The Story Behind Grounded @ Woombye CAFE
Meet Paul Dolan… Owner of Grounded @ Woombye Cafe
If you’d told Paul Dolan ten years ago he’d trade in balance sheets for banana bread, he might’ve laughed. But five years ago, the former chartered accountant did exactly that… stepping away from the corporate world to chase something far more personal: a return to hospitality and community.
A Midlife Pivot That Made Sense
Paul’s decision wasn’t sparked by a single life-changing moment, but rather a series of nudges… a growing sense that life behind a desk wasn’t where he wanted to stay. When the opportunity arose to buy a café he already loved as a customer, located right in his hometown of Woombye, the decision clicked.
Grounded Cafe was born in 2019
Beyond the Flat Whites
Since then, Paul has poured his energy into more than just espresso shots. He’s quietly built a thriving local favourite… but not without setbacks.
When asked what he’s most proud of, he doesn’t mention awards or accolades. He simply says, “Making it to five years.” And anyone who has run a small business knows exactly what that milestone represents… resilience, adaptation, and a whole lot of early mornings.
He’s candid about the journey… even admitting that without facing and surviving a particularly tough moment early on, Grounded might not be here today.
Three Big Lessons for Business (and Life)
Paul’s advice for other small business owners, especially those in hospitality, is refreshingly real:
- Don’t be too proud to ask for help… You can’t do it all on your own.
- Hire well and at the right time… The right people in the right roles matter more than you think.
- Know your numbers… It’s not profit that sinks most cafes, it’s cash flow.
He’s also honest about what outsiders often misunderstand:
“They see the Instagram photos and think it’s glamorous. But they don’t see the long hours, the hard conversations with staff, or the days when you’re managing a crying team member while someone else complains about their coffee temperature.”
Looking Ahead: Stability Over Stardom
Paul isn’t chasing a franchise empire… at least, not right now. His dream for the next three years? Stability. A business where everyone’s paid on time, suppliers are looked after, and the tax office doesn’t loom.
“Right now, that excites me more than anything,” he says.
What Drives Him?
While Paul used to be fuelled by achievement, these days it’s something deeper. “I think what drives me now is creating something that lets me be more adventurous, and eventually, explore more of the world.”
