on culture, connection, and community.

Caitlin shares her journey from a young girl choreographing dances in her imagination to traveling the world and discovering a deep passion for international dance. What began as a small dream in a rented studio space in 2010 has grown into a vibrant, 6,000+ square foot dance community that celebrates cultures from around the globe with authenticity and integrity.

Through moments of uncertainty, financial pressure, and personal growth, Caitlin stayed committed to her vision—creating not just a business, but a space where women can connect, heal, and express themselves. This episode is a powerful reminder that building a dream takes patience, courage, and the willingness to grow alongside it.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:01) Introduction to Caitlin Brozna-Smith and Bella Diva World Dance
• (01:15) Starting Bella Diva in 2010 with rented studio space
• (02:36) Building a team to represent global dance styles authentically
• (03:52) Early love of dance and choreographing as a child
• (04:36) Life-changing study abroad experience traveling the world
• (06:50) Beginning her world dance journey after returning home
• (07:25) Creating a "dance family" rooted in community
• (08:23) Challenges of balancing artistry with running a business
• (09:00) Personal growth through empathy, compassion, and cultural awareness
• (09:59) Major milestone: opening her first dedicated studio space
• (10:56) Performing in Brazil's Carnaval and embracing humility
• (12:42) Empowering others and building future leaders within her studio
• (15:54) Expanding into a larger studio space and realizing a major dream
• (17:09) Self-talk: allowing rest and trusting the process
• (19:47) The importance of family support and community values
• (21:10) Advice for young women to pursue their passions despite fear
• (22:43) Starting small and growing a dream over time
• (24:30) The importance of allowing space for both struggle and positivity
• (30:09) Acknowledging that success is built through community, not alone

Notable Quotes:

• "Steps without the meaning and the history are just that."
• "I never thought of it as being a transactional business."
• "It wasn't easy, so I needed the passion."
• "It's okay to rest."
• "You can't just do everything you want all at once."
• "No one is an island, and we do this together."

Takeaways:

• Passion is essential when building something through challenges.
• Cultural understanding and authenticity create deeper connection and meaning.
• Dreams often start small and grow over time with patience and persistence.
• Community is a powerful force in building and sustaining success.
• Rest and self-care are necessary for long-term sustainability.
• Success is rarely achieved alone—it requires support and collaboration.
• Taking risks, even when uncertain, is key to creating meaningful impact.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://belladivadance.com/ • Instagram: @BellaDivaWorldDance

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Dr. Camilla Buchanan, a trailblazing OB-GYN, championship cyclist, and lifelong learner whose journey is anything but traditional.

From starting her career as a school teacher to becoming one of the first women with children admitted to medical school, Dr. Buchanan shares how her path into medicine was not planned—but discovered through life experiences, curiosity, and bold action. Along the way, she built a successful medical practice, formed deep connections with her patients, and embraced opportunities that allowed her to grow both professionally and personally.

Her story doesn't stop there. From competitive cycling later in life to making life-altering personal decisions rooted in authenticity, Dr. Buchanan demonstrates what it truly means to follow your heart—even when it challenges expectations. This episode is a powerful reminder that dreams evolve, courage matters, and the most meaningful life is one lived on your own terms.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02) Introduction to Dr. Camilla Buchanan and her achievements in medicine and cycling
• (01:28) Being the first woman with children admitted to the Medical College of Virginia
• (02:10) Early career path as a chemistry major and school teacher
• (03:05) Life-changing experience teaching before integration
• (04:02) Decision to pursue medical school while living in Okinawa
• (05:43) Taking initiative and writing medical schools to secure interviews
• (06:23) The demanding journey of medical school and balancing family life
• (07:16) The realities and sacrifices of medical training
• (08:37) Discovering the deep meaning of being a physician
• (09:46) Finding purpose in gynecologic oncology and patient care
• (11:11) Proving herself academically and succeeding at the top of her class
• (12:25) Gaining confidence in the operating room and discovering surgical talent
• (13:30) Navigating challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field
• (16:25) Choosing to retire at the right moment
• (17:06) Starting competitive cycling later in life and achieving national and world success
• (20:44) A pivotal life decision to follow her heart and embrace authenticity
• (24:50) Advice for young women on recognizing and developing their talents
• (28:21) The impact of Girl Scouts and outdoor experiences on self-confidence

Notable Quotes:

• "I'll just go to medical school."
• "There's always a price to pay."
• "You just had to hold your own."
• "You can either retire too late or too early."
• "I have to follow my heart."
• "If you're happy yourself, then you can make other people happy."

