PB + Jax

In this compelling episode, Randall Thomas sits down with Florian Vlad, a Romanian-born entrepreneur and founder of twinsAPP and Doc.ai, to explore the intersection of healthcare, artificial intelligence, and the power of resilient innovation.

Florian shares his journey from running an advertising agency in Romania to launching multiple tech ventures in the U.S., including groundbreaking work in AI-powered diagnostics. He offers a firsthand look at how Doc.ai is reshaping telehealth through a digital stethoscope and a smart, scalable diagnostic platform aimed at improving accuracy for physicians and access for patients.

The conversation dives deep into the entrepreneurial landscape in Jacksonville, Florida, revealing the challenges and opportunities of building a startup ecosystem in a mid-sized city. Florian discusses the growing importance of community, mentorship, and infrastructure in helping founders thrive, and why he believes Jacksonville could become the next Austin or Nashville—if it invests in supporting early-stage founders.

This episode is packed with insights on:

• Transitioning from creative services to software development

• Using AI to tackle real healthcare challenges

• Building relationships with physicians and securing funding

• The need for visibility, capital access, and community support in regional tech scenes

• How founders can scale without a technical background

• The mindset required to thrive as a mission-driven entrepreneur

Whether you're a startup founder, investor, or just curious about the future of digital health, Florian’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when vision meets execution.

Host Randall Thomas sits down with Bryan Croft, CEO of HC Brands, to explore the transformation of a legacy rubber stamp business into a thriving e-commerce powerhouse. With roots dating back to 1954, HC Brands has grown into a portfolio of nine niche e-commerce sites, driven by a culture of innovation, resilience, and purpose.

Bryan shares his journey of modernizing a family business, implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), and embracing AI and digital transformation to fuel sustainable growth. The conversation also delves into Jacksonville’s rise as a dynamic business hub, where entrepreneurial spirit meets community impact.

Bryan unpacks the power of leadership development, the importance of peer networks, and the grit required to stay the course. From his involvement in shaping local landmarks like Atlantic Beach Country Club to revitalizing neighborhoods such as San Marco East, Bryan exemplifies how business success and community building go hand in hand.

In this episode of Frontline Visionaries, host Randall Thomas sits down with Jodie Bielman , Clinic Director at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone, to unpack the critical work being done to support the mental health of veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

Jodie shares how the clinic is revolutionizing access to care—eliminating wait times, removing financial barriers, and embracing telehealth to ensure no one is left behind. The clinic's holistic, evidence-based approach is tailored to individual needs, whether a veteran is dealing with PTSD, a traumatic brain injury, or navigating the complex emotions of post-military life.

The conversation explores the real meaning of “family” in the military community, the power of community partnerships, and the urgent need to address veteran suicide with proactive, compassionate support.

Jodie also introduces upcoming community events and dives into how the clinic supports military spouses and caregivers, who often go unseen in the healing journey.

In this inspiring episode, host Randall Thomas sits down with Michele McManaman, co-founder of Operation New Uniform (ONU)—a trailblazing nonprofit that’s helped over 650 veterans successfully transition into thriving civilian careers over the past 11 years.

Michele shares the heartfelt origin story of ONU, born from a desire to bridge the gap between military service and meaningful employment. From humble beginnings to a 97% job placement success rate, ONU has become a cornerstone of veteran support in Jacksonville, thanks to its innovative training model, small cohort approach, and unwavering community partnerships.

The conversation dives deep into the real struggles veterans face when reentering the workforce—like identity loss, undervaluing their skills, and adapting to a different kind of communication in the civilian world. Michele explains how ONU’s program goes beyond resumes and interview prep—it empowers veterans to rediscover their self-worth, embrace their transferable strengths, and negotiate with confidence.

Listeners will also hear powerful success stories, learn about the impact of graduation ceremonies, and get insights into how anyone—businesses, volunteers, or donors—can play a vital role in transforming the trajectory of a veteran’s post-service life.

Key Takeaways:

• Operation New Uniform (ONU) equips veterans with the tools to transition successfully into the civilian workforce.

• The program is 100% free for veterans and offers intensive, cohort-based training.

• Cohorts are capped at 15 participants to ensure meaningful, personalized instruction.

• Veterans are trained in communication, negotiation, and self-advocacy—skills critical for success outside of the military.

• ONU focuses on helping veterans rebuild identity and confidence after service.

• 97% of ONU graduates secure meaningful employment, often with impressive starting salaries.

• Networking, self-worth, and community support are central to the ONU philosophy.

• Graduation ceremonies double as valuable networking events and celebrations of transformation.

• Volunteers, employers, and donors play a crucial role in expanding ONU’s reach and impact.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Daniel Bean, CEO of K9s for Warriors, to explore his multifaceted journey—from serving in the U.S. Navy to leading one of the nation’s most impactful veteran support organizations. With a background in law and a deep commitment to civic service, Daniel shares how his experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy and fueled his passion for improving the Jacksonville community.

Daniel discusses his involvement in the revitalization of Jacksonville’s historic USS Orleck project, the economic significance of the Jacksonville Port Authority, and his strong belief in the city's untapped potential. With a forward-looking lens, he emphasizes the importance of community engagement, veteran advocacy, and leveraging strategic assets like the waterfront to drive long-term growth.

The conversation also highlights the life-changing work of K9s for Warriors, a nonprofit that pairs rescue dogs with veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and military sexual trauma. With a 99% success rate in suicide prevention, the program offers not just companionship—but a pathway to healing and renewed purpose. Daniel shares how the organization is expanding nationally, pushing for federal legislation to fund service dog programs through the VA, and launching innovative research, including brain scan studies to further prove the therapeutic value of service dogs.

-Civic responsibility is essential to both personal fulfillment and community growth.

-Daniel’s military background informs his strong, principled leadership style.

Our first episode from the Think Bold Festival and Conference is with Rahman Johnson, City Councilman and Representative of District 14 here in Jacksonville, FL.

Councilman and I agree that Jacksonville is shedding its moniker as a 'city of potential'. With increased money commitments to Jacksonville's Small and Emerging Businesses, the citywide projects that are being greenlit, the cranes in the air, and the migration from other cities and states to our city, the buzz around Jacksonville is palpable.

Councilman Johnson has agreed to return to PB & JAX to conduct a longer form interview on the topics discussed in this interview and any other topics you want to hear about. As he said when he sat down "nothing is off limits."

In this compelling episode, host Randall Thomas sits down with Nick Padlo, founder of Sophros Recovery, an innovative outpatient addiction and mental health treatment center based in Jacksonville, Florida. Nick shares his deeply personal journey through addiction, recovery, and transformation—experiences that inspired him to reimagine what accessible, effective mental health care could look like, particularly for veterans and individuals navigating high-stress environments.

The conversation dives into the unique challenges of substance abuse within military culture, emphasizing how stigma and silence can delay critical care. Nick opens up about the motivations behind launching Soft First Recovery, a program designed to meet people where they are—both literally and emotionally—through outpatient treatment that integrates real-world exposure and daily accountability.

The episode highlights Sophros Recovery’s expansion into Tampa, its growing network of military base partnerships, and plans to launch virtual treatment options. Together, Randall and Nick explore how creating a toolkit-based approach to recovery—one that prioritizes individualized strategies, community support, and practical life skills—can empower people to not only recover but thrive.

Nick also sheds light on the emotional and psychological hurdles many veterans face during their transition to civilian life, stressing the importance of early intervention, community connection, and the transformative power of hope. From insurance-friendly access to inspirational success stories, this episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible—and that it often begins with the courage to ask for help.

Key Takeaways:

• Soft First Recovery treats both addiction and mental health through an outpatient model.

• Clients stay engaged with real-life responsibilities while receiving support.

• Relapse is not failure—the program encourages returning to treatment without shame.

• Nick’s own recovery experience deeply influences his leadership and mission.

• Military culture often stigmatizes mental health—Soft First is working to change that.

• The organization partners with military bases for veteran referrals.

• Expansion into Tampa is part of a broader mission to serve more communities.

• A “toolkit” philosophy teaches clients diverse coping and recovery strategies.

• The team is exploring virtual care and new service offerings to increase access.

• Veteran transitions can be disorienting—many feel a loss of purpose and identity.

• Seeking help early can prevent escalation and save lives.

