The Bread Winner Podcast

Welcome to The Bread Winner Podcast, the show for microbakery owners who want to create a successful microbakery without spending every waking minute in the kitchen. I'm Caroline Bower, and I bake over 100 loaves a week from my home while still getting 8 hours of sleep and having time to be fully present in the important moments with my family. If you're looking to build a thriving sourdough business from your home, you're in the right place. Every Thursday, I'll be sharing new episodes packed with practical advice on everything from marketing and sales to process optimization and real-life strategies to maintain a healthy, intentional lifestyle. We'll dive into how to get started, attract (and keep) your first raving customers, plan your ideal week, scale your operations, and price your products. Plus, we'll occasionally have some fantastic guests who are experts in the sourdough world. This podcast is all about giving you the tools and confidence to cultivate business that fits into your life, not the other way around. So, hit that subscribe button, do your next round of coil folds then grab a cup of coffee and get comfy for the next 20 minutes. Let's start building your dream microbakery together!

104. How to Prepare for a Profitable and Burnout-Free Q4 in Your Microbakery

Join the Holiday Accelerator HERE! http://www.carolinebower.com/holidayacceleratorThis time of year can get overwhelming fast—but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, I’m sharing the mindset shifts and simple strategies I’m using right now to set up a strong and sustainable Q4 in my sourdough microbakery. Whether you’re prepping for pop-ups, markets, or pre-orders, I walk you through how to say “yes” like a CEO, protect your energy, and plan ahead so the holidays feel fulfilling instead of frantic.From early ingredient prep and freezer stocking to menu planning and creating white space in your calendar, I’m giving you a peek behind the curtain of how I’m approaching this busy season differently. You’ll also hear about the upcoming Holiday Accelerator—a live virtual planning event designed to help you reset, regroup, and walk into November and December with confidence. If you want to hit your goals without burning out, this episode is for you.Resources: Grab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

10-09
26:04

103. September Microbakery Recap: Behind the Numbers and the Lessons Learned

This month-in-review is a real behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep a sourdough microbakery going strong through a full season of life. Between homeschooling, baking at home, prepping for a brick-and-mortar space, and managing two markets plus a popup and a workshop, it’s been a big month. I’m breaking down exactly where my revenue came from, what worked well, and what I’d do differently. I’ll also share why adding one simple new revenue stream made such a difference — and how you can do the same, even as a home baker.I’m also getting real about where I hit capacity. From trying to do everything myself (again) to learning the hard way that help makes a huge difference, I’m pulling back the curtain on both the numbers and the realities behind them. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the thick of it, this episode will help you reflect on your own business rhythms, consider new ways to simplify or expand, and hopefully walk away with a few ideas you can put into action this week.Resources: Grab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

10-02
25:24

102. How to Recognize and Prevent Burnout in Your Microbakery Business

I’m pulling back the curtain today for a very real and honest conversation about burnout. In this season of my life and business, I’ve been stretched thin and I can feel the warning signs creeping in—low energy, decision fatigue, and losing joy in the very things that once excited me. Instead of muscling through, I’ve been practicing what I teach: slowing down, setting boundaries, and building systems that protect my time, my family, and my love for baking. In this episode, I’m sharing what that looks like for me right now and why it matters for the longevity of your microbakery too.This isn’t just theory—it’s practical, actionable advice from someone walking through it in real time. I’ll guide you through a simple self-audit you can use to spot burnout early, protect your energy, and take small, doable steps to restore your joy before you hit the wall. If you’ve been feeling stretched, overwhelmed, or on the edge of burnout, this conversation will make you feel less alone and give you tangible ways to keep your business healthy, sustainable, and aligned with the life you want to live.Resources: Grab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

09-30
32:32

101. The Power of Scarcity in a Microbakery

This week I’m digging into a topic that has made a huge difference in how I run my bakery: scarcity. But not in a manipulative or high-pressure way—we’re talking about how to use natural limits to create more clarity, consistency, and ease in your microbakery. If you’ve ever sold out, scrambled to keep up with custom requests, or felt unsure about how to set boundaries, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical tips to help you take back control of your time and ordering process.I’ll walk you through what scarcity really looks like in a microbakery (hint: you already have it), the common mistakes I see bakers make, and exactly how to set clear limits in a way that serves both you and your customers. You'll hear how to gently teach your audience to order early, use strategic language to create urgency, and protect your energy while still showing up professionally. This is a must-listen if you’re ready to sell out with less stress and more confidence.Resources: Grab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

