Celebrity Gourmet Podcast

Odette D’Aniello is the Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio, a family-owned and operated retail cake boutique. The company has received numerous awards, including winning Best of Western Washington several times. With experience in the food industry, business strategy sales, and marketing, Odette has obtained additional skills in product design and brand development, event management, and team building.  She is also the Owner of Dragonfly Cakes, the wholesale sister company to Celebrity Cake Studio, which designs, develops, and manufactures delicious handmade and clean-label petit fours, tea cakes, and mini desserts. Odette is involved in various other ventures, including being a US West Accelerator Expert for the Entrepreneurs’​ Organization, the Owner of True Nature Distribution LLC, and a Managing Partner for 26th St Holdings. In this episode… Entrepreneurship can be an art form that extends beyond personal gain, encompassing community, culture, and storytelling. Hear how one mother-daughter duo has crafted a legacy that transcends professional success.  Throughout the year, Odette and Milana D’Aniello attended prestigious food events, presenting their unique creations and exploring the latest culinary trends and innovations. These experiences fueled their passion and inspired new recipes that blend traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. Their culinary journey is about more than food — it’s a celebration of heritage, art, and the joy of creation. By connecting with their cultural roots and embracing the art of baking, Odette and Milana have crafted a distinctive identity that resonates with their audience, demonstrating how passion, innovation, and cultural appreciation can lead to remarkable achievements. Join Odette D’Aniello on today’s episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast as her daughter, Milana D’Aniello, Director of Marketing at Celebrity Gourmet Ventures, interviews her about their eventful year. Reflecting on their shared experiences, the mother-daughter duo explores a journey enriched by their Filipino heritage, love for cooking, and dedication to transforming their entrepreneurial ventures into a canvas of delectable experiences.

5/29/24 • 30:59

Nancy Becker and Bridget Greaney are the Co-founders and CEOs of 2Betties, a wellness company dedicated to crafting delicious and nutritious snacks. Their journey began when Bridget, a college student, created the product during breaks between classes after noticing a lack of nutritious snack options. The positive peer responses inspired Bridget, and her mother, Nancy, encouraged her to explore the idea as a business venture. Embracing the opportunity, Nancy eagerly joined forces with her daughter. Together, they are dedicated to providing nutritious and delicious snacks to promote healthier lifestyles for all. In this episode… Embarking on the journey of creating a brand involves more than just having a great idea; it requires careful planning, strategic execution, and a deep understanding of your target audience. How can founders navigate the process from ideation to execution? In their voyage to bring their product to market, brand owners Bridget Greaney and Nancy Becker gained an understanding of product development, leveraged co-packers, and specified their target customers. When developing your product, packaging and messaging are crucial in bringing your brand to life. Focus on creating products that address a specific need or solve a problem for your target market. As a small business, partnering with a co-packer can streamline production, giving you specialized manufacturing capabilities. It’s also essential to connect with your target audience. Bridget and Nancy recommend conducting market research by visiting various venues and offering products to pinpoint your ideal customer. By following these steps and staying true to your brand's vision and values, you can create a brand that resonates with your target audience and stands the test of time. In the most recent episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello welcomes mother-daughter duo Nancy Becker and Bridget Greaney, the Co-founders and CEOs of 2Betties, to discuss their journey of turning an idea into a thriving brand. They share the origins of 2Betties, elaborate on their strategies for identifying their brand’s target customers, and discuss their unique experiences as business partners.

3/6/24 • 38:11

Lucy Damkoehler is the Founder and Owner of Sweet Lucy's Bake Shop in Bernardston, Massachusetts. Lucy’s journey began at age 16 when she worked at a local bakery, sparking her love for the culinary arts. Pursuing her passion further, Lucy enrolled in the New England Culinary School in Vermont, where she honed her skills. Following her education, she worked at esteemed establishments like Gramercy Tavern in New York and various restaurants and bakeries across Europe and Hawaii. After refining her pastry expertise, Lucy settled in Seattle, where she gained recognition as one of the region's top pastry chefs. In 2018, she returned to her hometown to fulfill her dream of opening Sweet Lucy's Bake Shop, bringing her wealth of experience and dedication to creating delectable treats for her community. In this episode… Embarking on the journey of entrepreneurship in the baking industry requires a passion for pastries and a keen understanding of the culinary landscape. How can aspiring bakery owners pave their path to success in the industry? As a baking entrepreneur, Lucy Damkoehler’s journey is a beacon of inspiration and practical wisdom. One key takeaway from her experience is the importance of diversifying culinary skills. Even when specializing in baking, Lucy emphasizes the value of honing all culinary talents, from pastries to savory dishes. Transitioning from an employee to an employer is a significant milestone in one’s journey. You can expect to manage day-to-day operations, oversee production, and lead a team. Although it’s challenging, Lucy underscores perseverance and creativity in pursuing bakery entrepreneurship. By embracing these principles, aspiring bakers can become renowned professionals in the industry.  In the latest episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello engages in a candid conversation with Lucy Damkoehler, the Founder and Owner of Sweet Lucy’s Bake Shop. Lucy shares her journey from culinary school to chef, culminating in the realization of her dream as a bakery owner. Throughout the discussion, Lucy emphasizes the importance of honing varied culinary skills and leveraging assorted experiences to thrive as an entrepreneur.

