From Coffee Dreams to Community Legacy: Michelle Sieling's Journey with Aromas & The Hound's Tale

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with entrepreneur and community leader Michelle Sieling. Michelle, alongside her husband Steve, owns several beloved Williamsburg businesses including Aromas, The Hound's Tale, and The Barkery Corner. She shares how her Chicago roots and family business background shaped her leadership style, how she navigated fires, ceiling collapses, and COVID shutdowns with resilience, and why finding your unique niche is key to success. Michelle's story is one of vision, grit, and heart—a testament to what happens when you believe in your dream and the community it serves. Key Discussion Points: (01:08) Celebrating Aromas' 25-year legacy in Williamsburg (02:39) How Michelle and Steve purchased Aromas and began their dream (03:31) Lessons in leadership learned from her father's business example (05:32) Overcoming fires, a ceiling collapse, and COVID with resilience (08:10) Building a lasting legacy and why employees keep coming back (10:31) The empowering "we made it" moment after surviving challenges (13:18) Michelle's perspective on fear and forging ahead anyway (14:39) Her team-focused self-talk: "We got it." (15:34) Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: find your niche, don't copy others (18:23) The importance of partnership and her husband's steady support (19:27) Why young entrepreneurs need mentors and real conversations (22:22) Thinking outside the box to reimagine a restaurant location Notable Quotes: "Lead by example. Don't just tell people what to do—show them." – Michelle Sieling "You can sit there and always be fearful of the unknown, but that's just part of life. Forge ahead and get your dreams." – Michelle Sieling "We purchased Aromas because of who you are. Words are just words, but actions are concrete." – Michelle Sieling "Don't copy what someone else has already done—find your niche." – Michelle Sieling Takeaways: Resilience comes from finding silver linings, even in setbacks. True leadership is hands-on and people-centered. Fear will always exist, but success comes from moving forward anyway. Your unique niche—not imitation—sets your business apart. Mentors and human connection matter more than digital shortcuts. Connect with Guest: • Websites: Aromas World | The Hound's Tale • Instagram: @theoriginalaromas • Email: [email protected] Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email 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!