What does it take to build a business that feels like a hug, and keep it thriving through chaos, change and growth?

In this heart-opening episode, I sit down with Ashley Harley, Chief Operating Officer of Mimi’s Bakehouse, the iconic Edinburgh café that began with a dream, a lot of courage, and the sale of a family home.

Ashley joined the business in 2013, stepping into a legacy baked by her mum, Michelle Phillips. Since then, she has helped scale it into one of Scotland’s most beloved brands. From winning Scottish Baker of the Year to leading a thriving online cake business, Ashley shares what it really takes to blend tradition with innovation, and family with leadership, while staying grounded in the process.

We talk about:

* The truth about running a family business and what people don’t see

* What it means to lead with love when the pressure is on

* How Mimi’s creates a “hug in the door” and why that still matters

* Burnout, boundaries and the rituals that keep Ashley steady

* What she hopes her future granddaughter feels when she walks into Mimi’s

Key Takeaway:

Whether you are building something of your own, navigating legacy, or simply trying to stay connected to what matters, this conversation will invite you to reflect, reset and realign with what is possible.

Pop the kettle on and join us for a story about courage, connection and cake.

p.s. Shortly after our conversation, Michelle Phillips (Mimi’s) only went on won the the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation Diasbled Entrepreneur Awards. When she started Mimi’s Bakehouse 15 years ago, she was diagnosed soon after with MS (a condition the affects your physical and mental health). What an incredibly well-deserved achievement.

Resources & Links:

* Follow Ashley on Instagram: @ashleynatashap and LinkedIn: Ashley Harley

* Visit Mimi’s Bakehouse: mimisbakehouse.com

* We discussed the fabulous EGG Business Club and the inspiring Leith Collective.

Ways to connect with me 💬

DM me, jump in the subscriber chat, or connect via my website, LinkedIn or Instagram 😁 I offer tea supply, tea training, tea for wellbeing courses and mindset coaching. Find out more about my tea business, eteaket, here: https://www.eteaket.co.uk/

Thanks for joining me on our pause for tea to rebalance and thrive. 🍵 If you enjoyed this post, it would make my day if you’d comment, hit the heart button or share it. Your actions will help me reach more people. 💖 Thanks for your support! ✨ Erica x

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