Ep. 334 | Healing Hearts & Paws: The Nonprofit Turning Pet Loss into Purpose

In this heartfelt episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts live from the Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, spotlighting a unique nonprofit born from love, loss, and service. Tom sits down with Laura Tracey, founder and director of the Everyday Feathers Foundation, and her husband, Chris Clemons, a veteran and board member of the organization. Laura shares her inspiring transition from school psychologist to nonprofit founder, driven by the loss of their beloved dog, Brody, to cancer. Everyday Feathers Foundation now supports families with dogs undergoing cancer treatment, offering care packages, financial assistance, and promoting therapy dog programs and cancer research. Chris provides insight into his supportive role and the emotional journey behind the foundation’s mission. Together, they discuss the challenges of launching a nonprofit, the value of mentorship, and the powerful impact service dogs have on mental health—particularly for veterans and their families. This episode is a moving reminder of how personal loss can spark meaningful change and healing for others. This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: https://www.everydayfeathers.org/