I Am Lakeland®

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns welcomes back Giana Rahmani, owner of Feasts of Persia (and now a regular on the show!), to discuss an upcoming transformative event for the Lakeland business community: "Beyond the Hustle: Build Balance and Breakthrough."

Hosted by Polk Wellness Professionals, this workshop is designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners move past the grueling "7-to-2" side-hustle grind and find a sustainable path to success that doesn't sacrifice their health or family life. Giana shares her own journey of balancing being a wife and mother with building a business, and why she is passionate about "redefining hustle culture."

Whether you're a "side hustler" looking to make the leap to full-time or a seasoned owner facing burnout, this episode offers a roadmap for achieving a "better tomorrow" while enjoying your life today. 115

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Robert Berganza, a Lakeland-based designer and craftsman who is merging the worlds of woodworking, metalwork, and high fashion. Robert introduces his flagship product: the Ring Clutch, a sculptural formal evening purse designed and manufactured right here in Lakeland at Catapult.

Robert shares the intricate process of bringing this luxury accessory to life, moving from raw plates of brass and blocks of maple to a finished piece that rivals the quality of a grand piano. He discusses the "labor of love" involved in every step, from welding and polishing the brass to the unique "flocking" technique used to create a seamless red velvet interior.

Whether you're an aspiring designer or someone who appreciates the intersection of engineering and elegance, Robert’s journey offers a fascinating look at the new wave of manufacturing in Lakeland. 114

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Samantha J. Minor, a faith-based life and business coach and founder of SamJ Creative Solutions. Samantha visits the studio to discuss an upcoming community event designed to support the mental, physical, and professional well-being of local entrepreneurs: "Beyond the Hustle: Build Balance and Breakthrough."

Presented by Polk Wellness Professionals, this free workshop aims to address the unique challenges faced by business owners in Polk County. Samantha shares the origin story of the organization, founded by Debbie Zimmerman of PhytoFit, which was created in response to the high rates of health issues like obesity and diabetes in the local community.

Whether you're a startup founder feeling stuck or a long-time business owner looking for better work-life balance, Samantha’s insights offer a roadmap for growing your business without sacrificing your health. 113

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Nicole Ash, the owner and founder of Strong Souls, a unique pole dance and fitness studio located in Mulberry, Florida. Nicole shares her personal journey from being a non-dancer who initially struggled with her first class to becoming a certified instructor and business owner dedicated to creating a supportive space for women of all backgrounds.

Strong Souls offers a variety of classes, including tricks-based fitness, "heel flow" dance, and even Lyra (aerial hoop). Nicole emphasizes that the studio is built on a foundation of inclusivity, welcoming individuals of all body types, ages (with students as young as 30 and as seasoned as 66!), and fitness levels.

Whether you're looking for an intense new way to get strong or a creative outlet to express yourself, Nicole’s passion for "strong souls" and healthy bodies makes her studio a standout addition to the local fitness scene. 112

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Josh Filmore, a true "unicorn" of the city—a born-and-raised Lakelander. Josh is a licensed insurance agent with Health Markets, where he specializes in helping individuals, families, and seniors navigate the complex world of health insurance and Medicare.

Josh shares his journey from growing up in the local community (with a father who served the City of Lakeland for over 40 years!) to becoming a trusted broker. He explains that his role is to act as a "middleman" who looks out for the client rather than the insurance company, ensuring that families are not only covered medically but also protected from devastating financial surprises.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by insurance options or want to ensure your "wallet is protected" along with your health, Josh’s local expertise and community-first approach offer peace of mind. 111

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Janet Farmer, a native Floridian and seasoned birth professional with over 30 years of experience. Janet is a certified birth Doula, childbirth educator, and the owner of Bellies to Babies, a premier Doula agency serving Polk County.

Janet explains the vital, non-medical role that Doulas play in the journey of Parenthood. She clarifies the common misconception between Midwives (who provide clinical care) and Doulas, who focus on the emotional, physical, and educational experience of the birthing family.

Whether you're an expectant parent looking for support or someone interested in a career in birth work, Janet’s passion for "empowered birthing" provides an inspiring look at a service that has supported women for generations. 110

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by sisters Jen and Jessica, the founders of Golden Girls Tan. As born-and-raised Lakeland locals, they share their journey of launching a mobile and studio-based spray tanning business that specifically serves the North Lakeland area—a community they felt was underserved in the beauty and wellness space.

The sisters open up about the deeply personal motivation behind their business: both are survivors of skin cancer (melanoma and basal cell). They discuss the dangers of traditional UV tanning beds and "baby oil" sunbathing, which they both engaged in growing up, and how they now use their business to educate the next generation on safer ways to achieve a healthy glow.

Whether you're looking for a confidence boost for a special event or wanting to transition to a skin-healthy tanning routine, Jen and Jessica’s passion for "aging gracefully" offers an inspiring look at local entrepreneurship. 109

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Mark Krutzky, a local entrepreneur and the founder of Water Slides of Lakeland. Mark shares his inspiring story of transitioning from a 23-year career as a truck driver to launching a family-owned business specializing in high-quality inflatable water slides, bounce houses, and event rentals.

Mark discusses the "why" behind his business: a desire to work for himself, involve his family, and teach his grandchildren the value of hard work. He emphasizes that Water Slides of Lakeland isn't just about the equipment—it's about providing a premier "gift-like" experience through exceptional customer service and meticulous attention to detail.

Whether you're planning a summer birthday party or a community festival, Mark’s passion for his craft and his community makes Water Slides of Lakeland a go-to resource for local fun. 108

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns is joined by Tamra Gaines, a professional coach, speaker, and author who recently traded the fast-paced corporate world for a meaningful life of entrepreneurship in Lakeland. Tamra shares her journey from a 30-year career in the hospitality industry to launching her own brand, Tamra Gaines Consulting, and her podcast, Tamra Talks.

The conversation centers on Tamra's passion for helping others build confidence and leadership skills. She discusses her book, The Pillars of Confidence: Unlock Your Success in 6 Key Life Areas, which provides a framework for assessed growth in core values, inner voice, and outer brand.

Whether you're looking to boost your personal confidence, navigate a career transition, or simply want to hear from a fellow Lakeland enthusiast, Tamra’s expertise and warm personality offer plenty of inspiration. 107

In this episode of "I Am Lakeland," host Don Burns sits down with Paulette Rolle-Alesnik, a speaker, coach, and investor who shares her powerful "Coming to America" story. Originally from the Bahamas, Paulette moved to Tampa in 1992 to pursue her passion for the arts, but her life took an unexpected turn when a chance encounter at a Puerto Rican restaurant led her to a path of global ministry and entrepreneurship.

Paulette reflects on her journey from being a dancer to becoming a published author and a successful real estate investor. She is the author of the new book, My Journey to Financial Freedom with MSI (Multiple Streams of Income), which serves as a guide for women seeking to build financial stability and take bold action in their lives.

Whether you're looking for financial inspiration or want to learn more about local efforts to help the unhoused, Paulette’s "crazy faith" and relentless work ethic offer a blueprint for turning dreams into reality. 106