The Seeds We Save, The Blooms We Shape: Inside Dawn Creek Farm
This week, Scott sits down with Kori Hargreaves, the heart and hands behind Dawn Creek Farm, for a conversation rooted in seeds, selection, and the creative process of flower breeding. Kori shares insights from her decade-long journey developing new open-pollinated varieties—including her collaboration with Floret. They explore the practical side of breeding—avoiding inbreeding depression, selecting for color and form, and choosing varieties that fit your market—and the deeper reasons behind saving seed and growing what lights you up. Whether you're a flower farmer, florist, or a gardener dreaming of your own breeding project, this episode will leave you inspired to look closer at what’s blooming—and what’s possible. Learn more about today’s episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com. Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! If you have a minute, it would be great if you could leave a review wherever you listen to our podcast. You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss a minute.
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1:12:41
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1:12:41
Floristry with Heart and Purpose: Carole Patilla of Tuckshop Flowers and The Farewell Flowers Directory
In this episode of The Flower Podcast, Scott Shepherd talks with Carole Patilla of Tuckshop Flowers and co-founder of The Farewell Flowers Directory. They explore the growing movement toward sustainable and foam-free funeral flowers. Carole shares practical tips for florists ready to shift away from floral foam, embrace compostable design, and rethink traditional funeral floristry. This inspiring conversation is all about starting small, building confidence, and making meaningful change in your local community. Whether you’re new to sustainable design or looking to expand your eco-conscious offerings, this episode is full of encouragement, resources, and heartfelt advice. We’re excited to have Accent Decor as a sponsor of The Flower Podcast. The help florists and farmer florists elevate deigns with their amazing collection of vessels and containers. Visit accentdecor.com and explore all they have to offer. Learn more about today’s episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! If you have a minute, it would be great if you could leave a review wherever you listen to our podcast. You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss a minute.
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Authenticity: The Florist’s Path to Confidence, Clarity, and Community with Elizabeth Hodges, Philo Floral
In this episode of The Flower Podcast, Elizabeth Hodges, owner of Philo Floral in Greenville SC., opens up about the powerful mindset shift that helped her build a business rooted in authenticity. We explore how understanding generational values—from Gen Z’s focus on connection and transparency to older generations’ appreciation for experience—can change the way you approach wedding consultations and client relationships. Elizabeth also shares her thoughts on taking ownership of your growth, letting go of the need to be liked by everyone, and the importance of putting on blinders when it’s time to focus. We dive into how contracts provide security during uncertain times, the role planners play in her business, and why supporting local flower growers matters now more than ever. A big thanks to our sponsors, The Gardener’s Workshop—helping flower farmers grow smarter with tools, seeds, and courses rooted in real experience—and the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, a community that supports and connects flower growers at every stage. This conversation is packed with honest insights and practical wisdom for anyone growing a flower-based business. Whether you're just starting out or reevaluating where you're headed, this episode will inspire you to lead with intention—and grow with confidence. Learn more about today’s episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com. Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! If you have a minute, it would be great if you could leave a review wherever you listen to our podcast. You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss a minute.
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1:03:55
Building Your Best Farm: Adrianne Gammie of Marilla Field and Flora
In this episode, we welcome back Adrianne Gammie, a dedicated flower farmer known for her intentional approach to business, sustainability, and community impact. Adrianne shares valuable insights from her evolving farm, covering everything from pollinator habitat and land stewardship to profitability and professional relationships. Her candid advice is grounded in real-world experience and offers practical strategies for flower farmers at any stage. Topics Covered: -How diversification helps manage risk in farming -Creating and managing pollinator habitat for ecological health -Learning from experts and the local community -Responsible land management, even beyond cultivated areas -The importance of clear communication with florists -Using platforms like Rooted Farmers to streamline sales -Evaluating crop profitability regularly -Building trust through in-person deliveries -Customizing your flower farm to fit your unique context Takeaway:
  Adrianne reminds us that successful flower farming isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about long-term thinking, building relationships, and making choices that align with your values and goals. Rooted Farmers is free for flower buyers, from consumers to all kinds of florists. Additionally, flower farmers can save $75 on either of the plans they offer by using the code TFP25 for that discount. Follow this link to Rooted Farmers. Now is a great time to join the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers! Connect with growers, take advantage of educational opportunities, access the vast library of past articles and conferences, and so much more. Visit ASCFG.org to learn more about all the benefits that comes with membership Learn more about today’s episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com. Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss a minute.
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Standards in Cut Flower Production: Diane Szukovathy of Jello Mold Farm
Flowers are at the heart of so many meaningful moments—especially since Mother’s Day week just happened. This episode honors the hardworking farmers, florists, designers, and behind-the-scenes teams who make it all possible. Returning guest Diane Szukovathy of Jello Mold Farm joins Scott for a rich conversation about long-term farm planning, infrastructure investment, and the evolving role of a flower grower. As a founding member of the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market, Diane also shares the story behind Floral Standards—a new, farmer-developed book designed to help growers sell more confidently with clear guidelines for stem counts, harvest stages, and post-harvest care. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about local flowers, building a business, or creating a lasting impact in the floral industry. Learn more about today’s episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com. Visit Diane’s page for easy access to all of her links and social pages. Now is a great time to join the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers! Connect with growers, take advantage of educational opportunities, access the vast library of past articles and conferences, and so much more. Visit ASCFG.org to learn more about all the benefits that comes with membership. Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! If you have a minute, it would be great if you could leave a review wherever you listen to our podcast. You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss a minute.
The Flower Podcast, hosted by Scott Shepherd is for the floral community to discuss flowers, trends, and business topics, including everything from flower farmer to all aspects of floristry. Each week a featured guest will share their knowledge, passion, and love of flowers. Join us for colorful chats with talented creatives, photographers, growers, entrepreneurs, authors, and so much more!! Be sure to subscribe on your listening platform of choice. Learn more at https://www.theflowerpodcast.com . You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @theflowerpodcast .
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