Business Scale Insights

If you have any questions about the podcast or your business generally, please text me at 954-210-9324. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

Business Scale Insights continues our September, 2020 series on RESILIENCE with Glen Benjamin.  Glen is an expert with over 40 years experience helping organzations, large and small, become more resilient, better and more optimal functioning.  Glen is a long-term South Florida resident who has worked in the Technology industry for nearly 40 years in a variety of Sales and Partner/Channel roles for organizations such as HP, Citrix, AT&T, Sprint/Nextel, CenturyLink and is currently a Client Executive for a South Florida-based IT Services Provider, LAN Infotech. Glen has a diverse background in Technology with specializations in Cybersecurity, Edge Devices, Cloud, Connectivity, Business Continuity, Social Media and Mobility-IoT to successfully deliver End-to-End Solutions for his clients. He has been a member of TechLauderdale and the South Florida Technology (SFTA) as well as its predecessor, the South Florida Telecom Forum (SFTF) for about 20 years and for the past 4 years has been a Board Member of TechLauderdale along with our keynote event that is held annually, ITPalooza. Glen has volunteered his time for a variety of local charities such as the South Florida Institute on Aging (SoFIA), The Superhero Leadership Academy, The Dan Marino Foundation, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Alzheimer’s Association, Multiple Sclerosis Society amongst other organizations. In my personal time, Glen enjoys spending time with his Granddaughter and family and being a fanatic for the Miami Dolphins. Feel free to reach out and connect with Glen at: Email: gbenjamin@laninfotech.com Telephone: 954-974-6262 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenbenjamin/ Blog: http://mobilitycloud.me Twitter and Skype: @glenbenjamin --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

Business Scale Insights has dedicated the month of September to covering the topic of RESILIENCE.  If ever our community, stakeholders, leaders needed resilience, it is NOW.     This podcast series is a MUST for anyone attempting to live and thrive in 2020.  If there is any podcast series that is required listening during these troubled times, it is THIS series. Joining us for another episode to discuss creating resilient leaders is Dr. Thomas Gordon. Tom is the Founder and Partner at TAGA Consulting.  http://www.tagaconsulting.com/ Dr. Gordon provides strategic counsel to Fortune 500 enterprises and executives globally. He assists clients to anticipate and respond decisively to complex challenges, design high performance goals, develop the accountabilities to achieve them, and establish the systems to track and reinforce their progress. He draws upon systems thinking, communications, and human dynamics expertise to deliver distinctive leadership and organizational changesolutions. A licensed psychologist, Tom graduated cum laude from Harvard University; earned his M.A.  and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Michigan; and completed post-doctoral mass media and conflict resolution study at the University of Pennsylvania/Annenberg School of Communications. Tom’s career spans 35+ years –as college professor, health and mental health systems manager, psychotherapist, leadership coach, and organizational advisor. His faculty affiliations include: The University of Michigan, Temple University, The University of Pennsylvania, Antioch College, Goddard College, Department of Psychiatry/Thomas Jefferson University, and Family Medicine/Medical University of South Carolina. He  is married, the father of 5 adult children, and grandfather to 7. Tom is an avid, lifelong learner: He travels globally for cross-cultural study and exchange, has coached adolescent basketball, speaks Spanish and Swahili, plays tenor saxophone, and mentors rising professionals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

