Fanatical DreamHer

In this powerful and soulful episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with artist Jlyn Henderson, whose striking portraits of women—long necks, wild hair, forward-facing eyes—captivate viewers with their emotion, mystery, and truth.

Jlyn didn't pursue art professionally until retirement, when she finally chose to "be brave" and step fully into her creative identity. Her work is deeply symbolic: women who look forward, shoulder life's weight, hold secrets behind their eyes, and unapologetically take up space. Through stories of her first art shows, reinvention through health challenges, and the mantra "too tall for the garden," Jlyn encourages women to trust themselves, honor who they are, and create boldly without asking Susie's opinion.

This conversation is a masterclass in authenticity—for artists, dreamers, and anyone learning to listen to their own voice.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (02:00) The symbolism behind her women: long necks, wild hair, one eye forward, broad shoulders
• (02:33) Realizing her dream only after retirement—choosing bravery
• (03:18) Sketching faces since childhood but never expressing her true artistic voice
• (03:50) Why she created women who hold "secret memories and thoughts"
• (04:46) Her first art show—being accepted, selling many pieces, and gaining confidence
• (05:46) The next year: appearing on the show poster but selling nothing
• (06:41) The iconic mantra: "You're just too tall for the garden."
• (07:26) Reinventing herself after health challenges
• (08:04) How pursuing art helped her stay strong, brave, and forward-moving
• (08:34) The joy of knowing her art touches hearts—purchased or not
• (09:19) The importance of believing in yourself and staying focused
• (09:30) Evolving as an artist while staying true to what you love
• (10:03) Her biggest motivator: her son telling her to "keep going, Mom"
• (10:21) Why she won't let a painting leave the studio until it "has the right look in her eye"
• (11:10) Persistence as the turning point in her journey
• (11:25) Overcoming challenges—finding purpose even in setbacks
• (12:07) Selling two pieces after being placed in a nautical gallery—knowing what fits and what doesn't
• (12:44) Reinforcing the business mindset while staying true to her voice
• (14:05) Lessons from mentors: don't give up, keep evolving
• (14:33) Her current challenge: painting commissioned portraits in her own style
• (16:19) Why art must be personal—"Susie doesn't live here."
• (17:14) Women's tendency to seek outside validation and why self-trust matters
• (18:05) Letting herself be different—even in structured classes
• (19:32) The people who supported her most: family and a best friend turned collector
• (20:00) Advice to young artists: follow your heart and your own style
• (20:40) The importance of thinking outside the box
• (21:22) Why she posts selectively on Instagram—choosing quality over quantity

Notable Quotes:

• "You're just too tall for the garden."
• "One day you've got to look in the mirror and say, 'I can do this.'"
• "They have secret memories, secret thoughts—stories I don't tell."
• "If this is what you love painting, then continue painting it."
• "Susie doesn't live here."
• "There's always a positive that comes out of a negative—you just have to look for it."
• "Trust yourself. I have to be me."
• "It doesn't matter if someone buys it—what matters is that it touched their heart."
• "Don't give up. Keep going."

Takeaways:

• Bravery is a choice, and sometimes the dream doesn't begin until you finally say "yes" to yourself.
• Authentic art—and authentic living—comes from trusting your inner voice, not outside opinions.
• Reinvention is not only possible; it's powerful.
• Self-talk shapes resilience. "Too tall for the garden" is a reminder that sometimes you simply don't fit the place you're in—and that's okay.
• True artistic evolution happens through persistence, not perfection.
• Creativity is personal—your work is for you first.
• Community support, even a single encourager, can make all the difference in a dreamer's journey.

Connect with Guest:

• Instagram: @jylnhenderson • See her work locally at Redfish Gallery, Irvington, VA

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:

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 Vera Duncan, a remarkable young woman whose leadership journey began at just eight years old. Now a college freshman at William & Mary and a 2024 recipient of the elite U.S. Army National Scholarship, Vera shares her story of discipline, humility, resilience, and purpose.

