Fanatical DreamHer

Fanatical DreamHer

By April KempSociety & Culture
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Fanatical DreamHer episodes

  • Building Champions On and Off the Field: The Rebecca Gunn Coaching Journey

    In this powerful episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April Kemp sits down with 2024 NAIA National Champion and SCAD Women's Soccer Head Coach, Rebecca Gunn. A lifelong athlete and passionate leader, Rebecca shares how her coaching journey began, the culture she built from the ground up at SCAD, and how she inspires high-performing student-athletes with values of accountability, grit, and heart.

    From balancing family life with a demanding coaching schedule to empowering young women through self-talk and sport, Rebecca's story is packed with wisdom for athletes, moms, coaches, and every woman chasing a big dream.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [02:06] Discovering her coaching path after college through mentorship and timing
    • [03:43] Reflecting on nearly two decades at SCAD and key milestones
    • [05:09] How culture, recruiting, and leadership development led to the 2024 National Championship
    • [06:53] Passion for soccer and how it fuels her daily work and mindset
    • [09:20] How coaching shaped her life and helped her grow through evolving generations
    • [11:27] Learning to lead from the sidelines and the power of training over tactics
    • [13:33] Teaching high-performance standards and accountability through team culture
    • [15:11] Navigating obstacles: job instability, early season losses, and perspective resets
    • [17:22] The self-talk that fuels her on hard days—and the same tools she teaches her team
    • [19:48] The emotional moment of pride before the national championship match
    • [21:55] Family support: husband, daughters, and parents who believed in her
    • [24:29] The constant grind of recruiting and finding the right team fit
    • [27:19] Why girls in sports go on to lead—and how coaches help shape confidence
    • [29:43] Favorite quote: "Enjoy the little things, for one day you may realize they were big things."
    • [31:37] Why we need more female coaches—and her call to action for future leaders
    • [34:26] Final advice to girls: "Dream it. Do it. Try again. Keep going."

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Enjoy the little things—for one day you may look back and realize they were big things."
    • "We need more women coaching. Be a mentor, build the culture, and make the impact."
    • "If you're going to coach soccer, you better have a passion for it."
    • "You have to be willing to put yourself out there. It's hard, but that's how you grow."
    • "Team comes first. Always."

    Takeaways:

    • Culture change begins with strong leadership and clear expectations
    • Confidence can be coached—but it starts with self-talk and visualization
    • Family support makes dream-chasing sustainable, especially for working moms
    • Sport is a launchpad for lifelong leadership and emotional resilience
    • Coaching is about building people, not just winning games

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: SCAD Women's Soccer • Instagram: @scadwomenssoccer • Email: [email protected]

    Connect with Us:

    • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated: 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 your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer—and always remember, the world makes way for the dreamer.

    37 min
  • From Coaching Dreams to Franchise Leadership: Emily Guillory's Journey with Kidokinetics

    In this energizing and heartfelt episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Emily Guillory, the spirited owner of the Kidokinetics franchise in Marietta, Georgia. Emily shares how her lifelong love for sports and working with children shaped her path—from teacher to stay-at-home mom to business owner. She opens up about the fears she faced, the power of selling herself, and the beautiful moment when her children could finally say, "My mom's a coach!"

    Whether you're exploring franchising, balancing motherhood and career, or just love stories about women chasing dreams with purpose and heart—this episode is packed with inspiration.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:24] Emily's background in athletics and education
    • [02:47] How she and her husband found Kidokinetics and why it was the perfect fit
    • [04:43] Why franchising is like buying a boxed cake mix
    • [06:13] The joy of coaching kids vs. the challenge of selling herself
    • [08:59] The importance of introducing sports and movement at a young age
    • [10:36] Spotting a child's passion and helping them find their "anchor"
    • [13:31] Preventing athletic burnout and letting kids follow their own path
    • [15:08] Emily's toughest day: a teary-eyed moment before her first demo
    • [19:10] Building confidence through action and support
    • [21:03] Who supported her the most (spoiler: her husband + an all-star family squad)
    • [22:49] Advice for future franchisees and kid-focused entrepreneurs
    • [23:57] Her proudest moment: when her kids started saying "My mom has a job"
    • [26:00] A practical tip for toddler moms: how to turn anything into a movement challenge

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Selling myself was the hardest part—but it taught me to believe in my own confidence."
    • "You can't fake passion. If you're not 100% in, it's going to be a tough road."
    • "When my kids started telling people what I do, I knew I had done something meaningful."
    • "Use what you have—pillows, sidewalks, playgrounds—to encourage movement in kids."
    • "We call it their anchor. Every child needs one—sports, music, performance—just something that's theirs."

