Small Biz Florida

Ep. 323 | From Stage to Strategy: Hillary Blair on Powerful Communication for Entrepreneurs

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred welcomes Hillary Blair, CEO and Co-founder of Articulate Real and Clear, for a conversation recorded live at the 2025 Florida Economic Development Council Annual Conference in Charlotte Harbor. Hillary shares her unique journey from drama teacher to sought-after communication coach for entrepreneurs nationwide. What started with coaching women on pitch delivery has grown into a mission to help business leaders communicate with confidence and clarity. She introduces the idea of "fruitful friction"—productive tension that fuels innovation—and offers practical tools for navigating conversations before they become conflicts. Listeners will walk away with tips on managing awkward moments, using voice and body language effectively, and crafting impactful messages. This episode is a masterclass in how small business owners can connect more authentically and communicate their value with precision.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Economic Development Council Conference hosted at the Sun Seeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
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Articulate Real and Clear

Ep. 322 | Unleashing Your Unfair Advantage with Kevin Crowder of Business Flare

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Kevin Crowder, founder of Business Flare, an economic and market advisory firm dedicated to helping communities and small businesses stand out. Recorded live at the 2025 Florida Economic Development Council Annual Conference in Charlotte Harbor, Kevin shares his journey from West Texas to Miami and the creation of Business Flare. Central to his philosophy is the idea of discovering and leveraging an "unfair advantage"—a unique quality that gives a business or community an edge. Kevin explains how his team works with cities and entrepreneurs to identify these strengths, with powerful examples like a historic recording studio revitalizing economic development in North Miami. He also discusses his book, Unleash Your Unfair Advantage, which guides readers in telling their story, building memorable customer experiences, and driving repeat business. This episode is a must-listen for business owners looking to define what sets them apart.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Economic Development Council Conference hosted at the Sun Seeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Business Flare

Ep. 321 | Your Gateway to Growth: Previewing the 2025 Small Business Success Summit

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred spotlights the podcast’s role as a key resource for Florida’s small business community, proudly sponsored by Florida First Capital. Recorded live at the 2025 Florida Economic Development Council Conference at the Sun Seeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor, Tom speaks with Bridget LaCoste, Events and Stakeholder Relationships Manager for the Florida SBDC Network. Bridget shares her journey into event planning and her current role in organizing impactful programs for entrepreneurs. The conversation centers on the highly anticipated 2025 Small Business Success Summit, taking place August 18–19 in Tampa. Bridget outlines the agenda—featuring a reverse trade show, dynamic keynote speakers, informative breakout sessions, and valuable networking opportunities. She highlights how the summit helps business owners step away from daily operations to gain fresh insight, make powerful connections, and tap into government contracting pathways. Listeners are encouraged to register and become part of the Small Biz Florida community.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Economic Development Council Conference hosted at the Sun Seeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
 
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Florida SBDC Network – Small Business Success Summit

Ep. 320 | Driving Innovation Across Florida: Inside the Florida High Tech Corridor

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred introduces the podcast’s continued mission to support and spotlight small business economic development across the Sunshine State. He’s joined by Paul, CEO of the Florida High Tech Corridor, who shares his journey from Navy veteran to leading one of Florida’s most dynamic innovation engines. Covering 23 counties and anchored by major research institutions like UCF, USF, and UF, the Corridor builds capacity in high tech by helping small businesses access critical resources, navigate federal funding opportunities, and collaborate with academic and private partners. Paul also emphasizes the power of in-person engagement at events like the Early Stage Venture Conference at UCF—key opportunities where capital meets innovation.This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Economic Development Council Conference hosted at the Sun Seeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:Florida High Tech Corridor

Ep. 319 | From PR Pro to Chief Gardener: Caitlin Gardner on Strategic Storytelling & Brand Growth

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Caitlin Gardner, founder and Chief Gardener of Blooming Communications, during Small Business Day at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee. With a rich background spanning two decades in corporate public relations, Caitlin shares her transition into entrepreneurship and the creation of her communications agency. She dives into the critical role storytelling plays in brand-building, how small business owners can manage both personal and professional reputations, and why launching a minimal viable product is key. Caitlin also unpacks the power of micro-influencers, social media strategies, and the evolving marketing landscape. It’s an insightful conversation packed with practical advice for entrepreneurs ready to grow their brand authentically and strategically.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida State Capitol hosted at the Capitol Courtyard in Tallahassee. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:https://www.bloomingcommunications.com

Ep. 318 | From Kitchen to Cold Treats: How Guanabana is Redefining Popsicles in Florida

In this flavorful episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Oliver Mosqueda, founder and owner of Guanabana, a Jacksonville-based popsicle business turning heads and cooling down customers with bold, unique flavors. Recorded live from the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee during Small Business Days at the Capitol hosted by the Florida Small Business Development Center Network, Oliver shares his inspiring transition from working in restaurants to launching a family-run frozen treat brand. He opens up about the entrepreneurial challenges he faced, the keys to standing out in a crowded market, and how the Small Business Administration (SBA) helped him bring his vision to life. This episode offers practical insights for food-focused founders and anyone dreaming of starting their own venture.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida State Capitol hosted at the Capitol Courtyard in Tallahassee. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:https://guanabanajax.com

Ep. 317 | SBA's Billion-Dollar Mission: A 2025 Vision for Florida's Small Business Growth

In this kickoff episode of the 2025 season of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred is joined by longtime SBA leader Jonel Hein, District Director for the North Florida SBA Office. Recorded live at the Florida State Capitol during Small Business Day, Jonel shares her 34-year journey with the Small Business Administration and the agency's renewed focus on manufacturing under new leadership. The conversation dives deep into SBA's core offerings—capital, contracting, consulting, and crisis support—and what small business owners need to know to become “lender-ready” in today’s market. Jonel also highlights the impressive progress in Florida’s manufacturing sector and the North Florida district’s push to surpass $1 billion in loan and contracting volume in 2025. This is essential for any entrepreneur ready to grow, scale, or access the right funding resources.
This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida State Capitol hosted at the Capitol Courtyard in Tallahassee. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.
Connect with Our Guest:https://www.sba.gov/northflorida

Ep. 316 | Marketing Rural Florida for Economic Growth with 365 Degree Total Marketing

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 Linda Mosley, Founder and President of 365 Degree Total Marketing, and Brian Schachter, Regional Sales Executive, to discuss the role of marketing in driving economic development in Florida’s rural communities.
Linda shares her background in psychology and marketing, including her work with Texas Instruments before founding 365 Degree Total Marketing in 1986. Brian talks about his journey from New Jersey to Florida, his experience in hospitality and tourism, and his current focus on digital marketing and advertising.
The conversation highlights the importance of well-optimized websites for economic development organizations (EDOs), the power of search engine optimization (SEO) in attracting businesses, and how rural communities can leverage their unique assets to foster growth. Linda and Brian also explore the untapped potential of rural Florida and the opportunities available for small businesses looking to establish themselves in the region. 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 Guests:Learn more about 365 Degree Total Marketing

Ep. 315 | From New Jersey to Florida: Comarco Products’ Journey with Tom Hoversen

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred interviews Tom Hoversen, Founder and Owner of Comarco Products, a food manufacturing and distribution company. Tom shares the story of launching Comarco Products in 1978 and the strategic decision to relocate operations from New Jersey to Palatka, Florida in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The discussion highlights the challenges of doing business in New Jersey and the advantages of moving to rural Florida, including the strong support from local government and economic development authorities. Tom also talks about the company’s evolution, the role of his son as a business partner, and the opportunities that Florida offers to manufacturers looking to grow and thrive. 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 Comarco Products

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