Fanatical DreamHer

In this energizing and joy-filled episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Naomi Brown, founder and CEO of Nest New Interiors in Longmont, Colorado.

After spending over 20 years in corporate and small business roles—ranging from marketing and PR to sales and global product management—Naomi made what April calls "the jump." She left her corporate career behind to fully pursue her lifelong passion for interior design.

From doodling floor plans as a little girl to navigating imposter syndrome, pricing mistakes, and first clients, Naomi shares the real, raw journey of becoming a creative entrepreneur. She opens up about resilience, vision boards, savings strategy, supportive friendships, and the power of saying, "This is what I'm meant to do."

This episode is for every woman who feels the pull toward something creative, something bold—and is wondering if she's brave enough to leap.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02) Introduction to Naomi Brown and Nest New Interiors
• (01:49) Childhood passion: drawing floor plans and dream homes
• (03:43) Starting Nest New in 2013—and having to pause the dream
• (05:25) Letting the business sit for 10 years while building skills elsewhere
• (06:33) The corporate office closing—unexpected opportunity to leap
• (08:30) How pursuing her dream changed her personally
• (10:52) First major milestone: auctioning off services for her first client
• (12:28) Standing out in a "gray" design market with bold creativity
• (14:30) The ongoing mindset of growth and striving for more
• (15:39) Major obstacles: pricing mistakes and business process refinement
• (17:31) Positive self-talk and using Instagram momentum as fuel
• (19:30) The first official day as a full-time entrepreneur
• (20:21) Vision boards and believing in manifestation
• (22:02) The importance of supportive friends and family
• (24:54) The power of savings before making the leap
• (25:14) Favorite quote: "Never take any wooden nickels."
• (26:15) Advice for aspiring interior designers
• (28:56) Interior design tip: Curate over time and embrace the story

Notable Quotes:

• "I light up when it comes to interiors."
• "I am where I'm supposed to be."
• "Use it as fuel."
• "Don't ever feel like you've wasted time."
• "Never take any wooden nickels."
• "Enjoy the process. Let your space evolve over time."

Takeaways:

• It's never too late to return to a childhood passion.
• No chapter of your life is wasted—every skill transfers.
• Savings can reduce fear when making a big leap.
• Support systems matter—find your biggest cheerleaders.
• Mistakes (especially pricing mistakes) are part of growth.
• Positive self-talk is a daily discipline.
• Vision boards and visualization work when paired with action.
• Your home—and your life—should evolve with love and story over time.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://nestnew.com/ • Instagram: @nestnewinteriors

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: 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 vibrant and deeply inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Jel Mojana, founder of Mojana Soaps, a clean beauty brand based in Huntsville, Alabama that's turning heads nationwide—including at a major New York City holiday market.

Jel shares her powerful journey from struggling with severe eczema and sensitive skin to formulating her own organic soaps during the pandemic. What began as a personal solution quickly transformed into a thriving business built on science, creativity, and purpose. A full-time nurse, Jel discusses juggling healthcare and entrepreneurship, breaking cultural expectations, overcoming fear and self-doubt, and learning to trust herself under pressure.

