Meet Jen Enck

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jen Enck a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jen, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

That’s an interesting question. I don’t think I have ever overcome imposter syndrome! Some days are harder than others and those are the days that the good old imposter syndrome sneaks in. I feel anytime I am faced with a bigger than usual challenge I will initially hear that voice in my head second guessing everything but I also am as tenacious as they come so I crank up my music, tune out that voice and keep pushing forward. I’m a problem solver at heart so I stay focused on the task at hand and I refuse to give up easily. I’m not going down without a “fight”!

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’ve spent my entire career in the automotive industry and currently serve as a Controller at a local dealership in Arizona. Over nearly four decades, I’ve held roles across dealerships, auto auctions, and even traveled the country auditing stores. It’s been a rewarding career, and I credit it for teaching me resilience, problem-solving, and how to keep calm in a fast-paced environment.

But the truth is-I’m a creative trapped in an accountant’s body. I actually went to school for art, not accounting, and I’ve always been happiest when I’m designing, making, and building community with other creatives. Entrepreneurship is where my heart really lives.

Since 2006, I’ve been participating as a vendor at local markets and art shows with my businesses: Drinks and Crafts, Dandy Like Candy and most recently Fatty Paws Pet Boutique. If you’ve ever been to a local artisan event, you know it’s not for the faint of heart – vendors build their entire “storefront” from scratch every morning, pour their hearts into their products, brave criticism from strangers, and then tear it all down at the end of the day. Many of these makers are introverts who push far outside their comfort zone to share their craft. They are some of the bravest, most passionate people I know, and supporting them has become a huge part of my mission.

Over the years, I’ve assisted several Arizona event organizers with recruiting talent, promoting markets, and providing administrative support. Being part of this community has been incredibly meaningful.

I’m excited to share that in 2026, I will be taking over as the organizer and owner of a long-standing, beloved art event in Gilbert, Arizona. My goal is to create a welcoming, well-run space where artisans can grow their businesses, connect with customers, and feel valued. I’m thrilled for this next chapter and to continue championing the creative community that has given me so much.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, the three qualities that shaped my journey most were resilience, curiosity, and community over competition.

Resilience kept me going through long dealership days and even longer market weekends. Things will go wrong-weather, sales, life-but consistency beats perfection every time.
My advice: Think of challenges like a windy market day – annoying, unpredictable, but temporary. You adjust, you anchor your tent, and you keep going!

Curiosity pushed me away to try new things, start new businesses, and keep learning long after most people would’ve given up.
My advice: Stay teachable! Google everything. Let yourself be a beginner again and again.

Community-mindedness is truly my backbone. Supporting other makers, cheering for their wins, and helping them grow has shaped much of my creative life. I even created a quarterly subscription box that promotes other small businesses.
My advice: Build your circle early. Share what you know. The right people will lift you as you lift them.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

I’ll be honest, when I’m overwhelmed, I tend to shut down and escape into a little reality TV. It’s my version of hitting the “pause” button. It may sound funny, but giving my brain something simple to focus on helps me reset and come back with a clearer head. I suggest you find a reset ritual that works for you and don’t judge yourself for needing it. We don’t give ourselves enough grace sometimes. Take a walk, work on a hobby, watch your favorite guilty-pleasure show. Do what works for you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dandylikecandy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifertoldme
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopfattypaws