Fanatical DreamHer

Fanatical DreamHer

By April KempSociety & Culture
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Fanatical DreamHer episodes

  • Living the Dream in Stitches: Susan MacKenzie of Liberty Hill Needleworks

    In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp welcomes Susan MacKenzie, owner of Liberty Hill Needleworks in Williamsburg, Virginia. From stitching doll dresses at age seven to running one of Virginia's most beloved cross-stitch shops, Susan shares her journey of passion, resilience, and community building. She opens up about turning a lifelong hobby into a thriving business, balancing entrepreneurship with family, and why mentorship and generosity matter so deeply in women-owned businesses. This conversation is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and joy—woven together just like the needlework Susan loves.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • (02:23) How Susan's grandmothers sparked her love of needlework
    • (02:58) The early dream of owning a shop and lessons from visiting other businesses
    • (04:28) Opening her first shop, The Busy Needle, after 9/11
    • (05:15) Closing her shop to care for her mother and starting anew in Williamsburg
    • (06:30) Building Liberty Hill Needleworks into a premier destination
    • (07:18) Turning a passion into a profitable business vs. a hobby
    • (09:57) How pursuing her dream has changed her personally
    • (11:27) Hosting "Stitch-Ins" and giving back to the community
    • (14:42) Creating connection and healing through needlework
    • (17:12) The empowering moment of family support and encouragement
    • (19:08) Susan's go-to self-talk on tough days
    • (20:04) The joy of walking into her shop each day
    • (22:38) Advice for younger women pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams

    Notable Quotes:

    • "I live the dream. I am the dream." – Susan MacKenzie
    • "There is a difference between a business and a hobby. A business must be profitable—your customers will teach you what they want to buy." – Susan MacKenzie
    • "Teamwork makes the dream work." – Susan MacKenzie
    • "Surround yourself with supportive people. You don't need the naysayers." – Susan MacKenzie
    • "Joyous. That's how I feel every day walking into my shop—it's soul affirming." – Susan MacKenzie

    Takeaways:

    • Passion paired with preparation can turn a hobby into a thriving business.
    • Customer service and community connections are the heartbeat of small business success.
    • Supportive people—family, team members, and mentors—make the journey possible.
    • Challenges and setbacks are part of entrepreneurship, but resilience and vision carry you forward.
    • Women entrepreneurs succeed best when they lift each other up and share knowledge freely.

    Connect with Guest: • Website: Liberty Hill Needleworks • Instagram: @liberty.hill.needleworks • 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!

    26 min
  • From Coffee Dreams to Community Legacy: Michelle Sieling's Journey with Aromas & The Hound's Tale

    In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with entrepreneur and community leader Michelle Sieling. Michelle, alongside her husband Steve, owns several beloved Williamsburg businesses including Aromas, The Hound's Tale, and The Barkery Corner. She shares how her Chicago roots and family business background shaped her leadership style, how she navigated fires, ceiling collapses, and COVID shutdowns with resilience, and why finding your unique niche is key to success. Michelle's story is one of vision, grit, and heart—a testament to what happens when you believe in your dream and the community it serves.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • (01:08) Celebrating Aromas' 25-year legacy in Williamsburg
    • (02:39) How Michelle and Steve purchased Aromas and began their dream
    • (03:31) Lessons in leadership learned from her father's business example
    • (05:32) Overcoming fires, a ceiling collapse, and COVID with resilience
    • (08:10) Building a lasting legacy and why employees keep coming back
    • (10:31) The empowering "we made it" moment after surviving challenges
    • (13:18) Michelle's perspective on fear and forging ahead anyway
    • (14:39) Her team-focused self-talk: "We got it."
    • (15:34) Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: find your niche, don't copy others
    • (18:23) The importance of partnership and her husband's steady support
    • (19:27) Why young entrepreneurs need mentors and real conversations
    • (22:22) Thinking outside the box to reimagine a restaurant location

