The Market Maven

As the tents come down and the holiday season ramps up, Sarah shares an honest look at what life feels like between market seasons — that in-between space of reflection, renewal, and recalibration.In this short and heartfelt update, she talks about what’s ahead for The Market Maven, how she’s navigating her own season of change, and why it’s more important than ever to stay connected to community and shop small this holiday season.Whether you’re a maker, a market manager, or someone just trying to stay grounded in a busy world — this one’s a reminder to pause, reflect, and root yourself where you are. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this follow-up to SNAP Judgements, I return to the mic to unpack what the looming end of SNAP funding means for real people, local farmers, and the small businesses that make up the heart of our communities.As of November 1st, billions in food assistance are set to vanish — leaving millions of Americans wondering how they’ll put food on the table. But the impact doesn’t stop there. From farmers markets and small shops to schools and local economies, I break down how the ripple effect of this funding loss will be felt far and wide.It’s a candid, compassionate look at hunger, dignity, and the role local markets play in keeping communities fed — and hopeful — even in times of crisis. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this "part deux" episode, Sarah Dylan Jensen delves further into her experiences running the Lake Stevens Farmers Market, highlighting the financial burdens placed on her by the city, the challenges of managing the market amidst city construction, and the contrasting support given to other community events like Aquafest. She expresses frustration over the lack of equitable treatment for the market, the dynamics of social media in community discussions, and her reflections on the future of the market amidst ongoing challenges. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this tell-all episode, Sarah Dylan Jensen shares the highs, lows, and oh no she didn’t moments of the Lake Stevens Farmers Market that had it all — drama, heart, community, and a few mic-drop exits. It’s funny, it’s honest, and it’s everything you didn’t know you needed to hear about what goes into making a market begin and end.So grab your coffee (or tea… you’ll need it) and get ready — this is The Life of a Market Maven. ★ Support this podcast ★

Markets, Mayhem, and Moving Forward 🎙️ It’s been a whirlwind few months — from funding cuts to political shakeups and even saying goodbye to the Lake Stevens Market. In this new episode of The Market Maven, I’m sharing what’s really been happening behind the scenes… and where we go from here. 🌱 ★ Support this podcast ★

