In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore dives into the sudsy world of soap-making with Rachael Reynolds, the artisan behind Gracie Pie Apothecary. Rachael enlightens us on what truly constitutes "real soap," revealing that many commercial products labeled as soap don't meet the FDA's definition. She shares the details of her craft—blending natural ingredients like goat's milk, shea butter, and cocoa butter to create unique, creamy bars in enchanting fragrances such as "Stormy Waters" and "Black Raspberry Vanilla."

Rachael's journey into soap-making started as a joyful experiment with her daughter, Gracie, and has since blossomed into a celebrated business supported by the Kankakee community. Gracie Pie Apothecary, nearing its 10-year anniversary, stands out for its commitment to quality and creativity, offering not just soaps but a range of skincare products from scrubs to lotions. Rachael reflects on the support from the local community, highlighting a partnership with the Kankakee County Training Center for the Disabled, which has been vital in scaling her business.

As we explore Rachael's experiences, she debunks common misconceptions about soaps, emphasizing the natural saponification process she uses, a method as old as the Roman Empire. Learn the benefits of goat’s milk for your skin, the difference between bar soap and commercial body washes, and Rachael's entrepreneurial insights, including the challenges of handling rising raw material costs.

How did Rachael transition from being laid off at a publication to running Illinois’s largest goat milk skincare company? What are her plans for the future, and how has the entrepreneurial journey shaped her? Tune in to discover the art and science behind Gracie Pie's products and the personal stories that drive one of Kankakee's most charming local businesses.

As we wrap up, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review us on Apple Podcast and Spotify! Special thanks to our sponsors and Pathfinder for making this episode possible!

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