09-18
20:58

100. How to Pay Yourself $1K a Month From Your Micro Bakery (Part 2)

It’s hard to believe we’ve made it to episode 100 of the Bread Winner Podcast. What a journey it's been—over a year of showing up weekly to help you build a thriving sourdough microbakery that supports your life, your family, and your financial goals. I’m so thankful you’re here. In today’s episode, we’re diving into Part 2 of the strategy to pay yourself $1,000 per month from your bakery. This is a simple, scalable formula that works whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow toward a full-time income. If you missed Part 1 in episode 98, you’ll want to go back and listen to that one first—we laid the foundation by walking through product costs and pricing for profit.Now we’re moving into the practical and strategic steps to reverse-engineer your revenue goal. We’ll look at how to break your monthly target into weekly goals, map out your product mix, and use systems (like my profit and pricing calculator) to take the guesswork out of your numbers. I’ll also share how I plan for my own market weeks, how to use pricing data to create more freedom in your schedule, and how to ensure you’re not just baking more—but baking smarter. This strategy has been a game changer for me and so many others in the Bread Winner Inner Circle, and I can’t wait to see what it unlocks for you.Resources: Get the Profit First Book here: https://rivr.link/0bw-CgvrFX Grab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

09-11
22:02

99. August Microbakery Recap: Revenue, Top Sellers, Storefront Prep & What’s Next

In this episode, I’m bringing you behind the scenes of what August looked like in my microbakery—from market days to revenue breakdowns, product wins, flops, and everything in between. This is one of my favorite types of episodes to share because it gives me a chance to pause, reflect, and walk you through what worked, what didn’t, and what I’m learning as I move forward. I baked just twice this month by design to create a slower summer rhythm, and I’m sharing all the numbers—what I sold, how I sold it, and where the revenue came from.You’ll hear about shifting product strategies like minis and English muffins, process improvements (hello, English muffin rings), margin-challenging products like brownies, and how I’m gearing up to open my storefront with the support of my community. I’m also talking about the bottlenecks I’m facing, like packaging and capacity, and how I’m navigating this transition from home-based baking to a commercial kitchen. Whether you’re baking full-time or part-time, from home or looking to scale, my hope is that this episode gives you practical insights, encouragement, and a reminder that your bakery is part of something really important.Resources: Join the Strategy Session Waitlist: Spots are limited, but if you want my eyes on your business and a personalized action plan, join the waitlist here. http://carolinebower.com/strategysessionwaitlistGrab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

09-05
28:58

98. (Part 1 of 2) How to Pay Yourself $1,000/Month from Your Microbakery

This episode has been on my heart (and in my notes) for a long time, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I actually make money doing this?”, you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into the practical, number-based strategy to start paying yourself $1,000 a month from your sourdough microbakery. Whether you’re in the early stages of your business or looking to tighten up your pricing and margins, this conversation is packed with tangible steps to help you take real ownership of your numbers and shift your business toward long-term profitability.We talk about what it really means to understand your costs: every ingredient, every gram, and how to use that info to price your products in a way that supports your goals. You’ll learn how to calculate cost per loaf, profit margins, and how to avoid the most common pricing traps bakers fall into. I’m also sharing some real-life examples from my own menu (and the flops that taught me the most). This is part one of a two-part episode that lays the groundwork for creating a plan that not only feeds your community—but actually pays you too.Resources: Join the Strategy Session Waitlist: Spots are limited, but if you want my eyes on your business and a personalized action plan, join the waitlist here. http://carolinebower.com/strategysessionwaitlistGrab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