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Lead by example. Don't just tell people what to do—show them." – Michelle Sieling
    • "You can sit there and always be fearful of the unknown, but that's just part of life. Forge ahead and get your dreams." – Michelle Sieling
    • "We purchased Aromas because of who you are. Words are just words, but actions are concrete." – Michelle Sieling
    • "Don't copy what someone else has already done—find your niche." – Michelle Sieling

    Takeaways:

    • Resilience comes from finding silver linings, even in setbacks.
    • True leadership is hands-on and people-centered.
    • Fear will always exist, but success comes from moving forward anyway.
    • Your unique niche—not imitation—sets your business apart.
    • Mentors and human connection matter more than digital shortcuts.

    Connect with Guest: • Websites: Aromas World | The Hound's Tale • Instagram: @theoriginalaromas • 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!

    27 min
  • Baking It Right: Lashonda Sanford's Scratch-Made Dream

    In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Lashonda Sanford, founder of Scratch Bakery, to share her incredible journey from a foster home in Kentucky to running one of Virginia's most beloved bakeries. Lashonda reveals how her foster mother's passion for baking shaped her own, the determination it took to launch during a recession, and how resilience and community support helped her grow through challenges—including a pandemic and a national television appearance on Food Network's Holiday Baking Championship.

    Lashonda's story is one of grit, love, and legacy, reminding us all that real dreams are fueled by passion, persistence, and a sprinkle of sugar.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • (01:20) Childhood memories of biscuits, fudge, and daily trips to Spalding's Bakery in Kentucky
    • (03:29) The inspiration of her foster mother and early lessons in baking and life
    • (05:05) Discovering her hidden determination and fight while pursuing her dream
    • (06:09) Adapting during COVID with delivery, DoorDash, and her cupcake truck
    • (07:18) Opening in 2011 during a recession and milestones of growth and expansion
    • (08:40) Launching the first cupcake truck in the area
    • (09:48) Getting "the call" from Food Network and competing in Holiday Baking Championship
    • (10:42) Facing fear, taking the leap, and discovering more of herself in the process
    • (13:39) Education, mentoring women, and turning Scratch Bakery into a space of empowerment
    • (17:16) The defining moment: hobby or career? Choosing to go all in
    • (19:25) Positive self-talk, calling her staff "gladiators," and leading with encouragement
    • (21:23) Empowering employees, including a 13-year employee who was completely deaf
    • (23:20) Favorite customer desserts: wedding cake, peach cobbler, banana pudding, and more
    • (24:26) Community support as the backbone of Scratch Bakery's success
    • (25:26) Advice for aspiring bakers: loving it enough to bake thousands every day
    • (26:59) Favorite quote: "When people show you who they are the first time, believe them."
    • (29:01) Motto: "We bake it right—with love and good ingredients."

    Notable Quotes:

    • "You discover a fight in you that you just didn't know you had."
    • "Is this a career or is this a hobby? That was my defining moment."
    • "I call my staff gladiators—because they can do anything."
    • "When people show you who they are the first time, believe them."
    • "We bake it right. Like your grandma used to."

    Takeaways:

    • Early inspirations often plant lifelong dreams
    • True resilience is adapting to challenges while caring for your team and community
    • Fear is part of growth—feel it, then do it anyway
    • Mentorship and empowerment can transform not just a business but people's lives
    • Loving the craft is what keeps passion alive, even through thousands of repetitions

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: https://itsmadefromscratch.com/ • Instagram: @_scratchbakery • 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!

    31 min
  • Popping Joy: Terri Crowder's Journey with Northern Neck Popcorn

    In this deliciously inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April Kemp sits down with Terri Crowder, owner of Northern Neck Popcorn Bag, to talk about her entrepreneurial journey, family legacy, and the joy of building a business rooted in creativity and community. From childhood memories of running a pretend pantry store to working in her grandmother's snowball stand, Terri shares how her path came full circle when she launched Northern Neck Popcorn in 2016.

