We recently had the chance to connect with Caitlyn Smith and have shared our conversation below.
Caitlyn, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think a lot of people are quietly struggling with the pressure to look like they have everything figured out. No one wants to admit they’re overwhelmed or unsure, but almost everyone feels that way. Especially in fast-moving industries like ours, there’s this silent expectation to always know the next step. The truth is, most of us are doing our best, learning as we go, and hoping we’re getting it right. The more we acknowledge that, the more human—and connected—we become.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Caitlyn Smith, co-founder of Herban Flow, a functional and non-alcoholic bottle shop focused on helping people feel good—without the hangover. We curate one of the largest selections of THC, mushroom, kava, kanna, and zero-proof beverages in Florida, and we’re known for our emphasis on education, potency options, and creating a place where people can explore wellness-focused alternatives with confidence.
What makes Herban Flow special is our mission: making mindful drinking approachable, fun, and judgment-free. Our team is full of local experts—from cannabis to kava to functional ingredients—and we guide guests the same way you’d expect at a craft bottle shop, but through a completely different lens.
Right now, we’re focused on expanding our daily tasting program, deepening partnerships with emerging brands, and building momentum for our annual High & Dry Festival, which celebrates the future of functional drinks. At the end of the day, we’re here to show people that there are more ways to unwind, socialize, and celebrate—and you don’t have to sacrifice how you feel tomorrow to do it.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think bonds break when people stop feeling seen, heard, or valued. Miscommunication, assumptions, and unspoken expectations can create distance quickly.
What restores those bonds is usually simple: honest conversation, accountability, and choosing curiosity over defensiveness. When people feel safe enough to tell the truth—and open enough to listen—the connection comes back stronger.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell her, “Trust yourself. The instincts you second-guess now are the same instincts that will guide you to build a life you love.”
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I guard closely is staying human first. Business moves fast, but people need empathy, clarity, and understanding. Protecting that humanity keeps relationships strong and teams healthy.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I made them feel seen, supported, and capable of more than they realized. That I built things with intention, led with heart, and created spaces where people felt safe to be themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.herbanflow.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herbanflow/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlyn-smith87/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HerbanFlow/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/herban-flow-dtsp-st-petersburg
- Other: https://highanddryfest.com/
Image Credits
Best of the Bay Photo- Photo Credit: CLTampa
HF Team Image Photo Credit: I Love The Burg/ That’s So Tampa
Pitch Night Winner – Photo Credit: St. Petersburg’s Chamber
All other photos taken by Herban Flow