This episode is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and the belief that dreams don't come with deadlines. Jel's story proves that when passion meets purpose—and consistency—you can create something that not only succeeds, but genuinely helps others.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02) Introduction to Jel Mojana and Mojana Soaps
• (01:22) Being selected for a prestigious New York holiday market
• (02:12) Cold-process soaps, clean ingredients, and best-selling oatmeal soap
• (03:22) Being voted a crowd favorite by the NYC market committee
• (03:53) Fun colors, bakery-inspired shapes, and creative branding
• (04:36) Childhood influences and early entrepreneurial spirit
• (05:25) Severe eczema, skin flare-ups, and the turning point during COVID
• (06:14) Learning organic formulation and testing products on herself
• (07:15) Combining a love of baking with soap design
• (08:05) How entrepreneurship changed her confidence and resilience
• (08:48) The joy of repeat customers and real impact on skin health
• (09:58) Time management as a full-time nurse and business owner
• (10:55) The moment it all felt real—when strangers trusted her brand
• (11:42) Overcoming fear, finances, and self-doubt as a woman of color
• (12:21) Where to buy Mojana Soaps and store location in Huntsville
• (13:26) Self-talk and pushing forward on hard days
• (14:14) Cultural expectations and being labeled "crazy" for starting a business
• (15:32) Expanding into body butter, shampoo bars, and cancer-support products
• (16:39) Using a science background and nursing experience to innovate
• (17:25) Key supporters who believed in her from day one
• (18:25) Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: start before you're ready
• (19:07) Branding, product quality, and consistency as success drivers
• (19:54) Favorite quote by Jack Ma and belief in education and growth
• (21:54) Encouragement for young women to believe in themselves
• (22:21) Investing in yourself as the foundation for others believing in you

Notable Quotes:

• "I've come this far. I cannot stop now."
• "Start before you're ready. You don't need to be perfect."
• "Dreams don't have deadlines."
• "You don't need anyone to believe in you—just believe in yourself."
• "If you invest in yourself, people will eventually invest in you."

Takeaways:

• Personal pain can spark powerful purpose.
• Clean, effective products come from research and intention.
• Confidence grows through action, not waiting for certainty.
• Creativity and science can coexist beautifully in business.
• Cultural expectations don't define your destiny.
• Consistency and belief are just as important as talent.
• Investing in yourself is the first step to building trust with others.

Connect with Guest:

• Email: [email protected] • Website: https://mojanasoaps.com/ • Instagram: @mojanasoaps

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 deeply powerful and inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Tina Holt—author of Green Bananas, regional vice president in real estate, coach, and two-time breast cancer survivor.

Tina shares her extraordinary life journey, from growing up as the caretaker of an alcoholic parent to building a highly successful career in real estate leadership. With raw honesty, she recounts her battles with breast cancer—twice—and how faith, mindset, discipline, and service carried her through the hardest seasons of her life.

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, servant leadership, personal responsibility, and choosing purpose over fear. Tina's story reminds listeners that adversity can become the very platform that empowers us to help others rise.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02) Introduction to Tina Holt and her book Green Bananas
• (01:42) Childhood adversity and being forced to grow up early
• (02:29) Learning discipline, service, and sales through food service
• (03:52) Entering real estate without formal education—driven by service
• (04:59) Influence of mentors like Zig Ziglar, John Maxwell, Og Mandino
• (05:49) First breast cancer diagnosis at age 37
• (07:00) Choosing action, purpose, and mindset during treatment
• (09:11) Second breast cancer diagnosis and redefining resilience
• (10:02) Faith, mindset, and curating a positive inner circle
• (13:43) Servant leadership and building teams through genuine care
• (14:57) Cancer as the greatest obstacle—and greatest teacher
• (18:06) Rise through real estate leadership and managing regions
• (20:54) Tina's favorite quote and philosophy on service
• (21:38) Parenting, resilience, and preparing kids for real life
• (25:59) Advice for women entering real estate
• (27:17) Writing Green Bananas and its purpose
• (29:12) Closing thoughts on dreaming, purpose, and impact

Notable Quotes:

• "If you believe it, you can achieve it."
• "Until someone told me I was sick, I didn't know I was sick."
• "Nobody is going to raise these boys but me."
• "Input determines output—garbage in, garbage out."
• "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
• "You get what you need in life by helping others get what they need."

Takeaways:

• Early adversity can build lifelong strength and independence.
• Mindset is a decision—and it directly impacts outcomes.
• Faith, positivity, and self-talk are leadership tools.
• Curating your circle is essential to survival and success.
• Servant leadership opens doors titles never can.
• Parenting with love and accountability builds resilient adults.
• Purpose grows when we use our hardest experiences to help others.

