The Business & Pleasure of Flowers

Episode 206: In this episode, Vonda and Lori discuss the book, "The Retention Revolution: 7 Surprising (and Very Human!) Ways to Keep Employees Connected to Your Company" by Erica Keswin. They highlight some of the key points from the book and relate them to their experiences in the floral industry.

Listeners can expect to gain a few good tips on how to keep employees engaged and connected to their organization. Join Vonda and Lori as they share their thoughts and insights on the "Retention Revolution."

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 205: Lori and Vonda dive into the topic of setting up for a successful selling season in the floral business. With their expertise and experience, they share their top 3 tips for success during the holiday season.

In addition to their main tips, Lori and Vonda also provide some valuable bonus tips, including one that can make or break repeat sales going forward. Tune in to discover how to make the most of this bustling season and ensure your floral business flourishes during the festive period.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 204: Join us for a heartwarming Thanksgiving episode as we gather together a few special family members of Vonda and Lori to share their heartfelt thoughts on this special holiday.

In this episode, we hear from Vonda's granddaughters, Leighton and Campbell Martin, whose youthful energy and enthusiasm add a refreshing perspective to the discussion. 

We also have the privilege of listening to the wise reflections of Lori's son, Davis Wilson. With his thoughtful insights, Davis reminds us to take a moment to pause and appreciate the blessings and meaningful moments that Thanksgiving offers.

And finally, we hear from Esther Wilson, Lori's mother-in-law, who brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the conversation. Her perspective is a testament to the enduring importance of family and gratitude.

Join us as we gather around the virtual table to listen to the voices of different generations, and be inspired by their unique perspectives on Thanksgiving. 

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 203: In this episode Vonda and Lori hit the road in Illinois and are joined by  Ellie LaFever. They share their experiences at a private meeting of  BDC Managers and publicly at the SAF Profit Blast in Chicago, where gave presentations and insights on communication and personality tendencies.

They also discuss their team's recent undertaking of a strength-finders assessment within their Flower Clique team. By gaining a deeper understanding of their individual strengths, they hope to better serve others and improve as a team.

Join us as we delve into the importance of self-awareness and how it can enhance our communication and interpersonal relationships.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 202: In this episode, we sit down with the current President of TSFA, Susan Piland AIFD, CFD, TMF, as well as the Immediate Past President, Cheryl Vaughn CFD TMFA, to learn more about the organization and its success. They share their insights on what has made TSFA a thriving community of floral professionals, what keeps it strong and what upcoming events and projects are on the horizon. Tune in to hear from the leaders of Texas State Floral Association and discover what makes this organization so special.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 201: In this milestone episode, Vonda and Lori celebrate recording  200 podcast episodes by sharing their personal reflections on the journey so far. They talk about the lessons learned about themselves and one another.

In addition, they ask each other 5 questions to give listeners a glimpse into their personalities, backgrounds, and interests. Get ready to learn more about the hosts behind the microphones!

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 200: Tune in to hear Lori's heartwarming and personal experience participating in the Society of American Florists' annual Petal it Forward campaign. On October 18, florists from all 50 states came together to spread joy and love by giving away flowers to unsuspecting recipients. Find out how this nationwide event was a great success and the profound impact it had on Lori and the people she encountered. Discover the power of flowers in brightening someone's day and spreading positivity in this inspiring episode.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 199: In this episode, Vonda is joined by Audrey Kristoff and Ellie LaFever as they share their experiences from their recent trip to Bogota. They discuss the beauty of the flower farms, the journey of a Flower Clique Bundle, the event of Proflora as well as the love and appreciation of the local Columbians. 

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 198:  Lori interviews Vonda about her recent visit to Bogota, Colombia. She went there to attend Proflora and visit some flower farms, particularly Natural Flowers - the provider for Flower Clique bouquets. During her time there, Vonda had the opportunity to meet the workers, see the flower bouquet creation process, make new friends and observe the ripples of kindness and respect that started at the top.
In the next episode, Ellie and Audrey will join Vonda for a more in-depth recap of their experience in Bogota.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 197: In this episode, Vonda and Lori sit down with Renato Cruz Sogueco, Vice President of Digital Strategy and Education at BloomNet, as he shares his fascinating journey in the floral industry. Renato talks about his humble beginnings and the steps he took to reach his current position.

Renato also highlights some of his notable accomplishments in the industry, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned along the way. He provides valuable insights into the world of digital marketing, emphasizing what is essential to know in today's fast-paced and ever-changing digital landscape.

Additionally, Renato gives us a glimpse into his personal life and shares what he enjoys doing in his free time. He also offers intriguing hints about his future plans and where we might find him in the coming years.

Tune in as Renato Cruz Sogueco provides his expertise, experiences, and personal reflections on both his professional journey and his leisure pursuits.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist