Small Biz Florida

Ep. 314 | Powering Rural Florida’s Future with Optimus Energy Solutions’ Ben Pauluhn

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Ben Pauluhn, Founder and President of Optimus Energy Solutions, at the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. The conversation focuses on the evolving opportunities in rural Florida, particularly in the EV charging station market and commercial solar energy solutions.
Ben shares his journey from moving to Florida in 2010 to launching Optimus Energy Solutions in 2018. He discusses the company’s business model, which includes selling, leasing, and owning EV charging stations, and emphasizes the crucial role of private investment in expanding Florida’s EV infrastructure. The episode also highlights Optimus Energy Solutions’ work in commercial solar projects through the USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which helps businesses in rural areas adopt renewable energy solutions.
The episode concludes with Ben offering valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of partnerships and collaboration in driving innovation and success. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about Optimus Energy Solutions

Ep. 313 | Financing Small Business Growth with Florida First Capital’s Mark Kruse

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Mark Kruse, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Florida First Capital, at the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. The conversation focuses on the vital role Florida First Capital plays in supporting small businesses, particularly through the SBA 504 loan program.
Mark explains the benefits of the 504 loan, which offers long-term, below-market fixed interest rates and up to 90% financing for small business owners looking to purchase commercial real estate or heavy equipment. He also highlights the importance of educating business owners about this financial tool and how Florida First Capital collaborates with local banks to make these loans accessible.
Additionally, the episode covers Florida First Capital’s role in disaster recovery through the Emergency Bridge Loan program and the launch of a new agricultural loan program designed to assist farmers impacted by natural disasters. The discussion underscores the critical support Florida First Capital provides to small businesses in both urban and rural communities across Florida. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about Florida First Capital

Ep. 312 | Driving Economic Growth in Okeechobee County with Alex Tijerina

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Alex Tijerina, Director of Existing Industry at the Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation, during the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.
Alex shares her journey to her current role and her deep-rooted connection to the Okeechobee community. The discussion highlights key economic development initiatives, including the growth of four private industrial parks, ongoing efforts at the county airport’s Commerce Park, and the Business Retention and Expansion (BRNE) program, which prioritizes workforce development.
Alex also emphasizes the importance of local partnerships in overcoming workforce challenges and details the success of Career Technical Education (CTE) programs in preparing students for in-demand jobs. The episode wraps up with a look at upcoming projects and events aimed at fostering economic growth and retaining local talent in Okeechobee County. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about the Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation

Ep. 311 | Unlocking Rural Florida’s Economic Potential with Columbia County’s David Kraus

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. He sits down with David Kraus, County Manager of Columbia County, to discuss the county’s unique characteristics and economic potential.
David shares his journey from consultant to county manager and highlights Columbia County’s strategic location at the crossroads of Interstates 75 and 10, its strong agricultural roots, and its vision for attracting high-quality industries while preserving its rural charm. The conversation explores the critical role of infrastructure development in economic growth, with a focus on key projects like the North Florida Mega Industrial Park and emerging solar facilities.
David also emphasizes Columbia County’s excellent schools, abundant recreational opportunities, and strong partnerships that make it an ideal location for both businesses and residents. This episode provides valuable insights into how rural communities can leverage their strengths to drive sustainable economic development. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about Columbia County

Ep. 310 | Strengthening Rural Economies Through Retail with Lacy Beasley

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred interviews Lacy Beasley, President of Retail Strategies, at the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit. The discussion explores how Retail Strategies helps rural communities attract national retail brands while also supporting local small businesses.
Lacy shares her journey from working at a Chamber of Commerce to leading a firm that has consulted with over 800 communities across 41 states. She explains the key role that data, real estate, and strategic planning play in economic development. The conversation also highlights the differences between national retail and local downtown businesses, as well as Retail Strategies’ innovative small business support program.
Lacy emphasizes the importance of investing in retail to create vibrant, attractive communities that draw in residents, visitors, and future generations—encouraging young people to return to their hometowns and contribute to local economic growth. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about Retail Strategies

Ep. 309 | Powering Economic Growth in Florida with FPL’s Wes Hudgens

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. He sits down with Wes Hudgens, Lead Project Manager at Florida Power & Light’s (FPL) Office of Economic Development, to discuss FPL’s role in driving business growth across the state.
Wes shares insights into FPL’s innovative initiatives, including the 35 Mules incubator program and the WonderFL campaign, which aims to reshape perceptions of Florida by highlighting career opportunities and quality of life. The conversation also covers FPL’s commitment to supporting small businesses through valuable resources, partnerships with organizations like the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and strategic programs designed to fuel economic development in Florida’s rural and urban communities. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about FPL’s Economic Development Programs

Ep. 308 | Strategic Growth & Infrastructure in Rural Florida with MWB’s Erica Sittler

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. He is joined by Erica Sittler, Account Director at MWB, a full-service marketing firm specializing in tourism, economic development, and healthcare.
Erica shares her journey in the marketing industry and her passion for supporting economic development in Florida’s rural communities. The discussion explores the opportunities and challenges these areas face, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, infrastructure development, and long-term vision. Erica also highlights the growing appeal of small-town living—what she calls a "rural renaissance"—and how marketing plays a crucial role in attracting both talent and businesses to these communities. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about MWB

Ep. 307 | Strengthening Florida’s Workforce with DC Jaeger Corporation

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Rod Jaeger, owner and operator of DC Jaeger Corporation, at the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. The discussion focuses on the vital role of workforce education and training in Florida’s rural communities.
Rod shares the history of DC Jaeger Corporation, founded by his father in 1957, and its evolution from serving the space industry to becoming a leader in vocational and workforce training. The company provides technical training equipment and curriculum to schools and colleges across Florida, supporting the resurgence of skilled trades education in high schools.
The conversation also highlights Florida’s commitment to workforce development by 2030, the innovative training programs at Indian River State College, and how Rod’s family business continues to grow with the involvement of his two sons. The episode concludes with insights on how workforce education is shaping Florida’s future and how businesses can connect with DC Jaeger Corporation. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about DC Jaeger Corporation

Ep. 306 | Driving Economic Growth in West Palm Beach with Rabi Sami

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Rabi Sami, Economic Development Specialist for the City of West Palm Beach, at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum in Orlando. Rabi shares his journey from real estate and workforce management to his current role in fostering business growth and economic development in one of Florida’s most dynamic cities.
The conversation highlights key development projects, including the Nora Development and the thriving business community in Northwood Village. Rabi also details the grants, incentives, and resources available to small business owners through the city’s economic development office. He emphasizes the essential role small businesses play in West Palm Beach’s economy and encourages entrepreneurs to take advantage of local support programs.
The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to visit West Palm Beach, experience its vibrant food scene, explore its parks, and attend its many local events. This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum hosted at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about the City of West Palm Beach Economic Development

Ep. 305 | Education, Workforce Development, and Leadership with St. Thomas University’s David A. Armstrong, J.D.

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with David A. Armstrong, J.D., President of St. Thomas University, at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum in Orlando. David shares his inspiring journey from a small business family to leading a university, emphasizing the critical role of education in workforce development and ethical leadership.
The conversation highlights St. Thomas University’s commitment to experiential learning, requiring students to complete internships, co-ops, or apprenticeships before graduation. David also discusses the university’s economic impact, its impressive graduate employment outcomes, and how higher education plays a key role in regional economic growth. This episode provides valuable insights into how businesses and educational institutions can collaborate to shape the future workforce. This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum hosted at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Learn more about St. Thomas University