ElevatePolk

AI is everywhere — but is it actually helping your business, or just creating more noise? In this episode of the Elevate Polk Podcast, Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg dive into the real-world use of AI for business owners, leaders, and operators who are trying to figure out what’s useful, what’s hype, and what needs a serious “trust but verify” approach. From ChatGPT and Claude to AI hallucinations, deterministic workflows, business bottlenecks, and the rise of “AI slop,” this conversation is not about guru buzzwords or magic-button promises. It’s about how to think more clearly, use AI more intentionally, and avoid handing your business over to a machine that still needs context, direction, and quality control. In this episode, we talk about: Why AI is a thought partner, not a magic show How business owners accidentally become the bottleneck Why “trust but verify” matters more than ever The difference between tactical AI use and strategic AI use ChatGPT, Claude, Codex, Claude Code, and practical business applications Why AI needs context before it can give useful output How to avoid sending out lazy, unreviewed “AI slop” Why AI can help refine your systems — but it can’t fix unclear thinking If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, marketer, or leader trying to make sense of AI without falling for the hype, this episode is for you. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:46 AI hallucinations and “trust but verify” 02:49 Business owners as the bottleneck 07:46 AI is a thought partner, not a magic show 13:02 ChatGPT, Codex, Claude, and Claude Code 17:15 Deterministic workflows and repeatable tasks 23:37 Tactical AI use in business 32:49 Why tactical AI can only take you so far 34:27 Machines don’t understand you — they process inputs 50:48 AI still needs human thinking 57:28 Don’t send out AI slop Subscribe to Elevate Polk for more conversations about business, leadership, community, technology, and what it really takes to grow in Polk County and beyond. Brought to you by:  It’s 3PM | https://Its3PM.io  Central Florida Business Expo | https://CFLBE.com #ElevatePolk #ArtificialIntelligence #AIForBusiness #BusinessGrowth #SmallBusinessLeadership #ChatGPT #ClaudeAI #BusinessStrategy #PolkCounty #LakelandFL

What happens when a community suddenly wakes up to a public process that has technically been available all along? In this episode of ElevatePolk, Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg unpack the conversation surrounding proposed data centers in Lakeland and Polk County, but this episode is not really about data centers. It is about engagement. It is about how local government works, why public process can feel hidden even when it is technically public, and what happens when citizens only become engaged after a headline, a controversy, or a crisis grabs their attention. Chrissanne and Dan talk through civic apathy, public trust, social contracts, economic development, private investment, community responsibility, and the tension between “I didn’t know” and “the information was available.” They also explore how artificial intelligence, public communication, social media, and local leadership are changing the way people receive, process, and respond to information. This is a real, off-the-cuff conversation about what it means to stay engaged before the machine is already moving. In this episode: ✔️ Why public process matters, even before a project becomes “real” ✔️ The difference between being informed and being reactive ✔️ How communities can become more civically engaged ✔️ Why local government communication is harder than it looks ✔️ The responsibility citizens have to pay attention ✔️ How data centers became the spark for a much larger conversation ✔️ Why "Trust, but verify" and civil discourse matter now more than ever Watch, listen, and join the conversation. What would help you feel more informed and engaged in local decisions before they become hot-button issues? Subscribe to Elevate Polk for conversations about small business, entrepreneurship, economic development, and the future of Polk County. Follow Elevate Polk: Facebook:   https://facebook.com/elevatepolk   Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts. Brought to you by: It’s 3PM | https://Its3PM.io Central Florida Business Expo | https://CFLBE.com #ElevatePolk #LakelandFL #PolkCountyFL #CityOfLakeland #EconomicDevelopment #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #LakelandBusiness #PolkCountyBusiness #CentralFloridaBusiness #Infrastructure #LocalGovernment #CommunityDevelopment

Lakeland is growing, and the decisions being made today will shape what it feels like to live, work, build, and do business here for years to come. In this episode of Elevate Polk,  @ChrissanneLong   and Dan @thumberg  sit down with Shawn Sherrouse, City Manager for the City of Lakeland, for a deeper conversation about the 2026 State of the City, Lakeland’s strategic priorities, and how city planning connects to small business, infrastructure, public safety, quality of life, and economic development. Shawn walks through the realities of managing a growing city, including aging water and wastewater infrastructure, major road and corridor projects, public safety investments, community survey results, city services, and the balancing act between keeping costs competitive and preparing for future growth. The conversation also shifts into the economic development lens: how local businesses can engage with the city, why city purchasing matters, how events like the Central Florida Business Expo support business connection, and why Lakeland’s cost of doing business may be one of its most important untold stories. This episode is a candid look at the work happening behind the scenes in Lakeland — and why business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders should be paying attention. In this episode: ✔️ What a city manager actually does ✔️ Why Lakeland’s growth is putting pressure on infrastructure ✔️ How community input shapes city priorities ✔️ The five strategic focus areas from the State of the City ✔️ Why public safety, parks, and quality of life matter to business growth ✔️ How FDOT, the city, and other agencies work together on major road projects ✔️ Why local vendor opportunities and city purchasing matter ✔️ The role of events like the Central Florida Business Expo in economic development ✔️ How Lakeland’s utility rates, millage, and cost structure impact competitiveness ✔️ What Lakeland still needs to get right as it continues to grow Lakeland’s future is being shaped right now. This conversation helps connect the dots between city government, local business, infrastructure, and the broader economic future of Polk County. Subscribe to Elevate Polk for conversations about small business, entrepreneurship, economic development, and the future of Polk County. Follow Elevate Polk: Facebook: https://facebook.com/ElevatePolk Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts. Brought to you by:  It’s 3PM | https://Its3PM.io  Central Florida Business Expo | https://CFLBE.com

