Turning Passion into a Thriving Business with Kimberly Boyd
Release Date: 02/24/2025
Fanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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,...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineFanatical DreamHer
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...
info_outlineIn this episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April Kemp sits down with Kimberly Boyd, the founder of Auntie Kim’s Poundcakes, to talk about her journey from baking in her grandmother’s kitchen to building a thriving bakery business. Kimberly shares how her passion for baking grew from a childhood tradition into a successful company, the pivotal moments that pushed her to turn her hobby into a business, and the importance of mentorship and perseverance. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion into a career, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart.
Key Discussion Points:
- (01:47) Kimberly’s first spark for baking and learning from her grandmother
- (04:50) How baking was a way of life in her family
- (08:40) Earning the trust of her mother-in-law as the new Thanksgiving baker
- (10:52) The moment she realized it was time to start a business
- (12:04) Launching Auntie Kim’s Poundcakes right before the pandemic and adapting to challenges
- (14:08) How entrepreneurship has changed her personally
- (16:51) Celebrating milestones, including five years in business
- (18:33) The importance of adaptability and seeking knowledge
- (21:58) The moment she knew she could make it happen – a 3,000-slice pound cake order!
- (23:50) How self-talk and believing in herself kept her going
- (26:21) The emotions of opening her brick-and-mortar bakery
- (30:12) Giving back: Mentoring young women in baking and business
- (32:17) The vital support of her husband and family
- (34:00) Advice for young dreamers: “Why not me?”
- (35:15) What Kimberly would tell her younger self about perfectionism
- (37:06) One tip for women dreaming of becoming bakers: Start!
- (39:07) The love and passion behind Auntie Kim’s Poundcakes and what makes them special
Notable Quotes:
- "I feel so fulfilled. There’s validation when you step outside of your own self-defeating thoughts." – Kimberly Boyd
- "Don't minimize yourself. There is a market for what you do." – Kimberly Boyd
- "Why not me?" – Kimberly Boyd
- "If God brought you here, He's not going to leave you." – Kimberly Boyd
Takeaways:
- Pursuing your passion can lead to unexpected and fulfilling success.
- Mentorship and seeking advice from others is crucial for growth.
- Confidence and self-belief can overcome doubt and imposter syndrome.
- A supportive community, including family and mentors, makes all the difference.
- Giving back and helping others is a powerful way to pay it forward.
Connect with Kimberly Boyd & Auntie Kim’s Poundcakes:
- Follow Kimberly on Instagram: [@auntiekimspoundcakes]
- Website: https://auntiekimspoundcakes.com/
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.