    Takeaways:

    • Franchising can be a great bridge to business ownership, especially when aligned with your passion
    • Working moms deserve to feel proud—and kids notice more than we think
    • Confidence is built in the doing, not in the waiting
    • Early physical activity supports emotional, social, and cognitive development
    • You don't need expensive equipment to foster gross motor skills—just creativity and encouragement

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: https://www.kidokinetics.com/l/marietta • Instagram: @kidokinetics_marietta • Email: [email protected]

    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 lifted your spirit. Tag your favorite takeaways with #FanaticalDreamHer—and remember: the world always makes way for the dreamer.

    30 min
  • From Pro Soccer to Purpose-Driven Practice: Dr. Steph Smith's Path to AIMing Higher

    In this deeply inspiring episode, host April Kemp sits down with former professional soccer player turned chiropractor and business owner, Dr. Stephanie Smith. After a successful collegiate and pro career, Dr. Steph shifted her focus to healing others—founding AIM Chiropractic and Fitness in Marietta, Georgia.

    Steph shares how her lifelong passion for movement, mindset, and resilience shaped both her sports career and her dream to create a welcoming space where anyone could feel seen, supported, and strengthened. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or just someone ready to take a leap—this episode will fire you up and move you forward.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:27] Steph's childhood passion for soccer and creativity through sport
    • [02:17] Playing D1 at Penn State and going pro: the hard-earned journey
    • [02:26] Transitioning from athlete to therapist: finding a second passion
    • [03:45] Gaining experience through mentorship and years in the field
    • [06:03] Why Steph never planned to open her own clinic—and why she did
    • [07:23] The vision behind AIM: creating an inclusive, heart-centered space
    • [08:35] The self-talk that fuels her positivity: "Be comfortable being uncomfortable"
    • [09:37] Biggest challenge: learning the business side of medicine
    • [10:45] Her parents' support and the emotional impact of opening AIM
    • [12:37] Encouraging young girls in sports—and how it builds resilience
    • [14:13] The best part of owning AIM: watching people light up when they walk in
    • [15:40] Out-of-the-box thinking and respectful rule-breaking
    • [16:51] Advice to aspiring business owners: trust your heart, especially in hard moments
    • [17:59] Steph's original visualization of AIM—crafted in her journal years before opening
    • [21:28] Playing her "winner memory": a comeback game in pro soccer
    • [24:10] Final message to dreamers: leap—even if it's scary
    • [25:32] A message to parents: "Let them know you're there."

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Be comfortable being uncomfortable."
    • "Your heart will always tell you the truth—especially in hard moments."
    • "There's no rulebook for building the life you want."
    • "We don't play our winners enough. But the wins shape us."
    • "Parents: the best thing you can say is 'I'm here for you.'"

    Takeaways:

    • Pro sports build the foundation for lifelong resilience and leadership
    • Building a business is about vision, courage, and creating feeling
    • Visualization is a powerful tool for manifesting your dream
    • Trust your instincts—especially when they go against the grain
    • Support systems (especially parents) matter more than we know

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: https://www.aimcf.com/ • Instagram: @aimchirofit • Email: [email protected] • Phone: Reach via website contact form

    Connect with Us:

    • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated: https://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 with #FanaticalDreamHer—and remember, the world always makes way for the dreamer.

    28 min
  • From Nursing Shifts to Glamping Dreams: How Cat Brickey Built WyldStay with Grit, Cows & a Vision

    In this unforgettable episode, host April Kemp travels to Greenville, South Carolina to visit WyldStay—a glamping and Highland cow farm experience created by the inspiring and resilient Cat Brickey. From an ER nurse and single mom to a full-fledged farm entrepreneur, Cat shares how she built a dream on land she visualized, funded herself, and grew with her own two hands (plus a few cow hooves).