In this episode of Elevate Polk,  ⁨Chrissanne Long⁩  and Dan Thumberg⁩ sit down with Omar Arroyo, a Polk County entrepreneur, construction business owner, Haines City public servant, husband, and father whose story reaches far beyond a title. Omar shares his journey from Mexico to Texas and eventually to Haines City, where what began as a short-term work opportunity became the place he chose to build his life. From learning the trades and starting his own crew without speaking English, to building a business with his brothers and stepping into local leadership, Omar’s story is one of work ethic, resilience, humility, and purpose. This conversation explores the power of skilled trades, the barriers that can exist for first-generation and minority entrepreneurs, the importance of relationships and networking, and why opening doors for the next generation matters. Omar also reflects on representation, becoming the first Hispanic elected commissioner in Haines City, and how personal experiences, including his family’s journey navigating autism resources, have shaped the way he sees service and community. This is not a campaign interview. It is a story about building a life, building a business, and helping shape a Polk County where more people can find the path, the support, and the opportunity they need to move forward. In this episode, we talk about: ✔️ Omar’s journey from Mexico to Haines City ✔️ Learning English while building a career in construction ✔️ The trades as a pathway to opportunity ✔️ Starting and growing a family business ✔️ Barriers facing minority and first-generation entrepreneurs ✔️ Representation and civic leadership ✔️ Why relationships open doors ✔️ Creating clearer pathways for students, families, and future business owners ✔️ How stories help shape the culture of a community Like, subscribe, and follow ElevatePolk for more honest conversations about business, leadership, economic development, and the future of Polk County. Follow ElevatePolk: Facebook: https://facebook.com/ElevatePolk Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Brought to you by: It’s 3PM | https://Its3PM.io Central Florida Business Expo | https://CFLBE.com

In this episode of the ElevatePolk Podcast Dan Thumberg and Chrissanne Long dig into a difficult but important question for Polk County’s business and civic community: Are we building relationships that are truly mutually beneficial, or have too many small businesses been pulled into a “pay to play” culture where visibility, access, and opportunity come with unclear expectations and little real reciprocity? What starts with a conversation about generosity, collaboration, and small business involvement turns into a deeper discussion about extraction, innovation, community leadership, and why entrepreneurs often feel invited into the room but not always valued once they get there. Dan and Chrissanne explore the tension between giving back and being drained, the difference between true collaboration and one-sided participation, and why small businesses should be seen not just as sponsors, volunteers, or donors, but as essential innovators in the local economy. This episode is an honest conversation about what it will take to build a healthier, more collaborative business ecosystem in Polk County — one where the goal is not just a win-win, but a win-win-win: good for the organization, good for the business, and good for the community.   In this episode: ✔️ Why “mutually beneficial, not extractive” hit so hard ✔️ The hidden cost of asking small businesses to keep giving without clear value in return ✔️ How small businesses drive innovation, jobs, and community growth ✔️ The difference between collaboration and simply being “included” ✔️ Why entrepreneurs opt out when the pathway is unclear ✔️ How Polk County can create a more connected, solutions-focused ecosystem ✔️ Why "feeding the whole network" matters more than protecting individual silos Small businesses matter. Entrepreneurs matter. And if Polk County wants to grow in a healthy, sustainable way, the people who are building, solving, risking, and innovating every day need to be part of the conversation. Like, subscribe, and follow ElevatePolk for more honest conversations about business, leadership, economic development, and the future of Polk County. Follow Elevate Polk: Facebook: Elevate Polk Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify   Brought to you by: It’s 3PM | https://Its3PM.io Central Florida Business Expo | https://CFLBE.com

