I Am Lakeland®

In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns welcomes Joe "Mini" Carter, the energetic entrepreneur behind DJ Minnie C Productions and Central Florida Photo Booths. A Lakeland native and Kathleen High graduate, Joe shares his inspiring journey of turning a life-altering car accident into the launchpad for his now-thriving entertainment empire. With nearly 20 years in the industry, Joe has built a reputation for extreme professionalism, famously adhering to the mantra, "The show must always go on."

The conversation explores the evolution of his business from a dedicated DJ service to a comprehensive event solution. Joe details his expansion into high-tech photo booths—including 360-degree booths and social booths that instantly text memories to guests—and his newest venture, Elevate Your Event Services (EYES). This high-end brand focuses on corporate needs, offering everything from audio-visual rentals to "cold sparks" (indoor fireworks) and "dancing on a cloud" dry ice effects.

Joe also provides valuable insights into the local event scene, emphasizing the importance of venue-specific knowledge and client education. From custom glitter tattoos to professional MC work, Joe explains how he tailors each experience to the client’s culture and vision. Beyond the gear, the episode highlights Joe’s deep commitment to the Lakeland community through his involvement in multiple Chambers of Commerce and his goal of building a legacy for his daughter. The episode concludes with Joe sharing professional tips for hosts and a call for aspiring DJs and event assistants to join his growing team. 13

In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns sits down with Jim Carey and Rick McCumber from Eat.Play.Go. to discuss how their innovative platform is changing the game for small and medium-sized businesses. Jim, a veteran of the leisure and travel industry, shares the origin story of Eat.Play.Go.—a company born from the desire to level the playing field by providing smaller businesses with the same high-level lifestyle and savings benefits usually reserved for large corporations.

The conversation highlights Eat.Play.Go. recent strategic pivot toward solving a major "toothache" for local businesses: the challenge of consistently securing high-quality Google reviews. Jim and Rick explain how their platform removes friction by allowing team members to send a review request via text at the exact point of service. To sweeten the deal, customers receive an immediate gift—a 30-day subscription to the epligo savings network—as a token of appreciation.

Beyond just reviews, the guests detail a holistic approach to customer engagement. The Eat.Play.Go. platform automates a personalized monthly email sequence, keeping businesses top-of-mind with their clients year-round. This system not only drives five-star reviews but also fosters long-term loyalty and encourages organic referrals. Rick, serving as the National Sales Director, emphasizes the importance of ethics and integrity in business, noting that happy customers naturally become brand ambassadors.

Listeners will also learn about Eat.Play.Go's "Employee Personal Rewards" program, designed to help business owners combat "quiet quitting" and high turnover. For the cost of a cup of coffee per month, employers can provide their staff with significant savings on everything from travel and dining to car repairs, fostering a better work-life balance and a more motivated team. 12

In this episode of I Am Lakeland, the tables are turned as host Don Burns is interviewed by Kari Pate of PFS Investments. Usually the one asking the questions, Don shares his personal journey and the inspiration behind building one of Lakeland’s most recognizable local brands.

Don’s story begins in Hamilton, Ohio, and includes a transformative stint in the U.S. Army as a tank driver from 1989 to 1991. After his service, he moved to Florida, where he eventually met his wife, Lynnette, in Ybor City. Don traces his entrepreneurial spirit back to age twelve, when a paper route contest taught him that hard work pays off; despite initially not winning, his persistence in landing 7 new customers earned him a solo trip to the newly opened Walt Disney World.

Before "I Am Lakeland" became a household name, Don spent much of his career in the maintenance field, servicing equipment across the Tampa and Lakeland areas. He was also an early tech pioneer, launching "menusofamerica.com" in the mid-90s—a digital restaurant directory that existed long before Google dominated the space. However, it wasn't until 2017, after retiring due to chronic back issues, and the subsequent downtime of the COVID-19 pandemic, that the vision for his current venture truly took shape.

