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In this fun "Holiday Hangout" episode of 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers, Mike, Fern, Mimi, Ryan, and Joel sit down with Jet Fresh team members to see what things are like around the holidays at Jet Fresh.  The first guest is making her podcast debut, Jesselynn Correa, Jet Fresh's sales representative for over 8 years.  Later, we're joined by fan-favorite Jimi "The Tulip" and lastly, a quick pop-in from Celine Bray.  Throughout the guests, you will hear about holiday traditions, company parties, gift requests, and more!  Also discussed in this episode is our company holiday gift, "The Rose Buds."  And hear what the fans and team have to say about them.
We suggest to enjoy this listen while holiday shopping, wrapping gifts, or cooking!

We hope you have a very happy holiday season! 
Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!

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We've got a fun surprise on this week’s episode of 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers! A mystery Secret Santa sent us a tasty treat, and you won’t want to miss our reactions as we taste-test it, courtesy of one of our favorite "Fatties." After that, we dive into an amazing conversation with one of the best-dressed gentlemen in the floral industry, Mr. Jackie Lacey.

Jackie shares his incredible journey from accountant to floral entrepreneur, owning three shops by age 26—across three different markets! He explains how running shops with distinct target audiences has helped shape his approach as a floral educator. Jackie also reveals the top 5 challenges he sees in the industry and stresses the importance of mastering mechanics and costs to sustain long-term success. With plenty of practical advice, like the importance of walking through your shop daily to understand what customers experience and how small changes (like adding an extra carnation to every arrangement) can cost you big over time, Jackie’s insights are both valuable and eye-opening. 

Plus, we discuss Pantone’s Color of the Year, a topic Jackie is passionate about (look at his stylish outfits!). It’s a fun, laughter-filled episode packed with lessons and insights—tune in now!

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In this holiday season opener of 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers, we’re thrilled to welcome John Marks, a true next-gen entrepreneur who has turned his passion for creating into a thriving enterprise. From selling wreaths and candies to launching his own ribbon line and TV show, John’s journey is a testament to the power of organic growth, hard work, and staying true to oneself.

Known for his signature “Hey y’all!” videos, John has used social media to educate, connect, and open doors in the floral industry. He may say his success came “little by little,” but it’s clear that his authenticity and dedication have built him a brand that’s now recognized nationwide.

In this episode, John shares his unique perspective on success—he doesn’t believe there’s a secret formula, but he knows that looking at things from a different angle can make all the difference. Whether you’re a florist, entrepreneur, or someone who simply enjoys a good success story, this conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.

Join us as we kick off the holiday season with an incredible story of growth, perseverance, and staying true to what you love. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!

Learn more at https://john-mark-enterprises.myshopify.com/

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It's giving...Thanks.  Our 2024 Thanksgiving special episode is now served.  Whether you're working or eating, listen in as the Fatty Gang discusses hot Thanksgiving topics.  Ryan is back from Japan and gives us a quick insight on his trip to Japan, we discuss what the f* happened to the Fall flower season and more. 

Be sure to email us [email protected] and share your Thanksgiving thoughts, or make suggestions for future episodes, guests and topics!

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In this  2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers episode, we sit down with Frank Biddle, the fearless founder of FBI Flowers and Tradwinds International. With over 30 years of experience in every corner of the floral industry, Frank has seen it all — from the highs and lows of flower importing and exporting to the adventures of running a successful, global operation.

Frank shares some unforgettable, nail-biting stories from his decades in the business and offers insights into how floral pros can thrive in today’s market. Frank is passionate about supporting florists and farmers as the founder of FBI Flowers, which grows, imports, ships, and exports premium flowers with a focus on quality. In 1997, he launched Tradwinds International to bridge the gap between flower buyers and growers, and today, Tradwinds is connected to over 125 farms worldwide.

We also dive into some fun offbeat topics — like the only thing tougher than picking wax flowers, how to build win-win business relationships, and the best volcano to climb if you're into adventure (hint: it's not just about flowers).

Tune in for an inspiring, insightful, and fun conversation with Frank Biddle — the surfing floral pro who’s been making waves in the floral industry for decades!

