In this episode, I’m sitting down with Ilea Bingham, of Posey Acres Kitchen, a sourdough baker navigating one of the most saturated spaces in the market world right now. Sourdough is everywhere—but what does it actually take to stand out when you’re one of many?

We talk about how she got started, what she’s learned along the way, and the reality of building a business around something that’s both time-intensive and wildly popular. From managing demand to finding your edge, this conversation goes beyond bread and into the mindset it takes to keep showing up.

If you’ve ever looked around your market (or your industry) and thought, “How do I compete with all of this?”—this one’s for you.

When I say “the C word,” you might think of one thing.

But lately, I’ve been thinking about a few: Cancer. Community. Connection. Communication.

In this episode, I’m sharing a personal update on my mom’s cancer journey, reflecting on recent experiences with community (from the BLOS cruise to Emerald City Comic Con), and diving into a real-world reminder of how communication can make—or break—your professional reputation.

Because in small business, in markets, and in life… people talk. And how you show up matters.

In this episode of the Market Maven podcast, I explore the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasizing that it is not always loud or authoritative. I focus on the importance of authenticity, resilience, and personal growth in leadership roles, drawing parallels between my experiences and cultural symbols like the Seahawks and Bad Bunny's halftime show. The conversation highlights the significance of empowering others, navigating difficult conversations, and leading with compassion during challenging times.