Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration in business comes from seeing seniors lose independence due to lack of access to basic needs while working in occupational therapy, and realizing how much health starts with food. It’s also rooted in my own journey of sobriety, resilience, and building something from nothing during COVID—starting with helping neighbors from my car. I’m driven by my family’s legacy, my community in St. Pete, and the belief that food can restore dignity, health, and hope.

How do you stay motivated?

You stay motivated by remembering your “why” when things get heavy—seniors getting fed, kids having access to real food, and the lives already changed because you didn’t quit. Break big goals into daily actions, not overwhelm. Celebrate small wins, even slow progress. Surround yourself with people who believe in the mission. And when doubt hits, go back to the moments you’ve already survived—you’ve built this from nothing before, and that proof is your f

What would you do with the $25,000?

We use funding to build both sustainability and access. Half goes into our social enterprise—cold-pressed juice, mobile pop-ups, and equipment—so we can generate revenue and reduce reliance on donations. The other half funds fresh produce vouchers for seniors and families facing food insecurity. This balanced model ensures dignity today and long-term stability tomorrow, where every sale helps support another household’s access to healthy food.