From watching her father land a Black Hawk helicopter at her elementary school, to earning one of the most competitive ROTC scholarships in the nation, to taking on leadership roles in her community, Vera represents the next generation of DreamHers—young women who lead with integrity, gratitude, and heart.

Her wisdom at such a young age is powerful, uplifting, and a reminder that raising strong girls requires courage, support, and connection. This episode is a gift not only for young DreamHers, but for their mothers too.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:26) The moment eight-year-old Vera knew she wanted to serve in the military
• (02:25) How witnessing her father's loyalty and service shaped her dream
• (03:08) Competing for—and winning—the 2024 Army National Scholarship
• (03:59) Long-term goals: active-duty Army, finance/logistics branch, and pursuing her master's degree
• (05:50) How military life and moving often taught humility and resilience
• (06:38) Achievements that shaped her identity, including illustrating a children's book
• (07:45) Leadership roles in the community, including Youth Advisory Council
• (08:36) The Georgetown summer program that helped her develop independence
• (10:08) The moment she realized she could achieve anything she set her mind to
• (11:09) Her biggest obstacle: perfectionism and fear of failure
• (12:19) Vera's empowering self-talk for hard days
• (13:31) The "small fish, big pond" feeling and adjusting to college life
• (14:27) Her favorite quote from Metallica's James Hetfield and why it resonates
• (15:20) The people who shaped her path—especially her mother
• (17:27) Starting a DARE-focused club at school and leading with purpose
• (19:07) Gratitude as an anchor during challenging times
• (19:47) Advice for other young women pursuing military careers
• (21:08) Going outside the box: the summer she taught herself to run
• (22:12) Final advice to young DreamHers and the importance of mother–daughter connection

Notable Quotes:

• "Allow yourself to fail—but have people who will bring you back up and make you better."
• "What you put in is what you get out of it."
• "In a month from now, it'll be really funny how this all played out."
• "You deserve this—you worked for it."
• "Do what you're passionate about and be outspoken about it."
• "If you're a female going into the military, you have to be your own loud advocate."
• "Be thankful you woke up today—you're still chugging along."
• "Appreciate your mom… she'll be there the rest of your life."

Takeaways:

• Leadership starts early—and is shaped by experiences, family, and mentors.
• Perfectionism can be a barrier; learning to accept imperfection builds strength.
• Independence grows through stepping outside your comfort zone.
• Gratitude is one of the most powerful tools for resilience.
• Young women in male-dominated fields must advocate boldly for themselves.
• Dreams grow stronger with support systems—from parents to teachers to friends.
• Being a DreamHer often means doing what matters even when others don't understand.

Connect with Guest:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vera-duncan-4a9b52336/ • Email: [email protected]

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:

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

Cover Photo Credit: Marika H Photography

For our 50th milestone episode, Fanatical DreamHer celebrates with a woman who embodies heart, grit, and authenticity: Dawn Hart, founder and owner of Village Sweet Bakery in Arlington, Virginia.

Dawn's journey began with decorated sugar cookies at home and grew—step by step, recipe by recipe—into a beloved brick-and-mortar bakery celebrating its 10-year anniversary. In this deeply inspiring conversation, Dawn opens up about finding her calling, staying true to what matters, navigating motherhood while building a business, and proving that grit, creativity, and community can turn a small dream into something extraordinary.

