I recently participated in an Ultimate Blog Challenge. What this entails is crafting a blog post everyday for a month. I participated in this challenge several years ago, and was excited to see the opportunity present itself again.
I will admit… I had ulterior motives. I was hoping to meet some incredible entrepreneurs and bloggers to possibly invite to be a guest on this podcast. I wasn’t disappointed. I met a couple incredible ladies, and today’s guest is one of them.
Please let me introduce Lisa Carmichael. Lisa is a published author, entrepreneur, and marketing professional who lives in Minnesota. She is the owner and creator of EPIK Mastermind.
Click this LINK to listen as Lisa & I chat it up about how you can make your dream of business ownership a reality!
Here’s what Lisa has to say about her concept of the 3 M’s of Successful Entrepreneurs are & how they can incorporate them to have a successful business:
“As female entrepreneurs, we need to evolve. We need to embrace change. One thing that’s consistent for us as entrepreneurs, is change. So let’s embrace that. Initially, when I came up with the three M’s. They represented Mentorship, Mindset, and Masterminds. Because that’s my story. I learned about Mindset through a mentor and a result I created EPIK Mastermind. Now, I’ve evolved the 3 M’s into Mindset, Marketing, and Money.” Lisa Carmichael
Join Jean as she chats it up with Dawn Green, Horticulturist & Owner of Dawn Gardens, LLC.
Dawn & Jean are definitely kindred spirts as they both love anything involved with being in the dirt! Today they will discuss what they are both doing in their personal gardens, as well as professional.
About Dawn…
Dawn Green is a lifelong Michigander, minus a short stay in Alabama while she served in the Army. She grew up in the U.P. with Lake Superior and Tahquamenon Falls as her playgrounds. Growing up in a family of hunters, fishermen, and gardeners she learned quickly the grocery store was not the only source of food. She leaves the hunting and fishing to other family members, but gardening has always been her passion. She often says I says she not only has a green thumb, but is “green through and through”. She is the mother of two amazing young women and grandmother of 3 adorable grandchildren. She moved to Oakland County shortly after leaving the Army and has been here ever since.
To connect with Dawn, check her out at anyone of the following platforms:
Join Jean each week as she chats it up about gardening, cooking, organizational tips & tricks, chatting about healthy lifestyles, and of course having conversations with incredible entrepreneurs!
Join Jean as she chats it up with Amanda Shreve, Executive Director for the Michigan Farmers Market Association.
During the month of May Jean will be focusing on local food and how to source it, along with talking to professionals in the industry who fight the good fight advocating for fair food. Jean couldn’t think of a better organization to include than MIFMA~ Michigan Farmers Market Association and its wonderful Director, Amanda Shreve!
Amanda has been part of the MIFMA team since November 2009. She says, “I am passionate about connecting the public with agriculture and growing awareness of what it takes to produce our food supply in a safe, equitable and environmentally sustainable way. I recognize that farmers markets are a very visible and tangible way to establish, maintain and grow this connection.”
Amanda obtained her Bachelor of Science in Horticulture from Michigan State University. She enjoys floral design, gardening, and spending time with her husband and two dogs.
Mission: MIFMA places equity at the forefront of supporting the viability of community-driven marketplaces so that they can connect ALL consumers to local farms and businesses.
Vision: MIFMA places farmers markets at the forefront of the local food movement and works to ensure all residents have access to healthy, locally grown food and that Michigan farmers markets receive policy support.”
Join Jean each week as she chats it up about gardening, cooking, organizational tips & tricks, chatting about healthy lifestyles, and of course having conversations with incredible entrepreneurs!
I am a huge advocate for supporting local businesses. You will see me out & about every week posting about a local business wherever I go. As an entrepreneur, I completely understand the importance of small businesses supporting one another!
It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on businesses globally. Small businesses, in particular, have been hit hard, and many have had to close their doors permanently. This has left many communities without the local businesses that they rely on for goods and services.
