I Am Lakeland®

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns welcomes back Chance, Colt, and Wyatt—the energetic trio behind the local Lakeland band, Two Reasons. The guys return to the studio to share the big news about their second album, titled The Weenering (or The Wenery), and to give fans an inside look at their evolving sound and DIY recording process.

Still in high school but with a professional outlook, the band members discuss how they’ve leveled up their production quality for this new release, featuring 11 brand-new tracks and revamped versions of their earlier songs.

Whether you're a fan of local indie music or an aspiring artist yourself, this episode captures the raw passion and humor of three young musicians making their mark on the Lakeland scene. 125

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Althea A. McLeish Whyte, also known as Dr. Al or "The Money Nurse." Althea shares her incredible journey from being a registered nurse in Jamaica and New York to becoming a financial advisor, coach, and doctorate holder right here in Lakeland.

Althea opens up about a significant financial event in 2016 that left her depressed and discouraged. However, through faith and persistence, she transformed her situation—raising her credit score from a 490 to over 840. Now, she uses her experiences to educate others on how to fix their financial issues and secure their futures.

Whether you are looking to repair your credit, plan for retirement, or find the motivation to pivot in your own career, Althea’s story is a powerful testament to the fact that it is never too late to turn your life around. 124

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Mary Correa, a mixed media artist, instructor, and the Vice President of the Lakeland Arts Association. Mary shares her journey from a corporate career at Marriott and a background in accounting to building a thriving creative business that empowers adults to rediscover their artistic side.

Mary explains the concept of "mixed media"—which essentially means she’s never met an art supply she doesn’t like—combining everything from acrylics and collage to handmade art books. Her mission is to provide a "child-free" creative environment where adults can play, learn, and prove to themselves that everyone has a creative spark.

Whether you're an experienced artist or someone who hasn't picked up a brush since elementary school, Mary’s passion for "grown-up education" offers a welcoming space to explore your imagination. 123

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Katie Rader, author of You Don't Need Headlights to Shine, and Patricia Uiterwyk, a local business owner and board chair for the Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida (BCFCF). The conversation is a deeply personal and inspiring look at the reality of a breast cancer diagnosis and the vital importance of local community support.

Katie shares her journey from being a lifelong Plant City resident and veteran hair stylist to becoming an author. After her diagnosis in 2022, Katie began journaling her experiences in her phone's notes app to keep her friends updated. Those raw, honest entries eventually caught the attention of a publisher, leading to her book which offers a day-by-day account of her fight, her faith, and the lessons she learned along the way.

Whether you are a survivor, a caregiver, or someone looking to make a tangible difference in the Lakeland area, this episode highlights how transparency, integrity, and local action can transform lives. 122

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Lori Brooks Bremer Long and Stephanie Colon, the visionary founders of Empowered Evolve. More than just a group, they describe their initiative as a "movement" dedicated to helping individuals—particularly women—reclaim their worth, discover their purpose, and transition from a mindset of competition to one of collaboration.

Lori and Stephanie discuss the unique challenges women face, often placing themselves at the bottom of their own priority lists while juggling professional and family responsibilities. Through their workshops and retreats, they aim to help women "fill their own buckets" first so they can more effectively pour into others.

Whether you are looking to advance your career, heal from past trauma, or simply connect with a group of like-minded leaders, Lori and Stephanie’s high-energy and faith-based approach offers a roadmap for evolving into your best self. 121

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Brad Garrett, the local marketing expert and creative mind behind the podcast "The Brad Garrett Effect." Despite sharing a name and a striking resemblance to the famous actor and comedian, this Brad Garrett is a dedicated Lakelander who has spent decades helping local businesses thrive through his company, Peak Marketing.

Brad shares his fascinating journey from a 17-year career in industrial automation to becoming a branding and advertising specialist. The conversation covers the challenges and rewards of the podcasting world, the power of helping others succeed, and the unique evolution of the Lakeland community.

Whether you're a business owner looking for marketing wisdom or a Lakeland resident who loves a good trip down memory lane, Brad’s high-energy and authentic approach offers plenty of "effect" for every listener. 120

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by G-Clef (Gary), a seasoned DJ and entrepreneur who is bringing a unique flair to the Polk County event scene. G-Clef shares his journey from the turntables of New York and the stages of Disney World to opening his very own boutique venue, The Serendipity Space.

The conversation explores G-Clef's deep roots in music—starting his DJ career in the early 80s—and his fascinating transition to Florida after being recruited by Disney to host and DJ at iconic spots like Pleasure Island. Now, he’s channeling that lifetime of entertainment experience into a beautiful, repurposed barn in Polk City.

Whether you're planning a milestone celebration or looking for a space that offers both professional equipment and a cozy, private atmosphere, G-Clef’s passion for "pleasant surprises" makes his venue a must-visit. 119

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down for a second interview with the remarkably ambitious JJ Curry (Jafar Curry Jr.), the creative force behind WTIH Studios. At just 18 years old, JJ is a published author, athlete, and aspiring linguist who is dedicated to using his platform to inspire others to "work till it hurts" in pursuit of their passions.

JJ shares the exciting next chapter of his journey: he is moving to Preston, England, on a basketball and academic scholarship to study international business. Despite this big move, his commitment to his Lakeland roots and his creative projects remains stronger than ever.

Whether you're a young entrepreneur, an athlete, or someone looking for a spark of motivation, JJ’s story is a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to impact. 118

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Lupita Alvarez, a holistic business coach and the founder of Ignite the Fire Inside. With over 10 years of experience as an entrepreneur, Lupita shares her unique approach to professional growth, which blends traditional business strategy with nervous system regulation and mindfulness.

Lupita explains her transition from a high-intensity life in New York City to returning to Polk County, where she now helps high-achieving entrepreneurs break free from the "grind" and redefine success on their own terms.

Whether you're a seasoned business owner facing burnout or a new entrepreneur looking for a balanced path to success, Lupita’s insights offer a refreshing perspective on how to grow your business by first taking care of yourself. 117

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Madelene Roserie-Hargrove, a licensed mental health therapist, mindset mastery coach, and the founder of Conquered Mental Therapy. Madelene shares her passion for helping women navigate anxiety, depression, and life transitions through a faith-based lens.

The conversation delves into Madelene's journey of turning her own life challenges into a mission to serve others. She explains the heart behind her business name, inspired by John 16:33—the belief that because Jesus has already conquered the world, we are already over comers.

Whether you are an entrepreneur struggling with burnout or someone seeking spiritual and emotional grounding, Madelene’s compassionate and faith-forward approach offers a path to becoming a "conqueror" in your own life. 116