    Now with multiple locations, countless unique flavors, and a loyal following, Terri opens up about the challenges of expansion, lessons learned through setbacks, and the pure joy of creating popcorn that connects with people during both celebrations and hard times. Her story is one of resilience, servant leadership, and always finding strength to get back up again.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • (01:45) Childhood dreams inspired by her grandmother's pantry and snowball stand
    • (03:45) Leaving software sales to launch Northern Neck Popcorn in 2016
    • (05:22) Starting with 30 flavors and growing through creativity and seasonality
    • (06:26) Expanding to three locations: Kilmarnock, Gloucester, and Warsaw
    • (07:48) Challenges after the pandemic and lessons from rapid growth
    • (09:02) Contracting from five stores to three and learning balance
    • (11:15) Personal growth, strength, and resilience as a woman entrepreneur
    • (12:34) Self-talk and the role of faith: Philippians 4:13
    • (15:02) Early milestone: realizing she could build a team and accept help
    • (17:21) Customer experiences as her biggest moments of success
    • (20:59) Highs and lows of daily entrepreneurship—never really being "off"
    • (25:27) Family influence: a legacy of entrepreneurs across generations
    • (27:20) Returning to school to pursue a degree in historic preservation
    • (29:48) The importance of mentors, friends, and family support
    • (30:39) Advice for young dreamers: be a sponge, learn everything, and ask for help
    • (33:33) Top flavors: Salted Dark Chocolate Caramel, Krabby Corn, Butter Beer, Key Lime Pie

    Notable Quotes:

    • "I pop joy. That's what this is about for me."
    • "Discipline, creativity, and community keep this business alive."
    • "You fall down seven, you get up eight. Sometimes multiple times a day."
    • "A dream worth chasing is one that brings joy to others."
    • "Confidence and resilience come from showing up—even on the hardest days."

    Takeaways:

    • Family influences and early childhood dreams often resurface later in life
    • Growth is exciting, but knowing your limits is just as important as expansion
    • Success is measured not just in sales but in customer joy and impact
    • Mentorship, faith, and asking for help are vital to building a sustainable business
    • Creativity keeps the product fresh—and the dream alive

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: https://www.northernneckpopcornbag.com/ • Instagram: @nnkpopcornbag • Facebook: Northern Neck Popcorn Bag

    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!

    37 min
  • Muay Thai is for Everyone: Heather Enyingi's Journey from Fighter to Coach

    In this empowering episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with martial artist, coach, and soon-to-be mom, Heather Enyingi, of the House of Muay Thai in Williamsburg, VA. Heather shares her lifelong journey in martial arts, from being inspired at age five by the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to competing in MMA and ultimately becoming head coach of a thriving Muay Thai program.

    Heather's story is about resilience, discipline, and confidence—both inside and outside the ring. She opens up about milestones as an athlete, her passion for coaching, and the life lessons that martial arts instills in students of all ages. Whether you're looking for self-defense, stress relief, or community, Heather proves that Muay Thai is for everyone.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • (01:16) Childhood inspiration: Ninja Turtles, Power Rangers, and her first karate dojo
    • (02:02) College years: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and her first MMA fight
    • (04:23) Discovering the mental, physical, and emotional benefits of Muay Thai
    • (06:00) Building body confidence and strength through training
    • (07:27) Shifting from athlete to coach and building an inclusive program
    • (08:19) Balancing personal dreams with motherhood and family life
    • (09:57) Milestones: first MMA fight, coaching breakthroughs, and leading a full gym
    • (12:52) Teaching background and how it shaped her coaching style
    • (13:57) How martial arts builds accountability and mental toughness
    • (15:26) Realizing she could make martial arts her lifelong career
    • (18:56) Self-talk: discipline over motivation, staying positive, and "stick to the plan"
    • (20:09) From bare concrete floors to a thriving gym—launching House of Muay Thai
    • (21:32) Community outreach through schools and youth programs
    • (23:12) Advice for young dreamers: stay disciplined, positive, and true to your path
    • (25:53) Favorite mantra: "Muay Thai is for everyone."
    • (27:33) Why Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu are especially valuable for women

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Muay Thai is for everyone."
    • "Discipline is greater than motivation."
    • "A full mat is a full heart for me."
    • "Confidence makes you a hard target."
    • "It's you versus you. You don't have to fight to become a better human."