Episode Notes: Episode 5, “The Bill Comes Due” What does public transit have to do with economic development, workforce access, infrastructure, local government budgets, and the future of Polk County? More than most people realize. In this episode of Elevate Polk, Dan Thumberg and Chrissanne Long sit down with Tom Phillips, CEO of Citrus Connection, for a candid conversation about the role public transportation plays in helping people get to work, supporting local businesses, and connecting communities across Polk County. Tom breaks down how Citrus Connection is funded, why transit is more than “just buses,” and what happens when public services are expected to grow while funding stays flat or disappears altogether. The conversation also tackles a much bigger issue: the potential elimination of homesteaded property taxes in Florida. While the idea may sound appealing on the surface, Tom helps explain what property taxes actually fund and what communities may have to give up if replacement revenue is not clearly defined. From Skittles to chicken nuggets, this episode uses real-world analogies to make complicated funding and infrastructure conversations easier to understand. This episode is about more than transit. It is about the bill that eventually comes due when communities want growth, quality of life, mobility, public safety, parks, infrastructure, and economic opportunity, but are not always willing to talk honestly about how those things are paid for.   In this episode: ✔️ What Citrus Connection does across Polk County ✔️ Why public transportation matters to the workforce ✔️ How transit funding actually works ✔️ The connection between transportation and economic development ✔️ Why service cuts have real consequences ✔️ What property taxes currently fund in local government ✔️ The potential impact of eliminating homesteaded property taxes ✔️ Why the business community needs to pay attention and show up   Learn more about Citrus Connection | https://ridecitrus.com Listen to "Another One Rides the Bus" Episode 17 | https://elevatepolk.com/episodes/another-one-rides-the-bus Follow Elevate Polk on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/ElevatePolk Learn more about our sponsors: Central Florida Business Expo | https://cflbe.com It's 3PM | https://its3pm.io

Episode Notes: Episode 4, “No Man’s Land” In this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg dig into the phrase “No Man’s Land” and what it reveals about Polk County’s identity, reputation, and small business ecosystem. The conversation begins with a personal reflection on growing up in Polk County and the assumptions people have carried about the area for decades. From outdated stereotypes to the way Polk is often described as being “between Tampa and Orlando,” Chrissanne and Dan explore how those perceptions still influence the way people outside the county view our talent, businesses, and opportunities. The episode then shifts into the real issue: Polk County is not lacking resources, talent, ambition, or entrepreneurial energy. The problem is that those resources can be difficult to find, difficult to navigate, and not always organized in a way that helps business owners know where to turn next. Chrissanne and Dan discuss how surrounding communities have created more unified access points for entrepreneurs, while Polk often sits in the middle of larger regional systems. That can leave local business owners unsure whether they belong in the Tampa Bay resource network, the Central Florida resource network, or somewhere else entirely. A major theme of the episode is the need to move beyond accidental connections. Business owners should not have to rely on luck, networking events, or being in the right room at the right time to find the support they need. Polk County has an opportunity to build a more intentional, visible, and connected entrepreneurial ecosystem. The episode also references the 2023 resource mapping work done in Lakeland with SourceLink and local entrepreneurial resource partners. That process revealed that entrepreneurs are not the only ones struggling with visibility. Resource organizations themselves often face the same challenges around funding, labor, awareness, and connection. Ultimately, this episode is a call to stop accepting “No Man’s Land” as Polk County’s identity. Instead, Chrissanne and Dan challenge listeners to think about what it would take to create a clearer front door for entrepreneurs, stronger collaboration among resource providers, and a countywide system that helps small businesses find their way. Topics Discussed Polk County’s outdated reputation and how outside perceptions still shape opportunity Why “between Tampa and Orlando” can sometimes feel like an advantage and sometimes feel like a gap The difference between having resources and having resources that are easy to find Why small business owners often struggle to know where to turn for help How surrounding communities have organized business resources more clearly The role of Entrepreneurial Support Organizations (ESOs) The challenge of visibility for both entrepreneurs and resource providers What “Beyond Collisions” means and why chance connections are not enough The 2023 Lakeland resource mapping project with SourceLink How ecosystem building can create stronger pathways for entrepreneurs The importance of creating a more systematic approach to small business support in Polk County Central Florida Business Expo as a place where business owners, resource partners, and regional leaders can connect Resources Mentioned in the Episode You can link to these in the show notes: It’s 3PM Episode sponsor and resource mentioned at the beginning of the show. Link: its3pm.io It’s 3PM / MySpace Mentioned during the opening conversation. Link: its3pm.io/myspace Central Florida Business Expo Mentioned as part of the broader effort to connect business owners, exhibitors, sponsors, and resource partners across the I-4 Corridor. Link: CFLBE.com Beyond Collisions: How to Build Your Entrepreneurial Infrastructure The book Chrissanne references when discussing the need to move beyond accidental connections and toward a more intentional entrepreneurial ecosystem. Author referenced in the episode: Maria Meyers https://www.joinsourcelink.com/explore/beyond-collisions-book/ 2023 Lakeland Entrepreneurial Ecosystem / Resource Mapping Report Referenced as the report that came out of the Lakeland-focused resource mapping conversations with local entrepreneurial support organizations.REPORT: https://resources.polkbizhub.com/entreprereneurial-asset-mapping-reportSOURCEFINDER - Matrix/Graphic  https://resources.polkbizhub.com/2023-lakeland-sourcefinder

