The recent "Q" Breakfast held by Volusia County on February 14, 2025, showcased the inspiring journeys of local entrepreneurs, highlighting their resilience and innovative spirit. The event featured two notable panelists, Desiree Holler and Tim Meadows, who shared their experiences in building successful businesses from the ground up.

Desiree Holler, known for her product Subsafe, gained national attention after appearing on the television show Shark Tank, where she secured investments from Mark Cuban and Charles Barkley. Her journey began with a simple idea inspired by her husband’s love for sub sandwiches while fishing. After conducting thorough market research, she discovered a gap in the market for a portable sandwich container, leading her to patent her product. Holler emphasized the importance of hard work and market validation, stating, “If we can just create a way for [sub sandwiches] to be consumed on the spot, then we will create our customer.”

Tim Meadows, another entrepreneur on the panel, shared his unique path in the aloe vera industry. He began his journey in the 1980s after recognizing an opportunity to cultivate aloe in the Dominican Republic. Meadows developed a process to stabilize aloe vera, which has since become a key ingredient in various skin products and sunscreens. He discussed the challenges of entering a competitive market and the importance of maintaining product quality, stating, “Proving that your product is pure is crucial, especially in an industry with so many unregulated ingredients.”

Both panelists addressed the rollercoaster nature of entrepreneurship, discussing the highs and lows they faced along the way. Holler spoke candidly about the challenges of dealing with knock-offs and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her business. Meadows highlighted the difficulties of breaking into established markets and the need for transparency in product sourcing.

The event not only celebrated the successes of these entrepreneurs but also served as a reminder of the importance of community support for local businesses. As Holler noted, “There’s a lot going on behind each single light bulb,” referring to the hard work and dedication that goes into building a business. The discussions at the "Q" Breakfast underscored the value of innovation and perseverance in the face of challenges, inspiring attendees to support local endeavors and foster a thriving entrepreneurial spirit in Volusia County.