2/21/24 • 34:21

Molly Ott is the Owner of Corina Bakery, an award-winning establishment nestled in the heart of Tacoma. With a passion for culinary arts and a keen eye for creating delightful confections, Molly has transformed Corina Bakery into a beloved local gem. Boasting a diverse array of delectable treats from artisanal cakes to freshly baked pastries, Molly's commitment to quality and creativity shines through in every delectable bite. Her reputation for fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere has made Corina Bakery a go-to destination for those seeking a delightful blend of taste and community. In this episode… In entrepreneurship, the journey from modest beginnings to significant achievements often involves confronting many challenges that put one's resilience and determination to the test. How does a business owner emerge stronger after weathering such difficulties? Business leader and baking entrepreneur Molly Ott’s experiences are a testament to personal success and satisfaction. Despite facing numerous obstacles along the way, Molly's bakery has survived and thrived under her guidance. She attributes her bakery's success to a combination of adaptability, perseverance, and a willingness to confront failure head-on. From financial setbacks to operational hurdles, she’s learned valuable lessons. According to Molly, success is not just about overcoming challenges but embracing them as opportunities for growth. With determination and a commitment to learning from successes and setbacks, she believes aspiring entrepreneurs can transform their dreams into reality. On the latest episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, host Odette D’Aniello sits down with Molly Ott, the Owner of Corina Bakery, for an insightful conversation. Molly shares her entrepreneurial journey, tracing the evolution of Corina Bakery from its modest origins to its current success. She offers valuable insights gleaned from the challenges she's encountered as a business owner, providing listeners with a candid look into the realities of entrepreneurship.

2/7/24 • 29:01

Stephanie Kriebel is the Co-founder and CEO of OMG! Pretzels, a family-owned company making bite-sized sourdough pretzel snacks. The brand concept originated as an after-school snack her mother prepared for her and her siblings while growing up in Pennsylvania.  Before founding her company, Stephanie was an award-winning educator and program developer. As a certified health education specialist, she specialized in immigrant integration to enhance health, workforce development, and racial equity. In this episode… Scaling a baking business from a concept to an established CPG brand involves expanding operations to boost production and reach a larger customer base. What processes should you implement to grow your business? As a baker, one method to consider is partnering with a co-packer. Short for a contract packer or manufacturer, a co-packer is a business specializing in manufacturing and packaging products on behalf of other companies. For food and CPG brands, a co-packer provides upgraded facilities, equipment, and expertise to handle the manufacturing and packaging process. While the process relieves bakery owners of exhaustive responsibilities, baking entrepreneur Stephanie Kriebel explains it can be a daunting experience. Having onboarded a few co-packers, Stephanie advocates for building relationships and maintaining transparent communication. Join Odette D’Aniello in today’s episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast as she interviews Stephanie Kriebel, the Co-founder and CEO of OMG! Pretzels, about scaling a business into a national CPG brand. Stephanie gives an overview of her company, shares tips for finding a reliable co-packer, and encourages entrepreneurs to indulge in self-care.

1/10/24 • 32:25

Brittany Despi is the Co-owner of Despi Delite Bakery, which specializes in Filipino cakes and pastries. Brittany and her brother inherited the family-owned business from their parents, who share a baking legacy that originated in the Philippines. Located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Seattle, Delite Bakery has been serving up traditional Filipino flavors, including purple ube, for over two decades. In this episode… Succession can be challenging for small, family-owned bakeries, as parents may be reluctant to relinquish ownership and knowledge to the next generation. This can make the transition from the parents to the children difficult. What are some strategies for a respectful and painless exchange of ownership? Multi-generational bakery owner Brittany Despi affirms that the older generation should teach the younger generation all aspects of the business when they’re first hired. This includes teaching them the basics, like baking and decorating, and the specifics like the business model and leadership skills. When parents surrender the reins to their children, it’s vital for everyone to be communicative and receptive to feedback, as the change can be intimidating. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello chats with Brittany Despi, Co-owner of Despi Delite Bakery, about succeeding a family-owned business. Brittany shares her memories of growing up in the baking business, Despi Delite Bakery’s history in the Seattle-Filipino community, and the essentialness of creating a work-life balance.

12/20/23 • 32:10

Sophie Evanoff is the Owner and Operator of Vanille Patisserie, a French-inspired patisserie specializing in French macarons, pastries, and cakes. She has been an innovator in the pastry world since 2011, when she acquired the company from her pastry school instructor. Since then, Sophie has successfully run multiple locations in Chicago. In 2016, she was the first female recipient of the James Tyree Emerging Business Leadership Award. As a recognized thought leader in pastry arts, Sophie has spoken and served as a panelist at several events, including the Sharing Success: Women in Business Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce panel and networking breakfast and the Wintrust Women’s History Month event. In this episode… Entrepreneurs are often expected to grow and scale their businesses as quickly as possible. However, this isn’t always realistic and can lead to potential challenges. Rather, the characteristics of success vary between entrepreneurs.  Baking entrepreneur Sophie Evanoff has noticed that many industry conferences often focus on funding and scaling. However, expanding too quickly can be detrimental to a company's survival. As an owner and operator, it can be challenging to manage several locations, as issues such as in-house theft, early closures, staffing concerns, and poor service quality can arise. Although it appears that more stores would generate more revenue, mediocre service is costly and may cause a business to lose money. Bakery owners like Sophie prefer to operate on a smaller scale to have more control over their business. Additionally, small-scale bakers strive to be their own bosses and work in an industry they’re passionate about.  On today’s episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello welcomes Sophie Evanoff, Owner and Operator of Vanille Patisserie, for an intimate conversation about entrepreneurship. Sophie talks about pivoting during the pandemic, the importance of giving back to the community, the challenges of scaling too quickly, and why resetting as a business owner is essential.