Takeaways:

• Dreams don't always start early—they often evolve through life experiences.
• Taking initiative and advocating for yourself can open unexpected doors.
• Success often comes with sacrifice, especially when balancing career and family.
• Confidence is built through competence and persistence over time.
• Following your heart may require difficult choices, but it leads to authenticity.
• Physical activity and personal challenges can build lifelong confidence.
• Understanding and using your unique talents is key to building a meaningful life.

Connect with Guest:

• Instagram: No Link • Additional Links: No Link

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April Kemp sits down with sisters Jessica and Presley Warman—members of the Warman Trio and creators of Her Timeless Life. Together, they share how their love for vintage fashion, music, and personal growth evolved into a rapidly growing brand that is inspiring women across the world.

From performing high-energy 1950s and 60s music across the country with their family band to launching a viral social media presence in just weeks, Jessica and Presley open up about the intentional decisions, faith, and relentless work ethic behind their success. They discuss how they shifted direction when something didn't align with their long-term vision—and how leaning into what they truly loved changed everything.

This episode is a powerful reminder that when you combine clarity, consistency, and belief in your dream, incredible growth can happen quickly. Whether you're building a business or simply trying to step into a more confident version of yourself, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02) Introduction to Jessica and Presley Warman and their work with the Warman Trio • (01:51) The origin and structure of their family band performing 1950s and 60s music • (04:26) Launch of Her Timeless Life and their mission to inspire vintage style • (05:53) Their shared dream of building something together as sisters • (06:27) Pivoting from a previous content direction to focus on vintage fashion • (07:29) Rapid growth—going viral and gaining hundreds of thousands of followers • (07:52) How working together daily has strengthened their relationship and discipline • (09:01) The role of business study, marketing, and consistency in their success • (10:44) Mindset and self-talk strategies for overcoming challenges • (11:28) Lessons learned from early work experience and discipline • (16:47) The importance of obsession, mentorship, and applying knowledge in business • (18:47) Advice for young women pursuing their dreams with confidence • (19:28) Thinking outside the box and creating your own path • (23:44) Practical tips for embracing vintage elegance in everyday life • (27:28) How to connect with them and work with their brand

Notable Quotes:

• "This too shall pass." • "We have to saturate and flood this market with our message." • "The show must go on." • "Just have a crazy belief and confidence in yourself." • "Anything in this world is achievable." • "If it's meant to be, it's up to we."

Takeaways:

• Success often comes from aligning your work with what you genuinely love and already practice in your life • Consistency and volume—showing up daily—are critical to building momentum in today's digital world • Mentorship and learning from those ahead of you can dramatically accelerate your growth • Mindset matters—staying grounded and solution-focused helps you move through challenges faster • Confidence in your vision is essential, even when others may not understand it • Small daily habits (like how you present yourself) can build confidence and identity over time • Being willing to pivot when something doesn't align with your long-term goals is key to sustainable success

Connect with Guest: • Band Website: https://www.thewarmantrio.com/ • Instagram: @hertimelesslife https://www.instagram.com/hertimelesslife/ • Additional Links: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Hertimelesslife/

Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this powerful episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Dr. Jennifer Grandis, a world-renowned physician, researcher, and author, to explore what it truly means to pursue your dream in high-stakes, high-impact environments.

Dr. Grandis shares her journey through the demanding world of medicine, where she rose to leadership positions while navigating challenges, self-doubt, and the pressure to meet external expectations. She opens up about redefining success on her own terms, embracing courage in moments of uncertainty, and stepping into leadership as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field.