Business Scale Insights podcast is launching a series focused on one concept: RESILIENCE. If ever our community, stakeholders, leaders needed resilience, it is NOW.     This podcast series is a MUST for anyone attempting to live and thrive in 2020.  If there is any podcast series that is required listening during these troubled times, it is THIS series.  There is no one better to launch a podcast series on resilience that leadership coach and consultant, Tom Gordon. Tom is the Founder and Partner at TAGA Consulting.  http://www.tagaconsulting.com/ Tom Gordon provides strategic counsel to Fortune 500 enterprises and executives globally. Tom assists clients to anticipate and respond decisively to complex challenges, design high performance goals, develop the accountabilities to achieve them, and establish the systems to track and reinforce their progress. He draws upon systems thinking, communications, and human dynamics expertise to deliver distinctive leadership and organizational changesolutions. A licensed psychologist, Tom graduated cum laude from Harvard University; earned his M.A.  and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Michigan; and completed post-doctoral mass media and conflict resolution study at the University of Pennsylvania/Annenberg School of Communications. Tom’s career spans 35+ years –as college professor, health and mental health systems manager, psychotherapist, leadership coach, and organizational advisor. His faculty affiliations include: The University of Michigan, Temple University, The University of Pennsylvania, Antioch College, Goddard College, Department of Psychiatry/Thomas Jefferson University, and Family Medicine/Medical University of South Carolina. Tom is married, the father of 5 adult children, and grandfather to 7. Tom is an avid, lifelong learner: He travels globally for cross-cultural study and exchange, has coached adolescent basketball, speaks Spanish and Swahili, plays tenor saxophone, and mentors rising professionals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

Business Scale Insights is continuing its focus on Black Businesses in light of National Black Business Month in the US.  Our focus on this episode on the critical need for business financing in the black community to support entrepreneurial ecosystems.  BSI reached out to Black Angels Miami Executive Director Kevin Cadette to get his insights on the need and how to successfully navigate business financing from VCs and Angels for black entrepreneurs.  Kevin Cadette is a startup industry veteran and technology leader.  A founder of multiple startups and former technology executive with multiple Fortune 50 companies, his experience spans a wide spectrum from bootstrapped start-ups to global corporations.  Kevin has participating in and led over a half-dozen startup organizations including execution of an IPO. His technology experience includes E-commerce, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Privacy, Health Care, Computer Vision, Robotics, SaaS Development, Carbon Emission Management, Education, Private Equity, Incubators and Accelerators. Kevin has been through 2 IPOs, once as Founder.  Kevin started his career with a technology startup in Boston that went public.  Since then he has always had a passion for compelling innovative businesses. His education pedigree includes an MBA from The Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania along with Masters and Bachelors degrees in engineering from Cornell University. Kevin is a native of London England, and lived in the US since his teenage years. He attended the United Nations International High School. Kevin is passionate about technology, entrepreneurship and diversity. He is a husband and father of two and soon to be THREE in January, 2021! Check out Black Angels Miami  https://www.blackangels.miami/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

On this episode we continue the series discussing in this series the impact of COVID-19 on black lives and businesses in light of the social and economic unrest in the U.S. right now.    We invited Jerome Hutchinson, Founder of the International Career and Business Alliance, to discuss why he believes black businesses matter in the U.S.  ICABA® ,International Career and Business Alliance, Inc., is a career and business development company assisting accomplished professionals and entrepreneurs achieve their career, business and lifestyle aspirations through valuable connections, information and opportunities. He is also he Managing Partner of JHJ Marketing Group, LLC, a South Florida based marketing agency providing its clients with culturally relevant strategies executed through engagement marketing, experiential marketing, advertising, public relations and social media. Hutchinson made history when he and his Father launched WYCS-TV, Kentucky’s first African American owned television station in his hometown of Louisville, Ky. WYCS-TV signed on-air March 6, 1996. As a serial entrepreneur, Hutchinson’s business interests have included broadcasting, information technology, retailing, and a marketing consultancy. Hutchinson has also enjoyed a successful career as a radio executive from 2002 through 2008 serving as General Sales Manager for three of the nation’s top five urban radio stations: Houston’sKMJQ--FM, Majic 102, Atlanta’s WVEE--FM, V--103, and Miami’s WEDR--FM, 99 JAMZ Since arriving in South Florida in 2005, Hutchinson has been active in the community serving on the boards of 100 Black Men of Greater Ft. Lauderdale, the Broward Alliance, BB&T Bank Advisory Board (Broward County), Nova Southeastern University Ambassadors Board, the BrowardWorkforce Development Board, the Broward Presidents Community Council, Board Chairman, Broward Health Foundation, Florida Memorial University Business School Advisory Board and the Broward Alliance Governor’s Council. He is also an alumnus of the 2008-09 Leadership BrowardClass XXVII. He has received numerous awards for business and civic leadership; in 2015, the Collective Empowerment Group presented him the “Grand Champion” award and the TJ Reddick Bar Association presented him their “Business Leadership” award. In 2016, the Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce recognized Hutchinson as a “Man of Distinction”.  In 2017, Hutchinson received the Vanguard Award from the Mosaic Group. Hutchinson has also been featured in local and national media for his civic and business leadership. Hutchinson is single and has two (2) daughters, Kristin and Naomi. He is an active member of Potential Church and resides in Sunrise, Florida. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