Supporting local businesses is more important than ever before. When we shop locally, we’re not only supporting the local economy, but we’re also creating jobs and promoting a sense of community. The 3/50 Project is a simple yet powerful initiative that encourages consumers to support their local businesses by spending $50 at three local businesses each month. In this article, we’ll explore why supporting local businesses is so important and take a closer look at the 3/50 Project.
This is Jacob & Lizzie, and they are the Owners of The Dearborn Shop. They started out as vendors of mine at The Dearborn Farmers & Artisans Market back in 2020. Now, with the support of the local community and other entrepreneurs, they were able to open this beautiful shop up in the heart of West Dearborn, Michigan. They help support other entrepreneurs by offering goods crafted by several other small business owners… including me! You can find my cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats in this beautiful shop. Be sure to tell ’em Jean sent you!
The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses
There are many reasons why supporting local businesses is essential. Firstly, when we shop locally, we’re supporting the local economy. When we spend money at a local business, that money stays within the community, creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Local businesses are also more likely to source their goods and services from other local businesses, further boosting the local economy.
Secondly, supporting local businesses helps create jobs. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and when they thrive, they create jobs for local people. By supporting local businesses, we’re helping to create jobs and keep our communities strong.
Finally, shopping locally promotes a sense of community. Local businesses are owned and operated by people who live in the community. When we shop locally, we’re supporting our neighbors and helping to create a sense of community pride. Local businesses also often support community initiatives, such as local sports teams or charities, helping to strengthen the fabric of the community.
How the 3/50 Project Works
The 3/50 Project is a simple initiative that encourages consumers to support their local businesses. The idea is to spend $50 at three local businesses each month. This may not sound like a lot, but it can make a significant difference to small businesses.
To get involved in the 3/50 Project, all you need to do is choose three local businesses that you want to support. It could be your favorite coffee shop, a local boutique, or a family-owned restaurant. The idea is to spend $50 across these three businesses each month. You can choose different businesses each month or stick with the same ones.
The 3/50 Project has a website where you can find local businesses to support. You can search by zip code or city and find a list of participating businesses in your area. You can also use social media to share your support for local businesses and encourage others to get involved.
The Impact of Supporting Local Businesses
The impact of supporting local businesses is significant. When we shop locally, we’re helping to create jobs, boost the local economy, and promote a sense of community. Here are some stats and facts that demonstrate the impact of supporting local businesses:
For every $100 spent at a local business, $68 stays in the local economy, compared to $43 for non-local businesses.
Small businesses create two out of every three new jobs in the United States.
Local businesses are more likely to support local charities and community initiatives.
Shopping locally reduces the environmental impact of transportation and shipping.
By supporting local businesses, we’re not only helping to keep our communities strong, but we’re also making a positive impact on the environment and society as a whole.
Getting involved in the 3/50 Project is easy. All you need to do is choose three local businesses that you want to support and spend $50 across these businesses each month. You can find participating businesses on the 3/50 Project website or by searching on social media.
You can also encourage others to get involved. Share your support for local businesses on social media and encourage your friends and family to do the same. You can also leave positive reviews for local businesses online, which can help attract new customers and support the local economy.
Join me at my Monthly Classes at this beautiful & historic greenhouse & garden center.
You can also purchase my cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats in their beautiful gift shop as well!
Other Ways to Support Local Businesses
While the 3/50 Project is a great way to support local businesses, there are other ways to get involved. Here are some additional ways to support local businesses:
Shop at farmers’ markets or local craft fairs.
Use local service providers, such as accountants, lawyers, and contractors.
Buy gift cards for local businesses to give as gifts or use later.
Leave positive reviews for local businesses on Yelp or other review sites.
Attend local events and festivals.
By supporting local businesses in these additional ways, we’re helping to create a thriving local economy and a strong sense of community.
There are many benefits to supporting local businesses. Here are just a few:
Local businesses create jobs and boost the local economy.