12/13/23 • 33:36

Melanie Daniels is the Owner of Mickey’s Pastry Shop, a bakery located in Goldsboro, NC, serving various baked goods, including pies, cakes, cinnamon rolls, muffins, and more. Melanie is America’s first third-generation certified master baker and one of only 250 in the country. Her paternal grandfather Mickey purchased the pastry shop over 75 years ago. She continues his legacy by using the same recipes, including his legendary “long john,” served throughout five Eastern North Carolina counties. In this episode… Have you considered becoming a Certified Master Baker? Achieving this designation is a testament to one's baking skills and prepares them to own and operate a bakery. So what does it take to achieve this distinctive certification? Master bakers are seasoned baking professionals who can create superior baked goods and run a full-line independent or in-store bakery. They have been educated in culinary arts, sanitation principles, management, and retail sales. However, before you can call yourself a Certified Master Baker, you must acquire the necessary training and work experience to be certified by the Retail Bakers of America, a non-profit trade association. Master baker and bakery owner Melanie Daniels explains that you must also possess at least eight years of verifiable experience in a baking facility before applying for the certification. Once you’ve acquired the necessary education, you must take two tests, including a proctored and practical exam performed before judges. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello chats with Melanie Daniels, Owner of Mickey’s Pastry Shop, about her experience as a third-generation bakery owner. Melanie discusses the history of Mickey’s, how to qualify for the master baker certification, and tips for owning and operating a business.

12/6/23 • 37:19

Odette D’Aniello is the Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio, a family-owned and operated retail cake boutique. The company has received numerous awards, including winning Best of Western Washington several times. With experience in the food industry, business strategy sales, and marketing, Odette has obtained additional skills in product design and brand development, event management, and team building.  She is also the Owner of Dragonfly Cakes, the wholesale sister company to Celebrity Cake Studio, designing, developing, and manufacturing delicious handmade and clean-label petit fours, tea cakes, and mini desserts. Odette is involved in various other ventures, including being a US West Accelerator Expert for the Entrepreneurs’​ Organization, the Owner of True Nature Distribution LLC, and a Managing Partner for 26th St Holdings. In this episode… Odette D'Aniello has owned Celebrity Cake Studio for nearly 25 years. Although she’s experienced much success as a baking entrepreneur, including receiving several awards, Odette's journey began with humble beginnings. So how did an immigrant from the Philippines overcome adversity to own one of Tacoma's most revered bake shops? Odette’s career in the baking industry began at age 10 when she worked at her uncle’s bakery in Guam. Witnessing her family’s financial struggles and growing up underprivileged, her experience in baking wasn’t pleasant. Odette vowed never to work in the industry again and left at 18 to pursue a degree from the University of Arizona. When she couldn’t obtain a teaching job after graduation, Odette returned to her culinary roots and founded Celebrity Cake Studio in Tacoma after a brief stint as a cafe owner. Odette reveals that she manifested a better life by creating a vision board and having ambitious dreams. She also shares that earning a degree empowered her to believe she could live a bountiful life. Join Odette D’Aniello on today’s The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast as her daughter Milana D’Aniello, Director of Marketing at Celebrity Gourmet Ventures, interviews her about their family’s baking legacy. In this inspiring conversation, Odette reflects on emigrating from the Philippines to Guam at age 10, overcoming adversity to become a successful baking entrepreneur, and the origin of Celebrity Cake Studio. Plus, Odette and Milana announce their latest business venture.

11/29/23 • 39:20

Brooks Nguyen is the Director of Operations at The Food Connector, a B2B marketing specialty provider for the food industry, helping generate leads, sell products, and scale brands. As a 20-plus-year veteran in food service, she has created strategies to define operational goals, maximize profit, and support management. Brooks began her pastry career at the Culinary Institute of America in California and has worked across various verticals in the industry, including restaurants, bakeries, distribution and manufacturer sales, and consulting food startups. She also founded Dragonfly Cakes, a mail-order cake company that she exited and sold after 12 years. In this episode… Many bakers start their businesses to pursue their passion for the craft and creative freedom. However, women in the industry face challenges they don’t always discuss. Learn firsthand about one woman’s inspiring journey through the craft. Brooks Nguyen had always dreamed of becoming a pastry chef. After graduating from a prestigious culinary school, she capitalized on an opportunity to purchase and operate a baking company. Brooks designed her business model to create a work-life balance. However, she notes that many women have multiple roles to fill in their personal lives, like caring for their children and elderly parents. As entrepreneurs fulfilling versatile roles, can women create balanced lives? Join Odette D’Aniello on the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast as she interviews Brooks Nguyen, Director of Operations at The Food Connector, who shares the obstacles associated with being a woman entrepreneur. Brooks reflects on her journey into foodservice, rebranding an existing business, and operating a bakery in a post-COVID food industry.