In this episode, we tackle the issue of ethic diversity in the workplace in light of racial tensions in the United States after the death of George Floyd and many others.  Business Scale Insights is dedicated to providing critical resources to businesses to help them serve their customers and communities better. In light of that, the podcast is committed to addressing this issue with a series on the topic.  Much like this podcast has addressed the COVID-19 crisis with critical information to help businesses survive and thrive, we believe that diversity and inclusion in business and the workplace is truly a "life or death" issue for many in America.   And without diversity in business and the workplace, MANY communities CANNOT BREATHE and CANNOT SURVIVE.   Carla Harris, CEO of The People Institute, will discuss diversity and inclusion in the workplace on this episode.  As the CEO & Managing Director of The People Institute, Carla's sole mission is to help companies and organizations serve clients better by focusing on the dynamics of workplace culture and cultivating synergy across teams. Formerly known as ImageWorks, Carla embarked on her journey in 1997 when she founded the company to assist C-level executives further enhance their professional image in order to be more effective in their roles. In 2018, ImageWorks became The People Institute in order to further align Carla's quest of leading the charge to shift organizational focus from the bottom line to the heart of the people who influence the organizational productivity. "People are the heartbeat of any organization. Focus on the people and the performance will come," Carla says, as her background in assisting both public and private-sector clients have continuously fueled her calling to help others show up as their absolute best. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

On this episdoe of Business Scale Insights, I interview Jane Doremus Vice President, Consulting Services with Right Management. Jane is a wealth of information and really gives gems of wisdom for professionals downsized due to COVID-19.  She identifies resources and strategies that professionals need to rebound from the downturn or change industries.  This is DEFINITELY an episode that you need to share with those who you know have been downsized or who you anticipate being downsized in the near future.   Jane draws on over 25 years of experience in staffing and career coaching to Right Management. Jane is a seasoned expert who guides professional candidates on managing career development and growth. She has successfully transitioned candidates in a wide variety functions and diverse industries by providing creative, practical and inspirational leadership.   Jane is an expert utilizing all aspects of social media and successfully guides candidates to create their own personal media brand through a variety of social media sites where appropriate. Jane has been an instrumental in creating and facilitating Social Media initiatives which include LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and personal websites.  Jane is also the co-creator of Right Management, Florida/Caribbean’s podcast Landed! Advice on Landing the Job of Your Dreams. She keeps abreast of new trends, tools and resources available via the constant changing social media arena. For more information about Right Management, please visit the website: www.rightflorida.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

On this episode of Business Scale Insights, Dan Pace, COO of First Financial, shares his expertise with our audience on Financing Opportunities for Small Businesses During COVID-19.  Dan has decades of experience in financing small businesses and expertise with SBA loan products.   Dan goes into detail about specific opportunities that small businesses now have under the CARES Act to have loan payments deferred for six months.  And he also goes into detail about the various loan products offered by First Financial for small business owners.  First Financial provides flexible and creative financing for its customers and First Financial believes in establishing a positive relationship right from the beginning. They have a range of small business financing options designed to fit your needs. To find out more about First Financial's loan products, please visit the website:  https://ffcash.net/sba-express-loan/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