    You'll hear how Cat turned obstacles—county permitting issues, financing challenges, and self-doubt—into stepping stones, and how she uses her space to help families reconnect with nature, and with each other. This episode is about risk, reinvention, and remembering that sometimes your dream shows up at 35...with a cow and a campfire.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:38] Discovering her dream at 35 during a glamping trip to Yellowstone
    • [02:37] How two Highland cows and a vision became WyldStay
    • [05:46] How building WyldStay changed her personally—and healed others too
    • [06:59] Pivoting from a 7-acre floodplain to a 30-acre dream property
    • [08:49] From vet tech to Clydesdale farm: how her early animal work helped shape her dream
    • [11:32] The moment it all felt real—standing on her new land with the vision taking shape
    • [13:36] The hardest challenges: financing, county permits, and the power of not giving up
    • [18:06] Creating her own "shero story" and inspiring other women to go all in
    • [22:30] The value of team, friendship, and building with others who believe in your dream
    • [24:48] Her approach to unforgettable guest experiences and "unreasonable hospitality"
    • [26:55] Advice for aspiring dreamers and future farmpreneurs
    • [28:34] Monetizing small farms: Cat's vision to help others grow income from their land
    • [30:01] Final words: "If you've got a dream, it's out there. Just go get it."

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Pick a big challenge. Do something scary. And make your own hero story."
    • "Be your kid's hero. Show them you can dream—and do."
    • "When you find something that creates joy inside you, other people will want to be a part of it."
    • "If you can make someone feel seen, you'll have a customer for life."
    • "Don't wait for perfect. Start with passion and figure it out from there."

    Takeaways:

    • Dreams don't have deadlines. You can start at 35—or anytime—with just a vision and courage.
    • Pivoting isn't failure—it's part of the journey.
    • Self-talk is powerful. Tell yourself you can do it—then prove it to yourself daily.
    • You don't need a million-dollar budget. You need determination, grit, and a reason.
    • Hospitality is a superpower. Make people feel seen, heard, and cared for—and they'll never forget you.

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: https://www.wyldstaygreenvillesc.com/ • Instagram: @wyldstay_gvl • Phone: 714-742-4748 • DM Cat for business, mindset, or farmpreneurship questions!

    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 sparked something in you! Tag your biggest takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer—and don't forget, the world always makes way for the dreamer.

    32 min
  • From Bath Time to Boss Moves: Erinn Loren's Journey with Doggo Den Grooming

    In this inspiring episode, host April Kemp sits down with Erinn Loren, the passionate and determined founder of Doggo Den Grooming in Williamsburg, Virginia. From working three jobs and bathing dogs at PetSmart to launching her own salon during the pandemic, Erinn's story is a masterclass in hustle, heart, and leadership.

    Now with a growing team, an expanded salon, and big dreams for industry education reform, Erinn shares how she built a thriving business from scratch—one paw at a time. Tune in for real talk on entrepreneurship, community service, and why every step (and snip!) matters when you're chasing a dream.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:25] How Erinn discovered her passion while juggling three jobs
    • [02:40] Opening her first 500 sq. ft. salon solo and expanding years later
    • [03:07] Starting her LLC and learning from local mentors and fellow groomers
    • [04:22] The importance of industry education and Erinn's pursuit of a Master Groomer certification
    • [05:34] Key milestone: hiring her first employee and building a team
    • [06:44] Community impact: monthly nail trim events and $20k+ in pet food donations
    • [08:37] How opening during the pandemic led to early success
    • [09:17] Using research and resilience to prove her business plan
    • [10:03] The moment she "made it": expanding into a double-size space in 2024
    • [11:26] Creating a safe, stress-free space for pets and employees
    • [12:16] Managing tough days and tough customers with self-talk and empathy
    • [13:35] Advice for dreamers: small steps every day lead to big success
    • [14:23] Erinn's favorite quote and the wisdom behind it
    • [15:10] Her husband's support and working together behind the scenes
    • [15:53] How to get started in grooming—and why continuing education matters
    • [18:13] Out-of-the-box growth through Instagram, education, and kindness
    • [19:53] What makes Doggo Den different—and the power of leading with trust

    Notable Quotes:

    • "If you haven't cried, your eyes can't be beautiful." – Sophia Loren (Erinn's favorite quote)
    • "Every day I had a little goal. And eventually, all the little goals reached the end game."
    • "This is my world. I set the standards here."
    • "I don't have to be at my salon every day to know it's going to be okay."

    Takeaways:

    • A dream doesn't require perfection—it requires passion, persistence, and progress.
    • Building a business is about relationships: with your team, your community, and your customers.
    • Leadership is creating an environment where others can thrive, even when you step away.
    • Giving back through your business not only helps others—it fuels your mission.
    • Little daily steps lead to big results. Your dream is built one move at a time.

