Palm Harbor Local

Donnie Hathaway
  • 5.0 (13)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Palm Harbor Local—where we celebrate the heart and soul of our community by sharing the stories of the incredible small businesses that make Palm Harbor thrive. Hosted by Donnie Hathaway, a Florida native, real estate expert, and passionate community builder, this podcast is all about Building Community—connecting people, businesses, and ideas that shape our town. Each episode, we sit down with local entrepreneurs, business owners, and changemakers to dive into their journeys—the dreams that sparked their businesses, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the impact they’re making. From brand-new startups to long-standing local favorites, we uncover what makes these businesses special and why they matter to the community. Whether you're a fellow entrepreneur, a proud Palm Harbor resident, or someone who just loves supporting local, this podcast is your inside look at the passion, dedication, and creativity fueling our local economy. Because strong businesses build strong communities. Join us as we shine a light on the people behind the businesses, share valuable insights, and inspire you to engage, support, and grow alongside your community. Subscribe now and be part of the movement to Build Community, one story at a time.

  1. DEC 2

    From Palm Harbor to the Moon How a Local Family Created the Children’s Book Howl

    Send us a text In this episode of Palm Harbor Local, we sit down with Palm Harbor-based author Erin O’Brien, the writer behind Howl, a family-created children’s book about a wolf and the moon. Erin shares how a simple idea at the Palm Harbor Library turned into a fully illustrated book and the launch of her family publishing brand, Gran Apple Books. What You’ll Learn: How a casual idea became the story for HowlWhy Erin chose to keep the writing, illustration, and editing inside the familyWhat goes into self-publishing a children’s book on AmazonThe realities of marketing a kids’ book as an indie authorWhat’s next for Howl, Gran Apple Books, and future children’s titlesAbout Erin O’Brien: Erin O’Brien is a Palm Harbor author and cofounder of Gran Apple Books, a family-run children’s publishing brand. She wrote Howl, a whimsical picture book about a wolf who longs to be with the moon, and collaborates with her brother Clint and niece Elise on the watercolor illustrations. Erin is passionate about storytelling, reading with kids, and creating the kind of timeless picture books she grew up loving. Links & Resources: Buy Howl on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F37QQZ52 Follow Gran Apple Books on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/61573932335988/ Palm Harbor Local newsletter: https://palmharborlocal.com Follow Palm Harbor Local on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palmharborlocal If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves local stories and children’s books. Stroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    23 min

  2. NOV 17

    How Christina Garcia Built a Six-Figure Laser Business After 15 Years as a Stay-at-Home Mom

    Send us a text What happens when you’ve put everything into raising your kids, tried a handful of business ideas that never quite stick, and still feel a pull to build something of your own? In this conversation, Donnie sits down with Christina Delgado, founder of Soft Touch Laser Hair Removal and author of Laser Focused from Mom Life to CEO, to talk about how she pivoted at 40, built a six-figure laser hair removal business, and used social media to grow a brand that’s changing lives across Tampa Bay. Christina shares the real story behind the glossy Instagram feed – the Airbnbs that didn’t last, the self-doubt of calling herself “just a stay-at-home mom,” and the moment she decided to stop overthinking and take fast action on an idea that finally fit her life. You’ll hear how she thinks about money, marketing, hiring, and “divine timing,” plus why she believes consistency matters more than going viral. In this episode, we talk about: Christina’s journey from 15-year stay-at-home mom to CEO of a six-figure laser hair removal studioWhy previous business attempts (including Airbnbs) were necessary stepping stonesHow choosing the right service and investing in quality equipment gave her an edgeThe simple social media habits that keep new clients walking through the doorBalancing mom life, business growth, and the emotional side of hiring helpThe inspiration behind her book Laser Focused from Mom Life to CEOWhat’s next for Soft Touch Laser Hair Removal and Christina’s speaking and writingConnect with Christina Soft Touch Laser Hair Removal website: https://www.softtouchlaserhairremoval.com Soft Touch Laser Hair RemovalBook: Laser Focused: From Mom Life to CEO on Amazon Amazon+1Christina’s site and resources: https://www.christina-delgado.com Christina DelgadoInstagram: @softtouchlaserhairremoval InstagramMentioned in this episode Financial coaching with Jacob Wade – book a roadmap call: https://palmharborlocal.com/roadmap Stay Connected with Palm Harbor Local Website and all episodes: https://palmharborlocal.com Instagram: @palmharborlocalJoin the weekly Palm Harbor Connection newsletter - https://palmharborlocal.com/ Stroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    32 min