On today's episode, I interview Danielle St. Luce.  Danielle works for BBIF Florida, a statewide Community Development Financial Institution, as their Regional Director in the South Florida market. Her focus is on financing and educating underbanked clients throughout the Miami metro area. Danielle will talk about what underserved small business owners need to know about accessing capital loans during the pandemic.  Sadly, many small businesses are being left behind during the pandemic and need to understand how to best financially navigate the crisis. Danielle spent her college years in Togo, West Africa where she completed her baccalaureate before moving to the United States for university. After graduating from Cornell University with her bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Labor Relations, she returned to the South Florida area to work in the non-profit world. Before working in finance, she started in education and moved to the arts. She has continued working with small arts organizations in the Overtown area as a consultant specializing in educating small teams in operations and sales. In work and in life, Danielle consistently seeks individuals and institutions working towards creating equity in an inequitable world. Both professionally and personally, she finds herself involved with working groups focused on a range issues from Opportunity Zones to facilitating dialogue among divergent groups. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

On today's episode of Business Scale Insights, crisis communications expert LJ Wilson share her knowledge, experience and insight on how small businesses can effectively lead during the COVID-19 pandemic.    LJ has worked for over 15 years as a communications director and manager for various corporations and non-profits.  She is the Founder and Principal of LJW Social Media & PR Strategies.  During this podcast, she provides educates small business owners on crisis leadership strategies for small business owners. If you are a small business owner and you do not have a crisis communications plan or strategy, reach out to LJ today.  This could impact your reputation and brand for years to come! Her website and Linked In bio are below: https://ljw-social-media-pr.constantcontactsites.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lj-wilson-m-a-74282025/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

On today's episode of Business Scale Insights, crisis communications expert LJ Wilson share her knowledge, experience and insight on how small businesses can effectively communicate with employees, clients and the broader community during COVID-19.  LJ has worked for over 15 years as a communications director and manager for various corporations and non-profits.  She is the Founder and Principal of LJW Social Media & PR Strategies.  During this podcast, she provides educates small business owners on exactly what crsisi communications entails and how to effectively execute a crisis communications plan.   If you are a small business owner and you do not have a crisis communications plan or strategy, reach out to LJ today.  This could impact your reputation and brand for years to come!   Her website and Linked In bio are below:  https://ljw-social-media-pr.constantcontactsites.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lj-wilson-m-a-74282025/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

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If you are a small business owner impacted by COVID19, you need to attend this SOLUTIONS focused event on May 12, 2020z --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

We conclude our Back to School series with an interview of Dr. Khia Thomas.  Dr. Khia Thomas (pronounced: ‘Kee-yah’) is a proud graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and the University of Michigan, where she earned a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. Thanks to her hard work, motivation, and persistence at Stanton College Preparatory School, in Jacksonville, Florida, she embarked on her college career with several academic scholarships under her belt. She graduated without having to pay a dime in college costs. She doubled down on a doctoral fellowship at the University of Michigan, which paid for virtually all costs associated with her Ph.D. program. As a psychologist, Dr. Khia forged an area of research expertise in adolescent development and the transition to adulthood, and has presented at national conferences and published in academic journals and texts. She began her post-graduate career in mental health research, and soon found herself longing to return to higher education. In 2011, she accepted a full-time faculty position at Broward College, and has earned high praise as a gifted teacher, mentor, and student advocate. Experience + Expertise Dr. Khia is a self-professed psychology nerd and a cheerleader for student potential and possibilities. After fielding tons of questions on college and career (who better to ask than a professor?), she embarked upon mastering a new skillset: college admissions consulting. Currently, she is a candidate for certificate in Independent Educational Consulting through the University of California at Irvine. A unique set of experiences shapes Dr. Khia’s expertise as an educational consultant. She has over 20+ years invested in the field of higher education. She clears up myths, misconceptions, and getting-into-college confusion with rock solid information. She walks her talk as a mentor who is there for students – personally and professionally – and truly derives satisfaction in helping students achieve their highest potential.  Her company, Admissionisms, provides the following services:  www.admissionisms.com/  If you need individualized guidance, tailored advice, and hands-on support, that’s where we step in. Pre-college counseling is essential in helping students: Identify and satisfy college admission requirements Pursue challenging academic coursework to maximize college options Explore extracurricular activities to build core college- and career-related skills Navigate the maze of colleges, affordability options, and how-tos of applying to college Student works with us on a one-on-one basis (with regular parent check-ins!), with a high degree of personalized care, time, and attention. They are strategically steered through a process of identifying “best fit” colleges where your student is likely to thrive, supported with customized application plans to ensure that no important date is left behind, and help crafting applications that speak to their unique strengths, interests, and stand out from the crowd. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