Shopping locally reduces the environmental impact of transportation and shipping.
Local businesses often offer unique products and services that can’t be found elsewhere.
Supporting local businesses helps to create a sense of community pride and identity.
By supporting local businesses, we’re not only helping to create a strong local economy, but we’re also making a positive impact on the environment and society as a whole.
While supporting local businesses is crucial, it’s not always easy. Small businesses face many challenges, including competition from larger corporations, rising costs, and changing consumer habits. The COVID-19 pandemic has only made these challenges more significant, with many businesses struggling to stay afloat.
As consumers, we can help by supporting local businesses whenever possible. If we want to keep our communities vibrant and thriving, we need to make a conscious effort to shop locally and support small businesses.
I certainly hope you are encouraged to garden. Even if you start with only two or three of these things, that’s a great start!
Supporting local businesses is more important than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on small businesses, and many have had to close their doors permanently. However, by supporting local businesses, we can help to create jobs, boost the local economy, and promote a sense of community.
The 3/50 Project is a simple yet powerful initiative that encourages consumers to support their local businesses by spending $50 at three local businesses each month. By getting involved in the 3/50 Project and supporting local businesses in other ways, we can make a real difference to our communities.
So, the next time you’re thinking about making a purchase, consider shopping locally. By doing so, you’re not only supporting your community, but you’re also making a positive impact on society as a whole. Together, we can create a strong and thriving local economy that benefits everyone.
Other great Local Resources:~Edible WOW Magazine: This is one of the best resources out there for Southwest Michigan www.ediblewow.com
~Edible Communities: web site to direct you to an Edible publication in your area www.ediblecommunities.com
~Local Harvest: list of producers in every state www.localharvest.org ~Google Farmers Markets to find local ones in your area ~Local Dirt: listing for producers www.localdirt.com There are gobs more out there and thanks to the internet you can find just about anything you want LOCALLY!
Dave & I at L.A. Café getting breakfast & some cool gifts!
If you enjoyed this blog , please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback!
If you aren’t following me on Facebook or Instagram, go on over & give a LIKE & Follow me for daily tips & tricks for your home & garden!
Until next time friends, eat fresh, shop local, & have a happy day, Jean
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Tips & Tricks on what & how to grow to ensure a successful growing season! In today’s class Jean Roman will discuss the best fruits, vegetables, and herbs to grow in your home garden, and how to care for them. She’ll share her wealth of knowledge on growing and how you can have a bountiful harvest. Roman will provide information on gardening in containers, raised beds, and traditional tillable gardens. Downloadable PDF will be provided to all attendees.
“It’s difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato.” ― Lewis Grizzard
Have you ever stopped to think about where your food comes from? Most of us are aware of the term “locally sourced,” but have you heard of the concept of a foodshed?
A foodshed is the geographical area where our food is grown, processed, and distributed. Understanding your foodshed can have a significant impact on your food choices and the environment. By choosing to support local farmers and businesses, you can reduce the carbon footprint of your food and ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce. In this article, I’m going to show you all the importance of understanding your foodshed and how it can positively impact your health, the economy, and the planet. So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
A foodshed is the geographic area where food is produced, processed, and distributed. It includes everything from the farms and ranches where food is grown, to the processing facilities where it is packaged and prepared for sale, to the stores and restaurants where it is sold and consumed. The foodshed concept takes into account the entire food system, from farm to table, and recognizes the importance of local food production.
The size of a foodshed can vary, depending on the region and the type of food produced. For example, a foodshed for tomatoes in Florida may be smaller than a foodshed for wheat in the Midwest. However, the idea is the same – to support local food systems and reduce the amount of energy required to transport food long distances.
In addition to reducing the carbon footprint of our food, supporting local foodsheds can also provide economic benefits to farmers and local businesses. By buying locally, consumers can keep their dollars within their community, supporting small-scale farmers and businesses.
