From Recovery to Sweet Success with Michelle Ashley | Episode 27 of Heavy Lifts Podcast

We're back, Heavy Lifters! In the next phase, we're focusing on highlighting the incredible small businesses within the 45th Parallel Building. First up, Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes.Michelle shares her remarkable transformation from a functioning addict working as a project manager in Afghanistan to becoming one of Salem's most beloved bakery owners.After entering treatment at Hazelden Betty Ford in 2014 and investing $52,000 in her recovery, Michelle took cake decorating classes at Joanne's as a low-stress activity. What started as a $9.20/hour job at Fred Meyer evolved into an award-winning business after she won prestigious Statesman Journal awards and appeared on the front page of USA Today.Michelle discusses her infectious energy (inherited from her mom), her military upbringing in Germany, and her partnership with husband Justin Timberlake (yes, that's his real name). She reveals how she pivoted during COVID by creating drive-through bake sales that generated $10,000 in three hours, allowing her to move to a prime storefront location.This episode highlights Michelle's commitment to community, employing refugees through Salem for Refugees, adults with disabilities through MV Advancements, and students from Salem-Keizer School District. With Chef Emma and her dedicated team, Michelle has built a business focused on quality, integrity, and customer happiness.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comMichelle Ashley Custom Cakes▸ https://michelleashley.com/▸ michelleashleycustomcakes on Instagram#HeavyLiftsPodcast #SmallBusinessOwner #MichelleAshleyCustomCakes #SalemOregon #PodcastEpisode #CommunityOverCompetition