  3. OCT 27

    Building Opportunity in the Trades with Gary Hall

    Send us a text In this episode of Palm Harbor Local, Donnie Hathaway sits down with Gary Hall, founder of Blue Collar Home Services, to talk about his 30-year journey in the electrical and HVAC trades. Gary shares how he turned early jobsite experience into a thriving, community-driven company that focuses on training and mentoring the next generation of skilled tradespeople. He explains why he’s committed to staying locally owned despite multiple offers from investors, emphasizing the importance of people, integrity, and service over profit. Gary also provides practical hurricane prep tips for Florida homeowners—from installing proper surge protection to maintaining smoke detectors and backup power options. This conversation highlights the heart behind Blue Collar Home Services and Gary’s passion for developing talent, serving customers with care, and keeping Palm Harbor powered and protected year-round. Stroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    1h 5m

  4. OCT 21

    Fred DeFelice Shares the Truth About Home Water and No-Salt Solutions

    Send us a text Growing up in a family plumbing business, building homes in PA, moving to Florida, why typical water softeners fall short, chloramine vs chlorine, slab leaks and copper pinholes, whole-home filtration and no-salt conditioning, under-sink alkaline options, maintenance tips, costs and environmental impact, and why the trades matter. Highlights Fred’s 60+ years in plumbing and homebuilding and how that shaped Water Science’s approach.The Florida water reality: chloramine, hardness, and why “softened” ≠ “purified.”How no-salt conditioning keeps healthy minerals while preventing scale (great for tankless heaters).Whole-home carbon + catalytic filtration to address chloramine, taste/odor, and system protection.Under-sink drinking systems that maintain alkaline pH and reduce micro-contaminants.Practical home tips: flushing your water heater, checking drains when you smell “sulfur,” choosing copper types, and avoiding bottled-water plastic.Lifetime warranty, 5-year media refresh, and why right-sized systems matter for larger homes.Career message to young people: the trades are a high-opportunity path.Connect Water Science: waterscience.usFollow the show on Instagram: @palmharborlocalJoin the newsletter: PalmHarborLocal.comStroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    49 min

  5. SEP 29

    Why Building Relationships Matters More Than Quick Sales with Kenny McLaurin

    Send us a text In this episode of Palm Harbor Local, host Donnie Hathaway sits down with Kenny McLaurin, founder of McLaurin Inspections, to explore the evolving world of home inspections and real estate in Florida. Kenny shares his journey of building his business during the pandemic, how market shifts impact both inspectors and agents, and why managing client expectations is critical in such a high-stakes industry. We dive into: How Florida’s insurance requirements make inspections unique (and complicated).Differences between inspecting homes in Michigan vs. Florida.The role of communication in building trust with buyers and agents.Kenny’s candid thoughts on solar panels, roofing, and inspection guidelines.The future of AI and technology in the home inspection industry.Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of home inspections, this episode is full of insights you won’t want to miss. Stroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    52 min

  6. AUG 18

    How Chay Nott Uses Discipline and Discomfort to Build a Purposeful Life

    Send us a text In this powerful episode of Palm Harbor Local, Donnie Hathaway sits down with local creative and endurance athlete Chay Nott—whose journey from musical theater to photography to ultra-marathons is anything but ordinary. Chay shares his incredible story of personal transformation, driven by a commitment to discipline, self-awareness, and pushing past comfort zones. Discover what led Chay to run a grueling ultra-marathon in the Florida heat, how a single message from a friend reshaped his purpose, and why he believes extreme discomfort is essential to personal growth. From building a freelance media business from scratch to training for Mount Everest-level challenges, this conversation is a deep dive into mindset, discipline, and the pursuit of potential. Stroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    1h 32m

