In this episode of I Am Lakeland®, host Don Burns sits down with two local entrepreneurs to discuss their unique business journeys, the challenges of starting a venture, and the power of community in Lakeland, Florida.
Denise Curls, founder of The Jewelry Box Lakeland, explains her innovative, concierge-style business model (0:37). By operating without a physical storefront, she provides a personalized shopping experience, meeting customers at their convenience to help them find jewelry within a specific $100–$1,500 price point. She emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships and the joy of helping customers find meaningful gifts, noting that the supportive environment at COhatch has been instrumental in growing her network (4:51).
Josh Borem, owner of Borem Fire Protection, shares his transition from an employee to a business owner, driven by a desire for independence and higher standards of service (8:21). His company provides essential safety services, including fire extinguisher maintenance and restaurant fire suppression systems. Josh highlights the reality of being a small business owner—balancing daily operations, managing cash flow, and setting ambitious goals to become Florida’s “biggest and best” fire company (14:04). He stresses the value of honesty and quality in an industry where some competitors may cut corners (9:45).
Both guests discuss the loneliness that often accompanies the early stages of entrepreneurship and the importance of finding a local community to collaborate with. They share insights on:
Ultimately, the conversation celebrates the spirit of the “serial entrepreneur” and the resilience required to turn an idea into a successful service, reminding viewers that whether you are selling jewelry or saving lives, providing value to the community is the ultimate reward. 2
