Episode 285: In this inspiring conversation, Lori and Vonda welcome Monty Pereira, General Manager of Watanabe Floral, Inc. in Honolulu, Hawaii. Monty shares his journey from CPA to floral industry leader and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Watanabe Floral has grown into one of Hawaii’s most respected operations.

They discuss the impact of Hawaiian culture on the business, the importance of staying true to core values, creating a customer-first mindset, managing a multi-generational team, and why building relationships inside and outside the industry is key to long-term success. Packed with warmth, wisdom, and practical insights, this is an episode every florist will want to hear!

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

Episode 284: Summer has officially begun, and we’re diving into everything from backyard baseball memories to how summer traffic and summer hours impact our daily lives. But beyond the nostalgia, we’re focusing on what’s truly important for your flower shop: summer goals, mindset, and staying ahead!

Join Lori and Vonda as they explore how the Reticular Activating System (RAS) in our brains shapes what we see, what we notice, and how it impacts our daily interactions... yes, even in the flower shop! From positivity and team culture to customer service and product inspiration, we’ll talk about how to harness RAS to bring your summer goals to life.

We also bring on our special guest, Marissa Guerrero, to talk about the Texas State Floral Expo coming up at the end of June. She shares all the “secrets” and nuggets of knowledge you’ll gain by attending this in-person event, and why showing up in real life matters more than ever in our AI-driven world!

Texas State Floral Expo Information and Registration Link

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

Episode 283: Join Lori and Vonda as they dive into the highs and lows of this year’s Mother’s Day sales, share their thoughts on how technology is making us all a bit lazier (and maybe dumber!), and discuss their busy summer ahead. They also reflect on how GPS and AI tools like ChatGPT might be impacting our critical thinking, this candid episode covers it all.

They also chat with special guest Ralph Giordano about the upcoming Florida State Florist Association Convention—think tropical vibes, hands-on workshops, and no fancy black-tie stress! Plus, get the lowdown on their summer travel plans, including Texas State Floral Expo, customer service and sales webinars, and the AIFD Symposium in Palm Springs.

Packed with real talk, laughter, a few valuable tips for florists and creatives alike, this episode is a perfect listen whether you’re designing, delivering, or just dreaming about flowers!

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

Episode 282: In this episode, Vonda admits her struggle with staying focused (and awake) while reading—and Lori steps in with practical, real-life strategies and successes for actually remembering what you read. From turning chapters into movies in your mind to handwritten notes and the power of audiobooks, they cover it all—plus, how these techniques apply not just to personal growth, but to leadership, training, and even flower shop handbooks. Whether you’re a highlighter hero or a “just give me the audio” type, this episode will help you learn smarter, not harder.

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

Episode 281: What do the Pope, memory care planters, and your favorite steakhouse have in common? More than you think. In this episode, Lori and Vonda take a thoughtful (and often funny) dive into recent global events—the passing of Pope Francis and the election of Pope Leo XIV —and what it reminded them about unity, leadership, and the power of actions over words. From emotional crowd scenes to boutique service lessons, and even Bob “watering” the garden box, this one’s packed with reflection, humor, and a few truths we all need to hear.

Register Here for the Webinar: Weed out worry, Grow your know

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

Episode 280: It’s just us this time—back to a catch up with Vonda and Lori.  We’re catching up on everything from awkward customer service stories to deep confessions (like sitting at the kids’ table… on purpose). Plus, Lori shares the latest with Lenny and his big fishing tournament that wasn’t quite what it seemed. It’s funny, heartfelt, and exactly the breather we all need post-Mother’s Day.

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

Episode 279: Get ready for a heartwarming ride! Vonda is joined by flower friends Tim Farrell AIFD and Julie Poeltler AIFD as they share stories (and lots of laughs) from their unforgettable trip to Holland. From wandering endless tulip fields  to creating floral art and making new lifelong memories, this episode is a celebration of friendship, flowers, and the simple joy of adventure. Come for the blooms, stay for the love and laughter!

Listener Takeaways:

• How seeing flower fields in person transforms your appreciation for each stem of flowers.
• A reminder to make time for joyful experiences, because life (and flowers) move fast.
• How small moments — like a shared meal or a canal cruise — become the memories you cherish most.

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

Episode 278: Today’s guest is the one and only Mike Black, “Head Coach” of Jet Fresh—and if you know Mike, you know he’s way more than just a title. Lori and Vonda sit down with him to talk about mentorship in the floral industry and generational leadership. Mike shares stories from his early days in the flower biz, his take on today’s younger generation (spoiler: he’s a fan), and the exciting projects brewing at Jet Fresh. Oh, and there’s also Miss Piggy, golden tickets, and a few strong feelings about Skype.

This one’s packed with wisdom, laughs, and a whole lot of heart. 

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

Episode 277: This week, Lori and Ellie sit down with floral royalty — the dynamic father-daughter duo of Botanica Design Studio, Ian Prosser AIFD and Zoe Gallina. From Scottish flower shops to high-end luxury weddings, these two share the behind-the-scenes of growing a family business over nearly four decades. They talk trends (goodbye blush, hello meadows), share hilarious client stories (yes, there’s a floral phallic centerpiece request), and get real about what it takes to work with family (and how to be good at it.)

Expect wisdom, humor, and a little sass — all wrapped in a beautiful blooming chat. Whether you’re team “timeless elegance” or “clean bespoke,” this is a special one for you, Cliquers. 💐

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

In this special impromptu episode, Lori sits down with Ellie and Abby Chick, retail florist & advisor from Blakemore Flowers, to unpack the “T-word” that’s on everyone’s lips: tariffs. With pricing pressures mounting and Mother’s Day around the corner, this candid conversation explores what florists can actually control in the face of supply chain unpredictability.

From wholesaler confusion to confident pricing strategies, Abby shares how she’s navigating rising costs, team communication, and creative product offerings. Expect laughter, real talk, and practical ways to stay grounded and proactive—even when everything’s changing daily.

💡 You’ll hear:

• What to do before raising prices
• How to communicate with customers without panic
• Creative gift ideas beyond flowers
• Why now’s the time to empower your team

Whether you’re a seasoned shop owner or new to retail floral, this episode will leave you informed, encouraged, and ready to take action.

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