Small Biz Florida

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred is joined by lending experts Nathan Shepard, Javier Jorge, and Daniel McDonald from Lake Michigan Credit Union. Recorded live at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida, this conversation sheds light on the key differences between banks and credit unions, emphasizing how relationship-building can expedite the lending process for small businesses. The team discusses the growing demand for small business acquisition loans, with a deep dive into the versatile uses of SBA 7(a) loans and the strategic focus on small balance lending. Tune in to learn about the current lending landscape in Florida and how credit unions like Lake Michigan Credit Union play a crucial role in supporting small businesses. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Lake Michigan Credit Union

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred interviews Carol Graham and Isaac Altman from HOCS Consulting, recorded live at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida. The conversation centers on how small businesses can effectively leverage IT solutions to streamline their operations and safeguard their data. Carol and Isaac dive into the importance of IT support, cybersecurity, and the integration of technology to help businesses scale and maintain efficiency. They also share how HOCS Consulting assists companies through mergers and acquisitions, ensuring smooth transitions from a technology standpoint. This episode provides valuable insights into optimizing business operations through tech-driven strategies. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: HOCS Consulting  

In this special episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Jonel Hein, the district director of the North Florida Small Business Administration (SBA) District Office. Together, they explore the pivotal role that the SBA and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) play in empowering small businesses throughout Florida. Jonel shares exciting updates, including North Florida approaching an impressive $1 billion in SBA approvals and contracting. The conversation highlights the various resources, training programs, and support systems offered by the SBA, designed to help businesses navigate government contracts and achieve sustainable growth. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of the SBA's partnership with the SBDC, along with initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility and support for entrepreneurs. They also discuss ongoing efforts to expand outreach and responsiveness to meet the evolving needs of the small business community. Join us for this informative episode packed with valuable resources and updates that can help your business thrive!

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred, Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, highlights the third annual Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida. Sponsored by Florida First Capital and the Florida SBDC Network, the event gathers over 420 small business owners to network and share best practices. Tom interviews Dr. Jerry Parrish, Chief Economist at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, who shares his expert insights on the economic outlook for Florida. Dr. Parrish discusses the crucial role small businesses play in job creation, the current state of capital access, and key workforce trends in Florida. He also highlights the opportunities and challenges faced by small business owners in today’s evolving economic landscape, providing valuable advice for both aspiring and established entrepreneurs. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Dr. Jerry D. Parrish, Economist & Public Speaker  

In this special episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred, Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, explores the vital recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Joined by Greg Britton, the state director of the Florida SBDC Network, the episode highlights the extensive support available to small businesses impacted by the disaster. Listeners will discover how the Florida SBDC Network is mobilizing mobile assistance centers and coordinating efforts across teams to provide timely and effective resources for recovery. The conversation underscores the importance of a quick response and the variety of resources available to help small businesses not only recover but also prepare for future challenges. This episode is a must-listen for any small business owner looking to navigate the recovery process and access the support offered by the SBDC.

In this special episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred engages in a vital conversation with J. Alex Kelly, Florida's Secretary of Commerce. Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, the state is mobilizing resources to support small businesses in their recovery efforts. Join us as we delve into the organized response of the Florida Department of Commerce, alongside partners like SBDC, CareerSource, and Hope Florida. Kelly shares insights on the critical importance of restoring confidence within the business community and outlines available resources, including emergency bridge loans and support programs tailored for recovery. Listeners will gain valuable information on accessing these resources through FloridaDisaster.biz, ensuring that small businesses can rebuild and thrive in the wake of disaster. Tune in to understand how Florida is working tirelessly to assist those affected and foster a resilient business landscape.

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred takes listeners to the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida. Sponsored by Florida First Capital and the Florida SBDC Network, this event brings together over 400+ small business owners to exchange insights and learn from experts. Tom interviews Dr. Kelvin McCree, Chief Learning Officer at Laser Focus Leadership Solutions. Dr. McCree shares his entrepreneurial journey and expertise in organizational growth, as well as key insights from his latest book, Drop the Cape: How to Ignite Your Influence and Brand Your Awesome. The conversation delves into authentic leadership, building high-performing teams, and how to inspire employees by leveraging their unique talents. This episode is filled with practical advice for small business owners looking to enhance team performance and foster strong leadership within their organizations. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Laser Focus Leadership Solutions, LLC