Connect with Guest:

• Email: [email protected] • Book: Green Bananas – https://amzn.to/4ahaK6t

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: 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 remarkable and deeply moving episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Joni Stevens, a woman whose career placed her at the very heart of American history. Joni served at the White House for over 25 years, beginning just ten days after the Watergate break-in in 1972 and continuing through multiple administrations—from President Nixon through President Clinton.

From a childhood moment peeking through the White House fence and receiving a wave from President Kennedy, to assisting at historic events and serving alongside First Ladies and military leaders, Joni's story is one of timing, courage, integrity, and quiet leadership. This episode explores how passion for history, openness to opportunity, strong mentorship, and a deep commitment to service can shape an extraordinary life.

Listeners will walk away inspired by Joni's humility, resilience, and belief that following your heart—while staying grounded in integrity—can lead you exactly where you are meant to be.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02) Introduction to Joni Stevens and her historic White House service
• (01:34) Childhood roots in Cooperstown and early love of history
• (01:54) The defining moment: seeing President and Mrs. Kennedy at the White House
• (02:24) Early career steps and political work in New York
• (03:05) Receiving the call from the White House just days after Watergate
• (04:02) First moments working inside the White House
• (04:50) Embracing opportunity, risk, and "right place, right time" moments
• (06:40) Navigating change across multiple administrations
• (07:59) Building lifelong relationships and becoming part of a White House "family"
• (09:22) Milestone moments: Nixon resignation and POW dinner
• (11:11) Skills that supported long-term success: history, communication, adaptability
• (12:26) Transitioning into the White House Military Office
• (13:20) Mentorship and the defining lesson of integrity
• (15:27) Personal sacrifices and work-life balance challenges
• (16:35) Journaling, reflection, and healthy self-talk
• (17:55) Emotional highs and lows of serving through history
• (18:56) Openness to people of all backgrounds and abilities
• (20:17) The role of family and spousal support
• (20:57) Advice for young dreamers and future public servants
• (22:57) Knowing when it's time to move on and follow the next chapter
• (24:41) A favorite quote on servant leadership from President Reagan

Notable Quotes:

• "What a great place to work."
• "Try it. If you don't like it, at least you tried."
• "Integrity."
• "You have to watch, look, and learn."
• "When it's no longer exciting to show your pass at the gate, it's time to move on."
• "There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn't mind who gets the credit."

Takeaways:

• Childhood curiosity can spark lifelong purpose.
• Being open to opportunity often matters more than having a perfect plan.
• Integrity is the foundation of lasting leadership.
• Mentorship can quietly shape the course of a career.
• Service-oriented work creates deep and meaningful connections.
• Writing, reflection, and healthy self-talk help navigate difficult moments.
• Success isn't about recognition—it's about contribution.

Connect with Guest:

• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: 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 Stephanie Kannady at the Hotel at Avalon in Alpharetta, Georgia—a destination often described as nothing short of magical. Stephanie shares her journey through the hospitality industry, from discovering her passion for service in her early twenties to helping build one of the most celebrated boutique hotel experiences in the Southeast.

This heartfelt conversation explores leadership rooted in empathy, the power of teamwork, overcoming self-doubt, and why saying "yes" can change everything—from guest experiences to careers. Stephanie's story is a powerful reminder that success is built on service, resilience, and believing in your ability to grow, even without a traditional path.