The Importance of Foodshed
Understanding the concept of a foodshed is important because it allows us to better understand the impact of our food choices on the environment and the economy. When we buy food that has been transported long distances, we contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts associated with transportation. By supporting local food systems, we can reduce these impacts and support sustainable agriculture.
In addition to environmental benefits, supporting local food systems can also have economic benefits. By buying locally, consumers can support small-scale farmers and businesses, helping to keep money within the community. This can lead to a more resilient local economy and a stronger sense of community.
Finally, supporting local food systems can also have health benefits. Local food is often fresher and more nutritious than food that has been transported long distances. This is because local food is typically harvested at the peak of ripeness and consumed shortly thereafter. In contrast, food that has been transported long distances may be harvested before it is ripe and then artificially ripened during transportation.
How Foodshed Impacts Your Food Choices
Understanding your foodshed can impact your food choices in several ways. First, it can help you make more informed decisions about the food you buy. By understanding where your food comes from, you can choose to buy food that is produced locally and supports sustainable agriculture. This can help reduce your carbon footprint and support local farmers and businesses.
Second, understanding your foodshed can also help you make healthier food choices. Local food is often fresher and more nutritious than food that has been transported long distances. By choosing to buy local food, you can ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce that is free from harmful chemicals and preservatives.
Finally, understanding your foodshed can also help you save money. By buying food that is produced locally, you can often save money on transportation costs that are passed on to consumers. Additionally, local food can be less expensive because it doesn’t have to travel long distances to reach consumers.
Sustainable Agriculture and Foodshed
Sustainable agriculture is an important component of the foodshed concept. Sustainable agriculture is a method of food production that seeks to minimize the environmental impact of farming while also promoting economic and social sustainability. Sustainable agriculture practices include crop rotation, conservation tillage, and the use of natural fertilizers and pesticides.
By supporting sustainable agriculture, consumers can help reduce the environmental impact of farming and support local farmers and businesses. Additionally, by choosing to buy food that is produced sustainably, consumers can help promote sustainable agriculture practices and encourage more farmers to adopt these methods.
How to Support Your Local Foodshed
There are several ways to support your local foodshed. First, you can seek out local farmers’ markets and buy fresh, locally produced food. You can also look for restaurants that source their ingredients locally and support local farms.
Another way to support your local foodshed is to join a CSA program. By buying a share of a local farm’s harvest, you can support sustainable agriculture and receive fresh, seasonal produce.
Finally, you can grow your own food. Even if you don’t have space for a garden, you can grow herbs and vegetables in pots on your balcony or windowsill. By growing your own food, you can reduce your carbon footprint and ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce.
Foodshed vs. Food Miles
Foodshed and food miles are two related, but distinct, concepts. Food miles refer to the distance that food travels from the farm to the consumer. The concept of food miles has been used to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of transporting food long distances.
While food miles are an important consideration, they are not the only factor to consider when it comes to sustainable agriculture. The foodshed concept takes a more holistic approach, considering the entire food system, from farm to table. By supporting local food systems, we can reduce the carbon footprint of our food and support sustainable agriculture.
Examples of Successful Foodshed Initiatives
There are many successful foodshed initiatives around the world. One example is the “Farm to School” program, which connects local farmers with schools to provide fresh, healthy food to students. This program helps support local farmers and promotes healthy eating habits among students.
Another example is the “Community Supported Agriculture” (CSA) model, which allows consumers to buy shares of a local farm’s harvest. This model helps support local farmers and provides consumers with fresh, seasonal produce.
Challenges to a Strong Foodshed and How to Overcome Them
There are several challenges to building a strong foodshed. One challenge is the dominance of large-scale agriculture and the concentration of food processing and distribution in the hands of a few large corporations. This can make it difficult for small-scale farmers and businesses to compete.
Another challenge is consumer demand for convenience and low prices. Many consumers prioritize convenience and low prices over supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture practices. This can make it difficult for local farmers and businesses to compete in the marketplace.