In this episode of the ElevatePolk Podcast, we sit down with Shauna Dykes of Junior Achievement of Polk County to explore how students are being prepared for the real world through hands-on learning, business exposure, mentorship, and entrepreneurial thinking. Shauna shares how Junior Achievement is helping bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce by giving young people practical experiences that build confidence, vision, and readiness for the future. We also discuss the impact of the new JA Discovery Center at Tenoroc High School, the importance of local business involvement, and why investing in students today is a meaningful investment in Polk County’s long-term future. This episode also ties directly into the Central Florida Business Expo, where Junior Achievement is the beneficiary, 20% of proceeds will support JA locally, and student-run businesses will be featured at the event. In this episode, we discuss: The mission of Junior Achievement of Polk County How JA helps students build skills in financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship The vision and impact of the JA Discovery Center Why business leaders matter as mentors, volunteers, and supporters How exposing students to opportunity helps shape Polk’s future The connection between Junior Achievement and the Central Florida Business Expo Why featuring student businesses at the Expo matters Episode Links:  JA Polk website: japolk.org Instagram: instagram.com/JA_Polk Follow along with Dan's new project: its3pm.io Join the conversation and learn more about the Central Florida Business Expo: cflbe.com | instagram.com/cflbe | facebook.com/cflbe

Topics discussed in this episode: Why the phrase “Our Greatest Export” became the framing for the episode and what it suggests about local talent loss. Polk County’s Innovation Intelligence Index data, including the gap between Human Capital and Economic Well-Being. Peer county comparisons with Pasco, Marion, and Lee. Labor shed and commuter data showing how many Polk residents leave the county for work. The idea that Polk may be operating as a “dormitory county” rather than fully converting its talent into local prosperity. Whether current economic development priorities are creating the right kinds of outcomes for residents. The tension between growth, affordability, commuting, and long-term community well-being. Bigger questions around accountability, local strategy, and what Polk wants its future to look like. Episode notes: This episode is more of a data-driven conversation than a typical broad economic development discussion. It is framed around a core mismatch: the talent is here, but the outcomes are not showing up at the level they should. The discussion moves from instinct, to data, to interpretation, and finally to a broader civic question about whether Polk County is intentionally building the kind of economy that helps more residents get ahead locally. Show Links: Innovation Intelligence Index: statsamerica.org/innovation2 Central Florida Development Council: cfdc.org/continued-growth-in-polk-county-fuels-economic-development-opportunities/ Labor Shed Report: lmsresources.labormarketinfo.com/library/labor_shed/polk.pdf Polk Health Care Plan: polkhealthcareplan.net/polk-healthcare-plan/ This podcast is brought to you by: It’s 3PM | its3pm.io Central Florida Business Expo | cflbe.com

After a long hiatus, ElevatePolk is back. In this relaunch episode, Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg pull back the curtain on how the podcast started, why it went quiet, and why now feels like the right time to bring it back. They talk honestly about growth, frustration, big vision, entrepreneurship, and what has changed in Polk County since the original show. This is a real conversation about what it means to build something, lose momentum, and come back with a clearer purpose. If you care about small business, entrepreneurship, economic development, and the future of Polk County, this is where the new chapter begins.Resources Mentioned During this Episode: It's 3PM - Dan's newly launched consultancy Central Florida Business Expo - Taking place on September 29 & 30 at the RP Funding Center

On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and Nate talk with the founder of Help(Her), Teresa O’Brien, and enjoy listening to her incredible story. Teresa is a mother of three adopted children, all the same age. She wanted to find the middle-ground between being a stay-at-home mother for her family but wanting to feel fulfilled and impact others. After making the decision to quit her dream job to happily raise her three children, Teresa felt that she needed to dream in a different way! So, she took to creating opportunities for women like her: women who want to stay home still with their kids but have the college degree and skillset to gain some money and help other people. Thus, Help(Her) was born. When you fall in love with the city of Lakeland, the city will fall in love with you right back. Through the support of the community of women like her and connection after connection, Help(Her) has given many opportunities for both the clients and the help(hers)! After listening to this episode, they hope to remind you that you are valued, what you do matters, and it's always okay to ask for help. You are going to LOVE this episode!

On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and Nate talk with Clarke Freed about entrepreneurial growth coaching and the aspects of both having a coach and being a coach to others. Clarke, having been Chrissanne’s coach for years, tells listeners his story of how he became a coach to others. Initially working in the Navy and leading young men and women in their day-to-day life, Clarke was encouraged by his wife to pursue coaching. After earning his coach certification, Clarke tells the audience that his goal is to always get better at providing value to his clients, and has his own coach to this day to do so! Chrissanne and Clarke share the heartwarming and valuable experiences they’ve learned working together over the years, while also discussing some of the greatest challenges they’ve come to face and overcome. Who knows, you might be looking for a coach after this episode!

On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne talks with business owners Jeanna and Mark Parker about the growth of their business as not just a mindset, but what they refer to as a "heartset". Six years after opening Bella Visage Medical & Aesthetic Rejuvenation, Jeanna and Mark have come an incredible way from living off welfare to running the fastest growing spa in Central Florida. Through their story, we learn that when you’re in the middle of this rut of helplessness, not to sit and wallow in your misery, but to work harder than you ever have before to dig yourself out. Jenna and Mark exclaim to listeners that their success would not have been possible without the support of the Lakeland community, and because of this, they are always giving back to the community and helping others achieve their goals. You are going to love their story!