    Connect with Guest:

    • Website: https://doggodengroom.wixsite.com/website • Instagram: @erinns_doggos • Facebook: Doggo Den Williamsburg • Phone: 757-920-6426

    Connect with Us:

    • Follow April Kemp 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.

    25 min
  • Stitching Joy: How Bonnie Burton Turned a Lifelong Passion into a Yarn-Filled Destination

    In this heartwarming and color-filled episode, host April Kemp welcomes Bonnie Burton, the creative mind behind Colorful Stitches Fine Yarn in Williamsburg, Virginia. Bonnie shares how a lifelong love for knitting blossomed into a full-scale business that's now a destination for artists, crafters, and curious visitors alike. From corporate America to handcrafted windows that spark community buzz, Bonnie's journey is a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and following your joy.

    Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a fiber art enthusiast, or someone looking for that extra spark to start your own dream, this episode is for you.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:24] How a three-dimensional knit window display drew a community's attention
    • [03:36] From a sickly childhood to a fiber-filled life—Bonnie's earliest memories of knitting
    • [04:56] Leaving corporate America to invest in something deeply personal and joyful
    • [06:18] The mental health and educational benefits of knitting and crochet
    • [08:36] Knitting as a learning tool—even used by a boys' swim team for focus
    • [10:16] Leveraging a retail career to build a unique customer experience
    • [13:02] Self-talk and remembering past triumphs when facing new business challenges
    • [14:14] The fear—and joy—of opening day and filling a brand new store
    • [17:33] Building a teaching and event program, including one-on-one beginner classes
    • [20:49] How Bonnie's grandmother—a pioneering journalist—shaped her courage
    • [22:45] Advice to young dreamers: believe in yourself, expect setbacks, and find your way
    • [24:33] "Bonnie-isms," lessons through humor, and the magic of making art accessible

    Notable Quotes:

    • "You can do this. You were shot from birth like an arrow, and you will keep going." – Bonnie, quoting her mother
    • "There's no knot in knit." – Bonnie Burton
    • "If you think of yourself as an artist, then you will be an artist."
    • "What you like to do usually can be successful for you."

    Takeaways:

    • Passion isn't just a hobby—it can become a lifelong career if nurtured with intention and courage.
    • Creating spaces where others can learn, laugh, and grow fosters true community.
    • Art and craft are not lesser skills—they build focus, confidence, and emotional resilience.
    • Sometimes your best teachers are not experts, but family members who model courage and creativity.
    • Don't wait for permission to call yourself an artist—start creating and owning it now.

    Connect with Guest: • Website: https://colorfulstitches.com/ • Instagram: @colorfulstitchesfineyarn • Email: [email protected]

    Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp 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!

    31 min
  • From Side Hustle to Sweet Success: The 30-Year Journey of Virginia's Finest Chocolates

    Episode Description: In this deliciously inspiring episode, host April Kemp sits down with Mary Griffith, founder of Virginia's Finest Chocolates. What started as a high school hobby turned into a decades-long dream—now a thriving business built on chocolate, creativity, and courage. Mary shares how she grew her company from student projects to corporate gifting power player, while also mentoring young dreamers, navigating COVID pivots, and never missing a chance to deliver sweetness in person.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering if they can build a business from scratch, follow a passion long-term, or turn a love for chocolate into a legacy.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:41] How a high school chocolate-making class sparked a business idea
    • [03:03] The link between sales, Girl Scouts, and personal empowerment
    • [04:22] Why chocolate is more than candy—it's a celebration
    • [06:26] Milestones: Self-funded beginnings, college mentors, and Rhodes Scholar teaching
    • [10:10] Building hustle from being the oldest sibling with big responsibilities
    • [13:05] The moment a professor called her "the face of her business"
    • [15:02] COVID as a business shutdown—and how care packages saved the day
    • [17:54] Self-talk for perfectionists: "Just do it."
    • [20:00] Taking the leap to full-time entrepreneurship when laid off
    • [26:00] Advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: explore, research, shadow, and pivot
    • [30:00] Thinking outside the box: Subscription chocolate, tastings, and educational pairings

    Notable Quotes:

    • "If you're not open as an entrepreneur, you're not going to get very far."
    • "You're going to be selling yourself if nothing else."
    • "You have to play your winners on the hard days."
    • "Risks don't always have to be something you're pushed into."
    • "Chocolate is my way of delivering joy—and showing up for people."

    Takeaways:

    • You don't need a loan to start a business—you need hustle and self-trust.
    • Being an introvert doesn't stop you from leading, mentoring, and growing boldly.
    • Pivots, like care packages and subscription boxes, can be lifelines during crises.
    • Investing in mentorship and continued learning fuels lasting success.
    • Delivering happiness (literally) can be the most rewarding part of entrepreneurship.

    Connect with Guest: • Website: https://www.chocolategifts.com/ • Instagram: @vachocolates

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

    34 min
  • A Mother-Daughter Dream Steeped in Tea: The Story of The Cheeky Teacup

    In this heartfelt Mother's Day special, April Kemp sits down with Valerie Fatemi, founder of The Cheeky Teacup, and her daughter Andy—her teen business partner and co-visionary. Born out of the pandemic and powered by love, logistics, and teacups, this mobile tea party business is taking Atlanta and beyond by storm. Hear how they turned vintage charm into entrepreneurial gold, what it's like building a legacy as a mother-daughter duo, and how resilience, military discipline, and youthful confidence brew the perfect blend of success.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • [01:39] The origin of The Cheeky Teacup during the pandemic
    • [03:52] Hosting a 228-person party and Gabriela's first solo event
    • [07:16] How Valerie's military and logistics background shaped the business
    • [11:12] The surreal moment of public recognition and pride in her daughter
    • [15:03] Financial hurdles and starting a business on a shoestring budget
    • [17:07] Battling imposter syndrome and finding pride in their work
    • [19:11] Valerie's favorite quote from Afghanistan: "A lazy man works twice as hard"
    • [20:48] Emotional reflection on building something magical with her daughter
    • [23:51] Valerie's tips for setting up a beautiful tea party
    • [26:40] Advice to young women: "If there's a will, there's a way"
    • [28:15] Thinking outside the box with teacup repurposing and mobile setups
    • [30:28] Encouragement to moms: equip your daughters with confidence and skills

    Andy joins the conversation:

    • [34:53] Starting at age 12 and what she's learned about work ethic
    • [37:05] Business as a tool for bonding and growth between mothers and daughters
    • [38:45] Her "I got this" moment at a solo event
    • [40:35] Growing from "money mindset" to pride in productivity
    • [41:37] Staying motivated with humor and perspective
    • [42:00] Favorite party: the very first one
    • [43:28] Improvising through mishaps and learning on the job
    • [45:06] Encouragement to young people to try things hands-on
    • [47:14] Andy's advice to teens: have a "go-get-em" attitude
    • [48:19] Taking risks as a duo and leaping into growth

    Notable Quotes:

    • "A lazy man works twice as hard." – Valerie
    • "If there is a will, there is a way." – Valerie
    • "You have to make things happen for yourself." – Andy
    • "If you never take the risk, you'll never know what's out there." – Andy
    • "Your daughters are going to leave someday—send them out into the world prepared and passionate." – Valerie

    Takeaways:

    • You don't need a traditional background to build a dream—passion and discipline are powerful ingredients.
    • Entrepreneurship can be a tool for stronger family bonds, especially with intentional mentorship.
    • Resourcefulness, creativity, and grit can transform a simple idea into a sustainable, recognized brand.
    • Starting young builds confidence, leadership, and real-world experience that shapes future paths.
    • Encouraging children with real responsibilities can inspire independence and excellence.

    Connect with Guest: • Website: https://thecheekyteacup.com/ • Instagram: @thecheekyteacup • 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!

    51 min
  • Building Dreams, Changing Lives: Nori Horton and the Power of Paying It Forward

    In this heartfelt and powerful episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Nori Horton, an attorney and the board president of the Women's Economic Development Council Foundation in Huntsville, Alabama. From a pivotal moment in 10th grade that sparked her dream of becoming an attorney to her inspiring leadership in providing mentorship and financial support to women scholars, Nori's story is one of perseverance, purpose, and paying it forward. With wisdom, vulnerability, and grit, she shares the challenges of overcoming imposter syndrome, the power of mentorship, and the importance of creating opportunity for women from all walks of life.