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Key Discussion Points:

• 00:03 – Introduction to Stephanie Kannady and the Hotel at Avalon
• 01:41 – Discovering a lifelong passion for hospitality and service
• 02:13 – Family values, community involvement, and early influences
• 03:05 – How serving others fuels motivation and purpose
• 04:28 – Career milestones and the role of mentorship
• 06:12 – Do you need a degree to succeed in hospitality?
• 07:16 – Starting at the bottom and doing more than expected
• 09:19 – Building the Avalon from the ground up as a team
• 10:56 – Leading through COVID and caring for employees
• 12:14 – Overcoming self-doubt and redefining success
• 15:28 – Self-talk, giving grace, and handling tough days
• 16:30 – Creating magical guest experiences and lasting memories
• 19:07 – The importance of support systems and strong partnerships
• 20:38 – Advice for young women entering hospitality
• 22:24 – "Find the yes" and redefining modern service culture

Notable Quotes:

• "You don't need a hospitality degree—you need a heart for service."
• "Do the job you want, not just the job you have."
• "I didn't build this alone—we built this together."
• "Find the yes. There's always a way."
• "Success is a decision, and service is a choice."

Takeaways:

• Leadership thrives when rooted in empathy and service.
• You don't need a traditional path to build an extraordinary career.
• Mentorship—both giving and receiving—is essential at every stage.
• Doing more than expected sets you apart and opens doors.
• Creating meaningful experiences leaves a legacy far beyond titles or roles.

Connect with Guest:

• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher
• Stay updated on new episodes: 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 and full-circle episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp welcomes Jennifer Bushong, CEO of JBE Marketing Group and founder of Inspire Northwest, to share a powerful story decades in the making.

From her early career in corporate sales and media to executive leadership roles, festival production, arena management, and ultimately launching her own marketing firm, Jennifer's journey is a masterclass in persistence, positivity, and purpose-driven leadership. Listeners will hear how Jennifer continuously invested in education, embraced every season of growth, and trusted her vision—eventually creating not only a thriving marketing agency, but also a transformational conference experience designed to uplift and empower others.

This episode is filled with wisdom on entrepreneurship, mentorship, resilience, self-talk, and the courage it takes to keep reaching for your dream—even when the path takes unexpected turns.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02–01:10) Introduction to Jennifer and her leadership journey
• (01:37–02:56) When Jennifer knew she wanted to own a marketing company
• (03:28–07:00) Career backstory: sales, media, festivals, arenas, and building expertise
• (07:45–09:27) Passion for events and bringing people together
• (09:27–11:42) Creating Inspire Northwest and pursuing a long-held dream
• (12:02–13:46) Education, credibility, and lifelong learning
• (14:06–16:40) Pivotal moments: launching JBE, COVID-era leadership, turning 50
• (17:34–19:35) Positivity, faith, self-talk, and daily rituals
• (20:19–21:46) The emotional impact of Inspire Northwest
• (23:11–25:35) Mentorship, relationships, and asking for support
• (27:03–27:34) Advice for young people dreaming of entrepreneurship
• (28:36–29:47) Thinking outside the box and writing down the vision
• (31:02–31:56) Final advice: why it's all worth it

Notable Quotes:

• "Marketing is in the middle — everything comes together with the people."
• "Always marketing — because we are always marketing."
• "Don't worry about the outside noise."
• "Fear is false expectations appearing real."
• "Write it down. Write the vision down."
• "Your network is golden."
• "It's worth it. Just try."

Takeaways:

• Every experience builds toward your ultimate dream — nothing is wasted.
• Education, curiosity, and credibility are lifelong pursuits.
• Mentorship evolves into partnership over time.
• Positivity and self-talk are leadership tools, not just personality traits.
• Writing down your vision helps bring it to life.
• Entrepreneurship requires resilience, humility, and community.
• Surrounding yourself with people who believe in you can change everything.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://www.jbe-marketing.com/ • Instagram: @jbemarketing

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: 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 vibrant and deeply inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with CC Chu, founder and owner of The Bean Flower in Durham, North Carolina — a beloved community space known for its authentic Asian desserts, cultural representation, and heart-centered leadership.

Born and raised in Durham, CC's journey is one of coming home — culturally, creatively, and personally. From studying art at UNCG to working across food service and retail management, CC intentionally learned every layer of the industry before taking the leap into entrepreneurship. What emerged wasn't just a business, but a third space rooted in nostalgia, community care, ethical leadership, and joy.