In this short solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain a bit to talk about the work that happens behind the scenes at farmers markets — the kind of work most people never see, but that keeps everything running.I share a recent conversation with someone from the UK who reached out for guidance as she begins her own market journey, and I open up about the tough decision to step away from the Lake Stevens Farmers Market after years of asking for help that never really came.This episode is honest, a little raw, and a reminder that even the magic takes muscle. If you’ve ever been the one holding it all together, I hope this speaks to you. ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this episode, I break down the recent Senate bill’s deep cuts to SNAP and what they mean for real people—market shoppers, small farmers, and families already stretched thin. We also dive into the culture of snap judgments online and in life, and why setting boundaries might be the most powerful act of care.Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!This episode is about grace. The kind we give to others, and the kind we often forget to give ourselves. I talk about: ✨ Navigating unruly market days with patience ✨ Learning to delegate (even when it’s hard) ✨ Caregiving for my mom during her cancer journey ✨ And the strange shift from being a 24/7 hustler to feeling like putting on real pants is a winI hope this episode gives you permission to slow down, breathe deep, and remember: grace costs you nothing.Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!Welcome to a no-holds-barred peek behind the produce at the farmers market! In this episode, I’m sharing a few annoying and exhausting moments I’ve experienced recently as a market director. From vendors needing constant attention to customer questions that make you do a double take, it’s been a wild ride—and I’m here to tell you all about it.Get ready for a candid, slightly chaotic, and totally relatable collection of stories that will make you laugh, sigh, and maybe even clutch your clipboard in solidarity. Whether you’re part of the market world or just love a good behind-the-scenes rant, this episode reminds us all that sometimes, you just can’t make this market sh*t up.Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!A solo episode where Sarah Dylan Jensen reflects on the simultaneous beauty and hardship in her life right now. From launching another busy market season, training a new puppy, and building big partnerships — to helping her mom through cancer treatment and dealing with the unknowns of family income — this episode sits in the tension of “both/and.” It’s about being human, resilient, and honest in the paradox of real life.Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this raw and honest episode, I open up about what the last few weeks have looked like behind the scenes—my mom’s cancer diagnosis and surgery, my dad coming to visit, getting a new puppy from my incredible husband, and kicking off opening day of the Snohomish Farmers Market. It’s been a season of joy, heartbreak, overwhelm, and resilience. If you’ve ever felt like life doesn’t pause just because you’re running a business or leading a community, this one’s for you. Let’s get real about what it means to show up when it’s hard—and why we do it anyway.Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Kari, owner of Flourish Organic Farm in Arlington, WA, to dig deep into the ways small businesses, especially farms and makers, help communities bloom. From her first market experiences to building a collaborative flower collective, Kari shares how choosing local isn't just about what you buy—it's about who you’re building up in the process.We talk about why supporting small farms and makers is essential to thriving communities, how collaboration over competition makes space for everyone, and the incredible ripple effect of showing up for your local market.Whether you're a customer wondering how your dollar can make a difference, or a vendor looking for connection, this episode will inspire you to plant seeds that matter and flourish together.Links we talked about: Growing Kindness ProjectArlington Farmers Market + Flourish Market VideoFloral Current Flower CollectiveEat Local FirstHigh Tunnel Farm FundingSupport the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this episode of The Market Maven, we're diving into the basics of running a farmers market — from the very first steps to finding your rhythm as a new market manager.After connecting with a brand-new market manager through Instagram, we realized her questions were ones many people have but don't always ask. So instead of keeping the convo in the DMs, we brought it to the mic.Whether you're stepping into your first season, thinking about launching a market in your community, or just curious about what goes on behind the booths, this Market Manager 101-style episode is packed with tips, encouragement, and the real-life insight I wish I had when I started.Tune in for practical advice, a few laughs, and a reminder that even seasoned pros had a “Day One.”Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!If you've listened to any of my previous episodes, you know it's taken some time and effort to learn how to advocate for myself and for others.  Being a woman often makes this hurdle a little higher.So, I was thrilled when Jessica, of BLOS, and Carmella decided to do an event on self-advocacy and how "behaving" doesn't always get things done.  We decided to try a LIVE podcast recording and share our experiences & advice for those who might need a little boost.  **First time doing a live, so there are some glitches, but we don't do perfection here anymore!Links:Jessica Chavez - Business Ladies of SocietyCarmela Fortin - Seattle Startup CoachSupport the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this episode of The Market Maven, I reflect on my experiences at two incredible events: Emerald City Comic Con and the In Tents Farmers Market Pros Conference. While these events might seem worlds apart, they both offer a sense of inclusivity, community, and creativity that fills my cup in profound ways. From meeting artists and attending panels on branding and women in business at Comic Con to connecting with like-minded market professionals at the In Tents conference, I’ll share how both events have inspired and energized me.In Tents Website (lots of resources!)Farmers Market Pros IG (A must for fun farmers market anecdotes!)Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this episode, I sit down with Laycee Gwyther, CEO of Executive Beauty Suites and a powerhouse female entrepreneur! 💪✨ Laycee has built multiple 6+ figure businesses, transformed her life from adversity to triumph, and is now passionate about helping fellow women entrepreneurs break barriers and achieve success.We’ll dive deep into her journey, discussing leadership, perseverance, and community support, as well as the strategies she’s used to scale her companies into multi-million dollar successes. You won’t want to miss these insights!Executive Beauty Suites InstagramExecutive Beauty Suites WebsiteLaycee's InstagramLaycee's Linktree (retreats, events, etc.)Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this episode, I sit down with Dave Boehnlein who's part of a groundbreaking project with Rooted NW—a new Agriculture Co-op Village in rural Arlington! Join us as we explore: The vision behind the co-op and its potential to reshape local farmingHow collaboration between farmers is driving sustainable practicesThe opportunities this co-op will create for small farms and rural communitiesInsight into the challenges and rewards of life on the farmCheck out the recent Everett Herald feature on the Rooted NW family here.Stay updated on the Ag village and farm visits here.Check out Dave's Terra Phoenix Landscape Company here.Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In this week’s episode of The Market Maven Podcast, we’re diving into the colorful world of Kate from Splatter & Bloom, a talented watercolor artist who brings joy and personality to every brushstroke!Known for her bubbly Bob Ross energy, Kate shares how her passion for color, creativity, and coffee fuel her journey as an artist. Get ready for laughs, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to thrive in the world of watercolor.Tune in now to hear her story, her challenges, and why she thinks creativity is for everyone!Show Links:Kate's WebsiteKate's IGKate's FacebookSupport the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!Dive deeper into how our job is weird - from egg prices to holiday markets, vendor selection to city construction projects...we cover it all!Show Notes:https://www.lawrencefarmersmarket.org/Support the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Send the Market Maven some fan mail!In the last 24 hours, food access programs were put at severe risk by our new administration.  Our neighbors (including seniors and mothers) may have their funding withdrawn for important items like fresh, locally grown foods.As a farmers market director, this puts the world on its access as the risk is huge to our farmers and our neighbors in need.  Learn more in this episode about how food access programs work, and how you can help.Links to more info:SNAP programs in WashingtonWIC & Senior FMNP in WashingtonFind & contact your elected officials:https://www.usa.gov/elected-officialsSupport the showLike what you've listened to? I'm happy to offer my episodes for zero cost and no ads. Maybe that's worth a cup of coffee to you? Maybe it's worth a few bucks, just because. I love bringing these stories to you and that takes time + editing. A few dollars to show the love is always appreciated! Venmo me here!More information about Market Maven can be found at www.marketmaven.com. Follow me on Instagram for real-life encounters and fun facts. To check out the real, live farmers markets, explore the links below:https://www.lakestevensfarmersmarket.org/https://www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org/ ★ Support this podcast ★