This episode honors 50 conversations with unstoppable women—and Dawn's story is the perfect way to celebrate how far we've come.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:22) How a love of baking and the Food Network sparked Dawn's creative journey
• (01:41) Using decorated sugar cookies as an artistic outlet during early motherhood
• (03:50) When demand outgrew her home kitchen—and the conversation that changed everything
• (04:40) The moment she and her husband discovered a storefront opportunity by chance
• (05:46) Taking the leap into brick-and-mortar with no restaurant background
• (06:35) Building Village Sweet around family recipes and nostalgia
• (07:17) Why she prefers savory cooking but demands excellence from desserts
• (08:34) The commitment to "fresh, from-scratch, and delicious"
• (09:21) How entrepreneurship helped Dawn gain confidence and learn to say no
• (10:41) Major milestones: Opening day, year five, and surviving COVID
• (12:10) How anticipating the "worst-case scenario" actually helped her succeed
• (13:20) Why she fears regret more than failure—and teaches her kids the same
• (14:13) Why she still hasn't felt like she's "arrived"
• (15:32) Daily obstacles: maintaining quality and finding the right staff
• (16:25) Her heart for fundraising, giving back, and community involvement
• (18:16) Encouraging kindness through Village Sweet "Ambassador" cards
• (19:09) Dawn's self-talk on hard days and learning to separate identity from business
• (20:35) How throwing parties prepared her for opening day chaos
• (22:36) The family members who believed in her from day one
• (23:36) Protecting balance and honoring her priorities as a woman, mother, and business owner
• (25:10) Advice for young dreamers—failure is part of the journey
• (26:50) Teaching the younger generation that perfection is unrealistic
• (28:06) Why "there is no box" when dreaming big
• (28:30) Dawn's favorite quote about gazelles, lions, and choosing to run

Notable Quotes:

• "It reminded me that I can say no—and that staying true to myself matters."
• "I'd rather fail at something than reach the end of my life regretting not trying."
• "There is no box. Don't let parameters keep you stagnant."
• "What's the worst that can happen? If you're okay with the worst, go for it."
• "I am not a failure—I'm lucky."
• "When the sun comes up, you better be running."

Takeaways:

• You can build something meaningful by staying rooted in passion—not trends.
• Failure is part of the process, not the end of the story.
• Protecting your boundaries is an act of courage and self-respect.
• Community—and generosity—can be the backbone of a dream.
• You don't need to be for everyone; you need to be true to your vision.
• Balance comes from alignment with your values, not from doing it all.
• Dreams evolve, goals shift, and growth never stops.

Connect with Guest:

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

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:

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

In this powerful and inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp visits Ditchley Cider Works to sit down with the extraordinary Cathy Calhoun—engineer, Naval Academy graduate, former Navy officer, global consultant, problem-solver, farmer, builder, and visionary behind one of Virginia's oldest continually operating farms.

Cathy shares her story of transforming 162 acres of historic land into a thriving, diversified agricultural business producing heritage hard apple cider, pork, beef, poultry, custom sausages, catering, weddings, tours, and educational programs. From her upbringing on a Texas ranch to her Type-A drive, discipline, and relentless optimism, Cathy embodies what it means to take on challenges larger than life—and win.

Her story is bold, brilliant, and deeply rooted in legacy. This episode will inspire you to dream big, think outside the box, and pursue your passion with full force.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

• (01:01) Overview of Ditchley: 162-acre peninsula farm with centuries of history
• (01:47) How Cathy and her husband stumbled on the property at the perfect time
• (02:12) Choosing between becoming ski bums or taking on a massive project
• (03:10) Creating a business plan and selecting hard apple cider as the core focus
• (04:51) Building a full-system farm ecosystem (cider → pomace → pigs → meat → products)
• (06:37) How farmers markets helped Ditchley grow beyond expectations
• (07:30) Expansion into commercial kitchens, catering, weddings, and on-farm sales
• (08:47) Cathy's lifelong passion for nature, antiques, and building things
• (09:40) Turning a Type-A personality and military discipline into business success
• (10:48) Facing personal weaknesses—organization, follow-up, and communication
• (11:25) Milestone moment: Hosting 217 guests during a hurricane for their first major event
• (14:13) Emotional moment of triumph: restoring all 38 historic windows by hand
• (15:55) Major obstacles: Mother nature's unpredictability
• (17:27) Cathy's self-talk during tough times: "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead."
• (18:28) Mindset advice for young listeners—look over the hill, not down it
• (19:15) First-day memories and seeing others react with "deer in the headlights" shock
• (19:51) Five-year vision: continued growth and new products (like apple cider vinegar)
• (21:07) Teaching future generations: farm tours, sustainable gardening, and lost skills
• (23:28) The people who supported her most—her father and her husband
• (24:25) Thinking outside the box and evaluating dreams realistically
• (26:27) Advice for women wanting to pursue agriculture or land-based passions

