In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my January and sharing what the numbers, the menu, and the day‑to‑day realities of brick‑and‑mortar life are teaching me. Revenue was up again (which is encouraging in a post‑holiday month), but what really stood out wasn’t just growth — it was what’s driving that growth. From workshops becoming a meaningful revenue stream to core products continuing to anchor the business, January gave me clarity about what’s actually working and what deserves more attention.

I’m also sharing the curveballs — weather‑canceled markets, cold fermentation struggles, and the ongoing guesswork of baking for walk‑ins versus pre‑orders — and how I’m thinking through all of it moving into February. If you’ve ever wondered how to read your own bakery data without spiraling, or how to refine what’s working without overhauling everything, this episode will help you slow down, pay attention, and move forward with intention.

Resources:

1. Get the Bread Winner Business Alignment Journal: https://carolinebower.com/journal
2. Grab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. https://carolinebower.com/calculator
3. Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdough
4. Find links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/links
5. Download 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!