In the season finale of Not So Small, host Sam Bauman sits down with Chris MacLeod, founder and co-owner of Laune Bread, a Minneapolis bakery that has made connection the cornerstone of their business philosophy. What began as Chris' desire to feel more connected to his work has evolved into a thriving business that prioritizes local ingredients, community building, and meaningful relationships at every level.

Chris shares his journey from working early morning shifts at commercial bakeries to creating a space where connection drives every decision. His wake-up call came when he realized he didn't even know what wheat really was, despite working with flour daily. This revelation, along with some others, eventually led him to Minnesota where he would be able to source local grains.

Chris, along with the help of his business partner Tiff Singh, have built more than just a bakery, they've created a community space where regulars know each other, staff feel supported with guaranteed hours and consistent schedules, and the energy stays positive. Chris reflects on the challenges of communication and management, sharing how he's learned to create systems that support the team's independence while maintaining the quality and values that define Laune.

Throughout the conversation, Chris offers candid insights about the challenges of small business ownership, from seasonal fluctuations and staffing decisions to the fear of losing connection to the hands-on work as the business grows. He emphasizes the importance of having a trusted business partner, maintaining physical and mental health, and staying true to your values even when easier paths present themselves.

As Laune looks toward the future, Chris envisions expanding their educational offerings, particularly working with young adults to teach whole grain baking and help people reconnect with intuitive cooking.

This episode beautifully illustrates how a business built on authentic values and genuine connection can create not just financial success, but a meaningful way of life that enriches everyone that interacts with it.

Guest Info

• Business: Laune Bread
• Guest: Chris MacLeod (he/him)
• Links: Website • Instagram

Community Shoutout(s)

• The Briar Bar (Website • Instagram)

Other Links

• Too Good To Go (Website)
• Baker's Field Flour & Mill (Website)

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Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Sam Bauman (she/her)
• About the Host: Sam is the President of Mellowlark Labs, a Twin Cities-based small business consulting agency. She has a masters degree in counseling psychology, a field she worked in for several years before applying her skills in business, and is certified in Organization Development.

Podcast Website

Sound Editing By: Adam Rondeau
Podcast Art By: Andy Bauman (website)