To overcome these challenges, it is important to raise awareness about the benefits of supporting local food systems and sustainable agriculture. This can be done through education campaigns, community outreach, and policy initiatives that support local farmers and businesses.
Understanding the concept of a foodshed is important for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and healthy eating. By supporting local food systems, consumers can reduce their carbon footprint, support local farmers and businesses, and promote sustainable agriculture practices. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, take a moment to think about where your food comes from and how you can support your local foodshed.
Join me today as Founder & Lead Biker for Bike Dearborn, Tracy Besek & I chat it up about biking safety, advocacy, and being a part of this great group!
This month’s focus has been on local food, and healthy life choices. I tend to focus a lot on farmers markets, but obviously there are so many other ways to invest in healthy life choices, exercise being another obvious one!
My guest today and I met almost ten years ago during my tenure in Dearborn with both the DDA and the Chamber of Commerce. We collaborated together with the city’s farmers market I managed… OK, yep I’m going to tie in the farmers market again, LOL.
So now I’d like to introduce you to Tracy Besek, Founder & Ride Leader for Bike Dearborn!
Some of the awards Tracy has received include:
2016 Beaumont’s Healthy Community Champion Award
2018 Advocate of the Year from the League of Michigan Bicyclists. I’ve since become an active board member and co-chair of the DEI Committee.
2018 Sierra Club of Southeastern Michigan Green Cruiser of the Year. 2022 Received Certificate of Appreciation from County Commissioner Sam Baydoun for promoting healthy living in Dearborn
Join Jean each week as she chats it up about gardening, cooking, organizational tips & tricks, chatting about healthy lifestyles, and of course having conversations with incredible entrepreneurs!
If you are a regular listener, you all know I love to share the back story with all of you on how I know and met my podcast guest… and this one is really near & dear to my heart.
I met this guy over a decade ago during my Mennonite days behind my table at the Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market. He was a volunteer with the market and always was so happy & energetic about it. He had real passion is the best way to describe it. Of course that’s why we clicked! Our hearts were both in that happy place!!
We became fast friends and soon he became our new Market Manager. He & I talked a lot and he was always looking for information and tips on how to make the market successful… even great! To hear the rest, scroll down to listen!
The FFAM was always a really good market, and by that I mean it was generally a busy market where vendors did really well. The customers were loyal and returned each week rain or shine.
I am super excited to announce I will be teaching gardening & cooking classes at the market once a month May through October.
Container Gardening with Herbs: Learn how-to make & grow an herb garden planter!
The container gardener is limited only by your imagination! Whether you have a large garden, raised beds, or the smallest patio or balcony, Jean will show you how you can reap a crop of herbs. It’s all in the harvesting friends! Today Jean Roman will showcase how you can create thriving herb containers you’ll be able to bring in during the winter as well, if you choose! Whether you are an experienced or novice gardener, this class will be loads of fun with tons of great information!
It’s strawberry season in Michigan friends! Join Jean Roman as she teaches you how easy it is to make homemade freezer strawberry jam! Recipe will be included. Roman will have her popular cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats available at a discounted price for attendees today. Samples will be provided.
Easy & Delicious Pesto Sauce- How to make & preserve it! Jean Roman, Author, Podcaster, & Self-professed Master Gardener will teach you how to make her delicious & incredibly easy Pesto recipe, and how to preserve it so you can have it all winter long. She will share tips on how to grow & stimulate continued growth of your plants. Roman will have her popular cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats available at a discounted price for attendees today. Samples will be provided.
Plan your fall garden now! Lettuces, spinach, kale, broccoli, & more!
August 5th, 2023
Did you know you can continue growing delicious, fresh veggies late into the fall? Well, you can even here in Michigan. All you need to know is the right crops to plant, and how to care for them. Join Jean Roman as she guides you through the steps of preparing for a bountiful fall garden.