This episode explores resilience, representation, cultural pride, and the courage it takes to say, "Why not me?" It's a must-listen for women dreaming of building something meaningful, inclusive, and bigger than profit.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:17) The timing of dreams and taking the leap when opportunity presents itself
• (01:54) Growing up Chinese American in Durham and returning to her roots
• (02:42) How studying art built critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• (03:38) What The Bean Flower offers beyond "just boba" — authentic Asian flavors and cultural storytelling
• (04:40) The personal transformation of becoming a small business owner
• (05:44) Discovering a deeper layer of resilience through fear and uncertainty
• (06:41) Staying positive through customer connection and community support
• (07:47) Milestones: Love Durham campaign, AAPI Month, and community traction
• (09:33) The moment CC realized she could do this — "Why not me?"
• (10:39) Early obstacles: limited budget, real estate challenges, and timing
• (11:58) Documenting every step of building the space and the blur of the grand opening
• (13:49) Early career wins that prepared her to lead from the ground up
• (15:19) Finding joy and purpose in daily work and positive environments
• (16:27) Advice to young women: learn from every experience
• (17:31) Shoutouts to her team, family, and community support
• (18:56) Ethical leadership: paying living wages, offering benefits, and prioritizing people
• (20:55) Creating a workplace culture rooted in transparency and realism
• (22:15) How aspiring dreamers can reach out and connect

Notable Quotes:

• "A lot of chasing your dream is noticing the timing and being willing to take that scary jump."
• "Why not me?"
• "This has been the most terrifying and rewarding thing I've ever done."
• "It's a high-risk, high-reward situation."
• "My happy place is coming to work."
• "You never know what something's going to teach you."
• "We're here to serve a purpose greater than just sweet treats and drinks."
• "Unconventional happiness."

Takeaways:

• Dreams often come together through timing, not a single defining moment.
• Critical thinking and adaptability are powerful tools for entrepreneurs.
• Cultural representation and authenticity create deeper community connection.
• Resilience grows when you move forward despite fear.
• Ethical leadership and community care matter more than profit alone.
• Learning every role builds stronger, more empathetic leaders.
• You don't need permission to pursue your dream — sometimes the answer is simply why not you?

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://thebeanflower.com • Instagram: @thebeanflower

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: 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 deeply moving and powerful episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Marissa Collins, Executive Director of Cancer Support Community Central Washington, to share a story of resilience, courage, and choosing purpose in the face of life's hardest moments.

At just 31 years old, Marissa was newly married, starting a new job, and building her marketing career when a self-breast exam led to a diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer. What followed was an aggressive and life-altering journey—bilateral mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries.

But Marissa didn't just survive. She transformed her experience into a calling.

Today, she leads the very organization that supported her through cancer, helping others feel less alone and ensuring critical resources reach those who need them most. This episode is a testament to what happens when a woman listens to her inner voice, refuses to let fear take up space in her head, and chooses to live a life of impact.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (00:02–01:45) Introduction to Marissa and her professional background in marketing and nonprofits
• (01:51–03:40) Discovering a breast cancer diagnosis just weeks into a new job
• (03:40–04:45) Aggressive treatment: mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries
• (04:55) Becoming Executive Director of Cancer Support Community Central Washington
• (06:08–07:25) How surviving cancer reshaped her confidence, gratitude, and leadership style
• (08:00–09:44) Major milestones since stepping into leadership post-COVID
• (10:10–11:44) What the organization needs most: diversified funding and donated resources
• (12:52–13:27) The role of listening and lived experience in leadership
• (14:53–17:13) Overcoming self-doubt and stepping into executive leadership
• (18:27–19:25) How Marissa reframed negative self-talk and built a new inner dialogue
• (20:46–22:22) Legacy, purpose, and living the life she fought to keep
• (22:34–24:07) The role of family, mentors, and community support
• (24:27–26:11) Advice for young women pursuing nonprofit leadership
• (26:16–26:45) Favorite quote that guides her outlook on life
• (28:31) Official name change to Cancer Support Community Central Washington

Notable Quotes:

• "I was 31 years old and all of my friends were having babies—and I was fighting for my life."
• "That self-doubt was taking up real estate in my head that didn't belong there."
• "This is the life that I fought so hard to live."
• "You can't wait until life isn't hard anymore to decide to be happy."
• "I realized I didn't need to prove anyone wrong—just my self-doubt."