This conversation goes beyond career—it's about identity, resilience, and the willingness to evolve. Dr. Grandis offers invaluable insight into how women can trust themselves, advocate for their goals, and pursue meaningful work without losing who they are along the way.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:10) Dr. Grandis' journey into medicine and early career influences
• (02:45) Navigating a male-dominated field and stepping into leadership roles
• (04:30) The pressure to meet expectations vs. defining your own success
• (06:15) Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome
• (08:05) The importance of mentorship and sponsorship in career growth
• (10:20) Key turning points that shaped her leadership path
• (12:40) Balancing ambition, purpose, and personal identity
• (14:55) Lessons learned from setbacks and challenges
• (17:10) Why courage—not confidence—is the key to moving forward
• (19:25) Advice for women pursuing careers in science, medicine, and leadership
• (21:40) The importance of owning your voice and advocating for yourself
• (23:50) Writing her book and sharing her story to inspire others

Notable Quotes:

• "You don't need to have it all figured out—you just need the courage to take the next step."
• "Success isn't what others define for you—it's what aligns with who you truly are."
• "Imposter syndrome doesn't mean you don't belong—it means you're growing."
• "Leadership isn't about perfection—it's about showing up, learning, and lifting others."

Takeaways:

• Courage is often more important than confidence when pursuing your dreams.
• Defining success on your own terms is essential for long-term fulfillment.
• Mentorship and sponsorship can accelerate growth and open doors.
• Self-doubt is a normal part of growth—don't let it stop you.
• Leadership is a skill that develops over time through experience and resilience.
• Women must advocate for themselves and trust their voice in professional spaces.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://jennifergrandis.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifergrandismd/ • Order the book: https://jennifergrandis.com/books/#orderbook

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp welcomes Ellen Cochrane, author of the debut novel Follow the Water. The book tells the remarkable true story of Juliane Koepcke, a 17-year-old who survived a mid-air plane breakup over the Peruvian Amazon and walked for 11 days through the jungle to safety.

Ellen shares the fascinating journey that led her to write this powerful survival story. After more than 20 years as a teacher, she returned to school during the COVID pandemic to pursue a master's degree in science writing at Johns Hopkins. While revisiting journals she had written as a teenager, she rediscovered the story that would eventually become her debut book.

Throughout the conversation, Ellen reflects on how life experiences—travel, teaching, writing, and studying nature—became puzzle pieces that ultimately prepared her for this moment. Her story is a powerful reminder that dreams can evolve over time and that it's never too late to pursue a new path or creative passion.

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Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:31) The incredible true survival story behind Follow the Water
• (02:37) Ellen's early journaling habit and how it shaped her writing journey
• (03:20) Discovering the story again while pursuing a master's degree in science writing
• (05:02) How writing the book helped Ellen reconnect with her younger self
• (05:54) Using storytelling to inspire young readers to explore science and nature
• (06:03) Milestones along her journey including teaching and traveling abroad
• (07:03) Working on her next survival novel set in Siberia
• (07:48) The "aha moment" during COVID that pushed her toward a writing career
• (09:48) Overcoming the obstacle of getting published
• (12:50) Self-talk strategy: "Just put your foot forward and keep going."
• (13:50) The emotional moment of finishing her first full-length book
• (15:02) Inspiring young girls to pursue science and discovery
• (16:57) Why mentorship is critical for aspiring writers
• (18:45) How life's experiences act like puzzle pieces leading to your purpose
• (21:28) Favorite quote from Shirley Chisholm about creating your own seat at the table

Notable Quotes:

• "One step at a time—just put your foot forward and keep going."
• "All the experiences we have in life build upon each other."
• "You're never too old to pursue your dreams."
• "If they don't invite you to the table, bring a folding chair." – Shirley Chisholm

Takeaways:

• Journaling can be a powerful tool for discovering and shaping your future dreams.
• Life experiences often act as puzzle pieces that prepare you for your purpose.
• Pursuing education or new goals later in life can open unexpected doors.
• Persistence is essential when navigating challenges like publishing or creative work.
• Mentorship can accelerate growth and guide aspiring writers or dreamers.
• Stories of survival and perseverance inspire resilience in readers of all ages.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://ellencochrane.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmcochrane/ • Order the book: The Unbelievable True Story of a Teenager's Survival in the Amazon

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this beautiful and inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Brooke Gagnier, the self-taught floral artist and owner of Stem & Thistle Floral in Northern Virginia.

Brooke shares the powerful story of how she launched her floral design business at 43 years old, proving that it's never too late to follow a creative dream. What began as arranging flowers for friends and teachers grew into an elegant floral design studio featured in weddings, events, and publications.

