Grit, Growth, and the Real Work Behind Flower Farming with Lyndsay Biehl-Mercer and Shannon Allen

Grit, Growth, and the Real Work Behind Flower Farming with Lyndsay Biehl-Mercer and Shannon Allen

Author: Scott Shepherd, Host and Flower Educator December 18, 2025 Duration: 1:15:27

Most of flower farming doesn't look like the photos—and that's exactly what this conversation is about.

In this episode, I sit down with Lyndsay Biehl-Mercer of Wildroot Flower Co. and Shannon Allen of Bloom Hill Farm to talk about the real side of building a flower business: grit, focus, fear, finances, burnout, and learning as you go.

We talk about why there's pressure to make everything look beautiful, how easy it is to work yourself into the ground, and why getting good at one thing early matters. We also dig into practical habits—tracking numbers, using simple tools, and making informed decisions—along with the bigger question many growers face: Is this work life-giving, or is it taking something from me?

This is an honest, grounded conversation for anyone navigating flower farming in real time—and a reminder that with all the resources available today, none of us need to be doing this alone.

Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com

Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers — Learn more and join at ascfg.org

Visit RootedFarmers.com and use code TFP25 for $75 off your new membership.

The Gardener's Workshop — Helping flower farmers grow smarter at thegardenersworkshop.com

Visit AccentDecor.com and be inspired for your floral design containers and decor. 

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.


Scott Shepherd has spent years immersed in the world of blooms, not just as a host but as an educator, and he brings that entire perspective to The Flower Podcast. This isn't just about pretty arrangements; it's a deep, root-level exploration of the entire floral industry. Conversations here weave between the practical realities of running a business and the sheer creative joy found in a garden. You'll hear from the people whose hands are in the soil-flower farmers and growers-as well as the designers, photographers, and entrepreneurs who translate that natural beauty into art and commerce. Each episode features a different voice from this vibrant community, sharing specific knowledge on trends, techniques, and the personal journeys that fuel a life with flowers. Whether you're a professional florist looking for savvy advice, a hobbyist seeking inspiration, or simply someone who appreciates the intersection of nature and enterprise, this podcast offers a unique bouquet of insights. Tune in for genuine, meandering chats that always circle back to a shared passion, revealing the surprising depth and connectivity within the floral world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Flower Podcast
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