In this energetic and community-focused episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns sits down with Bianca McKinney, the franchise owner and publisher of Stroll Eagle Brook and Be Local Lakeland. Bianca shares her personal story of moving from South Bend, Indiana, to Lakeland in the early 1970s and how her deep roots in the community led her to a career in hyper-local publishing.
The conversation centers on the unique role Bianca’s publications play in the Lakeland area. Stroll Eagle Brook is an exclusive, resident-driven monthly magazine for the Eagle Brook gated community, while Be Local Lakeland serves as a vital resource for new movers, helping them navigate and connect with the best local businesses during their first months in the city. Bianca highlights how these publications transitioned from entertainment to essential community resources during 2020, providing a much-needed sense of normalcy and connection for residents.
Listeners will gain insight into Bianca’s “top-of-mind awareness” marketing philosophy. She explains the advanced digital strategies her team uses, such as geo-fencing and IP-targeted display ads, to ensure business partners are seen thousands of times by their target audience. Beyond the technology, Bianca emphasizes the “relationship-first” nature of her work, including hosting monthly social events that bring neighbors and local business owners together in person.
The episode also touches on the growth of Lakeland, the importance of supporting small businesses, and Bianca’s personal passion for fitness and community involvement. It’s an inspiring look at how a local entrepreneur is building “bridges of understanding” and fostering a stronger, more connected Lakeland. 22