On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and bestselling author Peter Kageyama meet for Elevate Polk’s first-ever remote podcast. 🖥 Chrissanne and Peter discuss the importance of not only acknowledging, but thanking and expressing our gratitude to the incredible entrepreneurs and “co-creators” in Lakeland. It’s through their work they pour into the community that makes us proud of our city! Lakeland is a city where hyperlocal support is always on full display, and this love for Lakeland is expressed through their hard work. Our challenge for you this week after listening to this podcast: Give love to small business creators and express your gratitude for them. Whether it’s posting a great review for their business, choosing a local restaurant rather than a chain, or sharing a post thanking a co-creator on a recent purchase - Appreciate the people doing something meaningful in the community.

In this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and Nate talk about looking at marketing from the angle of prioritizing data, because the facts are that numbers never lie. In marketing, one of the big components of strategically helping businesses grow is in helping them build systems that help them track and measure their success. While using third-party companies to jumpstart can help, Chrissanne explains that your business needs to be able to stand on its own, otherwise you're at the mercy of what they decide to do with your products in their algorithm. Data doesn’t have an ego, it doesn’t have emotions, it doesn’t have feelings: it’s just numbers and it’s real. Data is the secret that will tell you if your product is going to fit into the marketplace, and it leaves clues to find more success if you’re willing to take the time to look into it. This podcast analyzes the key factors in keeping customers long-term and finding the steady pace you want to take your business to bring the most success.

On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and Nate talk to TJ Zimmerman from Concord Coffee about how they became one of Lakeland’s favorite local coffee shops. TJ dives into the dream behind Concord - we bet you didn’t know the original concept envisioned for the coffee shop that meets hot dogs and shaved ice! With the desire to create something to bring the community together, TJ tells Chrissanne and Nate about the detailed intentionality of Concord Coffee’s branding, down to their name and logo symbol. Their origin story is one that teaches the importance of relationships and genuinely connecting with people over the years. Through trial and error, Concord became a place for community and building relationships over the unique experience of craft coffee. In its 6 and a half years of business, Concord Coffee collaborated with other community businesses and brought in many award-winning roasters, to where they now roast their own coffee too! This podcast dives deep into the truth behind successful entrepreneurship and how to take your own business to the next level while staying true to your goals and values. You won't want to miss this!

Hello Polk County!On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and Nate talk about the importance of understanding when it is (or isn’t) time to scale your business. No matter how big or small your business starts, the ultimate goal is to grow your business as far as you want it to. But in order to do so, you have to figure out the processes that must be built on the backend of your business in order to have a better workflow. That way, as your business grows and you want to add to it, it doesn't break. Chrissanne and Nate highlight the best approach to selecting the right tools that are equipped to scale WITH your business, and discuss the benefits of setting expectations a bit lower at first to see how the market responds, and then adapting based on the response. The point of entrepreneurship and innovation is doing things that may not work correctly, so you've got to take that risk - but take a mitigated risk. By being self aware of the nuances and challenges of growing a business, you can learn to be proud of small milestones and appreciate all the successes, both big and small, to come!

On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and Nate talk about entrepreneurship’s platform for making a difference, and its effect on employers and their businesses. This pandemic and its negative effects have been on full display, with “Apply here” signs scattered down every main road and businesses struggling to keep up with fewer employees willing to work. Workers are less likely to take on these “smaller roles” due to the systematic label shaming of different generational classes. Boomer, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z grew in vastly different worlds of business. Where the older generations are less willing to adapt to new and more advanced business models, the younger generations are being pressured to learn these old ways of business. Chrissanne and Nate talk about how entrepreneurship IS change: bucking the system and continuing to grow and develop society’s business mindset as the world around us grows as well. In a time where people feel most divided, we must acknowledge the importance of not pin-pointing these challenges onto younger generations, as well as encouraging our community to develop a growth mindset that will allow businesses and their teams to advance alongside technology and the up and coming generations.For a deeper dive into the topic of making a difference and bettering the next generation's platform, read Chrissanne's blog post on  her website!

Nate's New Business Venture: Mike and Mike's DessertsChrissanne's New Strategic Growth Coaching 3-Day Challenge to help your business reach its full potential!PS Join our hosts at the Buena Market Block Party this Saturday, July 17th, 2021!

This week on the Elevate Polk Podcast, Chrissanne and Nate host Emerson Bamaca, owner of Bar 61 in Downtown Lakeland’s popular restaurant, 1961. Emerson tells his story of immigrating from Guatemala to the United States. He shares some of the personal experiences he had moving to San Francisco, where he worked doubles on top of schooling to pay his family back and find success in the US. Starting as a club owner in San Francisco, he had to learn how to assimilate into the American culture. He decided to stop trying to fit in and instead, stand proud of who he is! Emerson met a native of Lakeland and fell in love! They moved to start a family in our amazing community and that is when he met Marcos, the owner of 1961, and has since worked alongside him making cocktails and creating unique drink selections to best fit the restaurant’s menu. He expresses his gratitude that on his path to success, the city of Lakeland, overall, has met him with the most love and acceptance. Chrissanne and Nate full-heartedly agree! 

