Kimberly Park shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Kimberly, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work, what brings me the most joy is spending time with my kids and being present as a family. Whether it’s everyday moments or special outings, that time helps me stay grounded, grateful, and balanced. It’s where I recharge and find inspiration that carries into everything I do.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kimberly Park, the owner and baker behind a small, community-focused sourdough bakery serving the Tampa Bay area. What began as a journey to provide my allergen daughter fresh bread and goodies, quickly grew into a passion for crafting slow-fermented, handcrafted sourdough with creative, seasonal flavors. You can find us at local farmers markets and pop-ups, where connecting with customers and supporting fellow small businesses is just as important as the bread itself. What makes our brand special is our commitment to quality, consistency, and community—every loaf is made with intention, time, and care. Right now, we’re focused on growing thoughtfully, expanding our presence across Tampa Bay, and continuing to create food that brings people together.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One of the most defining moments in my life was our NICU journey. Having a child in the NICU changes how you see the world—it teaches you patience, humility, and the power of small victories. Every day became about hope, resilience, and trusting the process, even when the outcome felt uncertain. That experience reshaped how I approach life and business: with gratitude, intention, and a deep appreciation for community and support. It reminded me that progress doesn’t have to be fast to be meaningful—and that mindset continues to guide everything I do today.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain when I recognized that our NICU journey had given me both insight and responsibility. What began as a deeply personal experience evolved into a commitment to lead, advocate, and create change. Today, I speak publicly, advocate in Tallahassee for improved health care policies, and serve on the board at Tampa General Hospital as the Executive Co-Chair of the Patient & Family Advisory Council. Those roles allow me to bring the patient and family perspective into decision-making spaces where it truly matters. Turning pain into purpose has shaped my leadership style—one rooted in empathy, collaboration, and action—and continues to drive my work to improve outcomes and experiences for families navigating critical care.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes—but it’s a more intentional version of me. The public version reflects my values, my experiences, and the work I care deeply about. Beyond my advocacy and leadership roles, it’s also the person behind the bakery—showing up at farmers markets, selling bread, and taking the time to connect with each customer. Those moments of conversation, laughter, and community-building are as meaningful to me as the work I do in hospitals or in Tallahassee. My NICU journey and my business both taught me that showing up authentically and with intention matters—it builds trust, fosters connection, and allows me to make an impact in ways that are both personal and far-reaching.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
What I’m doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years is teaching my kids about hard work, consistency, and the importance of being authentic. At our bakery, they see firsthand what it takes to show up every day, nurture relationships with customers, and pour care into every loaf we make. Beyond the business, they witness the value of community—how connecting with neighbors, supporting local initiatives, and advocating for families in need can create lasting impact. I want them to grow up understanding that meaningful work isn’t always instant gratification; it’s the small, intentional actions, day after day, that build character, resilience, and purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.purelypark.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purelyparksourdough?igsh=d3J3bjRhdDY2eXgx&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlycbrown23?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/182qpYqREJ/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Photography by Ashley B.