Homemade Marinara Sauce- How to make & preserve summer’s bounty! Jean Roman, Author, Podcaster, & Self-professed Master Gardener will teach you how to make her delicious & incredibly easy Marinara sauce recipe from your homegrown tomatoes. Don’t grow your own? That’s ok, Jean will share how you can purchase large quantities at your local farmers market. She will have her popular cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats available at a discounted price for attendees today. Samples will be provided.
Fall Garden Clean Up: 10 Step How-to Fall Vegetable Garden Clean Up
Cleaning up your fall vegetable garden is an important step in preparing for next year’s crop. By removing dead or diseased plants, clearing debris, and adding compost and organic matter to the soil, you can improve the health of your soil and reduce the risk of pests and diseases for years to come. Jean Roman will go over her easy 10 Step How-to Fall Vegetable Garden Clean Up.
This month I’ll be discussing how to source local food, the issues with locating it, and why it is so important to support our local farmers markets. Be sure to visit my Facebook Event Calendar & register so you don’t miss an episode!
May’s Lineup!
May 3rd, 2023
Walt Gajewski, Market Manager for The Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market!
If you are a regular listener, you all know I love to share the back story with all of you on how I know and met my podcast guest… and this one is really near & dear to my heart.
I met this guy over a decade ago during my Mennonite days behind my table at the Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market. He was a volunteer with the market and always was so happy & energetic about it. He had real passion is the best way to describe it. Of course that’s why we clicked! Our hearts were both in that happy place!!!
Are you a biking enthusiast? Podcast with Bike Dearborn Founder & Lead Biker, Tracy Besek
Join me today as Founder & Lead Biker for Bike Dearborn, Tracy Besek & I chat it up about biking safety, advocacy, and being a part of this great group!
This month’s focus has been on local food, and healthy life choices. I tend to focus a lot on farmers markets, but obviously there are so many other ways to invest in healthy life choices, exercise being another obvious one!
My guest today and I met almost ten years ago during my tenure in Dearborn with both the DDA and the Chamber of Commerce. We collaborated together with the city’s farmers market I managed… OK, yep I’m going to tie in the farmers market again, LOL.
5 Reasons to Support Your Local Farmers Markets: How they benefit people both health wise & the local community!
If there is one thing I’m passionate about, it’s local food & farmers markets! I was a farmer for almost 15 years, and most of that time a farmers market vendor. I know what it’s like to be on both sides of the table~ as a vendor, and a market manager.
My heart is most at home in the garden & the farmers markets. Today I will talk to you about my heart felt desire to inspire every person to shop at the farmers market. When you do you are supporting local producers, your local economy, help the sustainability of farmland, and so much more!
Maybe you’ve even been contemplating becoming a market vendor! Do you create, bake, grow, or develop something? Well, a farmers market might be your first step to a successful business start up. Farmers markets are great starting points for local entrepreneurs!
I want this podcast to inspire you… please let me know in the comments below if I did!
Let’s talk food advocacy with Michigan Farmers Market Association (M.I.F.M.A.), Executive Director, Amanda Shreve.
Food is Medicine! Join Jean as she chats it up with Amanda Shreve, Executive Director for the Michigan Farmers Market Association.
During the month of May Jean will be focusing on local food and how to source it, along with talking to professionals in the industry who fight the good fight advocating for fair food. Jean couldn’t think of a better organization to include than MIFMA~ Michigan Farmers Market Association and its wonderful Director, Amanda Shreve!
Amanda has been part of the MIFMA team since November 2009. She says, “I am passionate about connecting the public with agriculture and growing awareness of what it takes to produce our food supply in a safe, equitable and environmentally sustainable way. I recognize that farmers markets are a very visible and tangible way to establish, maintain and grow this connection.”
May 31st, 2023
Let’s talk about growing food with Dawn Green, Horticulturist & Owner of Dawn Gardens, LLC!
Join Jean as she chats it up with fellow gardener extraordinaire, Dawn Green! We’ll discuss the importance of raising your own food, and the joy & fulfilment it brings!
For Dragonflies And Me 