11/22/23 • 36:04

Phebe Rossi is the Founder and CEO of Nuflours, Seattle’s premier gluten-free bakery serving various baked goods, including cakes, donuts, tiramisu, and quiche. Through Phebe’s strategic vision, Nuflours grew from a single brick-and-mortar location to a West Coast baking brand with an online presence and wholesale division. Phebe and Nuflours are dedicated to supporting women and minorities professionally and in leadership, with 90% of Nuflours’ workforce comprising women, LGBTQ individuals, or people of color. In this episode… When starting a business, expenditures are inevitable and may dampen a new business owner’s enthusiasm. How can baking entrepreneurs save on overhead in the beginning? One option to reduce startup costs is to secure space at a farmers market. These local stands allow bakers to test the market, raise brand awareness, build a community, and grow a customer base. Bakery owner Phebe Rossi also explains that bakers can share kitchen space with other vendors. Once scaling becomes a priority and you’re ready to transition into retail locations, you should consider outsourcing a co-packer or co-manufacturer. Both alleviate the stress associated with production. Additionally, co-mans and co-packers are cost-effective, lessen the need for additional labor, and have higher-quality tools to generate superior products. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello welcomes Phebe Rossi, Founder and CEO of Nuflours, for an informative conversation about starting a baking business. Phebe shares her inspiration for opening a gluten-free bakery, how to source co-manufacturers and co-packers, and funding options to help with startup costs.

11/15/23 • 33:29

Shahira Marei is the Founder and CEO of The Dirty Cookie, a gourmet dessert company renowned for its one-of-a-kind cookie shot glasses. The concept was inspired by Shahira's favorite dessert — cookies and milk. Having worked as a project manager at Boeing, she admits she is not the Betty Crocker type. After witnessing poverty during a trip to her native Egypt, her father's words inspired her to create Shot for Education, a program supporting education-focused nonprofits by providing resources, tools, and access to education for children in underserved communities.  In 2021, Shahira opened the first international franchise in Egypt. Since its inception, The Dirty Cookie has been featured on the Today Show, Good Morning America, Shark Tank, the Food Network, and the Cooking Channel and recognized by Forbes as one of the Next 1000. In this episode… Have you always dreamed of owning a business? Entrepreneurship offers many fulfilling paths, including the freedom to set your hours, build your passions, and leave a legacy. However, operating a successful business involves many components.  A sound business concept and effective execution are known fundamentals for business success. In addition, a company’s success relies on having loyal and repeat customers. Innovative entrepreneur Shahira Marei explains that partnering with celebrities and influencers has raised brand awareness for her business. Celebrity and influencer partnerships are effective strategies because customers often seek detailed product information from celebrity and influencer opinions. As such, celebrity and influencer platforms reach a wider audience. Efficiency and reliability are also essential for product management and building employee relationships in a business. Shahira discusses how using a co-packer is an option entrepreneurs can utilize to manufacture products quicker, reduce costs, and increase scalability. In addition, employees who are versatile in skill and passionate about their work maximize productivity, enhance customer satisfaction, and contribute to business growth.  In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, host Odette D’Aniello welcomes Shahira Marei, Founder and CEO of The Dirty Cookie, for an informative conversation about entrepreneurship. Shahira shares the inspiration behind The Dirty Cookie, explains the role of a co-packer, and discusses her experience on Shark Tank.

11/8/23 • 34:08

Laura Briscoe is the Founder and CEO of Laura’s Gourmet, an all-natural, artisanal, and gluten-free granola brand. With over 18 years of experience in hospitality, private dining, and specialty food development, she is also a culinary instructor, mentor, and public speaker. A thought leader in the culinary industry, Laura’s a regular contributor at ABC15’s Sonoran Living. She’s also been featured in Shape Magazine, Fitness Magazine, In Business Magazine, Business Journal, and Gannett Publications. In this episode… Have you created a recipe you want to share with the world? Many commercialized food products result from a happy accident, but what was the process for conceptualization to market? Chef and business owner Laura Briscoe advises food entrepreneurs to focus on passing the food trifecta test: taste, texture, and mouthfeel. She explains no one will want to eat a product with an unappetizing texture. Once a product is ready to launch, Laura recommends visiting stores, sending samples to their headquarters, and partnering with vendors who support local entrepreneurs to get your product onto shelves. Entrepreneurs should also consider bootstrapping their businesses and enlisting the help of friends and family to assist with packaging. Being a CPG entrepreneur can be challenging, but Laura encourages aspiring business owners to ask for help and find a mentor who can offer guidance, keep them on track, and hold them accountable. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast with Odette D’Aniello, Laura Briscoe, Founder and CEO of Laura’s Gourmet, shares her entrepreneurial journey. Laura explains the process of conceptualizing an idea to market launch, funding a startup through bootstrapping, and transitioning from direct sales to product distribution.

