In this episode, I’m continuing our January series by walking through how I’ve completely rethought my menu planning for the year ahead. If you’ve ever felt mentally exhausted just thinking about your menu, or found yourself re-deciding the same things week after week, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale. I’m sharing why more options don’t automatically mean more sales, how simplifying my menu has actually reduced stress and improved consistency, and why predictability has become one of the most powerful tools in my business.

I break down the exact framework I’m using now — a hybrid menu model built around core products, rotating items, and predictable specials — and why this structure has helped me protect my energy, communicate more clearly with customers, and stop reinventing the wheel every month. This episode is especially for bakers who love what they do but feel stretched thin trying to offer everything to everyone. If you’re craving a cleaner, calmer, more sustainable way to run your bakery without sacrificing value or sales, this one will give you a lot to think about.

Resources:

1. Join the Bread Winner Inner Circle: CarolineBower.com/innercircle
2. Join The Bread Winner Network: https://carolinebower.thrivecart.com/bread-winner-network/ – Monthly membership for sourdough bakers.
3. Grab the Profit & Pricing Calculator: Simplify the math, clarify your margins, and confidently price your products. http://carolinebower.com/calculator
4. Follow me on Instagram for more microbakery tips: @carolinebower_sourdough
5. Find links to all of my sourdough microbakery favorites including packaging, pans, and more! www.carolinebower.com/links
6. 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!