In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Petra Wilkes, founder of Sage and Lore Counseling Services, during the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. A Navy veteran and former air traffic controller, Petra shares how her personal journey through mental health challenges led her to create a counseling practice rooted in storytelling and connection.

Petra introduces listeners to the power of narrative therapy—helping clients “re-author” their lives—and discusses her innovative Sage Play Sessions, which use board games as therapeutic tools to build relationships and trust. She also opens up about the realities of running a mission-driven business, emphasizing the need to balance passion with sustainability.

Petra credits her growth as a business owner to her involvement with Florida Gulf Coast University's (FGCU) entrepreneurship program, which gave her the tools and confidence to move her vision forward. The episode closes with a powerful reminder from Petra: "Turn the page, write your story, and change your life."

This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: https://sageandlore.com/