At Heartbeat Safety, we’re thrilled to share that our founder, John Hodgdon, was recently featured by the University of West Florida Alumni Association! This recognition highlights John’s incredible journey from UWF graduate to entrepreneur and safety educator.
With a passion for teaching lifesaving skills and a mission to make workplaces and communities safer, John has poured his expertise and heart into building Heartbeat Safety. Through CPR, First Aid, and AED training, he’s helped countless individuals gain the confidence to respond in emergencies.
We’re proud to celebrate this spotlight on John’s accomplishments and the values that drive our business every day. Here’s a closer look at the UWF feature, including John’s inspiring interview and the impact Heartbeat Safety has made.
From Lifeguard to Business Owner: The Inspiration Behind Heartbeat Safety
What inspired you to start your business?
“I saw firsthand the importance of CPR, First Aid, and AED skills as a lifeguard at Pensacola Beach. But the real inspiration came when I became an Aquatics Director in Central Florida, where I witnessed the life-changing impact of teaching these skills. Seeing the moment a lifeguard saves a life and knowing it happened because of something I taught was an extraordinary feeling that pushed me to start Heartbeat Safety.”
John’s vision for Heartbeat Safety began long before the company was founded. His experiences as a lifeguard and Aquatics Director revealed the life-saving power of proper training—something he’s now committed to sharing with others.
Overcoming Challenges: Staying Resilient Through Setbacks
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?
“The biggest challenge I’m still facing is expanding our business into the Tampa/St. Pete area. After only four weeks of business there, Hurricane Helene caused significant damage, and we were forced to shut down. It’s been a tough setback, but we’re determined to keep moving forward.”
This determination is a cornerstone of how we approach safety training at Heartbeat Safety. Just as John remains steadfast in the face of challenges, we encourage our clients to develop the resilience needed to handle emergencies with confidence.
The Heart of Safety Training
What motivated you to focus on safety training and education?
“I’ve been a certified Instructor for the American Red Cross since 2008, and I’ve always enjoyed teaching. What keeps me going is knowing that the training we provide could save lives—even in situations where we may never even meet the people we helped. It’s incredibly rewarding to know the positive impact we have.”
This passion is what drives everything we do at Heartbeat Safety. From CPR and First Aid courses to AED training, our work isn’t just about skills—it’s about saving lives.
Real-World Impact: A Success Story That Inspires
Can you share a success story where your services made a difference?
“Absolutely! One of our students, who took our CPR and First Aid class, recently had to use the Heimlich maneuver to save a teacher from choking during lunchtime. It’s moments like these that show the real-world value of our training, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to know we played a role in saving someone’s life.”
This story serves as a powerful reminder of why our mission at Heartbeat Safety is so important. Every person we train becomes a potential lifesaver.
Advice from Our Founder
What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own business?
“There are no shortcuts. Building a successful business takes time, patience, and hard work. As entrepreneurs, we know how amazing our product is, but it often takes longer than expected for others to realize it. Patience is key in this process.”
John’s advice rings true not just for aspiring entrepreneurs but also for anyone learning new skills. At Heartbeat Safety, we believe in the value of persistence and preparation.
How You Can Support Heartbeat Safety
How can people best support your business?
“Reach out to your workplace HR department and ask them to bring in Heartbeat Safety for training. If you’re a business owner, consider scheduling a training session at your next Quarterly Meeting or Planning Day. Our life-saving courses not only teach valuable skills but also foster incredible teamwork among employees as they learn to work together in emergencies.”
When you partner with Heartbeat Safety, you’re not just investing in training—you’re helping to create a safer environment for everyone.
Why This Recognition Matters
John’s feature by the University of West Florida Alumni Association is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for making a difference. At Heartbeat Safety, we’re proud to continue this mission every day.
To learn more about how Heartbeat Safety can serve your workplace or community, visit Heartbeat Safety. Together, we’re building a future where lifesaving skills are accessible to everyone.
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