What Does a Bakery Built on Vision and Values Look Like?
When Amy Emberling joined the original team of eight at Zingerman’s Bakehouse in 1992, she wasn’t just signing up for a job—she was stepping into what would become a decades-long journey in values-driven leadership and hands-on baking. In this episode of The Perfect Rise, Amy sits down with host Kimberly Houston to share what she’s learned after more than 30 years in the business—and how defining your North Star as a bakery owner can make all the difference.
From Nova Scotia to National Recognition
Amy's story begins in her childhood kitchen in Nova Scotia, where she became the designated household baker thanks to a mother who didn’t love baking and a natural curiosity about how ingredients transform into something magical. That curiosity eventually led her to Zingerman’s, where she helped shape not only the products but the culture of one of the country’s most respected bakehouses.
But her journey hasn’t been linear. Amy shares her detour into corporate consulting—and why, after business school and a stint in New York, she knew she needed to return to baking. Her return wasn’t just a career move—it was a calling back to purpose.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
✔️ Define Your North Star. Amy explains how having a clear vision of success helped Zingerman’s weather food trends, dietary fads, and operational changes while staying true to their mission.
✔️ Don’t Skip the Stage. Her biggest advice to new bakers? Work in someone else’s bakery before opening your own. Learn what works (and what doesn’t) before you invest everything.
✔️ The Industry Has Changed—So Should Your Expectations. From pre-digital operations to increased food safety regulations and evolving customer knowledge, Amy walks us through how retail baking has transformed over the last 30 years.
✔️ Price Like You Mean It. One of the most powerful moments of the episode? Amy’s unapologetic take on why great food should not be cheap—and how underpricing affects the entire supply chain, from farmers to food workers.
✔️ Design a Business That Fits Your Life. Whether you're dreaming of a quaint small-town shop or a fast-paced wholesale operation, Amy reminds us that the best bakery business is the one aligned with your lifestyle, values, and strengths.
A Free Gift to Help You Dream Bigger
Inspired by Amy’s insights, we created a free resource to help you reflect on your own bakery vision. Whether you're just starting or ready to reimagine your current setup, this guide will help you design a business that fits your life—not just your profit goals.
👉 Download “Design Your Ideal Bakery Life”
Amy Emberling reminds us that longevity in the baking world isn’t just about skill—it’s about staying true to who you are, building intentionally, and never losing sight of why you started. This episode is a must-listen for anyone craving clarity, alignment, and sustainable success in their baking business.
🎧 Listen now to Episode 6 of The Perfect Rise:
