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Small Biz FL was designed to highlight issues and promote business assistance resources available throughout the state of Florida.
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In this special promotional episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Zoraida Velasco, Executive Vice President of FloridaMakes, to spotlight one of the state’s most important industry events — the MakeMore Manufacturing Summit. Zoraida shares her professional journey and highlights the mission of FloridaMakes, Florida’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which works closely with the Florida SBDC Network to boost productivity and innovation among small manufacturers.
This year’s MakeMore Manufacturing Summit returns to Orlando on October 22nd and 23rd, bringing together stakeholders, business leaders, and service providers to address the evolving needs of Florida’s manufacturing sector. The summit will feature in-depth conversations on industry sub-sectors, workforce development, trade and logistics, and the strategic resources available to help manufacturers grow.
Use Discount Code "M3PARTNER": Listeners can use this exclusive code to receive a discounted registration for the summit.
This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.floridamakemore.com/home
In this special release episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred reports from the 46th Annual America's SBDC Training Event in Orlando, Florida, where over 1,400 SBDC consultants and state directors gathered to advance their expertise in small business support.
This episode features in-depth conversations with two key leaders in the SBDC network: Byron Hicks, President of America's SBDC Board of Directors and State Director for North Carolina’s Small Business and Technology Development Center, and Tee Rowe, President and CEO of America's SBDC. Together, they reflect on the importance of the annual training event, which features over 200 workshops and serves as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and resource sharing.
Topics covered include the evolving role of SBDCs, the latest tools and resources available to small businesses, economic outlooks, access to capital, and the continued need for professional development to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing business environment. Whether you're a consultant, small business owner, or ecosystem partner, this episode offers valuable insights into the engine driving America’s small business success.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 46th Annual America’s SBDC Training Event hosted at the Hilton Orlando. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
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America's SBDC
In this special release episode of Small Biz Florida, we take you inside the 46th Annual America's SBDC Training Event held in Orlando, Florida — a premier gathering for small business development professionals across the country. With over 1,400 SBDC consultants in attendance and more than 200 expert-led workshops, the event provided a comprehensive overview of the latest trends, technologies, and strategies shaping the future of small business support.
Host Tom Kindred speaks with three influential leaders in the SBDC network: April Youngblut, Vice President of America’s SBDC; Lisa Hall, Regional Director at the University of Scranton's SBDC; and Kyle Hensel, Director of Continuing Education at the University of Georgia's SBDC. Together, they discuss how the conference fosters collaboration, professional development, and the integration of new tools, such as AI and FinTech, into small business advising.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 46th Annual America’s SBDC Training Event hosted at the Hilton Orlando. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
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America's SBDC
In this special release episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred reports from the 46th Annual America's SBDC Future of Work Training Event in Orlando, Florida. This episode features a timely and insightful discussion with Jim Colbourne, Wealth Manager, and Bryce Stacy, Service Advisor, both from Merit Financial Advisors.
The conversation centers around the importance of wealth management for small business owners, emphasizing the need to separate personal and business finances to ensure financial security and enable successful business exits. Jim and Bryce shed light on common challenges entrepreneurs face, including the co-mingling of assets, lack of succession planning, and the emotional hurdles of retirement.
They also address the looming “silver tsunami,” the surge of business owners over age 65, and the critical need for early exit planning. Additionally, Bryce shares insights from their presentation on “Behavioral DNA,” which helps businesses improve team communication and internal dynamics.
Whether you're considering retirement or just getting started, this episode provides actionable financial guidance tailored specifically for small business owners.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 46th Annual America’s SBDC Training Event hosted at the Hilton Orlando. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
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Merit Financial Advisors
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in downtown Tampa, where the spotlight is on innovation and tech solutions in the craft brewing industry. Tom sits down with Frank Pernicano, founder of BeerMS—a customizable menu management and digital display system designed specifically for breweries and bars.
Frank shares his journey from web application development to launching BeerMS, a platform that helps brewery owners streamline operations and enhance the customer experience with real-time digital menus. The conversation touches on the importance of brand consistency, flexibility in menu updates, and the value of using technology to create a more engaging taproom experience.
Frank also offers advice to fellow entrepreneurs, explaining how he built BeerMS while working a full-time job and how he's positioning the product to expand beyond breweries into bars and other beverage-focused venues.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.beerms.com/
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the focus is once again on the craft brewing industry, recorded live from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in Tampa. Tom is joined by Patrick Brown, Director and Owner of Blue and Company, a CPA and accounting firm with deep expertise in the beverage industry.
Patrick shares his extensive background in public accounting and how he found his niche working with distilleries and craft brewers. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked role of accounting in brewery operations, emphasizing the importance of clean financials when it comes to attracting investors, securing financing, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Throughout the episode, Patrick stresses that small business owners should focus on what they do best—running their business—while relying on trusted professionals to handle accounting, payroll, and tax strategy. It's a must-listen for any entrepreneur looking to grow a financially sound and scalable craft beverage business.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.blueandco.com/
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in downtown Tampa. Joining the show are Cody Faig and Isaac Arthur, co-founders of CODO Design—a brand strategy firm with deep expertise in the craft brewing industry.
The conversation dives into the crucial role of branding and positioning in the success of small businesses, especially in a competitive space like craft beer. Cody and Isaac share their journey from art and design students to becoming national leaders in brewery brand development. They explain the process behind building and refreshing a brand, from research and market analysis to visual identity and storytelling.
Listeners will gain insight into how brand architecture and strategic differentiation can help businesses connect with customers, stand out in a saturated market, and grow sustainably. Whether you're launching a new brewery or refreshing an existing brand, this episode offers expert advice on how to approach branding with purpose and precision.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://cododesign.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in Tampa, Florida. The episode features an insightful conversation with Aaron Gore, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for The Fifth Ingredient and Vice President for the American Craft Beer Hall of Fame. Aaron shares his journey from an IT professional to a key player in the craft beer industry, emphasizing the importance of passion and business acumen in running a successful brewery.
The discussion highlights the challenges faced by craft breweries, such as the need for management skills and the importance of leveraging available resources like technology and consulting services. Aaron also discusses the future of the craft beer industry, suggesting that while growth has slowed, it presents an opportunity for innovation and adaptation. The episode concludes with Aaron explaining the role of the American Craft Beer Hall of Fame in honoring industry pioneers and inspiring future generations.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.thefifthingredient.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the focus is on the vibrant craft brewing industry in Florida, specifically at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in Tampa. The episode features an interview with Cam Passantino, Vice President of Sales for Knotty Pretzels—a company that’s carved out a unique place in the craft beer scene by offering the perfect complementary snack.
Cam shares his unconventional journey into the pretzel business, which began during his college years at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as a small garage operation has grown into a brand recognized in breweries and supermarkets across the Southeast.
The conversation explores the entrepreneurial grind, lessons learned in a startup environment, and Knotty Pretzels’ creative marketing strategy of offering free product samples to build trust and partnerships with breweries. The episode wraps up with info on where to find Knotty Pretzels and a reminder to connect with Small Biz Florida online.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.knottypretzels.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in downtown Tampa. The episode features a conversation with Al Murphy, CEO, and David Will Hoyt, VP of Sales at Mother Murphy's Flavors—a company dedicated to crafting custom flavors for a wide range of products, including craft beer.
The discussion explores the essential role of flavor innovation in the craft brewing industry. Al Murphy shares his journey through the company, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and creativity in meeting market needs. David Will Hoyt sheds light on how Mother Murphy’s works with both large-scale and small-batch brewers, highlighting the importance of strong client relationships and personalized service.
This episode underscores how small businesses can use flavor as a strategic tool to adapt, differentiate, and grow in a constantly shifting market.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.mothermurphys.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the focus is on the vibrant craft brewing industry in Florida, specifically highlighting the entrepreneurial journey of Jordan Weisberg, owner and operator of Point Ybel Brewing Company. This episode was recorded at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in Tampa, a gathering of passionate craft brewers and entrepreneurs.
Jordan shares his path from homebrewing in Tampa to running a successful brewery in Fort Myers near Sanibel Island. He dives into the real-world challenges of entrepreneurship, from equipment failures to navigating major disruptions like COVID-19 and hurricanes. Jordan speaks candidly about the importance of resilience, passion, and learning through adversity.
He also reflects on the influence of his entrepreneurial parents and offers valuable advice for aspiring business owners: stay driven, embrace setbacks as learning opportunities, and pursue work you genuinely love.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://pointybelbrew.com/
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in downtown Tampa. The episode features an engaging conversation with Heider Hasham and Maria Orozco, the founders of Shojo's Dojo, Florida's first sake-based craft brewery located in Miami.
The discussion explores their unique entrepreneurial journey, transitioning from traditional careers in civil engineering and medicine to launching a niche brewery. Heider and Maria share insights into the challenges and surprises of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience, strategic financial planning, and adaptability.
Listeners will also learn about their innovative brewing process, which blends their Lebanese and Nicaraguan heritage with traditional Japanese sake-making techniques. As Miami’s rapid development pushes them to consider relocation, they invite fans to follow their ongoing journey through social media.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.instagram.com/shojosdojo
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the focus shifts to the financial tools that support Florida’s small businesses, specifically within the craft brewing industry. Recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in downtown Tampa, the episode features an insightful conversation with Gayle Hoshstrasser, Florida Sales Manager for Florida First Capital.
Gayle shares her extensive experience in SBA lending and provides an in-depth look at how Florida First Capital, a Certified Development Company (CDC), works alongside the U.S. Small Business Administration to deliver SBA 504 loans. These loans are designed to help small business owners like those in the brewing industry acquire real estate, expand operations, and invest in long-term growth through fixed-rate, low-down-payment financing.
The episode also breaks down what it takes to prepare for capital acquisition, including the importance of a solid business plan, tax documentation, financial statements, and expert guidance. Gayle emphasizes that building strong relationships with lenders and advisors is key to making informed decisions and sustaining long-term success.
Whether you're a brewery owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about how SBA financing works, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most impactful loan programs available to small businesses.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest & Sponsor:
https://www.ffcfc.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the spotlight is on bridging the national talent gap in high-tech careers through veteran entrepreneurship. Recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, this episode features an in-depth conversation with Devon Stevenson, CEO and co-founder of Zera Techbridge, alongside his partners Evan Mills and Don Randall.
