Hatch Tribe Hero | Susan Brown

Every month we take pride in introducing an entrepreneur as our “Hatch Tribe Hero.” This month we are proud to introduce you to Susan Brown of Mademoiselle Miel. Not only is she acting as a hero for the environment (save the bees!), but she is also a hero for our sweet tooth, creating luxurious and qualities sweet treats.

Image from Cryss Simmons
photo from VIola Grey

What keeps you up at night?

I dream a lot before I start dreaming!!

What ignited the spark in you to start your business?

The idea of it was too loud to keep in my head...I had to do it!

What personality trait are you most proud of?

I’m forgiving.

In one word characterize your life as an entrepreneur. #TallOrder

#hardwork

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t be afraid to be yourself!

What sacrifices have you made to be a successful entrepreneur?

Financial stability and loss of free time.

 
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What advice would you give to your younger self?

...girl, you won’t even believe it, dream big!

Where do you find inspiration?

Nature, art, and stories.

How do you handle fear?

I usually count to 100 until the fear is over and then repeat to myself, everything will be ok.

mademoiselle-miel-hatch-tribe-hero-female-entrepreneurs-chocolate.jpg

What would you do with one extra hour in the day?

Dance and play guitar.

What do you love to come home to?

A clean house and good food.

Name a women entrepreneur past or present you admire, and tell us why.

Muccia Prada, she has a unique and artistic business model and keeps tight to her ideals.

When did you know your purpose?

I think my mom knew first…

What would you say are the top 3 skills needed to be a successful business owner?

A sense of humor, tenacity and adaptability.

What book has inspired you the most?

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer.

In your opinion, what does it take to be a great boss?

Preparation, clear expectations, regular communication and compassion.

What lessons did you learn from your best & worst boss?

The best bosses have trust and can see strengths in others. The worst bosses micromanage.

When you’re not working, what is your favorite way to spend your free time?

Family, friends, outdoors, and making art.

 
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Image from Shermaine Yim Pithie

About Susan Brown

Susan Brown is a creative confectionaire, beekeeper, and the founder of Mademoiselle Miel. Her bees reside on twin cities rooftops and provide the innovative filling for award-winning honey bon-bons. Mademoiselle Miel also crafts chocolate bars from hand-selected single origin cocoa bean which are ground in-house with locally sourced organic maple sugar. Most products are dairy and gluten free, all are paleo. Since 2011, the company’s goal has been to honor nature’s purity and beauty through chocolate.

connect with Susan:

Website

Instagram

Contact: honey@mademoisellemiel.com


photos courtesy of Mademoiselle Miel // Susan Brown

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Entrepreneurship: Not For the Faint of Heart

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Breaking Down the Books: How to Grow your Business with Basic Accounting