Brooke opens up about the courage it took to begin later in life, the milestones that shaped her business, and how she balances entrepreneurship with family life. She also shares the powerful self-talk practices that keep her grounded and resilient when challenges arise.

If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to start something new, Brooke's story is a powerful reminder that every life experience prepares you for the moment when your dream is ready to bloom.

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Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:50) Brooke reveals she started her floral business at age 43
• (02:21) How her love of art, flowers, and creating joy inspired Stem & Thistle
• (03:27) Using past life experiences to fuel a new dream
• (04:16) How starting the business helped Brooke blossom into herself
• (05:29) Major milestone: officially registering her business and launching Stem & Thistle
• (06:52) Celebrating both big wins and small growth moments in entrepreneurship
• (07:11) Why failed attempts are also important milestones
• (08:00) Creating work-life balance and setting boundaries with clients
• (09:56) The first wedding that proved to Brooke she could make her dream work
• (11:21) Facing doubt from others and believing in herself anyway
• (13:00) Building a home studio and involving her children in the business
• (16:02) Brooke's powerful self-talk philosophy and the words tattooed on her wrist
• (18:02) The unwavering support of her husband as her biggest champion
• (20:06) What makes Stem & Thistle's floral designs unique and deeply personal

Notable Quotes:

• "I decided I'm just going to go for it. I don't know where it will lead, but we'll see what happens."
• "I have definitely blossomed into myself."
• "Every step forward feels like a milestone."
• "If something doesn't work, I just try something else."
• "It doesn't matter how old you are — follow your passions and dreams."

Takeaways:

• It's never too late to start pursuing your dream.
• Every life experience builds the foundation for future success.
• Milestones include both successes and failures — both move you forward.
• Boundaries and balance are essential for sustainable entrepreneurship.
• Self-belief matters more than the doubts of others.
• Support systems, especially family, can make a tremendous difference in building a dream.
• Creativity and passion can evolve into meaningful purpose at any stage of life.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://stemandthistlefloral.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stemandthistleva/ • Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Abby Steele, owner of the historic Co-Ed Cinema in Brevard, North Carolina.

At just 19 years old, Abby made a bold decision — she purchased the very movie theater she had worked at as a teenager. What began as a part-time job at 17 became a full-blown entrepreneurial leap that would challenge her leadership, resilience, and confidence in ways she never imagined.

From navigating early panic and learning to lead former coworkers, to surviving a nine-month COVID shutdown and ultimately paying off the business, Abby's journey is one of grit, adaptability, and unwavering belief. She shares what it truly takes to own a dream at a young age, how she thinks outside the box daily, and why community matters more than anything.

This episode is for anyone who has ever felt "too young," "not ready," or unsure — and needed proof that courage grows with action.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:51) Abby's first job at the Co-Ed Cinema at age 17
• (02:33) Becoming the official owner at just 19 years old
• (03:45) How entrepreneurship shaped her personal growth
• (05:18) Major milestone: Paying off the business
• (05:29) Surviving a nine-month COVID shutdown
• (06:29) The gradual confidence curve of "I think I can do this"
• (07:11) Leading former coworkers as a young business owner
• (08:09) Favorite movie: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and why it resonates
• (10:53) The first-day panic — and no turning back
• (11:55) Honoring a theater that has been open since 1939
• (14:07) Advice for dreamers: Learning to filter criticism
• (15:15) Creative problem-solving (including fixing equipment in a Lowe's parking lot!)
• (16:55) Expanding into private events and independent films
• (19:03) How Abby selects which movies to show

Notable Quotes:

• "There was panic at the beginning… and then it was more of a gradual ironing out of, 'You know what? I think I can do this.'"
• "Life is hard, my dear, but so are you."
• "You have to think outside the box every single day."
• "Generations have grown up going to this movie theater."
• "It's hard — but it's absolutely worth it."

Takeaways:

• Confidence grows through action — not before it.
• Leadership requires courage, especially when leading peers.
• Creative problem-solving is a daily entrepreneurial skill.
• Community-centered businesses thrive through connection.
• Age does not determine readiness — willingness does.
• Dreams often start as small jobs that grow into life-changing opportunities.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://www.coedcinema.com/ • Instagram: @coedcinema

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected]

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