  7. AUG 14

    From Driveway Washes to First Class Detailing

    Send us a text In this episode of Palm Harbor Local, host Donnie Hathaway sits down with longtime friend and local entrepreneur Anthony Santiago, the founder of First Class Detailing. Anthony shares his journey from being a 19-year-old with a passion for clean cars and zero business experience to becoming the owner of one of Palm Harbor's most reputable high-end detailing shops. From humble beginnings as a mobile car wash service to managing a thriving shop specializing in luxury detailing, ceramic coatings, and paint protection, Anthony's story is one of perseverance, evolution, and service. The conversation dives into the real challenges of entrepreneurship, including managing people, maintaining work-life balance, and navigating shifting consumer habits. Anthony opens up about prioritizing family life, the importance of EQ in business, and why quality service often trumps technical perfection. Whether you're a business owner, car enthusiast, or local resident, this episode offers insight into what it takes to grow something meaningful in your hometown. Stroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    53 min

  8. JUL 28

    Why He Left Construction to Build a Cookie Empire in Palm Harbor

    Send us a text In this inspiring episode of Palm Harbor Local, host Donnie Hathaway chats with Kelly Cloward, the owner of two Crumbl Cookie franchises—one right here in Palm Harbor. Kelly opens up about his unconventional path from construction management and door-to-door sales to running one of the most buzzed-about cookie shops in the country. Originally from Utah, Kelly shares how his entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by a childhood friend’s business-owning family and strengthened by years of life experience, a mission abroad, and even a failed first venture in construction. That path ultimately led him and his cousin to bring Crumbl Cookies to Florida, where they’ve made Palm Harbor their home. In this conversation, Kelly gets real about the challenges of entrepreneurship—like quitting too soon, starting from scratch, and the trade-offs of running a franchise. He also talks about building community through business, the importance of mentorship, and why Palm Harbor quickly became the perfect place to live, raise a family, and grow his brand. What You'll Learn: Why Kelly traded a steady job in construction for the uncertain life of a franchise ownerThe pros and cons of buying into a franchise vs. starting your own businessHow a failed construction company helped prepare him for successWhat it takes to thrive in the early stages of a franchiseThe value of community, support systems, and choosing the right locationWhy Palm Harbor stood out as the ideal place for his business and familyLinks & Resources: Visit Crumbl Cookies: crumblcookies.comLearn more about Palm Harbor Local: palmharborlocal.comJoin the weekly newsletter: Sign Up HereFollow us on Instagram: @palmharborlocalStroll through the laid-back streets of the Palm Harbor community with this informative podcast, proudly brought to you by Donnie Hathaway with The Hathaway Group, your trusted guide and local expert in navigating the diverse and ever-changing property landscape of Palm Harbor. Work with me + FREE Resources Would you like help buying a home in Palm Harbor? - Buyer Consultation Would you like help selling your house in Palm Harbor? - Seller Marketing Consultation Download our free buyer's guide today - Buyer's Guide

    53 min
See All (209)

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Welcome to Palm Harbor Local—where we celebrate the heart and soul of our community by sharing the stories of the incredible small businesses that make Palm Harbor thrive. Hosted by Donnie Hathaway, a Florida native, real estate expert, and passionate community builder, this podcast is all about Building Community—connecting people, businesses, and ideas that shape our town. Each episode, we sit down with local entrepreneurs, business owners, and changemakers to dive into their journeys—the dreams that sparked their businesses, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the impact they’re making. From brand-new startups to long-standing local favorites, we uncover what makes these businesses special and why they matter to the community. Whether you're a fellow entrepreneur, a proud Palm Harbor resident, or someone who just loves supporting local, this podcast is your inside look at the passion, dedication, and creativity fueling our local economy. Because strong businesses build strong communities. Join us as we shine a light on the people behind the businesses, share valuable insights, and inspire you to engage, support, and grow alongside your community. Subscribe now and be part of the movement to Build Community, one story at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Donnie Hathaway
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    209
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Palm Harbor Local
  • Show Website
    Palm Harbor Local