Ep. 102: Figuring out the WILDER and family-friendly way to host & start something from scratch

FULL SHOW NOTES & TAKEAWAYS 

Watch this conversation on YouTube here!

Hosting can feel overwhelming, especially as parents. Between toys on the floor, bedtime chaos, and “not enough” stories running in your head, it’s easy to put off bringing people together. But what if gathering could be simpler—and more meaningful?

In this episode, Emily Shimwell, founder of Dine Wilder, shares how she’s hosted over 540 guests at her immersive long-table dinners in just one year. We talk about connection over perfection, starting before you feel ready, and how to host in ways that feel simple, soulful, and fun.

In this episode, we cover:

• How Emily started Dine Wilder before she felt “ready”
• The small details that instantly elevate a table
• Hacks for hosting with kids around (without losing your mind)
• Why human connection—not the menu—is the real star of any gathering
• The story behind FEAST, her upcoming day of food and connection in Squamish

GET TICKETS TO ‘FEAST’

October 26, 2025 — @ The Cheakamus Centre in Squamish, BC

Use the exclusive listener code ‘AFO20’ for 20% off your ticket.

Related episodes:

Ep. 65: A (camp)fireside chat about community and self-care with Gillian Behnke – Spotify or Apple

Ep. 96: Feel better NOW and find joy in life's little pleasures with Catherine Roscoe Barr – Spotify or Apple

Ep. 34: Danielle Wiebe on figuring out how to enter the world of entrepreneurship and the power of community – Spotify or Apple

Ep. 91: Feeling off? Use this 8-part check-in to realign your life  – Spotify or Apple

About Emily Shimwell

Emily Shimwell is a Yorkshire-born storyteller, experience designer, and lifelong connector. She’s the founder of Dine Wilder and co-founder of Graze Wilder, ventures rooted in her love of beauty, community, and bringing people together.

In just one year, Emily has welcomed over 540 guests to her immersive dinner retreats, each crafted to leave women feeling seen, celebrated, and deeply connected. More than just table settings and candles, Emily’s work is about sparking genuine human connection that makes every gathering unforgettable.

Follow Emily on Instagram at @emily_wilder or @dine.wilder.

About Andrea Barr, host of All Figured Out

Andrea is a certified career and life coach for ambitious parents, and host of the All Figured Out podcast. She helps parents find clarity, confidence, and career-family alignment without burnout. Visit her website ⁠here⁠ and follow her on Instagram ⁠here⁠.