Zera Techbridge is a mission-driven company dedicated to connecting veterans, service members, and youth with high-demand careers in data analytics and national security. The platform not only offers industry certifications but also supports the process of obtaining security clearances—key to unlocking jobs in defense and cybersecurity sectors.
The conversation explores the founders’ military backgrounds, the role of mentorship from Veterans Florida, and the critical need to retain skilled professionals within the Department of Defense. With a focus on workforce development and innovation, Zera Techbridge is helping to ensure our national security pipeline remains strong and inclusive.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.zeratechbridge.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, we return to the dynamic atmosphere of the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. This episode features Carl Cyrius, a veteran and the founder and CEO of The Oasis Firm—a company offering a comprehensive and client-focused approach to financial services through what Carl calls the “holy tax trifecta”: preparation, planning, and representation.
Carl shares his journey from the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program to launching a successful business with a global reach, especially aiding veterans living overseas. He discusses the challenges of starting a business, the power of refining your idea through structured support, and the importance of working with clients who align with your values. Carl’s role at the Expo includes serving as a pitch competition judge and supporting fellow veteran entrepreneurs.
Whether you're a veteran, entrepreneur, or small business owner looking to improve your financial foundation, Carl’s insights offer valuable takeaways and encouragement.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.theoasisfirm.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the spotlight is on innovation and veteran entrepreneurship at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. Tom interviews Navy veteran Bruce Bevins, founder and CEO of ATCFO (Air Traffic Control Future Operators), the first accredited air traffic control training program at the trade school level in the United States. Located at Bartow Executive Airport, ATCFO offers a groundbreaking pathway into air traffic control—eliminating the need for a traditional college degree and providing students with real-world experience and certification.
Bruce shares his extensive career in air traffic control and discusses how ATCFO is addressing the critical shortage of controllers nationwide. He also highlights the high-paying job opportunities in the field, especially for veterans looking to transition into civilian careers. Throughout the conversation, Bruce emphasizes the role Veterans Florida has played in supporting his entrepreneurial journey and outlines his plans for expanding training facilities to meet growing demand.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.atcfo.us
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the spotlight returns to the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches—a premier event celebrating veteran entrepreneurship. Tom sits down with Marine Corps veteran Nicholas Romero, the owner of Thank My Barber Shop in Fort Myers, Florida. Nicholas shares his journey from cutting hair in the Marine Corps to launching his own barbershop and founding the Thank My Barber Association. His mission: to elevate the barbering profession by promoting professionalism, financial literacy, and community engagement. Nicholas discusses the critical role of customer service in the barber industry and outlines his ambitious plans to offer barbers access to medical insurance, financial planning tools, and ongoing education. As he prepares to pitch his business in the event’s Shark Tank-style competition, Nicholas hopes to secure funding to expand his association and impact the industry on a larger scale.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.thankmybarber.com
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the conversation centers on innovation in the construction industry and the entrepreneurial journey of Air Force veteran Drew Williams, founder and CEO of Wall-R. Recorded at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitch in Tampa, Drew shares how he transitioned from military service to launching a company focused on 3D printing for construction. He discusses the game-changing potential of this technology to reduce material waste, lower costs, and improve access to affordable housing. While acknowledging the hurdles of scaling an emerging technology, Drew expresses optimism about the industry's future. He also credits veteran-focused entrepreneurship programs at Florida Atlantic University, University of Florida, and Syracuse University for helping him build his venture. The episode wraps with an invitation for listeners to support his innovative mission.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Samuel Medina, an Air Force veteran and the founder of Down to Earth Massage Therapy. Recorded at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitch in Tampa, the conversation explores Samuel’s transition from military service to entrepreneurship. He shares how a variety of post-service roles ultimately led him to his true calling—helping others through massage therapy, personal training, and health education. Samuel explains his holistic approach to wellness and how his business integrates mobile services and collaborations with boutique hotels and events. He also highlights the valuable support he’s received from Veterans Florida and discusses the importance of utilizing available resources for business growth in Florida’s thriving wellness sector.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred continues his coverage from the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, showcasing the innovative spirit of veteran entrepreneurs. Tom sits down with Air Force veteran Bruni Oquendo, founder of Casa Bruni—an events lifestyle activation and programming company that’s transforming Tampa’s underutilized spaces into vibrant cultural hubs.
Bruni shares her inspiring journey from high school teacher to entrepreneur, a transition sparked during the COVID-19 pandemic. She explains how Casa Bruni uses creative placemaking to connect communities through events rooted in music, art, and culture, with salsa dancing playing a central role. The discussion dives into how hobbies can evolve into business opportunities, and how Bruni has leveraged her passion and local connections to build a thriving brand.
Listeners will also hear about Bruni’s experience with support organizations like Veterans Florida and Action Zone, and the critical role mentorship and community play in the entrepreneurial journey. Bruni wraps the conversation by sharing her plans for future expansion and how to get involved with Casa Bruni.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.casabruni.com
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