Millions of social media views may generate attention, but attention alone does not create book sales, sold-out tours, or a lasting business. Coinneach MacLeod, internationally bestselling author and the personality behind the Hebridean Baker, has built a global brand by remaining rooted in the recipes, language, folklore, and everyday life of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.

In this episode of The Perfect Rise, Coinneach joins host Kimberly Houston to discuss how creators can turn an online audience into a genuine community. He explains why being niche is an advantage, how storytelling moves people from digital content to live experiences, and why consistency and familiarity are essential when building a recognizable brand.

Coinneach also shares what changed when his work expanded from social media into publishing and television, how he evaluates commercial partnerships, and why accepting an off-brand opportunity is rarely worth the money. He even offers an exclusive first look at his fifth cookbook, A Scottish Christmas.

Whether you are building a bakery, developing a personal brand, or sharing traditions from your own family and community, this conversation offers an honest look at creating meaningful growth without becoming broader, more generic, or disconnected from what made people care.

Evergreen mid-roll promoting Retail Bakers of America membership. Highlights RBA’s education, industry resources, and professional community, with a call to learn more at RetailBakersofAmerica.org.

Evergreen closing message for The Perfect Rise. Thanks listeners for tuning in, encourages them to follow and share the podcast, and directs bakery professionals to RetailBakersofAmerica.org to learn more about RBA membership and resources.

Growth rarely happens exactly as planned, especially when you are responsible for carrying a family legacy forward.

In this episode, Kimberly Houston speaks with Max Jacobson-Fried, Managing Partner of Freed’s Bakery, a third-generation Las Vegas bakery founded in 1959. Max shares how an unsuccessful expansion reshaped his approach to leadership, communication, delegation, and operational growth.

They explore what must be in place before opening another location, how technology can protect quality across a growing company, and why leaders must create systems that allow decisions to happen without them. Max also discusses Freed’s expansion into major Las Vegas venues, the challenges of nationwide cake shipping, and the difference between preserving a company’s legacy and refusing to evolve.

This is a candid conversation about mistakes, resilience, and building a business that can grow beyond any one person while remaining grounded in quality, service, and respect.

Book Mentioned in the Episode: Unreasonable Hospitality

Evergreen mid-roll promoting Retail Bakers of America membership. Highlights RBA’s education, industry resources, and professional community, with a call to learn more at RetailBakersofAmerica.org.

Evergreen closing message for The Perfect Rise. Thanks listeners for tuning in, encourages them to follow and share the podcast, and directs bakery professionals to RetailBakersofAmerica.org to learn more about RBA membership and resources.

What does it really take to earn the title of Certified Master Baker, and what can the credential unlock in a baker’s career?

In this encore episode of The Perfect Rise, Kimberly Houston speaks with Chef LeAnn Adams, CMB, about one of the baking industry’s most respected professional certifications. Chef LeAnn shares her journey to becoming a Certified Master Baker, the intense preparation required for the practical exam, and why even highly experienced bakers must stretch beyond their specialties to succeed.

The conversation also explores the career opportunities, professional community, and credibility that can come with certification. Most importantly, Chef LeAnn explains why mentorship, openness to feedback, and a willingness to support the next generation are essential parts of mastering the craft.

Whether you are considering certification, mentoring another baker, or looking for your next opportunity to grow, this conversation offers an honest look at what it means to pursue excellence in baking.

Evergreen closing message for The Perfect Rise. Thanks listeners for tuning in, encourages them to follow and share the podcast, and directs bakery professionals to RetailBakersofAmerica.org to learn more about RBA membership and resources.