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Kathleen Minogue, founder and CEO of Crowdfund Better, during the 2024 Small Business Success Summit. Kathleen shares her expertise on crowdfunding, charting its evolution from simple Kickstarter campaigns to more advanced forms of rewards and investment crowdfunding. The discussion dives into how small businesses can harness crowdfunding to fuel growth, breaking down the basics and benefits of various crowdfunding models. Kathleen emphasizes the importance of preparation, strategy, and legal considerations in successful crowdfunding efforts. This episode offers Florida's small business owners practical insights and success stories to help them navigate and leverage crowdfunding as a powerful financing tool. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Crowdfund Better

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Terry Sherman, a Certified Business Intermediary with the Florida Business Exchange, live from the 2024 Annual Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida. Terry shares her expertise on the booming small business acquisition market in Florida, driven by the 'silver tsunami'—the wave of baby boomers retiring and selling their businesses. She explains how the Florida Business Exchange connects buyers and sellers, offering key insights into the advantages of acquiring an existing business versus starting from scratch. Terry also touches on the SBA loan products available to finance these acquisitions and the vital role innovation plays in turning around underperforming businesses. This episode is packed with essential strategies and tips for aspiring business owners looking to enter the world of business acquisition. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Florida Business Exchange  

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred engages in an enlightening conversation with Christina Lynch, a seasoned business consultant with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Florida A&M University. Christina shares her journey from accounting and HR to becoming a trusted advisor for small businesses in Florida. The discussion covers common financial challenges faced by entrepreneurs, the critical importance of understanding and interpreting financial statements, and how to adjust business strategies in a post-pandemic world. Christina also highlights the advantages of fractional CFO services for small business owners. With her deep experience and expertise, Christina offers valuable guidance for those looking to navigate the complexities of small business finance and growth. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Florida SBDC at Florida A&M University - Website

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred interviews Moquita Quinan, a Small Business Analyst/Liaison for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, during the 2024 Small Business Success Summit at Sawgrass Resort in Ponte Vedra, Florida. Sponsored by Florida First Capital and the Florida SBDC Network, the summit offers small businesses a platform to network and learn best practices for growth and success. Moquita shares her extensive experience in supplier diversity and discusses how Great Lakes Dredge and Dock engages small businesses to meet federal contract requirements, with a special focus on marine construction opportunities. The episode underscores the significance of small businesses connecting with major contractors like Great Lakes to tap into lucrative government contracts and scale their operations. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company - Website

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred interviews keynote speaker David Avrin at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida. David, a renowned expert in customer experience, shares key insights from his book Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With, focusing on the critical need to reduce friction points and streamline customer interactions. The conversation delves into how small businesses can compete with industry giants like Amazon by prioritizing convenience and immediate access. David also distinguishes between customer service and customer experience and introduces the Platinum Rule: treating customers the way they want to be treated. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: David Avrin's Website

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred, Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, engages in a compelling conversation with Adrienne Johnston, President and CEO of CareerSource Florida. Adrienne shares her background and discusses the essential resources CareerSource Florida offers to both job seekers and employers, including apprenticeships, On-the-Job Training (OJT), and more. The episode also touches on CareerSource's initiatives in digital literacy and how the organization is adapting to the rise of AI in the workforce. Tune in to discover how CareerSource Florida can support your small business's growth and success. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.   Connect with Our Guest: CareerSource Florida - Website

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Alexis Quintal, founder and owner of Rosarium PR and Marketing, to explore the transformative impact of AI on the marketing landscape. Alexis shares valuable insights on how small businesses can leverage AI tools to boost efficiency while maintaining the essential human touch in their branding and outreach. The discussion covers the ethical considerations of using AI, practical applications in tasks like writing and advertising, and how to strike the right balance between technology and creativity. Alexis also shares her personal journey in blending her passions for marketing and education to empower small business owners. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Rosarium PR and Marketing - Website

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred travels to the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando to sit down with SBA officials Francisco Sánchez Jr., Associate Administrator for the SBA Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience, and Allen Thomas, Regional Administrator. The discussion delves into the SBA's enhanced disaster recovery strategies, including increased loan limits and the agency's ongoing efforts to assist local businesses during recovery periods. Beyond disaster response, the episode explores how the SBA supports everyday business growth through lending, government contracting, and specialized resources for entrepreneurs. The officials underscore the importance of establishing long-term relationships with the SBA to help businesses start, grow, and thrive.   Episode Links:  SBA Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience Connect with the Florida SBDC Network Connect with Florida First Capital