08-28
27:23

97. When a good baker has a bad bake day. What to do as a sourdough microbakery owner

Bad bake days happen to all of us—yes, even the most seasoned sourdough bakers. In this episode, I’m opening up about what to do when a bake flops, whether it’s burned loaves, flat cookies, or an entire batch of focaccia tossed in the trash (been there!). I’m walking you through how I process those days, reframe my mindset, and figure out whether it was something in my control—or totally out of it. Because one bad day doesn’t define you, and it definitely doesn’t erase all the wins you’ve had along the way.I’m also sharing practical tools to help you move forward after things go sideways—how to troubleshoot, what questions to ask yourself, how to shift out of discouragement, and even how to prevent repeat mistakes in the future. This episode is for the baker who’s ever questioned if they’re really cut out for this (spoiler: you are). My hope is that you walk away with more confidence, more clarity, and a toolkit to carry you through the tough moments that come with running a sourdough microbakery.Resources: Join my email newsletter here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/newsletter Join the Inner Circle Waitlist here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/innercirclewaitlistJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

08-21
19:36

96. My Real-Life Morning & Evening Routine as a Microbakery Owner

In this episode, I’m diving into something that might seem simple on the surface but has made a huge impact in my life as a baker, business owner, and mom: morning and evening routines. I’m walking you through what our evenings and mornings actually look like in our house - yes, the real rhythms, the not-so-perfect parts, and the little tweaks we’ve made over time to feel more present, rested, and ready to take on the day. As microbakery owners, sleep and structure aren’t luxuries—they’re essentials—and when we start and end our days with intention, everything in between flows a whole lot smoother.You’ll hear about what works for our family, how I prep for bake days, the choices I make around sleep, and the tiny moments (like barefoot grounding and skincare) that make a surprising difference. My routines aren’t rigid—they’re flexible frameworks that support the life and business I want to build. I’m sharing it all so you can take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and build something that serves you. Whether you’re brand new to routines or just looking to refine yours, I hope this episode feels like a deep breath and a gentle nudge to create rhythms that truly support you.Resources: Join my email newsletter here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/newsletter Join the Inner Circle Waitlist here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/innercirclewaitlistJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

08-19
19:02

95. July in Review: Summer Slowdown on Purpose & HUGE News!

This month’s Bread Winner Podcast episode is one of my favorite types of episodes—the month in review. These monthly check-ins give me space to reflect on what went well, what didn’t, and where I want to go next in both my sourdough microbakery and life. July was intentionally lighter on the baking and heavier on family time, and honestly, it was just what I needed. I’m sharing how scaling back to two markets this month gave me the margin to be present with family, travel, and celebrate our anniversary—without guilt or burnout.But this episode isn’t just a personal update. I’m also bringing you behind the scenes on market performance, product tweaks (including a new way I tested English muffins), and the exciting, official announcement of my new bakery space. If you're dreaming of growing your own bakery or just need a dose of encouragement, this one’s for you.Resources: Join my email newsletter here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/newsletter Join the Inner Circle Waitlist here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/innercirclewaitlistJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

08-07
20:13

94. Test, Tweak, Repeat: A Smarter Way to Grow Your Sourdough Microbakery

In this episode of The Bread Winner Podcast, I’m diving into one of my favorite topics—how to improve your products without falling into the trap of perfectionism. If you’ve ever held back from launching something new because it didn’t feel “perfect,” or if you’ve caught yourself making endless tweaks after one single comment, this conversation is going to bring so much clarity (and relief). I share my simple “test, tweak, repeat” framework that helps you confidently improve your products while still moving forward in your sourdough microbakery business.You’ll hear how I collect honest feedback, what types of changes are actually worth making, and how to avoid overthinking every loaf or cookie that comes out of your oven. I also talk about how to stop second-guessing and start trusting your process—because consistency builds trust, and that’s what keeps customers coming back. Whether you’re testing new flavors or refining your existing staples, this episode will help you stay focused, strategic, and grounded in what’s really working.Resources: Join my email newsletter here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/newsletter Join the Inner Circle Waitlist here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/innercirclewaitlistJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

