Making Us

Celine Underwood has dedicated much of her life to the pursuit of the perfect loaf of bread. She started baking during a tumultuous time and later founded Brickmaiden Breads in Point Reyes, CA. The Bay Area is known for sourdough bread, and in this competitive market, Brickmaiden stands out as an iconic bakery where the most common review is, “best sourdough I’ve ever had,” even when at their peak they’re making 500 loaves a day.

The final episode of our first season brings you into the world of bread baking (what goes into the perfect loaf?) and gives you a behind-the-scenes view into the day to day of running a food business (ready for 2 am training?)

As we celebrate Brickmaiden's 21st anniversary, Celine opens up about her decision to sell the business. We explore what led her to this transition point, and go back in time, to the early days, to the story of how it all began, what has kept her going, and what it’s all meant.

Tommy Breeze grew up exploring the landscape of Northern California. He found in his work a way to connect with the outdoors by creating designs that go on apparel, patches, and hats. Based in Fairfax, CA, his brand has grown from producing a handful to thousands of pieces a month.

In this episode, we dive into Tommy's story, how he developed his signature style, and his vision for manufacturing that's purposeful and creatively fulfilling.

 

Monique Bohman, a hair stylist and esthetician, struggled to treat a skin condition that her baby developed. Her solution? Creating her own body butter. It not only healed her son, but ended up spreading across the community, and turned into Honeii Bee’s. Based in Novato, CA, the brand has grown to offer body mists, soaps, and bath bombs that are organic and handmade.

In this episode, we dive into Monique’s story, how starting this company has changed her, and a resource you can use to assess the toxicity of products you keep in your home.

Julie Benjamin's upbringing instilled in her an appreciation for small-scale production. A collaboration with a local fabric artisan helped bring Farm Alley to life, her farm based in Lagunitas, CA. There she offers kids' summer camps, grows resources including botanicals, and designs spaces that inspire others to create. In this episode, we dive into Julie's story, what community feels like, and how to spark creativity.

Marlee Newman discovered the world of seeds and herbs as a way to support her body while transitioning from birth control. Her experience was so meaningful that it sparked the idea for LOONA Seeds. Based in San Rafael, CA, the company offers nutritional seasoning blends that support women throughout their cycles. In this episode, we dive into Marlee's story, her approach to product development, and how to cultivate a culture that honors women's natural rhythms.

Doug Coomer, an ER nurse, began making candles as a way to relax after long shifts at the hospital. Over time, he has turned that hobby into North Bay Candleworks. Based in San Rafael, CA, Doug and his team hand pour their candles one batch at a time, using soy and coconut-based wax and 100% cotton lead-free wicks. In this episode, we dive into Doug's story, his process for candle-making, and what it takes to survive (and thrive) as a small business.