This week on the Elevate Polk podcast, Chrissanne and Nate chat with one of "the coolest cats in Polk County!" He's a serial entrepreneur, born in China and learned from his hardworking parents what it takes to create and maintain a successful business, then he took what he learned and created 2 more of his own! If you haven't already guessed who this week's guest is, you will definitely want to listen in to this show! Jian Zhang, or "Jay" as he is best known in Lakeland is the man behind Jade Fox Lounge and a newly launched business Concrete Technology of Lakeland. He also assists his parents with the operations of their business, China 1.  Jay shares some sage advice about running multiple businesses.  Chrissanne, Nate, and Jian relate to the need for confidence and success as a business owner and talk through the process of gaining wisdom and courage as a seasoned entrepreneur. Find Jian Zhang’s three businesses on Facebook and then go out and visit him in the Lakeland Highlands Plaza off Edgewood Drive!

Welcome, Adriana AKA Drica, AKA Coffee Lady to the ElevatePolk Podcast!  On this show, you'll learn about Drica and discover some interesting details!  For example, did you know she was born in Brazil? That she always knew she wanted to open her own coffee shop and she learned a lot about running a coffee business by working in New York for one of the most well-known coffee chains on the planet?  Chrissanne and Nate enthusiastically get the story behind how the memorable brightly colored food truck came to be and how she paved the way, as the first mobile food truck in Polk County. You'll love to learn more about what's in store for Drica's at the Mulberry Public Library where she now spends all her free time going to book clubs and socializing with her new customers! We're sure you're going to enjoy Drica’s sense of humor and her perseverance and dedication to her craft. Listen in to learn what other traits Drica has that bring her customers more happiness in just one visit to her coffee boutiques than Drica ever thought possible. Follow Drica’s smiling face and hand-crafted coffee and pastries on Facebook to find out where she is headed next!

On this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne and Nate sit across the podcast table from a power couple named Eddie and Tia Crockett who run Authentic You Empowerment! They aim to reach people where they are and encourage them to not be anyone else. Everyone has a role to play in this world and Eddie and Tia believe that you are a product of your environment. They all dive into the beginnings of their entrepreneurial journey filled with fear, doubt, and the pressure they put on themselves to be successful. Everyone agreed that entrepreneurs must not be embarrassed about mixing their personal and professional life because their business is their passion! It's okay to ask for help! Starting a business is one of the most difficult dreams to accomplish and that is why Elevate Polk is cultivating a safe ecosystem of entrepreneurs that will give people that help. Check out Authentic You Empowerment for more resources on business strategy, finance advice, and creating the lifestyle that allows you to be authentic and successful! 

In this week's episode, Chrissanne and Nate sit down with Stephanie Bernal Gregg, the founder of a growing movement for makers in the community - the Buena Market! They discuss their ideas that will make Polk County more inclusive, especially for our entrepreneurs. Stephanie shares her story about how she became a Polk County resident and what her intentions were when first starting the Buena Market. She has a heart for diversity and inclusion. Her Hispanic roots power her personal desire for everyone to be taken care of in her community of makers and the greater community of small business owners in Polk. The Buena Market is a fun and eclectic new place to gather with family and friends. They have an array of food, vendors, and artists who come together to better the ecosystem of Lakeland one market at a time. 

This episode is all heart. Join Nate and Chrissanne in a conversation about barley, hops water, and yeast, better known as beer! Polk County is adding Florida-grown breweries to its list of amenities and Dan Thumberg, the owner of Swan Brewing, is part of that growing movement.  In this episode, Dan talks about where things started and how they have evolved from homebrews and t-shirts to a well-known local brewery. He emphasizes seeking out mentors that will give you sound advice even when you do not want to hear it. He also shares his key secrets for how he became one of Polk County’s most beloved breweries and how he continues to build his business with the support of his amazing wife, and the community he's chosen to invest in!

Nate and Chrissanne are joined on this week's episode by Mario and Patty Medina, the owners of Cigar Life. Mario and Patty share some of the intricacies of their transition from corporate careers to entrepreneurship, and the added "bonus" of starting a business with your spouse!  This was our first live-streaming episode (you can watch the video here). You won't want to miss this discussion about how important grit and a "whatever it takes" attitude is essential for any new entrepreneurs!

Check-in with Nate and Chrissanne for this conversation with Lakeland's Mayor, Bill Mutz. The three of them take a deep dive and explore the reality of overcoming challenges, growing as leaders, and creating company cultures that put people first. As Mayor Mutz reminds them throughout the show,  "It comes down to the last 10% of the work you have to do to succeed." You'll enjoy some never-before-heard stories and some great examples of leadership, grit, and focus on getting things done the right way, no matter what.  While you might be thinking, that's easy for him to say, you'll soon learn how this dynamic leader has managed to talk the talk in his life as an entrepreneur, husband, father, community leader, and now Mayor.  NOTE:  You'll notice a difference in the sound quality of this episode, but we felt the content of the conversation was worth sharing in spite of some technical difficulties.  [HT to Annie, our podcast producer for working through the sound issues!] 

