You, Me, and The Flea

Ever wonder what it’s really like to run a flea market from the inside out? In this episode, we’re joined by the one and only Tony Ortiz, Assistant Manager at Swap-O-Rama, whose journey from the corporate world to the heart of the market is as inspiring as it is unexpected. Tony brings big energy, real talk, and tons of insight as we dive into the hustle of managing vendors, handling customer comp...

Is thrifting the key to a more sustainable lifestyle? Today, I sit down with Panagiota Doukas to talk about the impact of secondhand shopping, sustainability, and finding value in pre-loved items. In this episode, we dive into: ♻️ How thrifting influences the way we shop & live 👗 Why fast fashion isn’t the only way to build a wardrobe 🛍️ The thrill of finding unique, secondhand treasures 🌱 H...

In this episode, we’re taking you along for the ride as we recap our recent travels — including a stop in Dallas, Texas, and a visit to the iconic Trader’s Village flea market! We talk all about: ✈️ The highs (and funny lows) of traveling 🌮 The incredible food we tasted 🛍️ The vibrant energy of flea markets like Trader’s Village 👥 Why community connection is at the heart of every great market 🧠...

Weather at the flea market? It’s all part of the adventure! ☀️🌧️❄️💨 In this episode, we’re diving into how vendors show up, rain or shine, to keep the market alive! Whether it’s blazing summer heat, gusty winds, pouring rain, or even snow, the flea market community always finds ways to adapt, support each other, and keep the deals flowing! We’ll also talk about: 🛍️ Why bad weather = the best flea...

We’ve made it—100 episodes! In this special milestone episode, we’re taking a look back at our journey through 100 episodes of exploring, discovering, and sharing the best of Swap-O-Rama and You, Me, and The Flea! Tomorrow we chat our favorite moments & episodes, behind-the-scenes stories you’ve never heard, the most shocking finds we’ve come across, special guest shoutouts, what’s coming next...

Price check time! In this episode, we’re diving into a price comparison showdown between Swap-O-Rama flea market deals and major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target! We chat all things price comparison on your everyday essentials, where you can save BIG without compromising quality, surprising finds that beat the big retailers, and honest opinions on where to shop for the best bang for your...

March Madness has arrived at Swap-O-Rama! In this action-packed episode, we’re bringing all the game day energy to the flea market! What’s inside: our MVPs (Most Valuable Products) you NEED to check out, building our Dream Team of top vendors, all the game day essentials for the ultimate flea market experience, and a fun This or That: Game Day Edition with players, snacks, and must-have picks! Get...

Celebrating Women’s Power in Business & Beyond! In honor of International Women’s Day, this episode is all about celebrating incredible women who shape our world—especially those in the flea market and small business community! We’re spotlighting: Female vendors breaking barriers, women business owners making moves, the power of women shoppers driving the market, and shoutouts to women who ins...

It’s a National Retro Day Throwback with Matt Case! We’re throwing it back for National Retro Day with a jam-packed episode featuring Matt Case! From toys and games to fashion, music, TV stars, and classic cars, we’re diving into everything that made past decades ICONIC! Expect fun debates, nostalgic throwbacks, and lots of laughs as we relive the best of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Plus, we’re giving...

Self-Love, Self-Care & Flea Market Finds – The Ultimate Feel-Good Episode! This February, we’re not just talking about romance—we’re diving into SELF-LOVE & SELF-CARE!  In this open and honest conversation, we explore: what self-love actually looks like, why it’s so hard to maintain, how relationships (romantic & platonic) impact it, and the best flea market finds for self-care & t...

Galentine’s, Valentine’s & Spicy Conversations – Let’s Get Real! This Valentine’s & Galentine’s Day episode is NOT your average love talk! We’re diving deep into friendships, relationships, and everything in between with some fun, juicy, and spicy questions. What would YOU do in a relationship if XXX happened? How do you handle tough friendship situations? Is there a “right” way to do Vale...

Love it or Leave it? The Trendiest Buys of 2024!In the spirit of February—the month of love—we’re playing a fun game of "Love It or Leave It!" We pulled 50+ of the trendiest and most purchased items of the year from a bowl and gave our unfiltered takes! Are these items worth the hype, or should they be left behind? Plus, we’re diving into what you can actually find at the flea market fro...

Get ready for all things conference!  In this special episode, we’re joined by Justin Joseph, NFMA President, to talk about the upcoming NFMA Conference and why it’s a can’t-miss event. From the benefits of attending to tips on planning, networking, and making the most of your time, we cover it all. Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, this episode is packed with insights and inspi...

What happens when flea market treasures spark unexpected conversations? In this episode, we let the items we’ve found at the market inspire some of the steamiest, rawest, and deepest questions we’ve ever asked. From quirky to thought-provoking, no topic was off-limits—and the results were hilarious, surprising, and totally unfiltered. Tune in for a wild journey through memories, mysteries, and mom...

In this episode, we dive into the feedback world by reviewing Google reviews left by our amazing customers. From the funny to the heartfelt, we discuss what these reviews mean to us and how they help us grow. To wrap things up, we added a playful twist with a game where we rated random topics 1-5 stars—and let’s just say, opinions were flying! Tune in for laughs, insights, and plenty of star power...

In this episode, we sit down (virtually!) with the manager of our Webster Swap-O-Rama location in sunny Webster, Florida. From his fascinating background to his passion for the flea market, he shares what makes the Florida market so special. We also dive into exciting news about the new market day launching January 12th and what it means for vendors and shoppers alike. It’s our first Zoom intervie...

In this episode, we dive into the art of letting go and how it opens doors for growth and new opportunities. From decluttering your space and mind to moving forward from emotional baggage, we share insights and stories about starting fresh. And to keep things fun, we wrap up the episode with a lively game of Trash or Trend , where we decide if popular items and ideas are keepers or goners. Tune in...

As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a look back at everything 2024 brought us!  In this episode, we reflect on our goals, revisit our very first podcast of the year, and share some of our favorite memories and episodes. From achievements we’re proud of to the Top 10 Items from Swap-O-Rama this year, it’s been an incredible journey, and we’re so excited to share it with you. Tune in for all...

Get ready to party! In this episode, we dive into all things holiday parties and festive fashion. We chat about Vogue’s top 7 holiday style trends, reminisce about our favorite holiday parties, and share our top 5 flea market finds to help you get ready for the season without breaking the bank. Plus, we wrap it up with a fun Christmas and New Year-themed "This or That" game. If you’re pl...

Struggling with gift ideas? In this episode, we dive into the art of gift-giving and receiving—what makes a great gift, how to shop smart, and avoiding those awkward moments. Then, we reveal top 25 amazing gift ideas under $10, all found at Swap-O-Rama flea market! From spa masks and ornaments to coffee sticks and chocolate, these ideas are thoughtful, affordable, and sure to impress. Tune in to g...

In this fun and quirky episode, we’re tackling holiday gift-giving with a flea market twist!  We put together gift guides for all the “unique” personalities in your life—from the mother-in-law you’re not exactly besties with, to the trend-loving teen, your brother’s new girlfriend, the 75-year-old dad who has everything, and the ultimate homebody. Get ready for creative, budget-friendly, and downr...

In this festive episode, we’re celebrating all things Thanksgiving and Small Business Saturday!  We kick things off by highlighting our favorite small businesses and the amazing impact they have on the community. Then, we dive into our personal Thanksgiving traditions, play a fun Thanksgiving-themed “This or That” game, and wrap it up by sharing what we’re most grateful for this year. Grab a cozy...

In this episode, we dive into the wild world of finances in today’s climate, tackling hot takes on saving, spending, and surviving inflation with a bit of humor and a lot of real talk.  We chat about creative ways to make your dollar go further, how flea markets are more than just treasure hunts—they’re actual money-savers! Plus, if you’re looking for an extra revenue stream, a flea market might j...

In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the world of friendships and what makes them truly special. We explore the essential qualities of a good friend, the different stages of friendship, and how bonds evolve over time. We discuss the unique dynamics of workplace friendships and the beauty of friendships that span across generations. Plus, we share stories of shared experiences that strengthen co...

In this episode, we recap our whirlwind adventure at our Florida flea markets, where we experienced the chaos of Hurricane Milton, explored an exciting bike show, and visited not one but two incredible flea markets (Howard’s Flea Market and Webster Swap-O-Rama)! From braving the storm to meeting new people, join us as we share the highs, lows, and unexpected surprises of our unforgettable trip. Tu...