Notable Quotes:

• "Sleep is highly overrated." – Cathy Calhoun
• "If you're Type A, don't fight it—join it."
• "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead."
• "Look over the hill, not down the hill."
• "If something looks like a downer, look for the upside. There always is one."
• "If you're going to do it, do it. If you're not—get out of the business."
• "It's not about me. It takes a team."

Takeaways:

• A strong business plan is essential when taking on massive dreams.
• Creativity, innovation, and systems thinking can turn a single idea into an ecosystem.
• Perseverance, optimism, and humor can carry you through storms (literal and figurative).
• Legacy work—teaching, preserving land, and giving back—matters deeply.
• You don't need to know how to do everything; you need to be willing to learn.
• Look for upside in every challenge—there is always opportunity hiding in adversity.
• Big dreams require big teams. Lean on your support system.

Connect with Guest:

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

Connect with Us:

• Follow April on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on all episodes: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • Email April: [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 powerhouse episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with professional UFC fighter, entrepreneur, and new mom Miranda Maverick. Known for her tenacity inside and outside the octagon, Miranda shares her incredible journey from growing up on a Missouri ranch to becoming a UFC athlete, business owner, and role model for young women worldwide. She opens up about her disciplined upbringing, how she balances multiple businesses, motherhood, and fighting, and why faith and purpose drive every decision she makes. Miranda's story is one of resilience, humility, and unstoppable focus—proving that success is built one disciplined day at a time.

Key Discussion Points:

• (01:40) Growing up on a ranch and learning work ethic through hard labor
• (02:00) Discovering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 16 and her path to MMA
• (03:15) Her first fight at 18—and the moment she realized her calling
• (04:03) Balancing college, full-time work, and professional fighting
• (05:00) Earning her master's degree, moving to Colorado, and starting her businesses
• (05:38) Adopting her daughter and learning the rhythm of motherhood
• (06:08) The power of discipline, faith, and visualization
• (08:49) Lessons learned from training and staying true to her morals in a competitive industry
• (12:51) The call from UFC that changed her life
• (14:38) Overcoming her biggest challenge—emergency eye surgeries that nearly ended her career
• (17:07) How ranch life taught her responsibility, resilience, and business leadership
• (19:53) Founding Prowler Pickles and High Stakes Honey — turning passion into profit
• (24:01) Straight talk: advice for young women in fighting and entrepreneurship
• (26:42) Balancing ambition with reality and building a sustainable future

Notable Quotes:

• "You can either learn through desperation or through inspiration." – Miranda Maverick
• "Winners aren't meant to lose. I hate losing—but even in defeat, I still know who I am." – Miranda Maverick
• "Faith and hard work are my foundation. Every opportunity is a blessing, and wasting it is not an option." – Miranda Maverick
• "Find your own dream so you aren't building someone else's for the rest of your life." – Miranda Maverick
• "I'd rather make pickles all day than work for someone else." – Miranda Maverick

Takeaways:

• True strength is built through discipline, humility, and faith—not just talent.
• Balance is possible when you live with purpose and clear priorities.
• Success often comes from taking the hard road—and refusing to quit.
• Entrepreneurship grows from passion, consistency, and self-belief.
• Every setback can become a setup for your next victory.

Connect with Guest: • Website: www.prowlerpickles.com • Instagram: @fearthemaverick, @prowlerpickles, @highstakeshoney

Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [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 inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Kate Stewart, founder and CEO of Bauble Stockings, to talk about the family tradition that became a global brand. What began as a cherished Christmas ritual in her Atlanta home grew into a company that now employs fair-trade artisans in Haiti and collaborates with world-renowned designers and celebrities. Kate shares her journey from working full-time while raising two small children to launching a luxury holiday brand featured by Neiman Marcus, the White House Historical Association, and even the Hiltons. Her story is one of faith, perseverance, and purpose — proof that even the smallest traditions can create the biggest impact.

Key Discussion Points:

• (01:35) The family Christmas tradition that inspired Bauble Stockings
• (02:42) Realizing her family's tradition was unique — and worth sharing with the world
• (04:51) Choosing quality and purpose: why every stocking is hand-stitched in Haiti
• (06:29) Turning a dream into a business while raising two small children
• (08:30) The long road from idea to launch — three years of research and resilience
• (09:50) Collaborations with artists like Mary Engelbreit and the power of giving back
• (12:57) Building a business that supports women and fair trade employment
• (15:10) Passion, perseverance, and the lessons learned from entrepreneurship
• (16:53) How building Bauble Stockings transformed her confidence and self-belief
• (19:55) Defining milestones: from America's Mart to Neiman Marcus and the White House
• (23:59) Hard-earned lessons in communication, persistence, and following up
• (27:30) Kate's mindset on bad days and how she stays grounded and positive
• (29:44) Teaching her children confidence, gratitude, and the power of purpose
• (32:38) The importance of support systems — from family to friends to faith
• (35:03) Advice for young entrepreneurs and dreamers: build relationships, not competition

Notable Quotes:

• "You can give up — which wasn't an option — or you can keep pushing, learn from failure, and move forward." – Kate Stewart
• "It took me three years from my first email to my first product launch — but if you stay the course, it all comes back." – Kate Stewart
• "I built my dream one stitch at a time — and now, women around the world are part of that dream." – Kate Stewart
• "If I can build a business that gives back, other people can too. It's a choice." – Kate Stewart
• "You'll always learn the most in the hardest times. Be honest, communicate, and keep going." – Kate Stewart

Takeaways:

• Great ideas often start as family memories — the magic is in sharing them.
• Persistence and follow-up are keys to turning "no" into "yes."
• Building a business with purpose means everyone — from the maker to the customer — wins.
• Confidence grows when you push through fear, not avoid it.
• Supporting women, both locally and globally, strengthens communities and legacies alike.

Connect with Guest: • Website: www.baublestockings.com • Instagram: @baublestockings • Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [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 Anna Cordrey, owner and CEO of the Williamsburg Salt Spa, to discuss her incredible journey from growing up in Belarus to becoming a leading entrepreneur in the wellness industry. Anna shares her story of courage, perseverance, and transformation — from immigrating to the U.S. alone to learning every aspect of the spa business hands-on before purchasing it herself. Her wisdom about overcoming setbacks, balancing motherhood, and finding strength through faith and family will leave you inspired to chase your own dream — no matter where it starts.

Key Discussion Points:

• (01:12) Growing up in Belarus and dreaming of a beautiful, creative space
• (03:34) Lessons learned through hands-on experience in the spa industry
• (05:30) Moving to the U.S. and choosing courage over fear
• (07:28) How pursuing her dream changed her confidence and outlook
• (08:26) Turning setbacks into stepping stones for success
• (09:39) The moment she realized she could make her dream happen
• (11:59) Returning to work after maternity leave and rediscovering purpose
• (13:25) Challenges of entrepreneurship and balancing motherhood
• (14:43) Positive self-talk rooted in her mother's strength and support
• (17:02) The moment she received the keys to the Williamsburg Salt Spa
• (19:03) The importance of family and support systems in business success
• (21:51) Thinking outside the box when solving business challenges
• (23:45) The unique wellness services of the Williamsburg Salt Spa

Notable Quotes:

• "You can give up — which wasn't an option — or you can keep pushing, learn from failure, and move forward." – Anna Cordrey
• "When I looked at the building with champagne in one hand and the keys in the other, that's when I realized: it's mine." – Anna Cordrey
• "Stay curious. Keep learning. Don't let setbacks stop you from getting up, shaking it off, and moving forward." – Anna Cordrey
• "If you can't find the missing piece, step back and look at the bigger picture." – Anna Cordrey
• "Having a support system isn't optional — it's essential." – Anna Cordrey

Takeaways:

• Courage and persistence are the foundations of every dream achieved.
• Personal growth often comes through reinvention and starting over.
• Success requires both independence and a strong support system.
• Thinking outside the box can turn challenges into breakthroughs.
• You can't always plan your dream — sometimes it finds you when you're ready.