10/25/23 • 45:15

Amie Smith is the Founder and Owner of AMIE Bakery, a Cape Cod-based bakery offering baked goods and a full breakfast, lunch, and bar menu. Her love for baking began as a child, making cookies with her father — also a baker. Amie enrolled at the Culinary Institute of Education in New York after working for over two decades as a corporate marketing writer. Among multiple awards and accolades, Pastry Arts Magazine, Cape Cod Home, NBC10, and the Growth Lab Podcast, among others, have recognized Amie and her bakery. In this episode… Eateries are popular attractions in tourist locations. However, in regions where tourism is seasonal, this can hurt a small business' bottom line. What can businesses do to stay afloat? Entrepreneur Amie Smith recommends business owners always plan for slow months by reserving funds. Creating business opportunities to serve customers and the community, such as offering cooking classes, is also beneficial. Amie advocates providing quality food, such as cooking and baking from scratch, and having staple items and food specials on the menu to ensure customers return. She also proposes themed events like tapas nights and wine and bourbon tastings to create community. Additionally, Amie stresses the importance of continuous education for chefs. Take in-class and online cooking classes, research, and read to stay on top of trends. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast with Odette D’Aniello, Amie Smith, Founder and Owner of AMIE Bakery, discusses successfully operating a small business. Amie shares her strategies for maintaining business in a seasonal tourist location, retaining customers, and the importance of continuous education.

10/18/23 • 33:32

May Ee Fong is the Founder and CEO of Bob the Baker Boy, a Singapore luxury cake brand creating custom cakes for special occasions. Although May Ee Fong isn’t a classically trained pastry chef, she leveraged YouTube to master the art of cake baking. Her humble beginnings as a one-person home baker evolved into one of the most revered bakeries in Singapore. Today, Bob the Baker Boy is a multimillion-dollar company that produces cakes for major global brands. Beyond managing her cake shop, May Ee Fong is an active member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization Singapore. In this episode… Turning a passion into a business and working from home saves on overhead. But what happens when your business grows, and you need to expand? Baker and entrepreneur May Ee Fong advises reinvesting earnings into renting a commercial space but suggests starting small and practical to ensure affordable costs. She also recommends hiring additional help so the business owner can focus on business growth. Part of scaling a business includes working on brand strategy. Leveraging social media by creating engaging educational content such as cake design, batter color mixing, and following the latest trends is a strategic business marketing approach. A support system also alleviates the stressors that accompany being a business owner. Enlist the aid of family members, as they are trustworthy, invested in the business, and loyal workers.  In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast with Odette D’Aniello, May Ee Fong, CEO at Bob the Baker Boy, shares her journey into entrepreneurship as a bakery owner. May Ee reflects on Bob the Baker Boy’s origin and the inspiration behind the name. She also discusses transitioning from a home baker to a commercial bakery, balancing work and family, and the future of her bake shop.

10/11/23 • 40:39

Sara Brook is the Founder and CEO of the Dessert Gallery Bakery and Cafe, an establishment serving old-fashioned cakes, cookies, and other popular pastries. Though Sara has been baking since the age of four, she didn’t take the traditional chef’s path. She graduated from college and began pursuing law before following her passion to open a bakery. Sara launched her first dessert business at age 21. Since then, she’s opened and sold two baking startups before founding the Dessert Gallery. The eatery has won several awards, including the Houston Press Readers’ Choice: Best Dessert, 2019 and 2020. After celebrating 28 years, a second location is set to open in December 2023. In this episode… Setting yourself apart from your competition is a skill in itself. How can bakery owners differentiate themselves in a saturated market? For Sara Brook, a seasoned bakery entrepreneur, the key to her success is staying true to what she knows and embracing traditional desserts. Sara explains old-fashioned, homemade baked goods always remain in style. Like her love for baking, Sara applies the same nurturing to the relationships she builds with her staff. It’s also the secret to retaining employees. Rather than seek specific job skills, Sara hires based on people’s personalities. The love she shares with her team translates into her customer rapport, a loyal base who have produced a new generation of patrons.  In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast with Odette D’Aniello, Sara Brook, Founder and CEO of Dessert Gallery Bakery and Cafe, discusses her longevity in the baking industry. Sara talks about starting a business without experience, her hiring strategy, and how the pandemic impacted her business model — a revelation that motivated her to open a new location.

10/4/23 • 40:04

Janice Jucker is the President and Co-owner of Three Brothers Bakery, an award-winning bake shop and Houston staple with 75 years in business. Three Brothers is notorious for its traditional Jewish breads, cookies, pies, custom cakes, and more. Under Janice’s tutelage, the bakery has withstood multiple natural disasters. As a result, she’s become a thought leader in small business insurance and disaster loan assistance. Janice serves on numerous boards and committees, including The Texas Restaurant Association Greater Houston Chapter, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), and the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City. In 2009, The National Association of Women Business Owners presented Janice with the Woman Business Owner of the Year award. In this episode… Small businesses rely on their employees — the foundation of their operations. So, how can you protect your business and employees when disaster strikes? Entrepreneur and top leader Janice Jucker strongly recommends business owners obtain insurance, enabling them to compensate their employees during operation closures. When shopping for plans, secure the lowest deductible with the best value. Unfortunately, catastrophes financially strain proprietors, so the more money they can ensure, the better. Additionally, Janice advises purchasing flood insurance regardless of your location. Natural disasters are inevitable, but having insurance offers peace of mind. Join Odette D’Aniello in today’s episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, where she speaks with Janice Jucker, President and Co-owner of Three Brothers Bakery, about the bakery’s history and disaster relief for small businesses. Janice shares how a pecan pie made them a national sensation, an anecdote about a viral Thanksgiving dessert, and why businesses should invest in full-coverage insurance. 