Starting as a simple online directory to help local businesses find their footing during the lockdown, I Am Lakeland has blossomed into a community-centric platform. Don discusses the "big city, small town" feel of Lakeland and how his goal was to create a digital version of the old-school phone book—giving every business a place to be seen. Kari and Don also touch on the success of the brand's merchandise, noting how items like hats and cups help residents feel like they are part of something bigger. This episode offers a heartfelt look at the man behind the microphone and his dedication to fostering connection within the Lakeland community. 11

In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns is joined by Dr. Sherrita Denson, the creative mind behind Chocolate Covered, a local business that specializes in unique sweet and savory treats. Sherrita shares the story of how a family trip to the Strawberry Festival inspired her to bring chocolate-covered bacon to the Lakeland community year-round. Operating out of the Catapult commercial kitchen, she has expanded her menu to include bourbon bacon brownies, white chocolate bread pudding, and even specialty savory dishes like oxtails with chocolate-infused gravy.

The conversation goes beyond confections as Sherrita discusses her impressive academic journey, having recently earned her Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Southeastern University. She also details her impactful "day job" as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Homeless Coalition of Polk County. Listeners will learn about the annual "Point in Time" count, a nationwide effort to survey and support the homeless population, and how they can get involved as volunteers to help bring more resources to the local community.

Sherrita emphasizes the importance of quality, using only Ghirardelli chocolate for her creations, and highlights her ability to provide customizable grazing tables and charcuterie boards for events of all sizes. The episode wraps up with a look at how Sherrita balances her passion for entrepreneurship with her commitment to public service, all while remaining deeply rooted in the Lakeland and Bartow areas. 10

In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns welcomes Tony and Parker from Lakeland Air Conditioning (and its sister division, LKLD Electrical Company). Tony, the owner, shares the fascinating history of the family business, which began in 2006 under his father as "Clov-Air." Tony explains the strategic decision to rebrand to Lakeland Air Conditioning in 2017—a move that focused on simplicity and local identity, featuring their now-iconic swan logo.

The conversation dives into the rapid growth of the company, which has expanded to over 20 employees while maintaining a commitment to "the right work for the right price." Tony and Parker emphasize the importance of transparency and ethics in an industry where customers can often feel vulnerable. They discuss their proactive approach to service, including relationship-based preventative maintenance plans that offer flat rates and priority diagnostics to ensure Lakeland residents stay cool year-round.

Listeners will also learn about the company’s diverse capabilities, ranging from simple residential split systems to massive 20-ton commercial projects for local churches and offices. Tony also highlights their expansion into electrical services, providing a one-stop-shop for two of the most critical systems in any home.

Beyond business, the episode showcases Lakeland Air Conditioning’s deep roots in the community. From sponsoring youth sports and participating in local events to their collaboration with local marketing partners, Tony and Parker illustrate what it means to be a truly local business. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to reach out via their website or a quick Google search whenever they need reliable, honest HVAC or electrical support. 9

Scott and Andrew emphasize that unlike large corporate banks, Wauchula State Bank prioritizes personal relationships and local decision-making. With over 30 locations across Florida, they maintain a "small-town feel" where bankers are active listeners who get to know the person behind the application. They share insights into their diverse service offerings, including residential and commercial lending, HELOC options with relationship-based discounts, and a streamlined SBA loan process that offers clients multiple paths to approval.

In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns sits down with Andrew Calderon and Scott Katz from Wauchula State Bank to discuss the unique, community-focused approach of their institution. The conversation highlights the bank’s recent expansion into the Lakeland market, specifically their stunning transparent glass location at the corner of Kentucky and Maine, which reflects their core value of transparency in all client dealings.

A key highlight of the discussion is the upcoming transition to the Crews Bank & Trust name, a move to unify the Crews family of banks. This change will allow Lakeland clients to seamlessly bank across a broader network of offices throughout Florida while still receiving the same personalized service they’ve come to expect.

The guests also touch on their deep involvement in the Lakeland community, from participating in the Christmas parade to supporting financial literacy and local chambers. Scott and Andrew close by inviting listeners to visit them in person, stressing that they are always available via their direct lines—not a 1-800 number—to help neighbors achieve their financial goals. 8

In this episode of I Am Lakeland, host Don Burns welcomes Meghan Hall and Aimee DeBaca from Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Fine Living. The conversation offers a warm and insightful look at the intersection of professional real estate, personal passion, and community connection in Lakeland.

Meghan, who began her real estate journey as an assistant at 16, shares her experience taking over the Lakeland branch with her husband. She discusses the transition from agent to owner and her enthusiasm for their new downtown office, located in a historic building. Aimee, a retired teacher and self-described "vintage" soul, recounts her family's move from Denver to Lakeland during the pandemic. She highlights her love for nostalgia—ranging from 1920s tradition and record players to her deep-seated passion for writing and family history.