Connect with Guest: • Website: williamsburgsaltspa.com • Instagram: @williamsburgsaltspa • Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [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 uplifting and soulful episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Lily Fasil, founder and owner of Buna Kurs RVA in Richmond, Virginia. Lily shares her incredible journey from growing up in Ethiopia to building one of Richmond's most talked-about cafés — a warm, creative hub celebrating Ethiopian food, art, and culture. What began as a dream for an event and art space blossomed into a thriving restaurant and community center known for its rich coffee, vibrant breakfast dishes, and welcoming spirit. Lily's story is one of faith, family, perseverance, and rediscovering her voice — proving that sometimes, the dream you weren't chasing is the one you were meant to live.

Key Discussion Points:

• (01:42) Lily's creative roots in Ethiopia and how her dream began with art and photography
• (03:00) How a conversation with her sister turned an idea into Buna Kurs RVA
• (04:45) Learning to cook and create without culinary training — and thriving anyway
• (05:27) Finding herself again through connection, culture, and community
• (07:04) Rediscovering her "connector" superpower and building a community hub
• (08:46) Major milestones — one-year anniversary, press recognition, and hosting her father's art gallery
• (11:52) How creative joy led her to entrepreneurship
• (12:51) Overcoming financial struggles and learning business fundamentals
• (15:16) Faith, prayer, and perseverance through doubt
• (17:15) The moment she realized her dream was real — seeing her café sign unveiled
• (19:15) The power of family, especially her sister's belief in her potential
• (21:39) Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: start small, be prepared, and don't let fear stop you
• (23:56) Introducing Richmond's only Ethiopian breakfast and the art of flavor

Notable Quotes:

• "Try and fail, but don't you dare fail to try." – Lily Fasil
• "I wanted to create a space where creative people could do anything they wanted — and somehow, food became the art." – Lily Fasil
• "I'm the bridge between two cultures — Ethiopia is my root, and Richmond is my home." – Lily Fasil
• "You can't let fear drive. Use it as motivation and just rip the band-aid." – Lily Fasil
• "Seeing my dad's artwork hanging in my own space — that was my full-circle moment." – Lily Fasil

Takeaways:

• Dreams evolve — sometimes your backup plan becomes your true calling.
• Faith, family, and community can carry you through moments of doubt.
• You don't need perfection or formal training to create something extraordinary.
• Joy, connection, and purpose often lead to success more than business plans do.
• Belief in yourself — and allowing others to believe in you — is where transformation begins.

Connect with Guest: • Website: bunakursrva.com • Instagram: @bunakursrva • Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [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 heartwarming and inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Amy O'Brien, founder and CEO of Sew Fun VA in Richmond, Virginia. Amy has built a creative community that empowers kids and adults alike through the art of sewing—teaching not just stitches, but confidence, patience, and creativity. From her early days teaching Montessori students to launching a thriving studio, Amy's story highlights the importance of joy over perfection, the power of self-belief, and how one woman's passion can inspire the next generation of makers and dreamers.

Key Discussion Points:

• (01:15) The joy and empowerment children gain through sewing
• (02:01) Mentoring young DreamHers like Future Fanatical DreamHer Award recipient Mei Lin
• (02:40) Helping girls build confidence through creating something of their own
• (03:51) Learning to sew at eight years old—and finding freedom in creativity over perfection
• (05:12) How Montessori education shaped the creation of Sew Fun VA
• (06:32) Summer camps, seasonal classes, and how sewing builds lifelong skills
• (07:58) How pursuing her dream transformed Amy's life as a mother and entrepreneur
• (09:18) Starting the business from home—turning her living room into a sewing classroom
• (10:26) The power of patience and slow growth in building a sustainable dream
• (11:37) Lessons learned from early setbacks and choosing the right studio space
• (13:39) The vital role of family—especially her husband, mother, and sister Zoe—in her success
• (16:00) The moment she knew Sew Fun was making a difference
• (17:35) Positive self-talk and not letting negativity define your journey
• (19:15) Letting go of perfectionism and focusing on the big picture
• (19:55) Advice for young dreamers: take small steps, stay patient, and keep going
• (21:26) Redefining sewing—creating a fun, flexible, confidence-building experience for kids

Notable Quotes:

• "It's fun to see a child come in on Monday never having touched a sewing machine—and walk out on Friday with a wardrobe they made themselves." – Amy O'Brien
• "When a girl walks out wearing something she made, that's the moment I know it's all worth it." – Amy O'Brien
• "Don't sweat the small things—focus on the big picture." – Amy O'Brien
• "Perfection isn't the goal. Joy and creativity are." – Amy O'Brien
• "There's a rough patch leading into success—but just keep going." – Amy O'Brien

Takeaways:

• Teaching kids creative skills builds confidence and self-worth that last a lifetime.
• Dreams grow one stitch at a time—patience, joy, and persistence matter more than speed.
• Mistakes are part of the process; they teach resilience and problem-solving.
• Support systems—family, mentors, and community—help dreams take shape.
• Progress isn't about perfection; it's about believing in yourself and taking the next step.

Connect with Guest: • Website: www.sewfunva.com • Instagram: @sewfunva • Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [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 empowering episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Britt Lapiska, owner of Bird Girl Bottle Shop in Newport News, Virginia. From selling frogs as a ten-year-old entrepreneur to creating one of Virginia's most talked-about neighborhood gems, Britt shares her journey of resilience, motherhood, and determination. She opens up about the challenges of building a restaurant from the ground up, balancing family life, and the importance of legacy, community, and gratitude. Her story is equal parts hustle, heart, and hope—a true celebration of what it means to just do it and build the life you dream of.

Key Discussion Points:

• (01:15) Early entrepreneurial spirit—selling frogs and starting a paper-flower business
• (02:13) Turning passion into a shared dream with her husband
• (02:47) Building Bird Girl Bottle Shop—turning their home into a business
• (03:40) Persevering through construction, ramen nights, and endless meetings
• (05:38) How entrepreneurship changed Britt personally
• (06:17) Teaching her daughters strength and self-belief through example
• (07:25) Focusing on gratitude and the good, even in hard times
• (09:03) Reaching milestones—stepping back to align family and business life
• (10:42) The power of family support, especially from her entrepreneurial parents
• (12:42) Lessons learned from past experiences—teaching, photography, and marketing
• (14:12) The emotional "Katy Perry Firework" moment of realizing success
• (17:30) Overcoming obstacles—construction challenges, learning on the fly, and ADA compliance battles
• (19:51) Opening day emotions and the joy of community
• (21:22) Advice for young dreamers: "Just do it."

Notable Quotes:

• "There's nothing I can't do." – Britt Lapiska
• "You have to be a little naïve to start something like this." – Britt Lapiska
• "I built my own world—and I'm proud of it." – Britt Lapiska
• "When I heard 'Firework' on the radio, I told my girls, 'We can do anything.'" – Britt Lapiska
• "Positivity is always a choice—and I choose it every day." – Britt Lapiska

Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurship often begins with curiosity and courage.
• Family support and teamwork can turn big dreams into reality.
• Every challenge—from construction delays to self-doubt—can teach resilience.
• Gratitude and attitude shape success more than circumstance.
• For women dreaming of starting a business: Just do it. You're worth it.

Connect with Guest: • Website: birdgirlbottleshop.com • Instagram: @birdgirlbottleshop • Email: [email protected]

Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [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!