    Takeaways:

    • Martial arts builds strength, discipline, and confidence at every age
    • Milestones aren't just about wins—they're about growth and breakthroughs
    • Coaching is as fulfilling as competing, especially when watching students succeed
    • Martial arts is more than fitness: it's therapy, self-defense, and community
    • Positivity and persistence will carry you through any challenge

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: House of Muay Thai – Heather Enyingi • Instagram: @houseofmuaythai_williamsburg | @enyingigigigi

    Connect with Us:

    • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: 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!

    31 min
  • Preserving History and Creating Hospitality with Peggy Patteson

    In this episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April sits down with Peggy Patteson, the visionary behind the enchanting Hope and Glory Inn. Peggy shares her journey of transforming a historic schoolhouse into one of the most unique inns in Virginia, blending history, charm, and luxury. From embracing change to creating a legacy rooted in hospitality, Peggy's story highlights the power of following a dream that brings joy to others.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [02:10] Peggy's background and the origins of the Hope and Glory Inn
    • [06:45] How she and her husband transformed a schoolhouse into a celebrated inn
    • [12:30] The importance of storytelling in preserving history and attracting guests
    • [18:00] Challenges of running a boutique inn and lessons learned along the way
    • [23:40] How Peggy balances honoring the past with modern-day luxury
    • [28:15] Advice for women who want to pursue bold and unconventional dreams

    Notable Quotes:

    • "A dream worth chasing is one that not only fulfills you but also brings joy to others."
    • "History doesn't have to be something you leave behind—it can be something you invite people to live in."
    • "Hospitality is about more than service; it's about creating a memory that stays with someone forever."

    Takeaways:

    • Bold dreams often start with preserving something meaningful.
    • Hospitality is a powerful way to connect history with people today.
    • Success comes from blending vision, persistence, and passion.

    Connect with Guest: • Website: https://www.hopeandglory.com/ • Instagram: @hopeandgloryinn • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeandgloryinn/

    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!

    37 min
  • Reaching for the Stars with Dr. Emma Cain Louden

    In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April Kemp sits down with Dr. Emma Cain Louden—astrophysicist, president of Slooh, and author of Mia and the Martians. Emma shares how a childhood fascination with Mars rovers evolved into a groundbreaking career in astrophysics, education, and STEM advocacy. From her early experiences at science camps to her mission of connecting people worldwide through the night sky, Emma's journey is a masterclass in resilience, mentorship, and "practical hope." Whether you dream of space or simply want to learn how to pursue your passions unapologetically, this conversation will inspire you to reach higher than ever before.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • (01:26) Childhood love of space sparked by NASA games and Mars rover missions.
    • (03:27) How books, supportive parents, and summer science programs shaped her path.
    • (06:18) The importance of community and mentorship in keeping girls in STEM.
    • (11:31) Writing Mia and the Martians and teaching emotional resilience through storytelling.
    • (14:52) Leading Slooh and bringing global access to telescopes and astronomy education.
    • (18:46) How local resources and authentic learning experiences inspired her.
    • (21:51) Personal growth through pursuing big dreams and overcoming challenges.
    • (24:14) Practicing "practical hope" and building mental fitness.
    • (28:26) Facing and overcoming obstacles in science and life.
    • (31:57) Favorite quote: Carl Sagan's Pale Blue Dot and the perspective it offers.

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Girls are already interested in science—they just get pushed out of it."
    • "Never be the one to tell yourself no."
    • "Practical hope is a connection to something bigger than yourself that keeps you going."
    • "We have a responsibility every day to make this world a better place."

