Small Biz Florida

Could owning your business property be the next step toward long-term growth? In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Ken Rosenthal, Senior Advisor with Momentus Direct Capital, at the 2026 Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (FLAGGL) Conference in Orlando. With 35 years of SBA lending experience, Ken explains how the SBA 504 loan program helps small business owners purchase, build, or improve commercial property. He breaks down its financing structure, explains how it differs from the SBA 7(a) program, and discusses how non-bank lenders can expand access to capital. The conversation explores the benefits of long-term fixed-rate financing, the importance of comparing borrowing options, and how business owners can connect directly with lenders. Whether you’re outgrowing your leased space or planning a new facility, this episode offers a practical introduction to financing your next move.

Access to capital can open doors for entrepreneurs—but finding the right lending partner matters. Recorded at the 2026 FLAGGL Conference in Orlando, this episode of Small Biz Florida welcomes Brent LeBlanc, Executive Vice President of Business Development at Peachtree Group, for a conversation about alternative lending and the value of personal relationships in business financing. Brent shares how Peachtree grew from its roots in hospitality lending into financing a broader range of real estate and small business opportunities. He discusses the company’s expansion into SBA 7(a) lending, including support for business acquisitions, startups, and turnarounds, and explains why understanding an entrepreneur’s experience, commitment, and ability to operate a business is central to its approach. Tune in to learn how a lender that takes the time to know its borrowers can help entrepreneurs pursue opportunities and navigate challenges along the way.

Getting access to capital starts long before you submit a loan application. In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred welcomes Loan Mantra founder and CEO Raj Tulshan and Vice President Emily Doxford for a conversation about helping entrepreneurs prepare for financing and connect with lenders. Recorded at the Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (FLAGGL) Conference in Orlando, this episode explores how Loan Mantra helps business owners organize financial documents, streamline loan applications, and collaborate with lenders and business advisors through one digital platform. Raj and Emily also discuss the value of preparing early, keeping financial records current, and looking beyond your local bank for lending opportunities. Whether you’re planning to purchase equipment, expand your business, or secure a line of credit, tune in to learn how preparation and technology can help you take the next step toward financing your growth.

Applying for a business loan can feel like climbing a mountain—but the right tools can make the journey easier. In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Joshua Talbert, co-founder of mySherpas, at the 2026 Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (FLAGGL) Conference in Orlando. Joshua shares how his experience in engineering, entrepreneurship, and private lending inspired a platform that helps borrowers and lenders navigate the loan process. From organizing documents and tracking application requirements to secure communication and optional AI capabilities, mySherpas aims to reduce paperwork headaches and help lenders reach decisions more efficiently. They also explore SBA lending, gathering documents through email, and using existing documents to apply with additional participating institutions. Tune in to learn how technology can help simplify the path to the capital your business needs to grow.

You don’t have to start from scratch to become a business owner. In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Denise Houghtaling, founder of Southern Country Business Advisors, at the 2026 FLAGGL Conference in Orlando to explore entrepreneurship through acquisition. Drawing on her experience buying and selling businesses, Denise explains how the “silver tsunami” of retiring business owners is creating opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. She shares the advantages of purchasing an established business, including existing cash flow, experienced employees, customer relationships, and brand recognition. The conversation also covers SBA financing, seller financing, business valuation, and the steps buyers should take before beginning their search. For owners considering an exit, Denise discusses how early preparation can help improve a business’s value. Whether you’re looking to buy a business or preparing to sell one, this episode offers practical insights into navigating the next chapter of business ownership. Learn more: DeniseSellsBusinesses.com