Episode 29: Together We Bake - Second Chances, Sweet Success

In this We’re Good Podcast we’ll travel to Together We Bake in Alexandria, Virginia for this powerful episode —where handmade cookies and granola are just the beginning of something special.

Recorded on location, host Lee Ann Necessary Brownlee introduces listeners to Executive Director Tricia Allen and alumna-turned-Sales Manager Ada Onyeka, whose journeys reveal how Together We Bake is transforming lives through workforce development, community, and compassion. Behind every batch of baked goods are women overcoming barriers like domestic violence, incarceration, and addiction—finding healing, confidence, and career pathways inside this small but mighty bakery.

Founded as both a working bakery and a workforce development program, Together We Bake has served more than 400 women over 14 years, offering job training, Serve Safe manager-level certification, career coaching, and a supportive alumni network. Seventy-four percent of participants are mothers, making this program a critical lifeline for families seeking stability and opportunity as Tricia powerfully shared from her own personal experience.

Ada also shares her personal story as a survivor and program graduate, describing how the kitchen became a place where stories are told, confidence is rebuilt, and magic happens. From volunteer job counselors to entrepreneurial pitch practice, listeners learn how women gain real-world skills—and how Ada herself grew into a leadership role after persistence, mentoring, and belief from the Together We Bake team.

You’ll also hear about a new program, created to help alumni complete professional credentials and take the next step toward sustainable careers.

This episode is a powerful reminder that social impact can start with something as simple—and meaningful—as baking by hand. If you’re looking for an inspiring story about second chances, women’s empowerment, and community-driven change, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Follow the We’re Good Podcast for more stories celebrating everyday brilliance—and discover how hope rises daily inside this extraordinary bakery.

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Together We Bake website