Back to Just Us: Confessions, Laughter & A Fishing “Rodeo"
Episode 280: It’s just us this time—back to a catch up with Vonda and Lori. We’re catching up on everything from awkward customer service stories to deep confessions (like sitting at the kids’ table… on purpose). Plus, Lori shares the latest with Lenny and his big fishing tournament that wasn’t quite what it seemed. It’s funny, heartfelt, and exactly the breather we all need post-Mother’s Day.Sponsored by: Flower CliqueFlower Clique Prep SchoolReal Life Retail Florist
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35:47
Laughter, Lilacs, and Lifelong Memories: Our Dutch Flower Adventure
Episode 279: Get ready for a heartwarming ride! Vonda is joined by flower friends Tim Farrell AIFD and Julie Poeltler AIFD as they share stories (and lots of laughs) from their unforgettable trip to Holland. From wandering endless tulip fields to creating floral art and making new lifelong memories, this episode is a celebration of friendship, flowers, and the simple joy of adventure. Come for the blooms, stay for the love and laughter!Listener Takeaways:How seeing flower fields in person transforms your appreciation for each stem of flowers.A reminder to make time for joyful experiences, because life (and flowers) move fast.How small moments — like a shared meal or a canal cruise — become the memories you cherish most.Sponsored by: Flower CliqueFlower Clique Prep SchoolReal Life Retail Florist
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41:41
Mentors, Micro-Mentors & Miss Piggy: A Chat with Mike Black of Jet Fresh
Episode 278: Today’s guest is the one and only Mike Black, “Head Coach” of Jet Fresh—and if you know Mike, you know he’s way more than just a title. Lori and Vonda sit down with him to talk about mentorship in the floral industry and generational leadership. Mike shares stories from his early days in the flower biz, his take on today’s younger generation (spoiler: he’s a fan), and the exciting projects brewing at Jet Fresh. Oh, and there’s also Miss Piggy, golden tickets, and a few strong feelings about Skype.This one’s packed with wisdom, laughs, and a whole lot of heart. Sponsored by: Flower CliqueFlower Clique Prep SchoolReal Life Retail Florist
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42:55
"You Could Do That..." Ian Prosser & Zoë Gallina Talk Wedding Trends and Family Biz
Episode 277: This week, Lori and Ellie sit down with floral royalty — the dynamic father-daughter duo of Botanica Design Studio, Ian Prosser AIFD and Zoe Gallina. From Scottish flower shops to high-end luxury weddings, these two share the behind-the-scenes of growing a family business over nearly four decades. They talk trends (goodbye blush, hello meadows), share hilarious client stories (yes, there’s a floral phallic centerpiece request), and get real about what it takes to work with family (and how to be good at it.)Expect wisdom, humor, and a little sass — all wrapped in a beautiful blooming chat. Whether you’re team “timeless elegance” or “clean bespoke,” this is a special one for you, Cliquers. 💐Sponsored by: Flower CliqueFlower Clique Prep SchoolReal Life Retail Florist
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53:03
Tariff Talk (BONUS EPISODE)
In this special impromptu episode, Lori sits down with Ellie and Abby Chick, retail florist & advisor from Blakemore Flowers, to unpack the “T-word” that’s on everyone’s lips: tariffs. With pricing pressures mounting and Mother’s Day around the corner, this candid conversation explores what florists can actually control in the face of supply chain unpredictability.From wholesaler confusion to confident pricing strategies, Abby shares how she’s navigating rising costs, team communication, and creative product offerings. Expect laughter, real talk, and practical ways to stay grounded and proactive—even when everything’s changing daily.💡 You’ll hear:• What to do before raising prices• How to communicate with customers without panic• Creative gift ideas beyond flowers• Why now’s the time to empower your teamWhether you’re a seasoned shop owner or new to retail floral, this episode will leave you informed, encouraged, and ready to take action.Sponsored by: Flower CliqueFlower Clique Prep SchoolReal Life Retail Florist
Join Vonda LaFever and Lori Wilson as they share expert advice, insider tips, and a whole lot of fun on all things floral. While everyone loves flowers, running a floral business can come with its fair share of challenges that might make you lose sight of the joy it brings. In this engaging and informative podcast, Vonda’s wealth of floral expertise pairs perfectly with Lori’s background in teaching, sales training, and life coaching to deliver valuable insights you can use right away.From industry trends and the flower shop of the future to overcoming obstacles like boosting sales and building a stellar customer service team, they’ve got you covered. Discover how small shifts in your mindset and approach can create big transformations in your business and life.Hit subscribe to put the pleasure back into your life, go back to loving flowers, find fresh inspiration, and bring the joy back to your business!