Takeaways:

• Listening to your body and intuition can save your life.
• Self-doubt often appears right before growth—don't let it stop you.
• Leadership doesn't require perfection, only courage and commitment.
• Community support is critical during life's hardest seasons.
• Giving back can become a powerful form of healing.
• Your greatest challenges can become your greatest purpose.

Connect with Guest:

• Current Website: https://www.wellnessplacewenatchee.org/ • Future Website: https://www.csccentralwa.org • Future Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: 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 Jan Marry, former Virginia Librarian of the Year turned cozy mystery author. Jan's debut novel, Sweet Tea and ANZAC Biscuits, is charming readers with its warmth, humor, and small-town Southern–New Zealand flair, but the journey to publication was anything but simple.

From stapling together homemade stories as a child… to pursuing a master's degree in science writing… to receiving 37 agent rejections… to finally holding her first printed book in her hands…

Jan's story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the magic of finishing what you start.

If you've ever dreamed of writing a book—or wondered what it really takes to become an author—this episode is packed with honest insights, heartfelt moments, and practical encouragement.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:53) When Jan first knew she wanted to be a writer
• (02:00–03:20) Childhood roots: stapled books, drawings, and giving stories to her grandmother
• (03:38) Transition from science writing to discovering her love for memoir and narrative nature writing
• (05:22) The moment the idea for Sweet Tea and ANZAC Biscuits struck—thanks to a real bear in the library
• (06:49) How long it took to write the book: three years from start to publication
• (07:42) How writing changed her life—and why becoming "a writer" still feels surreal
• (08:49) Key milestones: first finished draft, agent feedback, meeting her publisher, seeing the cover
• (10:44) Her self-talk during the writing years and her "4,000 words per week" method
• (12:32) Experiences that helped most: lifelong reading, book clubs, and lessons from her science writing program
• (13:41) When she finally believed, "I can do this"—thanks to honest beta-reader praise
• (14:39) The hardest obstacle: navigating a difficult and changing publishing industry
• (16:38) The emotional moment she learned her book would be published
• (17:10–17:35) Unboxing her first author copies—"Is this real?"
• (18:15–19:15) The people who supported her most: her husband, her sister, and writing groups
• (19:15–20:21) How being Librarian of the Year shaped her discipline, mindset, and commitment to serving others
• (21:17) Advice for young writers: keep writing, join critique groups, read widely
• (22:33) Her favorite quotes from Stephen King and Anne Lamott
• (23:13) How readers can meet her at book groups and local farmers markets
• (24:37) Sneak peek: Jan is already working on the sequel, Marmite on Hush Puppies
• (25:20) The audiobook is coming soon—voiced by a professional actor

Notable Quotes:

• "I've wanted to write for as long as I can remember."
• "It was three years from starting to publication… and that's a commitment."
• "Being a writer changed my life—I did it."
• "Getting published is really hard. It's easy to give up."
• "I set a goal: 4,000 words a week. That's how I finished."
• "My husband said, 'Your book is better than these others.' That meant everything."
• "Holding my book for the first time… it felt like another dimension."
• "Libraries connect people in a way nothing else does."
• "Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts." – Anne Lamott
• "If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time or tools to write." – Stephen King

Takeaways:

