What does it take to grow a creative business into a thriving legacy?

In this episode of the WNY Entrepreneur Podcast, we sit down with Kathryn O’Donnell, the powerhouse behind Botanicus Interior Landscaping, a company that’s been quietly beautifying Buffalo’s commercial spaces for over 50 years.

Kathryn shares how she transformed what began as a small plant shop with little structure into a service-driven, client-centered business with staying power. Through leadership changes, market shifts, and industry burnout, she’s stayed grounded by leading with purpose, building the right systems, and learning what separates a hobby from a real business.

Whether you’re building something from scratch or trying to stabilize your business for long-term success, Kathryn offers refreshing perspective on money, mindset, and making decisions that truly support your goals.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ How Kathryn took a small plant shop and turned it into a lasting 50-year business

✅ The difference between a hobby that costs you money and a business that makes you money

✅ Why knowing your numbers is essential, even in passion-based industries

✅ How she protects her time and energy by choosing aligned clients

✅ What most entrepreneurs overlook when pricing projects or quoting work

✅ Why systems and people matter more than trends or tools

✅ The mindset that helped her survive leadership changes and stay in the game

🎧 This one’s for the business owners who want to grow something sustainable, not just flashy. Tune in and get inspired by real-world insights from someone who’s been in it for the long haul.