    Key Discussion Points:

    · (01:44) A high school teacher plants the seed that changes everything

    · (02:36) How one person's belief sparked Nori's internal drive to pursue law

    · (03:38) Growing up as a "different" voice in the South and developing a strong sense of justice

    · (05:07) Struggling through law school and learning to take it one day at a time

    · (07:10) Self-talk strategies and gratitude practices that helped her push forward

    · (08:38) Overcoming imposter syndrome and learning to believe she belonged

    · (10:22) Graduation day reflections and how perspective deepens pride over time

    · (11:57) A mother's support that made all the difference during a low point

    · (14:14) Advice for young women dreamers—especially those on non-traditional paths

    · (16:37) The value of mentorship and finding the right voices to believe in you

    · (21:36) The mission and reach of the Women's Economic Development Council Foundation

    · (23:55) Nori's goal: Raising $1 million for the WEDC Foundation's endowment

    · (25:56) Real stories of impact—from emergency housing support to empowering adult scholars

    · (28:33) The Foundation's development workshops: career prep, self-care, and etiquette

    · (31:24) Why Nori does this: a tribute to her own mother and a passion to support women like her

    Notable Quotes:

    · "You just need one person to believe in you." – Nori Horton

    · "Sometimes in life, you just have to put one foot in front of the other." – Nori Horton

    · "My biggest obstacle was believing I was worthy and that I belonged." – Nori Horton

    · "Ask for what you want. It doesn't cost anything to make a connection." – Nori Horton

    · "I'm doing this for my mom. She would've benefited from a program like this." – Nori Horton

    · "The world always makes way for the dreamer." – April Kemp

    ·

    Takeaways:

    · A single moment of encouragement can change someone's life trajectory.

    · Imposter syndrome is real, but it can be overcome with perseverance and self-belief.

    · Mentorship and connection are essential tools for women pursuing big dreams.

    · The WEDC Foundation is changing lives through financial support, mentorship, and development.

    · Giving back is one of the most powerful ways to honor those who helped shape your journey.

    Connect with Nori Horton & the WEDC Foundation:

    · Website: https://www.wedcfoundation.org/

    Connect with Us:

    · Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher

    · Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/

    · Contact 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!

    35 min
  • Taking the Leap of Faith: Dr. Jade Ranger's Prescription for Success

    On this empowering episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Dr. Jade Ranger, pharmacist and owner of The Prescription Shoppe in Williamsburg, VA. Jade shares her inspiring journey from being inspired by a community pharmacist as a teenager to opening her own pharmacy alongside her husband, Henry. Jade emphasizes the importance of faith, community impact, and believing in yourself even when facing uncertainty. Her heartfelt insights highlight how dreaming big, planning intentionally, and taking courageous leaps can lead to remarkable outcomes.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • 01:26 – Jade's early inspiration and decision to become a pharmacist.
    • 02:58 – Education and impactful experiences at Hampton University's School of Pharmacy.
    • 04:36 – The unexpected idea of entrepreneurship and how The Prescription Shoppe began.
    • 06:52 – Personal growth experienced from pursuing her dream and taking significant risks.
    • 08:49 – Overcoming major challenges in pharmacy industry operations and advocacy.
    • 10:00 – The defining moment when Jade knew her entrepreneurial dream was real.
    • 12:01 – Importance of positive self-talk and the inspiration behind her book, Mustard Seed Mentality.
    • 14:36 – Reflections on opening day and managing expectations, excitement, and fear.
    • 16:19 – Adjustments and community contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • 17:40 – Expressing gratitude to influential supporters including family and faith community.
    • 19:05 – Valuable advice to young dreamers on intentional living, financial responsibility, and mindful social media use.
    • 23:34 – Growth in personal confidence from the start of her journey to now.

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Dreams can't happen until they're put out into the world." – Dr. Jade Ranger
    • "You can't be afraid to try. Life is short. We only have this one shot at it. So take it." – Dr. Jade Ranger
    • "Faith without work is dead. It's not just having the idea—it's also putting in the work." – Dr. Jade Ranger
    • "We can all straighten each other's crowns. You don't have to compete with another woman to shine." – Dr. Jade Ranger

    Takeaways:

    • Courageously embracing uncertainty can lead to incredible opportunities.
    • Faith and spirituality can significantly strengthen your journey toward success.
    • Intentionality and responsibility in decision-making are crucial for long-term success.
    • Authenticity, positivity, and genuine community engagement are keys to sustainable business growth.
    • Empowering others helps everyone rise together.

    Connect with Guest:

    • Jade's Instagram: @mustard_seed_mentality
    • The RX Shoppe Instagram: @therxshoppeva
    • Website: www.tpsva.com

    Connect with Us:

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

    26 min

About Fanatical DreamHer

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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…