    Takeaways:

    • Early encouragement and access to resources can change the trajectory of a young person's dreams.
    • Mentorship and community are vital in retaining women in STEM fields.
    • Emotional resilience is just as important as technical knowledge for success.
    • Combining passion with purpose creates powerful opportunities to inspire others.
    • Looking at the bigger picture—literally and figuratively—can keep you motivated during hard times.

    Connect with Guest: • Website: Slooh • Instagram: @exoplanet_emma • Mia and the Martians on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Mia-Martians-Explores-Emma-Louden/dp/1069116106

    Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: 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!

    37 min
  • Keep Moving Forward: The Creative Journey of Lindsay Wozniak and Redfish Gallery

    In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April Kemp sits down with artist, author, and gallery owner Lindsay Wozniak. From a childhood spent painting and creating to a highly decorated career in advertising and photography with over 200 awards, Lindsay has never stopped following her creative instincts.

    Now the proud owner of Redfish Gallery in Irvington, Virginia, Lindsay shares how she turned her lifelong passion for art into a community-focused gallery where all profits go to charity. Through stories of resilience, humor, and bold moves, Lindsay proves that when creativity is in your soul, it always finds a way to shine.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:40] Discovering her artistic talent in elementary school and early inspirations
    • [04:45] How creativity helped her thrive academically despite struggles with reading
    • [07:30] Choosing art school and building a career in advertising
    • [10:52] Finding photography through her father's darkroom and a lifelong love for visual storytelling
    • [14:24] Becoming the youngest and only female creative director in the DC area
    • [15:14] The origin of Redfish Gallery and the story behind the name
    • [18:10] Launching the gallery and discovering the vibrant local artist community
    • [21:42] Self-doubt, motivation, and the positive self-talk that keeps her moving forward
    • [25:22] The emotional first day opening the gallery and the support of the community
    • [26:41] Key supporters and friendships that made the journey possible
    • [29:05] Advice for young artists: embracing persistence and financial realities
    • [31:22] The importance of moving forward, even through failure and fear
    • [34:36] Giving back through The Heart Channels and why all gallery profits go to charity

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Creatives have to create. If you're not creating, you're miserable."
    • "What would you be doing if you weren't afraid to fail?"
    • "Keep moving forward—even if it's the wrong step, you can course correct."
    • "Do what you love and the money will come."
    • "I just dove in. I had no idea what I was doing—but I knew I had to try."

    Takeaways:

    • True creativity finds its way, even when life takes unexpected turns
    • Fear and self-doubt are normal—what matters is continuing to move forward
    • Success creates the freedom to pursue passion projects and give back
    • Building community and friendship can be as rewarding as any career milestone
    • Legacy is about both what you create and the impact you leave behind

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: https://www.redfishgallery.org/ • Instagram: @red_fish_gallery_nnk • Telephone: 804.480.4418 • Facebook: Red Fish Gallery LLC

    The Heart Channels Charity

    · https://www.theheartchannels.org

    Connect with Us:

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

    Join the DreamHer Community:

    Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Tag your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer—and remember: the world always makes way for the dreamer.

    39 min
  • Shuffle Up and Slay: Building a Mahjong Movement with Sara Sloman

    In this episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April sits down with Sara Sloman, the dynamic founder of RichMahj, a growing business teaching people how to play mahjong—yes, the game that's quietly taking over social circles, coffee tables, and corporate team-building sessions alike. What began as a hobby turned into a movement, with over 1,700 beginners trained since early 2024.

