I Am Lakeland®

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Brandi Hernandez, better known as Miss B, the founder of Legibee Services. Originally from Miami with roots on the West Coast, Miss B shares her journey of moving to Polk County to be closer to family and her transition from a diverse career in teaching and the restaurant industry to becoming a dedicated entrepreneur.

Miss B discusses the evolution of her business, which began as a trucking logistics company named after her son (Nate Blue) and has since rebranded into a comprehensive "back office in a box" for small business owners.

Whether you're a sole proprietor feeling overwhelmed by paperwork or a resident interested in stories of community-focused leadership, Miss B’s bubbly energy and "service-first" attitude provide an inspiring look at the heart of Lakeland’s business community. 135

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Maulissa Braverman, a candidate for the Auburndale City Commission (Seat 3). Born in Trinidad and Tobago and raised in New York, Maulissa has been a proud Polk County resident since 1995. With a background in mass communications and over a decade of experience in digital marketing, she brings a tech-savvy and community-focused perspective to the local political stage.

Maulissa shares her journey from working in the digital department of The Ledger during the early days of internet advertising to founding her own agency, Rubber and Glue. She discusses how her professional experience negotiating the shift from analog to digital media has prepared her to tackle the modern challenges facing the city of Auburndale.

Whether you are an Auburndale resident interested in the upcoming election or a small business owner looking for a candidate who understands your struggle, Maulissa’s blend of professional expertise and local heart offers a clear vision for the city’s future. 134

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Sherry Ross and Mary Correa, representatives of the Lakeland Arts Association (LAA), to discuss the highly anticipated launch of the Depot Arts District. This new creative hub is part of a massive revitalization of the historic Sears Town (now Lakeland Town Center) on Memorial Boulevard.

Sherry, a retired art teacher with 32 years of experience, and Mary, a mixed-media artist, share the inspiring story of how this project came to life through a "fairy godfather" benefactor who is investing in the local community by repurposing abandoned spaces.

Whether you're a professional artist seeking a dedicated studio or a resident excited about Lakeland’s growth, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people turning a forgotten landmark into a vibrant cultural destination. 133

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Dr. Kay Klymko, a candidate for Mayor of Lakeland. With a distinguished career as a PhD-prepared nurse practitioner and gerontologist, Dr. Klymko shares her lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life for the community’s most vulnerable populations, specifically older adults, families in poverty, and the unhoused.

Dr. Klymko discusses her professional trajectory—from working as a nurse’s aid in high school to receiving a prestigious National Research Service Award from the NIH to study the effects of high blood pressure on cognition in older adults. She brings this data-driven, empathetic perspective to her campaign, advocating for a "moral budget" that prioritizes human services alongside economic growth.

Whether you are a longtime resident or new to the area, Dr. Klymko’s "builder’s perspective" and focus on social support offer a fresh vision for the future of Lakeland. 132

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Ana Rivera, the founder and president of the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Polk County. Ana shares her vibrant life story—from her childhood in the Bronx and Puerto Rico to her successful career in the New York fashion and merchandising industry, and finally her impactful transition into community leadership in Lakeland.

Ana recounts the formative lessons she learned from her mother about resilience and standing up for oneself, which fueled her ambition to attend the High School of Art and Design and secure a prestigious scholarship to the Trap Hagen School of Fashion.

Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to connect with the Hispanic community or someone inspired by stories of grit and grace, Ana’s journey is a testament to the power of community-focused leadership. 131

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Kim-Marie Noble, a candidate for the Lakeland City Commission (Southeast District). A Lakeland resident of 18 years and a member of the local workforce, Kim-Marie shares her vision for a city government that is more accessible, transparent, and responsive to the needs of everyday citizens.

Kim-Marie discusses the challenges facing Lakelanders today, from the rising cost of housing to the complexities of local infrastructure, all while emphasizing her unique perspective as a working mother and community advocate.

Whether you are a long-time resident or new to the area, Kim-Marie’s straightforward and empathetic approach offers a fresh look at how local leadership can better serve the community. 130

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Dennis Odisho, a candidate for the Lakeland City Commission (Southwest District). Dennis, a professional with 28 years of experience in the construction industry, shares his vision for a more proactive and transparent local government as the city continues to experience rapid growth.

Dennis emphasizes the need for a "builder’s perspective" in city hall, focusing on fixing infrastructure before approving new developments, reducing the cost of living, and attracting high-paying jobs in technology, defense, and healthcare.

Whether you are concerned about your rising taxes, frustrated by local traffic, or interested in the future of Lakeland’s economy, Dennis’s straightforward and data-driven approach offers a compelling look at the road ahead for our city. 129

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Jim Davey, a former pastor of 37 years who now serves as the Campus Pastor and Chaplain for Gospel Inc. Jim shares his heart for the Lakeland community and discusses the vital work being done at Gospel Village, a unique residential community dedicated to providing permanent housing and holistic support for the chronically homeless.

Jim details the growth of Gospel Village, which is currently expanding its footprint on a three-and-a-half-acre campus. With 48 new units under construction and plans for even more, the organization is creating a stable environment where single adults can find not just a roof over their heads, but a true sense of belonging and "wraparound" services to help them get healthy and secure.

Whether you're looking for a way to give back to your city or simply want to hear an inspiring story of faith and service, Jim’s insights offer a powerful look at how compassion is transforming lives in Lakeland. 128

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Heather Pham, a registered nurse and energy healing practitioner who specializes in identifying and releasing trapped emotional energy. Heather shares her transformative journey from Western medicine to a holistic approach that focuses on the root emotional causes of physical symptoms like chronic pain, anxiety, and disease.

Heather explains the concept of "cellular memory" and how traumas—whether large or small—can become stuck in the body as energetic blockages if not properly processed. She discusses how these trapped emotions (which she defines as "energy in motion") can manifest as physical ailments, such as back problems linked to a lack of support or liver issues tied to suppressed anger.

Whether you're struggling with grief, chronic illness, or simply feel "stuck" in life, Heather’s insights provide a roadmap for releasing the heavy baggage of the past to live a more joyful, enlightened life. 127

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Theresa Evans, the Executive Director of Pace Center for Girls in Lakeland. As they prepare to celebrate their 25th anniversary, Theresa shares the mission behind this impactful nonprofit, which provides academic and mental health support to girls in middle and high school who are navigating trauma, bullying, or academic challenges.

The conversation highlights how Pace Center for Girls offers more than just a classroom; it provides a "roadmap" for success through a unique stage-based development system—moving girls through stages like Responsibility, Dignity, and Grace—as they work toward their high school diplomas.

Whether you're looking for a way to volunteer, a business seeking to give back, or simply want to hear about the incredible work being done to empower the next generation of women in Lakeland, this episode is a powerful testament to the impact of community support. 126