• Dreams often begin in childhood—and sometimes take decades to bloom.
• Writing a book requires dedication, consistency, and realistic weekly goals.
• Honest feedback (even when it stings!) is essential for growth.
• The publishing world is competitive, but small presses and indie publishing offer new opportunities.
• Holding a finished copy of your own book is a life-changing moment.
• Reading widely is one of the most important tools for becoming a stronger writer.
• You owe it to yourself to finish what you start.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://janmarrywriter.com/ • Email: [email protected] • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573595904900

Connect with Us:

• Follow April on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • 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 and emotional episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with coastal artist Paula Freeman, whose journey from longtime art teacher to thriving full-time artist is a testament to courage, reinvention, and trusting your gut.

After twenty years of teaching, raising three children in two years, and giving everything she had to her students, Paula reached a breaking point when stress and illness forced her to reevaluate her life. What came next was terrifying—but transformational. She stepped away from the classroom, reclaimed her health, rediscovered her joy, and began building Paula Freeman Art into a flourishing creative business rooted in ocean-inspired work, meaningful relationships, and relentless determination.

Whether you are navigating a major life transition, dreaming of turning your passion into your profession, or learning to listen to your inner voice, Paula's story will encourage you to be brave enough to choose yourself.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:43) Early love of art—drawing at her grandmother's kitchen counter
• (02:13) Choosing between marine biology and art school; VCU acceptance against all odds
• (03:49) 20 years of teaching: from alternative schools to K–12 art education
• (04:42–06:45) Motherhood, burnout, and serious health concerns that forced her to stop teaching
• (07:37) The moment she finally chose herself—"My gut was saying you have to make a change."
• (08:30–09:55) Quietly reaching out to a coastal shop and the unexpected validation that changed everything
• (10:47) The hardest part of becoming a business owner: the business side of art
• (11:21) Learning to build systems, plan her days like lesson plans, and invest in what she's not good at
• (12:20) Her husband as truth-teller, coach, and business realist
• (13:27) How one shop became many — and why relationships mattered at every step
• (14:19) Art shows: vulnerability, confidence-building, and learning from customer reactions
• (15:22) Why she returns to ocean themes and how her childhood shaped her artistic voice
• (16:35) Why her winding path was necessary—she wasn't ready earlier, but she is now
• (17:29) Milestones: the first shop, building her website, and investing in a massive industrial printer
• (18:57) Diversifying: prints, puzzles, wholesale, and partnering with fulfillment companies
• (19:20–21:16) The importance of community and an artist friend who "gets it"
• (21:33) Her go-to self-talk on tough days: "You can figure it out."
• (22:58) Feeling blessed, proud, and grateful as her business grows
• (24:00) Advice for young artists: keep learning, keep trying, put yourself out there, and expect rejection
• (25:11) Reflections on motherhood and raising children to be kind, grounded humans
• (26:52) The difference between a wish and a dream — dreams require investment
• (28:35) Why she believes in helping others and maintaining genuine relationships

Notable Quotes:

• "You can't have a dream and not work at it."
• "My gut was saying you have to make a change."
• "Every sale, every person… is the little bump forward that says it's going to be OK."
• "You hire what you're terrible at first."
• "You can figure anything out. Just calm down and figure it out."
• "I wasn't ready then. But now I have the skill set to make this happen."
• "Sometimes the bad things are leading up to something wonderful."
• "Relationships matter. Community matters."

Takeaways:

• Your body and intuition will tell you when it's time for a change—listen.
• Reinvention often begins at the hardest moment.
• You do not have to do everything yourself; invest in your weaknesses.
• Consistent work over time is what turns talent into a business.
• Rejection is part of the journey; don't let it define your story.
• The right people—friends, mentors, partners—can change the direction of your dream.
• Every step of your life prepares you for the dream you are meant to build.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://www.paulafreemanart.com/ • Email: [email protected] • Instagram: @the_artsyfreeman

Connect with Us:

• Follow April on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • Email April: [email protected]

Join the DreamHer Community:

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