Chrissanne and Nate don't have a guest this week, but their lively conversation about the  importance of "showing up" in business (and in life), is an episode worth listening to! They sprinkle golden nuggets of advice on how to show up, why it's important and where to focus energy and time to truly maximize the results of the way in which you show up. Pro tip: Listen to the entire episode to find an exclusive offer just for the listeners of the Elevate Polk Podcast 

It’s 5 o’clock here on the ElevatePolk podcast and the owners of Happy Hour Scones, Edie, Jackie and Amy are bringing the booze, but not how you would quite expect it! Listen in to these emerging entrepreneurs as they share the story of how their delicious cocktail-inspired scones came to be. These fun sisters join Chrissanne and Nate, with special thanks to Vickie, Nate's mom, and Chrissanne's friend Cindy, who helped them all connect! Chrissanne and Nate also share their professional insights on marketing for new businesses. Listen in and learn more about this new local business and then go find Happy Hour Scones at the Lakeland Farmers Market this Saturday!

In this week's episode, Lora Gardner, shows up as what can only be described as a beacon of hope for those who are going through a hard time while navigating the roads of entrepreneurship. During their time together, Chrissanne, Nate & Lora discuss the amazing details of her journey as she created her company, Perfect Day Productions. Lora is an excellent example of an entrepreneur who perseveres through each obstacle thrown her way. Find out how Lora and her team can help execute your vision on the big day of your event and while you listen, let us know if you think Lora needs to start her own podcast!

All you need is a sword, a guild, and a dream! Well, that’s according to Sittadel Co-Founders Joshua Sitta and Trafenia Flynn-Salzman. Nate and Chrissanne had the pleasure of speaking with these two longtime friends about their quest to become business owners and how they’ve built their kingdom, Sittadel. Listen in to learn more about their journey and also enjoy some free marketing tidbits from Chrissanne! 

Chrissanne and Nate are excited to welcome the team from Union Hall - Sam Houghton and Parker Duncan. In this episode, they share some of the trials of trying to keep a music venue alive during a pandemic. They talk about their creative survival skills and some exciting news about their upcoming reopening. Listen to learn about their partnership with a local restaurant, some cool new additions to the venue, and the musical acts that are scheduled for the coming months! PS - If you know some great local musicians, send them this episode so we can help them get connected to this dynamic duo! 

Nate and Chrissanne wanted to celebrate some of their past guests and the incredible stories, wisdom, and messages they’ve shared with us. They decided to recap for their newest audience members the last four episodes but don’t worry, they still discuss entrepreneurship as usual! and The Easter egg hunt leaves us with a special highlight reel of season two. These will become a series of recaps every few weeks so, you can use these special episodes as a reference guide for our podcast as we continue to build our local entrepreneurial ecosystem in Polk County, FL. Let’s keep elevating Polk.

When it comes to entrepreneurship stories in Polk County, this conversation that Nate and Chrissanne have with Rut Patel is a must listen! In this episode, they talk about Rut’s journey from India and how he refused to let language (or anything) stop him from achieving greatness. Grab a pen and paper, because you’ll want to write down Rut’s own personal wisdom on building your business (and yourself) for success.

Chrissanne and Nate chat with Jack McHugh the owner of Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub, just in time for St. Patrick’s Day! They discuss the McHugh’s family journey from Ireland to Lakeland, the legacy of his father, and how it came to be that the youngest son chose to take over the family business. Listen in to learn how Jack is leading downtown Lakeland's revered Irish pub through COVID-19 and how he's stepping into his role as the leader for his employees during these unprecedented times. You'll enjoy the conversation as you discover how this new business leader's voice is making an impact in Polk County. 

Chrissanne and Nate talk about the term "White Space" and the role it plays in business as well as in the context of entrepreneurial ecosystem building. If you're considering where you might expand your business, or what other opportunities might exist that you haven't yet tapped into within your industry or market, this episode will inspire you to think about how you can stretch and grow into new, unexplored territory. 

Chrissanne and Nate meet with Chad McLeod - a local entrepreneur and elected official - a man with many hats. Erin, his wife knows him as husband and his three children know him as Dad, the City of Lakeland knows him as Commissioner and his brother Joe knows him as his business partner in their Public Relations Firm. This episode covers a lot of ground! From the importance of Public Relations and managing the message of your brand to the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in Polk County!

Chrissanne and Nate are excited to introduce the ElevatePolk Podcast audience to Isom Morris, an emerging tech entrepreneur and owner of FitLyfe Fitness. Listen as they chat about how this young professional discovered entrepreneurship after a pivot from football. Isom shares the role that the City of Lakeland's Police Athletic League played in his life as he developed as a young leader in the community. Get to know this emerging entrepreneur and all of the great things coming for him and his team! 

