In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Caitlin Gardner, founder and Chief Gardener of Blooming Communications, during Small Business Day at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee. With a rich background spanning two decades in corporate public relations, Caitlin shares her transition into entrepreneurship and the creation of her communications agency. She dives into the critical role storytelling plays in brand-building, how small business owners can manage both personal and professional reputations, and why launching a minimal viable product is key. Caitlin also unpacks the power of micro-influencers, social media strategies, and the evolving marketing landscape. It’s an insightful conversation packed with practical advice for entrepreneurs ready to grow their brand authentically and strategically.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida State Capitol hosted at the Capitol Courtyard in Tallahassee. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: https://www.bloomingcommunications.com

In this flavorful episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Oliver Mosqueda, founder and owner of Guanabana, a Jacksonville-based popsicle business turning heads and cooling down customers with bold, unique flavors. Recorded live from the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee during Small Business Days at the Capitol hosted by the Florida Small Business Development Center Network, Oliver shares his inspiring transition from working in restaurants to launching a family-run frozen treat brand. He opens up about the entrepreneurial challenges he faced, the keys to standing out in a crowded market, and how the Small Business Administration (SBA) helped him bring his vision to life. This episode offers practical insights for food-focused founders and anyone dreaming of starting their own venture.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida State Capitol hosted at the Capitol Courtyard in Tallahassee. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: https://guanabanajax.com

In this kickoff episode of the 2025 season of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred is joined by longtime SBA leader Jonel Hein, District Director for the North Florida SBA Office. Recorded live at the Florida State Capitol during Small Business Day, Jonel shares her 34-year journey with the Small Business Administration and the agency's renewed focus on manufacturing under new leadership. The conversation dives deep into SBA's core offerings—capital, contracting, consulting, and crisis support—and what small business owners need to know to become “lender-ready” in today’s market. Jonel also highlights the impressive progress in Florida’s manufacturing sector and the North Florida district’s push to surpass $1 billion in loan and contracting volume in 2025. This is essential for any entrepreneur ready to grow, scale, or access the right funding resources.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida State Capitol hosted at the Capitol Courtyard in Tallahassee. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: https://www.sba.gov/northflorida