We are  continuing our Back to School series with the owner of American Professional Martial Arts, Sensei Tony Hall.  Sensei Tony began his Martial Arts Training at 9 years old in Fort Lauderdale Florida. While training towards Black Belt in a Kenpo based blended style of Martial Arts, Tony loved to help teach classes and assist instructors in everyday activities. At 13 Years old Tony received his 1st Degree Black Belt. After Graduating from High School tony Enlisted in the United States Marines. There he studied the Marine Corps Martial arts Program becoming a Brown Belt and getting a Honorable Discharge as a Sgt after 5 years of Service and one tour overseas. After leaving the Marines, Sensei Tony became a Police Officer for the City of Auburn, AL, where he served 5 Years and also filled the role of Self Defense Instructor on Auburn University. In 2012, Sensei Tony relocated to be closer to his family and began working with the Martial Arts school that he originally received his Black Belt. Realizing his passion for training and teaching again, He purchased a school in Boca Raton in 2013 and that school is now American Professional Martial Arts. Sensei Tony believes a Family that kicks together sticks together. His wife Jennifer is a Black Belt and his two sons train actively as well. At American Professional Martial Arts in Boca Raton,  builds up students dedicated instruction and unwavering support. The Kids Martial Arts program uses the excitement of kicks and punches to challenge a child's mind, help them stay physically active, and instill in them a wide range of skills and values that will carry them onto success in all aspects of life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

Business Scale Insights continues our focus on Back to School issues facing Parents and Children with Dana Cahn.  Dana Cahn is the Founder and CEO of F.A.C.E.S., Family and Co-Parenting Enrichment Services. F.A.C.E.S is a resource center for families going through divorce, separation, paternity and post-dissolution issues so that the emotional well-being of children is enhanced.  Back to School can be a difficult transition period.  However, navigating the communication and emotional issues with parents and children going through a divorce can become almost impossible without help.  Dana Cahn provides very real-world, practical advice for parents going through that in this episode.  If you live in South Florida and are going through a divorce, FACES has the resources you need to transition into healthy co-parenting.  The services include but are not limited to: 1- Co- Parenting Classes 2-  Supervised Visitation 3-Monitored Exchanges 4-Private Sessions 5- Therapeutic Supervised Sessions 6- Anger Management Classes and More! Check out the website for details: https://www.faces.family --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

We continued our focus on children's focused services and business in August by interviewing the incredible Dr. Deborah Tillman.  Dr. Deborah is a familiar face to so many as she has appeared on Lifetime TV's Supernanny series.  She is a force of nature and shares her riveting personal story of how she started her child care services and how they have expanded and now have an impact around the world.   You really do NOT want to miss this episode.  Deborah L. Tillman is a Consultant, Speaker, Author, Founder of Happy Home Christian Leadership Academy for Early Learners and “America’s Supernanny” on Lifetime Television. Labeled “A Force for Good” by The Washington Post, Tillman has a deep passion for children.  She began her career over twenty-five years ago when she became frustrated with the lack of quality childcare her son was receiving and as a result, quit her lucrative accounting job and started her own successful childcare center in 1994. Dr. Deborah holds a Masters’ Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from George Washington University and a Doctorate in Education from the Richmond Virginia Seminary.  She has also studied at Oxford University, Magdalen College in England. Among her many accomplishments, Deborah has been a recurring parenting expert on the HARRY and Steve Harvey Daytime Talk Shows.  She has also been seen on The View, Today Show, Katie Show, Wendy Williams, Great Day Washington, and CNN to name a few.  In 2018, Deborah was asked to join the faculty of the #1 Leadership Expert, John Maxwell Team to create parenting and family content all over the world. She is the author of Stepping out On Faith - How to Open a Quality Childcare Center and Parenting on Purpose: A Menu for Raising Children in Today’s Society.  In 2017, Deborah designed an online Greater Parenting System (GPS) that supports parents as they become the best version of themselves so that their children have every opportunity to reach their fullest potential and Divine Destiny.  She also created her own childcare curriculum called “The Guiding Light:” from infants through five-year-olds. Lifetime Television Executives have called her “a miracle worker” but Deborah is “a proud mom” and humble servant doing the work of the Lord with a LIGHT shining bright for children and families everywhere.  Dr. Deborah currently resides in Northern Virginia with her son Zeplyn who graduated from Georgetown University. For more information about Dr. Deborah and her work visit the site:  www.deborahtillman.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

Business Scale Insights kicked off a series on children focused services and business this month in light of "Back to School" season.   The first interview in the series was with John Lipetz, CEO and Founder of Fish and Explore in Falls Church, VA. https://www.fishandexplore.com/guides-tours/ Fish and Explore enables children and adults to learn and enjoy outdoor activities in a safe environment.  Children in particular who previously do not express interest in nature and the environment often become enamored with FAE's work and become outdoor lovers for LIFE! Fish and Explore is a experiential learning leader dedicated to developing programs that are well suited for all ages.   The focus is on youth programs, which are structured around elements that naturally excite children – Animals, Water, and a little Dirt! Our programs build confidence in a natural way, by providing guided instruction to introduce anyone to the outdoors while allowing them to explore their abilities.  Be it through fishing, exploring, or both, FAE engages all explorers in the wonders of the great outdoors in a safe and fun environment. FAE is looking to expand its footprint beyond the Washington, DC/metro area and is looking to partner with interested franchisees around the country.  If you enjoy the outdoors and children, this may be just the right business for you.  For more information about franchise opportunities, click on the website.  https://www.fishandexplore.com/franchise/ https://www.fishandexplore.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support

We closed out this series on Branding with Nick Nelson, CEO of Brandprenuer, and Michelle Talbert, CEO of Her Power Moves.  This episode is chock full of wisdom and insight on why branding is so critically important for small businesses and small business owners and what branding is ALL about.  So, you definitely want to listen and share this episode with friends and colleagues.  Nick F. Nelson is an entertainment marketer, author, and motivational speaker.  Nelson is an innovative force and has produced targeted marketing and communications strategies for some of television’s highest rated shows and more than 20 number-one box office films. Nelson’s keen ability for connecting brands to targeted consumers through entertainment, has led to him working with leading consumer, brands. Most notable include Disney, ESPN, General Mills, HBO, NBC, STARZ, Warner Bros. Pictures and Walmart. Recognized as the “Agency Marketer of the Year” by the Atlanta Chapter of the American Marketing Association in 2012, Nelson became the first, and only, African-American to receive the honor in its more than 50-years of existence. Michelle Y. Talbert is the CEO of Her Power Moves and is hosting a Branding unNetworking event in South Florida on Saturday, August 17, 2019 and Nick Nelson will be the featured guest and speaker.  http://herpowermoves.com/  To reach Nick or book with him, please connect with him here:  https://www.brandprenuer.com/about    --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/businessscaleinsights/support