The trio delves into the current real estate landscape, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity and the value of community involvement. Meghan provides practical advice for potential homebuyers, specifically mentioning the "Hometown Heroes" program and the strategy of "marrying the house and dating the rate." They also touch on the evolving world of digital marketing, with Meghan explaining why mobile social media has largely replaced traditional websites for younger generations of consumers.

Filled with personal anecdotes about family, "secret nerds" hobbies, and even Florida’s famous alligators, this episode highlights the supportive and vibrant spirit that makes Lakeland a unique place to live and work. 7

In this episode of I Am Lakeland, host Don Burns sits down with Kylan Stephon Hayes, a multi-talented artist, designer, and local creator who is making a significant impact on Lakeland’s creative landscape. Known for his vibrant style and deep connection to the community, Kylan shares his journey of self-discovery through art and his mission to inspire others to embrace their own unique path.

The conversation explores Kylan’s evolution as a creator, from his early inspirations to the development of his distinct brand. He dives into the philosophy behind his work, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and the role that Lakeland’s supportive environment has played in his growth. Kylan discusses his various creative ventures, including his work in apparel and graphic design, and how he uses these mediums to tell stories and connect with people on a personal level.

Don and Kylan also delve into the realities of being a "solopreneur" and the discipline required to maintain a creative practice. They discuss the power of collaboration within the local community and how creators can support one another to elevate the city's collective brand. Kylan’s infectious energy and passion for his craft shine through as he talks about his goals for the future and his commitment to giving back to the community that has supported him.

Whether you're an aspiring artist, a local business owner, or simply someone who loves the creative pulse of Lakeland, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical insights. Kylan’s story is a testament to the power of following your passion and the incredible things that can happen when a creator and their community grow together. 6

In this episode, Don Burns of I Am Lakeland® sits down with Emily Mort, the creator of Lakeland Lense, to discuss their shared passion for the community of Lakeland, Florida. The conversation highlights how both of their projects originated during the COVID-19 pandemic as creative outlets intended to foster positivity amidst global uncertainty.

Emily Mort shares her journey of evolving Lakeland Lense from a personal photography hobby into a more intentional, community-focused brand. After a recent rebrand, she defined five key pillars for her content: stories and folklore, wildlife, market ventures, creative makers, and culinary crafters. She emphasizes her goal of spotlighting "micro-businesses"—small-scale entrepreneurs at local markets who lack traditional marketing budgets. Emily also discusses her strategic shift toward building a robust foundation through her website and a future newsletter, noting that relying solely on social media platforms for an audience is a risky long-term strategy.

Don Burns mirrors this sentiment, detailing his own experiences with I Am Lakeland® and his transition from social media-based engagement to hosting a video podcast. Both creators express amazement at their parallel growth paths, from being born and raised in Lakeland to their mutual appreciation for local landmarks like the Southgate shopping center sign.

As the discussion unfolds, the two explore potential collaborations, including guest spots on each other’s podcasts and the integration of their respective brand efforts. The conversation concludes on a positive note, with both reflecting on the fact that while they hope to eventually monetize their side hustles, the core motivation remains the joy of highlighting the beauty and people of Lakeland. 5

In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns sits down with Kari Pate from PFS Investments to explore the critical role of financial literacy and personal empowerment. Kari shares her journey from Michigan to Lakeland, discussing how her experiences as a single mother and a corporate professional shaped her passion for helping others "take their control back" through clear, actionable financial planning.

The conversation delves into the psychology of money, with Kari explaining that financial stress is often a major factor in personal and health issues. She emphasizes that her goal isn't just about numbers, but about building relationships and educating clients so they can make informed decisions. Kari details her comprehensive approach to financial health, which includes debt management, retirement planning through tools like Solo 401Ks and Roth IRAs, and protecting future generations.

A unique segment of the episode focuses on Kari’s holistic lifestyle, including her practice of the "Miracle Morning" and Transcendental Meditation. She and Don discuss the importance of staying present and mindful to reduce anxiety about the future. Kari also highlights her commitment to providing free educational workshops, especially for small business owners and young adults, to foster a community of financially savvy residents. 4