    Sara opens up about launching her passion project with intention, building a team of instructors across multiple states, and using the game to foster community, friendship, and even philanthropy. Whether you're a business dreamer or just love a good comeback story, Sara's episode is full of inspiration, strategy, and joy.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • Sara's roots and confidence-building college years (01:30)
    • Discovering mahjong and turning curiosity into a business (02:30)
    • Building RichMahj from website to multi-state expansion (03:40)
    • Teaching 1,700+ students and the power of beginner energy (04:10)
    • Personal growth, patience, and the joy of creating friendships (04:45)
    • A milestone moment: Mahjong for Memories Tournament for Alzheimer's Association (09:00)
    • Facing obstacles: asking for help and imposter syndrome (10:30)
    • Self-talk, setting boundaries, and turning doubt into fuel (11:30)
    • Advice to other women: prepare well, but don't wait too long (16:13)
    • Out-of-the-box thinking and mahjong's universal appeal (17:00)
    • The cutest swag: napkins, cups, banners—and a custom mahjong table (19:45)

    Notable Quotes:

    "I always tell myself it's going to be okay. And usually, it is." – Sara Sloman

    "You don't have to wait. Someone else might come up with your idea." – Sara Sloman

    "Mahjong is the new pickleball. There's napkins. There's swag. It's community-building magic." – April Kemp

    Takeaways:

    • Start slow, plan well—but don't wait forever to launch your dream.
    • Building something joyful can have real community impact.
    • Women thrive when they use their voices and ask for help.
    • Games like mahjong aren't just play—they're powerful connection tools.
    • Surrounding yourself with like-minded women leads to unexpected opportunity and growth.

    Connect with Guest:

    Connect with Us:

    • Follow April Kemp 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!

    22 min
  • From Vision to Vibe: Autumn Clayton on Building Covet, Arlington's Favorite Gift Shop

    In this episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with the vibrant and inspiring Autumn Clayton, founder of Covet, a beloved neighborhood gift boutique in Arlington, Virginia. From her early days exploring little shops as a child to becoming the heartbeat behind one of Arlington's most adored retail spaces, Autumn shares the scrappy, heartfelt, and creative journey that brought her dream to life.

    She opens up about building Covet without a business plan, trusting her gut, surviving the early years and COVID, and investing in the next generation of young women who work alongside her. Whether you're dreaming of launching a small business, building something creative from the ground up, or just love a good underdog story—this one's for you.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:16] Childhood love for small shops and her early dream of owning one
    • [02:34] From college dropout to art director for major clients like Disney & Discovery
    • [05:52] How a spontaneous call from a mom-friend sparked the Covet dream
    • [08:48] Launching the shop with only $5,000—and without telling their husbands!
    • [09:25] Persevering solo after her co-founder stepped away
    • [11:10] The power of industry experience and learning through action
    • [13:11] Balancing motherhood, retail seasons, and self-doubt
    • [15:24] Autumn's go-to self-talk and how she embraces slow seasons with grace
    • [17:44] Opening day, snowstorms, and the joy of seeing the dream become real
    • [19:56] Encouragement to young women: trust your vibe, trust your vision
    • [21:46] Small retail vs. restaurants—why shops like Covet deserve the spotlight
    • [22:18] Thinking outside the box (and letting it spill over)
    • [23:52] Mentoring young women who work at Covet and creating a legacy

    Notable Quotes:

    • "I didn't write a business plan. I didn't take out loans. I just said yes and jumped."
    • "Put one foot in front of the other. Just say yes. I love an adventure."
    • "Small shops like this are the soul of the neighborhood."
    • "You don't have to be busy every single day to be successful."
    • "Let the box spill over a little. That's where the creativity lives."

    Takeaways:

    • You don't need to do everything "by the book" to build a successful business
    • Trust your gut and aesthetic—people connect with personality-driven spaces
    • Support systems (family, community, co-founders) are vital, especially early on
    • Every dream has slow seasons—resilience means weathering them with hope
    • The legacy we leave is often in the lives we touch along the way

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: www.covetinarlington.com • Facebook: facebook.com/2covet • Instagram: @covet_arlington • Email: [email protected]

    Connect with Us:

    • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [email protected]

    Join the DreamHer Community:

    Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Tag your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer—because the world always makes way for the dreamer.

    28 min

About Fanatical DreamHer

From the publisher's feed

Fanatical DreamHer is the weekly podcast where host April Kemp sits down with inspiring women who dared to dream big and turned those dreams into reality. These incredible DreamHers share their…