9/27/23 • 33:52

Deborah Tuggle is the Owner and President of Bite Me! Cookies, a manufacturer of clean-label and high-indulgent cookies that sell for wholesale and retail. Deb’s first bakery, Friday’s Cookies, was an ode to her college days when she sold homemade cookies on campus every Friday. In 2004, Deb purchased Bite Me! Inc., merging the two brands under the moniker Bite Me! Cookies. The cookies are sold in popular stores, including Whole Foods, Albertsons, and Kroger. In addition to running a successful business, Deb is a community leader, small business advocate, and motivational speaker. In this episode… If you’ve identified your exceptional talent, you can consider yourself fortunate. Many people waste time and money trying to learn what they excel in. Even after discovering unique skills, it doesn’t guarantee you’ll be able to monetize them or find joy in the work. When bakery owner Deb Tuggle mastered a delicious cookie recipe, she decided to sell them to supplement her income. Without a business degree, business plan, or culinary education, she decided to live her purpose and create a cookie business. Before scoping out a location and applying for a small business loan, she realized she needed to learn the business from experts. Fast forward, Deb now owns one of the most successful cookie companies in the US. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello interviews Deb Tuggle, Owner and President of Bite Me! Cookies, to talk about her journey as a small business owner. Deb discusses how she got started in the cookie business, the disadvantages of partnering with brands, how faith guides her business decisions, and empowering the community through job creation.

9/20/23 • 30:23

Becky Palermo is the Co-owner of Creative Cakes, a Chicagoland-based bakery specializing in gourmet pastries, including cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, brownies, tarts, macarons, and donuts. In 2002, Becky and her sister, Beth, purchased Creative Cakes 10 years after the original owners hired Becky as a cake decorator. By 2005, the sisters moved the shop to a larger space in Tinley Park, IL. With Beth casting a vision for the bakery, Becky maintains the responsibility of creative innovator.  In this episode… If you have a weakness for baked goods, it would be a dream to surround yourself with sweet aromas and have access to fresh pastries. Working as a baker, however, is more than being elbow-deep in flour and decorating cakes. If you envision owning a bakery, consider brushing up on your business acumen. Besides baking appetizing treats, bakery entrepreneurs must consider food safety, the proper way to run a kitchen, alternative baking techniques and trends, and effective communication and team management. Bakery owner, Becky Palermo, recommends incorporating a business operating system to assist in creating a vision and implementing processes for building a formidable business foundation. It also helps schedule recurring meetings, guides focus, instills discipline, and ensures the entire team works towards a common goal. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello welcomes Becky Palermo, Co-owner of Creative Cakes, to discuss the evolution of the bakery and processes for managing a successful business. Becky shares her career journey as a baker, scaling down business growth, incorporating technology to aid in productivity, and the lingering effects of the pandemic.

9/13/23 • 32:16

Canadian-born baker Bronwen Weber is the Co-owner and Chief Designer of Bronwen Cakes, a Dallas-based bakery specializing in cake design. Bronwen is a 30-year cake-decorating veteran who started baking in her grandmother’s kitchen at 14 years old. Her resume includes many facets of the baking industry, including roles as an executive chef, general manager, baking consultant, and pastry chef instructor. She became a recurring talent on Food Network Challenge — an episodic cooking competition show — making over 35 appearances. Bronwen’s coveted Cake Challenge Champion title led to two Food Network series: Dallas Cakes and Ridiculous Cakes.  In addition to winning Food Network competitions, Pastry Professional has named Bronwen one of the top 10 cake artists in North America. Bake Magazine has named her one of the top 25 most influential pastry chefs in America and one of the top 20 educators in the country. In this episode… The proverbial quote, “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade,” is meant to offer encouragement when faced with adversity. When renowned baker Bronwen Weber’s plan to attend a prestigious culinary school fell through, she could have easily given up on her dream to become a chef. Instead, she continued to learn new skills at the donut shop where she worked during the summer.  Bronwen’s summer job eventually led her to become a bakery owner, with a few once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. She was a fixture on the Food Network and a sought-after baker. With those opportunities also come, what Bronwen refers to as, spectacular failures. As a highly-skilled cake designer, she faced challenges such as melting frosting in the Texas heat, collapsing cake sculptures, and colossal cakes unable to fit through venue doors. These lessons taught Bronwen how to plan for failure by pivoting and trusting her team. In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello welcomes Bronwen Weber, Co-owner and Chief Designer of Bronwen Cakes, to discuss mastering the art of cake design. Bronwen talks about her humble beginnings as an entry-level baker, competing on the Food Network, and the challenges of designing sculpted cakes.