07-31
20:15

93. How to Create a Signature Product for Your Sourdough Microbakery

In this episode of The Bread Winner Podcast, we're diving into one of my favorite ways to bring clarity, ease, and identity to your sourdough microbakery—your signature product. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out in a crowded market, simplify your menu, or create momentum with your customers, this conversation is for you. I’m sharing what a signature product really is, why it matters more than you think, and how to either identify the one you already have—or create it from scratch in a way that aligns with your brand, your capacity, and your personal joy.We’ll walk through how to find your signature product using data, customer feedback, and your own preferences, and how to make it the anchor of your menu without getting bored. I’ll also talk about promoting your signature item in a way that builds buzz without burnout—and why it doesn’t have to be fancy or complex to be unforgettable. If you’ve ever struggled to decide what to focus on or want your bakery to feel more you, this episode will bring the clarity and inspiration you’ve been craving.Resources: Join my email newsletter here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/newsletter Join the Inner Circle Waitlist here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/innercirclewaitlistJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

07-24
19:03

92. How to Decide If Organic Ingredients Are Right for Your Sourdough Microbakery

In this episode of The Bread Winner Podcast, we're digging into one of those questions that comes up so often for sourdough bakers: Should you use organic ingredients? I know it can feel overwhelming, so today I'm breaking it down in an honest, practical way. We’ll talk about why this question matters, how to clarify your own values, and how to make sourcing decisions that truly fit your bakery right now.I’ll also share tips on prioritizing high-impact swaps (like flour and dairy), weighing your profit margins, and communicating your choices clearly with customers. Your ingredient sourcing is part of your brand story, and you have permission to let it evolve as your business grows. If you want to be real and intentional while building trust with your customers, this episode is for you.Join the Inner Circle Waitlist here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/innercirclewaitlistJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

07-17
22:03

91. 4 Ways to Turn Pickup Day Into a Marketing Opportunity for your Sourdough Microbakery

Have you ever thought about how your pickup experience shapes your customers’ perception of your bakery? In this episode, I’m walking you through why your pickup process matters just as much as your product—and how you can make small, thoughtful changes that turn casual buyers into loyal fans.Whether you're handing off sourdough from your front porch or your trunk, I’m sharing practical tips to help you streamline the logistics, eliminate confusion, and add those extra touches that leave your customers feeling seen and valued—without overwhelming yourself on bake day.Join the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

07-10
21:05

90. June in Review in my Sourdough Microbakery: Revenue Records and Strategic Takeaways

June was a big month around here—both in terms of revenue and lessons learned. With just three bake days, I broke my market sales record and tried out some key process changes, including switching all of my inclusion loaves to minis (spoiler: they flew off the table). I’m also giving you an honest look at the behind-the-scenes work that doesn’t always make it to Instagram—including what nearly pushed me to burnout.In this episode, I’m sharing what worked, what didn’t, and what I’m shifting as I head into July. Whether you're managing summer baking, adjusting your product lineup, or dreaming of your own storefront, you’ll walk away with practical insights to apply to your own bakery business.Links to things you might like! Find links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including the dough bins I mentioned, packaging, pans, and more in my Amazon Storefrom! www.carolinebower.com/amazonJoin The Bread Winner Inner Circle Waitlist: www.carolinebower.com/innercirclewaitlistDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! Follow me on Instagram (@carolinebower_sourdough) for more microbakery tips! https://www.instagram.com/carolinebower_sourdough

07-03
25:20

89. 5 Ways to Grow your Sourdough Microbakery Without Social Media

In this episode of The Bread Winner Podcast, I'm diving into five practical, low-pressure ways to grow your microbakery business—without relying on social media. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the scroll or unsure how to keep up with the algorithm game, this one's for you. I’ll walk you through strategies I’ve used in my own bakery to build a thriving, loyal customer base that doesn’t depend on likes, shares, or stories. Whether you still use social media occasionally or want to ditch it altogether, this episode will help you grow in a way that truly fits your life.Resources: Get 50% off of your first month of Project Broadcast: https://app.projectbroadcast.com/sign-up?referral=breadwinnerJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

