Small Biz Florida

Ep. 277 | Connecting Small Businesses with Major Contractors: Insights from Great Lakes Dredge and Dock's Moquita Quinan

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

Ep. 276 | Reducing Customer Friction: Insights from Customer Experience Expert David Avrin

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

Ep. 275 | Unlocking the Potential of CareerSource Florida: Insights from President & CEO Adrienne Johnston

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

Ep. 274 | How AI is Transforming Marketing: Insights and Ethical Tips for Small Businesses with Alexis Quintal

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

Ep. 273 | How the SBA is Revolutionizing Disaster Recovery & Supporting Small Businesses with Allen Thomas and Francisco Sánchez Jr.

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

Ep.272 | Exploring the National Entrepreneur Center: How NEC Supports Over 25,000 Entrepreneurs in Florida

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred takes listeners on a journey to the National Entrepreneur Center (NEC) in Orlando, a powerhouse of small business support. Tom sits down with NEC President Belinda Ortiz Kirkegard to discuss her inspiring background, the mission of the NEC, and the center's innovative approach to aiding over 25,000 entrepreneurs. From disaster recovery to the integration of cutting-edge technology, they explore how the NEC is shaping the future of small business in Florida. This conversation emphasizes the critical role of collaboration among various small business support organizations and positions the NEC as a central hub for entrepreneurial resources across the state.
 
This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. This episode was recorded at the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando, Florida
 
Episode Links:
Connect with the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando, FL
BizLinkOrange 
Connect with the Florida SBDC Network
Connect with Florida First Capital

Ep. 271 | Deep Dive into Leveraging the SBA the Right Way: Tools & Programs Every Small Business Should Know

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Jonel Hein, District Director for North Florida SBA, and Deputy District Director Jeffery "Jeff" Salzer to uncover the vital resources the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers to entrepreneurs. From navigating government contracting to accessing capital, they delve into how small businesses can leverage SBA networks and partnerships for success. Listen in as they discuss avoiding common pitfalls in loan applications, understanding different types of SBA loans, and the importance of online training tools. Whether you're just starting or looking to expand, this episode provides essential insights to help you thrive in the competitive business landscape.
 
This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. This episode was recorded at the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando, Florida 
 
Episode Links: 
Connect with the North Florida SBA District Office
Connect with the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando, FL 
Connect with the Florida SBDC Network
Connect with Florida First Capital

Ep. 270 | Secrets to Small Biz Success with Profit Mastery CEO Colin King

Join host Tom Kindred and guest Colin King, CEO of Profit Mastery, for a no-nonsense conversation about the financial tools and strategies every small business owner needs to thrive. In this episode, you'll learn:
Essential financial concepts: Understand the basics of income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow to make informed decisions for your business.
Financial ratios decoded: Discover how these simple calculations can reveal the hidden strengths and weaknesses of your business.
Break-even analysis: Find out how to determine your break-even point to set realistic sales goals and pricing strategies.
Real-world advice: Colin shares his experience as an entrepreneur and offers practical tips for managing your finances like a pro.
Whether you're a financial novice or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will help you take control of your financial future and achieve lasting success.

Ep. 269 | Building a More Inclusive Workforce: Allison Chase on the Able Trust's Mission for Floridians with Disabilities

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, Tom Kindred, welcomes Allison Chase, President and CEO of the Able Trust, a vital partner of the Florida SBDC network. They delve into the Able Trust's mission to advance career development for Floridians with disabilities through collaboration, investment, and partnerships.
 
Allison shares her journey into this vital work, emphasizing the importance of connecting businesses with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. With a focus on the High School High Tech program, the Able Trust is nurturing the next generation of skilled workers, bridging the gap between education and employment for students with disabilities.
 
As they discuss the challenges and opportunities in Florida's workforce, Allison highlights the Able Trust's role as a connector, fostering relationships between employers and potential employees. With innovative solutions and a commitment to inclusivity, the Able Trust is paving the way for a more diverse and prosperous future in Florida.
 
Tune in to learn more about the Able Trust's impactful programs and how you can get involved in supporting career development for individuals with disabilities across the Sunshine State.
 
This episode of Small Biz Florida was recorded at the 60th Annual Florida Economic Development Council Conference hosted at the Marriott Sawgrass Resort in Ponte Vedra Beach

Ep. 268 | BluDot: Transforming Economic Development with Technology - Featuring Jake Biggs & Matthew Moloney

 Join us as we venture into the realm of technology-driven economic development with Jake Biggs, Business Development Manager, and Matthew Moloney, Director of Marketing and Sales, both representing BluDot.
 
At the heart of BluDot's offerings is its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform, designed to streamline communication, data management, and project coordination for economic development organizations, cities, and counties. Through intuitive features such as business outreach, data analysis, survey capabilities, and project management tools, BluDot empowers communities to proactively engage with businesses and address their needs effectively.
 
Listeners gain valuable insights into BluDot's subscription model, pricing transparency, and commitment to providing tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients. With a focus on collaboration and knowledge sharing, BluDot's platform fosters a sense of community and empowers stakeholders to work together towards shared goals.
 
Don't miss this conversation with Jake Biggs and Matthew Moloney as they share the transformative potential of BluDot technology in driving economic development and supporting small business success in Florida and beyond.
 
This episode of Small Biz Florida was recorded at the 60th Annual Florida Economic Development Council Conference hosted at the Marriott Sawgrass Resort in Ponte Vedra Beach