9/6/23 • 41:26

Megan Wagstaff is the CEO of Lady Yum, a Washington state-based pastry shop specializing in assorted-flavored macarons. She began her love affair with baking as a child growing up in a remote Alaskan village. After a brief career in investment banking, Megan followed her heart to open her dream bakery shop. Her adoration for baking and champagne inspired her macarons concept. Lady Yum has six locations, including Bellevue Square, Downtown Kirkland, Pioneer Square, the Amazon Seattle Campus, and the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. In this episode… For years, societal norms have dictated that we go to college after high school, graduate, and acquire a steady job. Though many people choose to skip continuing education, statistics still show higher employment rates and salaries favor college graduates. The issue for many is that high-dollar paychecks don’t necessarily buy happiness. Business owner Megan Wagstaff followed the traditional career path after graduating college. She earned a hefty paycheck and professes she was good at her job. But daily life at her desk became daunting. After experiencing an epiphany, she risked a steady salary to go into business for herself. But the rewards of entrepreneurship didn’t immediately follow. Instead, Megan earned a different kind of education. She spent countless hours conducting research, gaining new skills, and learning to ask for help – all before drafting a business plan. In this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Odette D’Aniello interviews Megan Wagstaff, CEO of Lady Yum, to muse on the ebbs and flows of being a business owner. Megan reflects on her decision to quit her job in investment banking to live out her dream, how she raised funds to open her first store, and her decision to use creative marketing to grow her business.

8/30/23 • 32:54

Marlene Goetzeler is the President and Owner of Freeport Bakery, a 40-year-old Sacramento-based bakery specializing in cakes, danishes, and German-style pretzels. With her husband Walter, Marlene and her staff grew the bakery into an award-winning business and Sacramento staple. She is an active member of the Retail Bakers of America, where she served as president from 2014-2016. In this episode… Have you made an impulse purchase lately? Did you buy it to satisfy your need for instant gratification? Or, perhaps it was a business investment? When Marlene Goetzeler and her husband Walter learned a neighborhood bakery was for sale, they made a modest offer. To the Goetzeler’s surprise, the owners accepted. As a novice business owner without surplus cash, Marlene leaned into her creativity and mastered the art of guerilla marketing. Fast forward 37 years, their business is thriving, and she’s sharing her knowledge with up-and-coming bakers. Listen to this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, where host Odette D’Aniello chats with Marlene Goetzeler, President and Owner of Freeport Bakery, to discuss the bakery’s humble beginnings. Marlene shares the story of how her Ken-doll cake went viral, her appreciation for the baking community, and the pandemic’s impact on the business.

8/23/23 • 31:16

Patti Stobaugh is the Owner of PattiCakes Bakery, a Central Arkansas-based pastry shop serving European-style cookies, cakes, and pies. Patti left her corporate accounting job in 2005 to start what she calls her “encore career” as a bakery owner. The first PattiCakes opened in Russellville in 2006. Later, she decided to close it to concentrate on the Conway flagship store. PattiCakes is frequently honored in the USA Today Readers’ Choice Competitions. Along with her husband, Patti has four PattiCakes locations and two Stoby’s Restaurant locations. Patti is active in the community and has served on multiple committees and boards, including the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, Haven House — a shelter for women who are victims of domestic abuse — and currently serves as the Treasurer for the Retail Bakers of America. In this episode… There aren’t many happy memories associated with the onset of COVID-19, mainly because it sparked fear in most people. The pandemic also forced people to reassess their lives and career choices. Many were inspired to learn new skills and make professional pivots. But for bakery owner Patti Stobaugh, it didn’t take a global pandemic to sway her to change careers.  While working the hostess stand at her husband’s restaurant, Patti caught sight of a liquidation sign that changed the trajectory of her life. Leaving behind the stress of her corporate job, she pursued her dream of becoming a bakery owner. As an entrepreneur, Patti’s mission is to run a burden-free organization sans strict work hours, giving her employees a flexible work-life balance. On this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast Odette D’Aniello interviews Patti Stobaugh, Owner of PattiCakes Bakery, to discuss why opening her bakery was the best thing for her. Patti shares what inspired her to pursue entrepreneurship, why she made changes to her business model, the importance of communication, and the life lesson her grandmother gifted her.

8/16/23 • 32:20

Odette D’Aniello is the Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio, a family-owned and operated retail cake boutique. The company has received numerous awards, including winning Best of Western Washington several times. Experienced in the food industry, business strategy sales, and marketing, Odette has obtained additional skills in product design and brand development, event management, and team building. She is also the Owner of Dragonfly Cakes, the wholesale sister company to Celebrity Cake Studio, designing, developing, and manufacturing delicious handmade and clean-label petit fours, tea cakes, and mini desserts.  Odette is involved in various other areas, including being a US West Accelerator Expert for the Entrepreneurs’​ Organization, the Owner of True Nature Distribution LLC, and a Managing Partner for 26th St Holdings. In this episode… Memorable life events and milestones deserve to be symbolized by a creative gesture that will be remembered for years to come. What can you incorporate in your celebration to capitalize on the sentiment of the moment shared with loved ones?  According to Odette D'Aniello, every occasion should be extraordinary — and a festive cake makes a joyous addition to any function. A cake should taste delicious and be decorated in a way that creatively represents the event. Commemorating with a one-of-a-kind cake is a unique way to express your love and make life’s precious moments unforgettable.   In this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Chad Franzen of Rise25 sits down with Odette D'Aniello, Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio, to discuss her experience as a cake decorator and business owner. Odette also shares where she finds the inspiration for her cake designs, how her team delivers on customer satisfaction, how the family business has prospered, and the challenges and rewards of being a business owner.

