Talking the Talk

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Featured Story

A Passion For Helping

Meet Jan Osgood, Osgood Mental Health Counseling

You walk into an unassuming building in Apollo Beach that reminds you of a time before the city was so busy. There are no brand-new franchises here, no corporate headquarters or satellite offices. Just a collection of small businesses run by locals.

You pull open the glass door to Osgood Mental Health Counseling, and Jan greets you with a warm smile and a handshake. The first thing you notice is her disarming demeanor. The second is the head of red hair dancing down her back as she welcomes you into her practice, where the walls seem to open and you find yourself in a state of comfort normally reserved for your home.

I stopped by Osgood Mental Health to talk with Jan about a new program she’s launching, her effort to provide a space for men in the community to discuss the myriad issues they face. We laughed, we discussed real topics, and I found myself at the end feeling like I owed her money. I guess that’s what a good therapist does. They create a space for discussion in an effortless way that feels like you’re talking to a friend.

Jan, an Apollo Beach native, started her career in public relations of all things, a place that admittedly didn’t feed her soul. Seeking a new direction and a chance to make a real impact, Jan followed her passion and became a school counselor right here in Hillsborough County. That worked for a time, but after 12 years in the school system, Jan wanted to do more. She knew that to really make a lasting impact on the families she worked with, she needed a space to continue the conversation beyond the walls of academia.

She found her chance in January of 2023. Her kids were older, and her passion was as strong as it had ever been. So, Osgood Mental Health Counseling was born. After two years in business, Jan is growing with nothing more than recommendations from the people she’s helped. So the obvious thing for her was to help more.

She recently launched a men’s group that meets the third Friday of every month at 7:00 pm. It’s a place to connect with other men, share experiences, and foster a sense of community and support. I can’t speak for all men, but I will. There’s a void in that area, so this is a welcome addition.

Mental health can be a taboo subject. The reality is, it’s just as important as our physical health. An ear to listen and a guide to help you figure out life isn’t something to be ashamed of. Jan’s as good as they come at that. Trust me, I went in to get some details for a story. I walked out with a free therapy session. 😃 

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Things to do

What’s Washing Up on The Shore This Week

It’s Spooky Season in Hillsborough County

Fall is officially in the air and Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation is pulling out all the stops with a jam-packed lineup of free Halloween events designed to thrill every age, from toddlers to skateboarders to adults with disabilities.

Skate Jams with a Spooky Twist
If you’ve got wheels (or a board), these are made for you. The Halloween Skate Jam brings board tricks, coffin races, and costume contests to four parks across the county: Providence, Apollo Beach, Carrollwood Village, and Jackson Springs.

A Dance for Everyone
Adults with disabilities are invited to strut their style at the “Night of Sparks” Halloween dance, costumes encouraged, fun mandatory. This year’s event is at the Brandon Park & Recreation Center on October 24 from 6:30–8 p.m.

Trunk or Treats Across the County
The classic “Trunk or Treat” gets countywide: decorated trunks, candy, safe trick-or-treating, and community vibes. Events run through mid to late October in parks from Ruskin to Northdale.

Paws in the Park — Boo for Your Best Friend
Don’t leave Fido out. Bring your dog in costume to Apollo Beach Dog Park on October 25 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) for a dog parade, photo op, and prizes for the best-dressed pups.

For more information and exact dates and times, click the link below.

More Info

Southshore Spotlight

The Spring of Tampa Bay

Founded in 1977 by four women who first offered a spare bedroom as refuge, The Spring of Tampa Bay has grown into Hillsborough County’s certified domestic violence center, serving tens of thousands of survivors and their children.

Nominate your local hero by emailing us at [email protected]

We Know a Guy…or Girl

Southshore Services

Need a painter? A plumber? Someone brave enough to tackle that lightbulb orbiting 30 feet above your living room? We’ve got you. And the best part, they’re all right here in our community.

Interested in joining the list? Shoot us an email to [email protected]

“Keep it Local!”

Foodies Only

Roots Southern BBQ

Roots Southern BBQ in Apollo Beach brings authentic, soulful barbecue to the SouthShore area. Rooted in Southern hospitality, they blend family recipes with fresh ingredients to deliver dishes made with both tradition and heart. If your nose doesn’t lead you to them, you can track them down below.

If you’ve got a restaurant, food truck, or even a lemonade stand, it could be featured here. Email us at [email protected]

Local Sports

Battle of the Quarterbacks: Who Rules Southshore?

It’s time to settle the score. You’ll have one week to decide who’s the true throwing king of Southshore. Cast your vote, rally your team, and let’s see who takes the crown. The winner gets a full feature in The Southshore Circle and a gift card to one of our favorite local spots.

Football Schedule

Lennard vs Parrish Community, Friday 10/17 @7:30 PM - Away

East Bay vs Riverview, Friday 10/17 @ 7:30 PM - Away

Sumner vs Strawberry Crest, Friday 10/17 @7:30 PM - Away

Riverview vs East Bay, Friday 10/17, @ 7:30 PM - Home

Spoto vs East Bay, Friday 10/24, @7:30 PM - Away

News or Events you’d like to share? Email us at: [email protected] 

Until next time,

Keep It Local.