06-26
22:19

88. How to Use SEO to Grow Your Sourdough Microbakery

If SEO makes your eyes glaze over, you're not alone. But here's the truth—if you're running a sourdough microbakery, especially from home, local SEO can be one of the simplest and most effective tools for helping your community find you. In this episode, I’m breaking it all down in a way that feels doable, not overwhelming. I'm sharing the exact steps I’ve researched and implemented to help make it easier for people searching phrases like “sourdough near me” or “local bread pickup” actually find your business—without needing a full website or hours of tech know-how.Together, we walk through six practical SEO strategies you can start using today, whether you're baking for porch pickup or prepping for a local market. From claiming your Google Business Profile to optimizing your Instagram bio with local keywords, these tips will help boost your visibility online and connect you with the people who are already searching for exactly what you offer. This episode is all about keeping things simple, clear, and sustainable—so you can keep growing without burning out.Resources: Join my email list here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/newsletterJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

06-19
15:43

87. Business Terms Every Microbakery Owner Should Know

In this episode of The Bread Winner Podcast, I’m breaking down the essential business terms that every sourdough microbakery owner should understand—without the confusing jargon. If you've ever felt overwhelmed hearing words like “gross revenue,” “margin,” or “cost of goods sold,” don’t worry—I’m walking you through each one, step by step, in plain language that makes sense for bakers like us. Whether you're just getting started or ready to grow, understanding these foundational numbers gives you the power to price confidently, plan for profit, and protect your energy as a business owner.I also share how I use these numbers in my own microbakery and introduce a tool I created to make it all easier: my Pricing & Profit Calculator. This tool is designed to help you understand your costs, set pricing that actually pays you, and plan your weekly sales to meet your income goals. If you’ve been winging your numbers or avoiding them altogether, this episode is a chance to take that next step toward building a thriving, sustainable business—one that's as smart as it is soulful.Resources: Get the pricing calculator here: https://carolinebower.thrivecart.com/pricingcalculator/Join the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

06-12
19:42

86. May Microbakery Recap: What Worked, What Shifted

May was one of those months that felt full—in a good way. Between markets, porch pickups, and the usual busyness of family life at the end of the school year, I still managed to keep my microbakery rhythm steady. In this episode, I walk you through exactly what worked, what shifted, and where I scaled back to create margin. From simplifying my product lineup to prepping freezer-friendly muffins ahead of time, I share the small decisions that helped me protect my time without sacrificing sales or burning out.I also take you behind the scenes with some new experiments, like blueberry English muffins and testing out my new dough sheeter for pop-tarts and pastries. Plus, I give you a little update on my brick-and-mortar journey, some early thoughts on crowdfunding, and how Texas’ cottage food law changes might open doors for partnerships with other home bakers. Whether you're in a season of steady growth or prepping for a shift in your business, this recap will give you plenty of practical ideas to simplify, streamline, and stay grounded.Resources: Join my email list here: https://carolinebower.myflodesk.com/newsletterJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

06-05
21:30

85. The 4 Things to Do Before Selling Your Sourdough Bread

🥖🏆 The Bread Winner Inner Circle is finally open for the next cohort! With just 30 spots, it'll fill fast! Click here for the details and to sign up! www.carolinebower.com/innercircle 🥖🏆 If you’re dreaming of turning your sourdough passion into a real business - or if you’ve already started and are feeling a bit in over your head - this episode is for you. I’m walking you through the four most important things to do before you begin selling your bread. These are the foundational pieces that can help you build a business that doesn’t just look good on Instagram but actually works for your real life. Whether you’re feeling the pressure to just “get started” or you’ve already jumped in and need to backtrack a bit, I’m here to help you lay the groundwork in a way that feels clear, doable, and sustainable.I share what I’ve learned the hard way—so you don’t have to. My hope is that this conversation gives you confidence, clarity, and a whole lot of encouragement as you move forward. You’ve got what it takes to do this well - and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.Resources: The Bread Winner Inner Circle is finally open for the next cohort! With just 30 spots, it'll fill fast! Click here for the details and to sign up! www.carolinebower.com/innercircleJoin the Bread Winner Network: www.carolinebower.com/bwnetworkFollow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdoughFind links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/linksDownload the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://www.carolinebower.com/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery! 

05-29
23:06

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