8/9/23 • 22:41

Olga Sagan is the Owner of Piroshky Piroshky Bakery, a Seattle-based company serving original recipes and handmade baked products for over 30 years. Under Olga’s leadership, Piroshky Piroshky continued to expand locations and partnerships. She is a serial entrepreneur and experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in the food and beverage industry. Olga is also a candidate for Seattle City Council Position Seven. In this episode… Are you experiencing setbacks in the food and beverage industry and feel like quitting? What can you do to revive your brand and thrive?  Some challenges can push you to the edge or result in business closure. That's what the pandemic did to Piroshky Piroshky Bakery, a brand that's been running for over 30 years. When it hit, the company's sales decreased by 90% and almost collapsed. In this episode, the owner, Olga Sagan, shares how she was able to lead and protect the firm from going under and took it to new levels.  Listen to this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, where host Odette D’Aniello chats with Olga Sagan, Owner of Piroshky Piroshky Bakery, to discuss how she handled the pandemic. Olga talks about Piroshky Piroshky Bakery and what it offers, how the pandemic impacted it, and how it pivoted through COVID.

8/2/23 • 35:36

Natalie Bleifuss is the Owner of Pie Bar, a Seattle-based dessert bar specializing in sweet and savory pies and craft cocktails. Since launching in 2013, Natalie has expanded her business, opening multiple storefronts and food trucks. She is passionate about supporting women in business, offering female employees opportunities to franchise their own Pie Bar location. In this episode… What are you exceptional at? Have you considered using your talent in business? Though passion can excite you to act on your dreams, having the talent to back your passion creates a better path to success. But what if your talent outweighs your funds? Being a small business owner comes with many hurdles, especially if you don’t have financial backing. So how do you keep overhead costs low when key components of the business become inoperable? For Natalie Bleifuss, there was only one option: Become self-reliant.  Listen to this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, where host Odette D’Aniello chats with Natalie Bleifuss, Owner of Pie Bar, to discuss overcoming the challenges of being a small business owner. Natalie talks about the inspiration behind Pie Bar, the importance of self-reliance, why she decided to franchise her business, and why formal training isn’t a requirement for employees. 

7/26/23 • 34:37

Katie Poppe is the Co-founder and CEO of Blue Star Donuts, a gourmet donut concept utilizing fresh herbs, spices, fruits, and liquors to appeal to pastry lovers of all ages. Katie was also the Co-founder of multiple acclaimed restaurants, including Boxer Ramen, Boxer Sushi, and Little Big Burger — which sold for $6.2M in 2015. She is an industry leader known for her expertise in brand innovation, marketing, customer experience, strategic planning, leadership development, and partnerships. Katie was honored to be included in Portland Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” and named “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the Entrepreneur’s Organization Portland Chapter.  In this episode… Starting and running a business in the food and beverage industry is challenging. What do you need to know to flourish in this space?  As a Co-founder of multiple acclaimed restaurants, Katie Poppe faced an onslaught of challenges. Her resilience and tenacity enabled her to overcome obstacles, selling one of the brands for $6.2M. The lessons she’s learned have led to a fulfilling career running a gourmet donut concept. Her story will inspire your journey as she shares her secrets to success in the food industry.  Listen to this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, where host Odette D’Aniello chats with Katie Poppe, Co-founder and CEO of Blue Star Donuts, to discuss her journey to success in the food industry. Katie shares the inspiration for her bakery and how it differentiates from its competitors, how she discovered her passion for the food industry, and relays the process of building and selling food concepts.

7/26/23 • 40:30

Odette D’Aniello is the Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio, a family-owned and operated retail cake boutique. The company has received numerous awards, including winning Best of Western Washington several times. Experienced in the food industry, business strategy sales, and marketing, Odette has obtained additional skills in product design and brand development, event management, and team building. She is also the Owner of Dragonfly Cakes, the wholesale sister company to Celebrity Cake Studio, designing, developing, and manufacturing delicious handmade and clean-label petit fours, tea cakes, and mini desserts.  Odette is involved in various other areas, including being a US West Accelerator Expert for the Entrepreneurs’​ Organization, the Owner of True Nature Distribution LLC, and a Managing Partner for 26th St Holdings. In this episode… Have you considered a career in the food and baking industry? What tools can help you succeed?  Odette D'Aniello was introduced to the baking industry at ten years old when she worked for her uncle decorating cakes. After completing her master’s degree, she decided to start her cake company. Scaling and successfully running the business for over two decades, Odette has learned a lot. She now shares her expertise, knowledge, and actionable tips to thrive in the baking industry.  In this episode of The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, Chad Franzen of Rise25 sits down with Odette D'Aniello, Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio, to discuss her journey as a successful baker. Odette explains how she got into the cake baking industry and the lessons she learned, the evolution of Celebrity Cake Studio, how it differentiates itself in the market, and why she's starting The Celebrity Gourmet Podcast.

6/16/23 • 18:49