From Popcorn to Power: How Abby Steele Became a Theater Owner at 19

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Abby Steele, owner of the historic Co-Ed Cinema in Brevard, North Carolina. At just 19 years old, Abby made a bold decision — she purchased the very movie theater she had worked at as a teenager. What began as a part-time job at 17 became a full-blown entrepreneurial leap that would challenge her leadership, resilience, and confidence in ways she never imagined. From navigating early panic and learning to lead former coworkers, to surviving a nine-month COVID shutdown and ultimately paying off the business, Abby's journey is one of grit, adaptability, and unwavering belief. She shares what it truly takes to own a dream at a young age, how she thinks outside the box daily, and why community matters more than anything. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt "too young," "not ready," or unsure — and needed proof that courage grows with action. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): (01:51) Abby's first job at the Co-Ed Cinema at age 17 (02:33) Becoming the official owner at just 19 years old (03:45) How entrepreneurship shaped her personal growth (05:18) Major milestone: Paying off the business (05:29) Surviving a nine-month COVID shutdown (06:29) The gradual confidence curve of "I think I can do this" (07:11) Leading former coworkers as a young business owner (08:09) Favorite movie: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and why it resonates (10:53) The first-day panic — and no turning back (11:55) Honoring a theater that has been open since 1939 (14:07) Advice for dreamers: Learning to filter criticism (15:15) Creative problem-solving (including fixing equipment in a Lowe's parking lot!) (16:55) Expanding into private events and independent films (19:03) How Abby selects which movies to show Notable Quotes: "There was panic at the beginning… and then it was more of a gradual ironing out of, 'You know what? I think I can do this.'" "Life is hard, my dear, but so are you." "You have to think outside the box every single day." "Generations have grown up going to this movie theater." "It's hard — but it's absolutely worth it." Takeaways: Confidence grows through action — not before it. Leadership requires courage, especially when leading peers. Creative problem-solving is a daily entrepreneurial skill. Community-centered businesses thrive through connection. Age does not determine readiness — willingness does. Dreams often start as small jobs that grow into life-changing opportunities. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://www.coedcinema.com/ • Instagram: @coedcinema Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [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!