• No insurance? No problem. Recovery should be accessible to all.

• Sharing recovery stories helps reduce stigma and build hope.

• Recovery is a lifelong journey, strengthened by daily action and community.

• Jacksonville is becoming a model city for progressive recovery culture.

Randall Thomas sits down with Kari Bates and Lacey Rumberger from Arc Jacksonville, a trailblazing nonprofit committed to enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

As the organization celebrates its 60th anniversary, the conversation takes a deep dive into its enduring mission, pioneering programs, and the power of community-based support.

Listeners will learn about Arc Jacksonville’s innovative college program, The Arc Jacksonville Village, and The Lodge—a unique housing solution designed to support independent living while fostering a sense of belonging.

Kari and Lacey also spotlight the challenges facing aging individuals with disabilities, the often-overlooked link between disabilities and mental health, and the critical role employment, social engagement, and family support play in overall well-being.

From advocacy and education to housing and aging services, this episode unpacks the dynamic ways Arc Jacksonville is helping individuals thrive on their own terms—and why community involvement is more vital than ever.

Key Themes & Takeaways

• Arc Jacksonville is a cornerstone of support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Northeast Florida.

• Residential programs like The Village and The Lodge promote autonomy while providing a safety net of services.

• The college program offers immersive, inclusive higher education experiences for young adults.

• As the organization marks six decades, it continues to evolve with future-focused solutions—from addressing long housing waitlists to creating programs for older adults with disabilities.

• Mental health and disabilities intersect in complex ways, and Arc Jacksonville is innovating to meet these needs holistically.

• Employment and social connection are essential for dignity, identity, and quality of life.

• Ongoing community education and training can break down barriers and foster inclusion.

• Flexibility in funding and creative partnerships pave the way for sustainable, scalable impact.

Whether you're a family member, educator, policymaker, or advocate, this episode offers valuable insights into how Arc Jacksonville is building pathways to independence, connection, and fulfillment.

In this episode of PB and Jax, Colonel Chris Budihas shares his journey from military service to becoming a community leader in Jacksonville. This includes his upbringing, military career, and the lessons learned that shaped his leadership style. Chris emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community, the potential of Jacksonville, and the need for collaboration among local businesses and organizations to foster innovation and growth.

He also highlights the significance of education and talent retention in building a prosperous future for the city. In this conversation, Chris Budihas and Randall Thomas discuss building community support for veterans, focusing on education, career opportunities, and the need for collaboration among various organizations.

They highlight the significance of networking, raising awareness for veteran services, and the impact of nonprofits in the community. The discussion also touches on lifelong learning, the drive to contribute beyond retirement, and the introduction of initiatives like 100 Men Who Care and the Frontline Visionaries podcast, aimed at fostering community engagement and support.

"If you're on the journey to mastery, you're going to look terrible in the beginning." -She may have been speaking about golf, but this advice is for anyone looking to do anything new. The barrier of entry in learning something new is looking cringey in the early stages.

PB + Jacksonville Episode 22: Jillian Johnson of Ladies Executive Golf Society.

Jillian Johnson is the founder of LEGS, the greatest name of any nonprofit, networking group, business, or any other entity I've come across in the PB & JAX era. #LEGS exists to bring women together in an inclusive (and relaxed) setting, where they can support each other in life and in business.

Jillian is a former caddie at Sawgrass and has been around the game for 20+ years. She spent many years in cubicles and kept thinking that there was an opportunity to bring people together through the game of golf. It began as a small networking event - however, now, LEGS is in NINETEEN (19!!!!!) cities across the United States.

An idea that began here in Jacksonville is sweeping the nation and is growing like crazy. LEGS is set to hit their 7-year anniversary next month, and we couldn't be prouder of what Jillian has accomplished, and eager to see what's to come.

Through affordable membership and strategic partnership with local courses, Jillian and her team have brought accessibility and affordability to a game that sorely needed it. If you are a beginner or a pro, LEGS is for you. These events have secured countless partnerships between members that have mutually benefitted their businesses and occupations.

PB & JAX was extremely fortunate that Jillian took time with us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn about LEGS and all the work that went in to making it what it is today.

LEGS Website: https://lnkd.in/eYbpea4s

LEGS LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eJEuHaMi