In this episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns is joined by Dr. Sherrita Denson, the creative mind behind Chocolate Covered, a local business that specializes in unique sweet and savory treats. Sherrita shares the story of how a family trip to the Strawberry Festival inspired her to bring chocolate-covered bacon to the Lakeland community year-round. Operating out of the Catapult commercial kitchen, she has expanded her menu to include bourbon bacon brownies, white chocolate bread pudding, and even specialty savory dishes like oxtails with chocolate-infused gravy.
The conversation goes beyond confections as Sherrita discusses her impressive academic journey, having recently earned her Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Southeastern University. She also details her impactful “day job” as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Homeless Coalition of Polk County. Listeners will learn about the annual “Point in Time” count, a nationwide effort to survey and support the homeless population, and how they can get involved as volunteers to help bring more resources to the local community.
Sherrita emphasizes the importance of quality, using only Ghirardelli chocolate for her creations, and highlights her ability to provide customizable grazing tables and charcuterie boards for events of all sizes. The episode wraps up with a look at how Sherrita balances her passion for entrepreneurship with her commitment to public service, all while remaining deeply rooted in the Lakeland and Bartow areas. 10