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On this episode of 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers, Mike and Fern sit down with the Jet Fresh team members who recently traveled to the Netherlands for the 2024
International Floriculture Trade Fair (IFTF)! Dan, Jimi, Connor, and Anahi joined Mike on this floral adventure, and they're back to share their favorite moments-
from picturesque canals and fragrant lilacs to meeting top breeders and witnessing the famous flower auction. With this year's IFTF shaping up to be the biggest
yet, featuring a record-breaking 150+ growers from 13 countries, tune in as the team recounts how the event is evolving as a major global hub for floriculture.
So grab your favorite cheese, get cozy, and take a trip to The Netherlands with the Fresh Masters.

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In this creatively charged and business-focused episode of 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers, we sit down with Kelsey Thompson CFD, AIFD,  a nationally acclaimed floral designer and owner of Bloom in Algona, Iowa. Winner of the prestigious SAF Sylvia Cup in 2022, Kelsey is known for her love of floral design and marketing. Beyond her design skills, Kelsey has a deep passion for education and frequently speaks on her business and floral design expertise.

Kelsey's journey is one of inspiration and resilience. She originally pursued a career in social work, but her love for flowers led her to a career in floristry. She launched her own business at just 24, armed with an 80-page business plan. Kelsey turned to education, testing for AIFD, and exploring the marketing side of floristry. This ultimately led to her online venture, Petals & Profits, where she provides coaching, consulting, and tools to help florists streamline their marketing and operations.

Kelsey’s popular service, Content Club, offers florists social media templates, flyers, holiday checklists, training reminders, and expert advice for building a strong online presence. Tune in to hear her story, her tips for attracting Google reviews, and how she helps florists redefine selling as serving.

(We won’t judge her unique food combinations—but you’ll have to listen in to find out more!)

https://bloomalgona.com/

https://www.petalsandprofits.com/

https://www.instagram.com/petalsandprofits/

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In this episode of 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers, we are joined by our fabulous friend, Dr. Reverend Rob Gooljar.  Gooljar is the face and hair behind IRIS Blossom, a luxury retail and event florist serving clients in Charlotte, North Carolina, the greater South Florida area, and globally through travel. 

Listen in as we discuss Rob's backstory, his heritage, his path to a PhD in Geology, Island Iris, Greek weddings, and how he turned a creative outlet into an award-winning & multi-published luxury retail & event floral artist, creating bespoke arrangements & event florals in multiple locations and now countries! #IslandIris 

Learn more at: https://www.irisblossomclt.com/

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Get ready to tune in for a good time on this week’s episode of 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers! We’re channeling our excitement as we sit down with the one and only J Schwanke, AAF, AIFD, CFD, PFCI—the creative mastermind behind J Schwanke’s Life in Bloom. J's hit show airs nationwide on public television, bringing floral magic into over 415 markets across the USA. With six seasons and 81 episodes in rotation, J’s show is quickly becoming a classic, earning him comparisons to TV icons like Bob Ross and Mister Rogers!

Born at a flower convention (yes, really!) and raised in his family’s greenhouses, J’s life has been a floral adventure from the very beginning. In this episode, we dig deep into how Life in Bloom is more than just a show—it’s a celebration of the beauty and joy flowers bring to our lives, and a huge boost for the floral industry. The show even earned him the SAF Marketer of the Year award.  

J also shares all about uBloom.com, where J’s flower fans can enjoy his passion for blooms 24/7 (listen in to see how you can see episodes FREE). With over 90,000 YouTube subscribers and a whopping 11.5 million views, J is spreading his love for flowers far and wide!  J shares how he doesnt do it without his team and especially his creative director (and husband), Kelly—though Kelly prefers to stay out of the spotlight, he’s a driving force behind the success of Life in Bloom.

The 2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers crew had an absolute blast chatting with J, and we can’t wait to watch his continued success as he inspires the world—one beautiful flower (and TV screen) at a time!

For more from J Schwanke visit: ubloom.com, https://www.youtube.com/@LifeinBloom

Follow J at j_schwankes_life_in_bloom

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In this episode, we're thrilled to chat with the one and only Donald Yim! From his humble beginnings as a delivery truck driver in his sister's flower shop in Hong Kong to becoming an award-winning designer and educator, Donald shares his incredible journey. With over 35 years of experience, Donald’s story is packed with inspiration, optimism, and practical tips like the importance of being prepared and the power of social media. Tune in as we dive into his fascinating career, his passion for floral education, and why he’s still loving the industry today. We couldn’t agree more with his advice, both professionally and personally!   We also go over how the Fatties can reach out to us and the best way to send us your questions and comments.  

Learn more at https://www.donaldyim.com/
https://www.youtube.com/c/DonaldYimAIFD
https://www.facebook.com/donald.yimaifd/