Nate and Chrissanne are joined by LaTrice Moore - the Entrepreneurship Coordinator and Business Administration professor at Polk State College. They discuss the fundamental traits of entrepreneurship, opportunities for growth within the local Polk County ecosystem for entrepreneurs of color, and how important the culture of entrepreneurship is in helping entrepreneurs in Polk County start to see a path for themselves in the community of e-ship.

Ready. Set. Style! In this power-packed episode, filled with incredible entrepreneurial insights and richly human discussion, Chrissanne and Nate connect with Maria Berry-Swann. They talk about the excitement of launching a business, walking in faith, and making things happen, in spite of a pandemic (Take that, COVID). As she shares her story, Maria's confidence and direct honesty bring home so much of the reality that exists for many black, female entrepreneurs.

On the last episode of Season 1, Rob said goodbye to the show as the permanent co-host, and Chrissanne introduced the new direction the show would be taking. In this episode, Chrissanne introduces Nate the Great Kendrick to the show as the new co-host.  The two dive in to Nate's entrepreneurial journey and the lessons learned along the way. You'll never guess how Chrissanne and Nate almost met in 2016, or what entrepreneurial etiquette lessons they both learned from that near-encounter. They riff on the importance of a network, relationships, alignment and more nuggets on entrepreneurship!  

In this episode Rob and Chrissanne share some important announcements and wax philosophical on the origins of success and whether it’s simply a matter of hard work or if the conditions for success also play a role in an entrepreneur’s journey. The Quitter by Robert ServiceWhen you're lost in the Wild, and you're scared as a child,    And Death looks you bang in the eye,And you're sore as a boil, it's according to Hoyle    To cock your revolver and . . . die.But the Code of a Man says: "Fight all you can,"    And self-dissolution is barred.In hunger and woe, oh, it's easy to blow . . .    It's the hell-served-for-breakfast that's hard."You're sick of the game!" Well, now, that's a shame.    You're young and you're brave and you're bright."You've had a raw deal!" I know — but don't squeal,    Buck up, do your damnedest, and fight.It's the plugging away that will win you the day,    So don't be a piker, old pard!Just draw on your grit; it's so easy to quit:    It's the keeping-your-chin-up that's hard.It's easy to cry that you're beaten — and die;    It's easy to crawfish and crawl;But to fight and to fight when hope's out of sight —    Why, that's the best game of them all!And though you come out of each gruelling bout,    All broken and beaten and scarred,Just have one more try — it's dead easy to die,    It's the keeping-on-living that's hard.https://allpoetry.com/The-Quitter 

Rob and Chrissanne discuss the best ways to cope with what life throws at you. 

When it comes to phosphate mining, Tip Fowler has had a front row seat to the evolution of mining in our county and the region overall.  Tip shares with us some of the history of phosphate mining, what phosphates are used for, how old mines are converted into lavish resorts and what the future of the industry might look like.  From rocks to urine, join us for a fascinating glimpse into an industry that shaped Polk County's past, present and possibly its future. 

A veritable grab bag of conversation and some obscure trivia. Also, will Rob and Chrissanne's friendship survive?  Listen and find out!

Are there things you are afraid to talk about? Do you worry that even though your beliefs might seem measured and reasoned, they might just be used against you and could harm your business or personal life? In the age of social justice, one false move can cost you everything. What's worse, there is rarely a clear path toward redemption.  Chrissanne and Rob discuss the overall concept of "cancel culture," what it means for society as a whole and how we can cope in our local community. 

After taking some time off to relax and contemplate the future of the podcast, we are ready to get back full swing.  Our goal is to highlight the best of our community, to hopefully make you laugh a bit (even if it's at Chrissanne's expense) and build a stronger community overall. We appreciate your support and make sure to subscribe to get our new weekly episodes. 

After taking a week off to plan our response to recent events in our community and our nation overall, we want to share with you some principles that we believe will put all of us on a better path forward. We don't have all the answers and there is an assortment of problems affecting all of us these days. It is our hope that we can resolve these problems and build a better tomorrow for our community.  However, none of that is possible without a willingness to listen and respect one another as human beings. Join us as we attempt to elevate the conversation and hopefully advance a conversation that desperately needs to take place. 

Why does Rob despite the move Frozen?  What do you think of  #LoveRedBug?  And we all know that at Publix, shopping is a pleasure... but the reason why just might surprise you. Tune in and test your knowledge of Polk County fun facts and trivia. 

William "Bill" Braswell, Chairman of the Polk County Board of County Commissioners,  joins us to discuss the Polk CARES program and what the county is doing to help businesses during the COVID-19 recovery process. Comm. Braswell also shares with us a bit about his evolution from the Air Force, to an airline captain and ultimately to farming blueberries in Auburndale.  If you would like to learn more about Polk CARES or to submit an application online, go to https://www.polk-county.net/polk-cares-2020 For video instructions and tips for completing your Polk CARES application, go to https://vimeo.com/421713245