Missouri Native Becomes Viral Food Star in California

What would inspire a girl born and raised in Missouri to uproot her life and adventure to California? That happened for a young woman who began life in the Show Me State, but is now one of the fastest-rising food stars on social media in California.

Do you follow Sarah Jean Eats? Did you know that she began her journey in a small Missouri town? She was kind enough to tell me her story about how she got started and where she plans to go from here.

What inspired you to move to California?

"I always joke that I moved to escape the Missouri winters, humidity, and tornadoes, but truthfully it was about opportunity and lifestyle. I vividly remember being 10 years old, sitting on our old computer and looking up apartments in Los Angeles like I was actually about to move. Even back then, I knew I wanted to be here. California always felt like a place full of energy and creativity, where people were building the kinds of lives I dreamed about. Eventually, I stopped dreaming and made it happen."

How did you get started on social media and end up creating food content?

"A few years ago, I had a pretty intense stomach infection that left me with a very limited diet for a few months. During that time, I found a lot of comfort in watching food videos. Seeing other people enjoy the foods I was craving helped me feel a little more connected to the world. Eventually I decided to start making content of my own, just for fun. It surprised me how quickly people resonated with it. What began as something personal has turned into a community that means so much to me."

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A post shared by Sarah Jean Eats (@sarahjeaneatss)

What are your goals?

"When I first started posting, my only hope was that maybe I could help someone feel less alone in their relationship with food. I never expected the response I’ve gotten. Now I get messages and comments almost daily from people saying my content helped them feel safe with food again. That’s already more than I ever hoped for. Looking ahead, I’d love to keep growing and connecting with more people. I want to build deeper relationships with my audience, collaborate with like-minded creators, and work with brands I truly believe in. Long term, launching a product or creating a brand of my own would be a dream."

What advice would you give someone who wants to do this too?

"Start before you feel ready and allow yourself to grow with the platform. Listen to your audience, take feedback, but always stay true to who you are. There will be pressure to follow trends or accept opportunities that don’t feel right, and you have to trust yourself enough to say no when something isn’t aligned. I’ve turned down brand deals and collaborations in order to protect the connection I have with my followers, and that’s something I’ll always stand by."

@sarahjeaneats did i get the job?! i’d be honored to be your new favorite comfort mukbanger! #asmr #dessertmukbang #desserttiktok #mukbang #comfortmukbanger ♬ original sound - Sarah Jean Eats

How did growing up in Missouri affect what you’re doing today?

"Growing up in Missouri, my family didn’t have a lot financially, but we had a strong sense of connection and gratitude. That kind of upbringing taught me to stay grounded, to work hard, and to stay close to my values no matter what. My family keeps me humble, and I think that’s part of what makes my content feel warm and real. Missouri gave me a foundation I’ll always be thankful for."

Thanks to Sarah Jean for allowing me to share her journey. You can follow her food adventures on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.