UnLeadership

15Rising Leadership

Rachel Wyman is an award-winning baker, trainer, author, and successful entrepreneur. Owner of Rabble Rise Bakery, runner, and CDO (chief doughnut officer), Rachel has a storied history in bread baking and recipe creation for major bakeries. She's an award-winning doughnut baker, with a passion for dough, a knack for flavor, and a talent for innovation.

(Highlights from our interview, recorded June 10, 2023.)

WHEN I OPENED MY BAKERY, I wanted people to feel like it was an extension of their home, a place they wanted to be. That way, if one day the doughnuts suck because of the humidity or something like that, they'll still come back. When my kids were young, there were only a few places to go out and eat and feel comfortable taking them. So we designed a big patio space out front of the bakery that's spacious and safe so young families feel welcome. It has become a vibrant community area. I believe in creating spaces where people can meet and gather, and I have a space. None of this was created to make money; for me, it's about providing access.

Years ago, I noticed tons of runners at the bakery lining up for donuts. I learned carb loading before a race was a thing, created a space for them at the bakery, and launched a 5K fun run. After the success of the first run, a friend who was a runner helped me make it an official 5K race with a measured course and timing. The following year, we aimed to get 250 runners, but in two days, we had 500 people sign ...