Small Biz Florida

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

Ep. 267 | Beat the Silver Tsunami: Employee Ownership with Roy Messing & John Burgess

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, we delve into the world of employee ownership and the innovative methods available for transitioning businesses, featuring experts Roy Messing, Director of State Center Operations at Employee Ownership Expansion Network  and John Burgess, Principal at Jackson Lewis. With the looming "silver tsunami" of baby boomer business owners looking to exit, succession planning has become crucial. Roy and John shed light on Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), a compelling option for business owners seeking to maintain their legacy while engaging employees.
 
The conversation underscores the importance of raising awareness about employee ownership and provides insights into the process of initiating this transformative journey. Roy and John offer valuable resources and guidance, emphasizing the collaborative and supportive nature of the employee ownership community.
 
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. 266 | Building Florida's Future: A Conversation with Florida Makes' Ruth Buchanan

In this captivating episode, Tom Kindred sits down with Ruth Buchanan to explore the pivotal role of Florida Makes in shaping the future of Florida's manufacturing economy. With decades of experience in economic development and a passion for driving positive change, Ruth offers invaluable insights into the transformative impact of manufacturing on Florida's economic landscape.
 
Ruth traces her remarkable journey from the private sector to her current role as Business Development Director for Florida Makes, highlighting the diverse experiences and expertise that have shaped her career. With a background in economics and market research, Ruth brings a unique perspective to her role, combining strategic vision with hands-on experience to drive meaningful results.
From workforce development and training to cybersecurity and compliance, Florida Makes equips manufacturers with the tools and resources they need to succeed in an ever-evolving business environment. Ruth emphasizes the organization's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring that Florida's manufacturers remain at the forefront of technological advancements and industry best practices.
 
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. 265 | Glue Up Your Business: Tech-Powered Efficiency with David Zelaya

As Tom Kindred and David Zelaya delve into the intricacies of CRM platforms, they unveil the myriad benefits of leveraging technology to streamline business operations and enhance customer engagement. From automating manual processes to harnessing the power of AI-driven analytics, Glue Up emerges as a game-changer in the realm of CRM solutions.
 
Get a comprehensive overview of Glue Up's competitive advantage, which lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate disparate tools and automate essential business functions. From event management and membership processing to email campaigns and analytics, Glue Up offers a holistic solution tailored to the diverse needs of associations, chambers, nonprofits, and small businesses alike.
 
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. 264 | Level Up at the Summit: Unveiling the Secrets of Small Business Success with Bridget Lacoste

In this episiode, Tom Kindred and Bridget Lacoste, Events and Stakeholder Relationship Manager at Florida SBDC Network unveil the strategic vision behind the Small Business Success Summit, now in its third triumphant year. Bridget shares her remarkable journey, from her background in hospitality and event management to her pivotal role at the Florida SBDC Network, where she spearheads initiatives to support and uplift the small business community.
Join Tom Kindred and Bridget Lacoste as they shine a spotlight on the upcoming Small Business Success Summit, a cornerstone event for Florida's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode of Small Biz Florida is a must-listen, offering unparalleled insights and opportunities to unlock your business's full potential.
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. 263 | Digging Up Success: Environmental Solutions with SCS Engineers' Britney Odom

In this enlightening conversation, Tom Kindred and Britney Odom unveil the multifaceted landscape of environmental consulting and construction services offered by SCS Engineers. With over 17 years of experience in the environmental sector, Britney Odom provides invaluable insights into the due diligence process, emphasizing the importance of thorough assessments to mitigate potential risks for small business owners and developers.
Tom Kindred and Britney Odom delve into the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners, especially in rural communities, as they embark on property development ventures. Through real-world examples and practical advice, listeners learn how strategic partnerships with environmental engineering firms like SCS Engineers can streamline the development process and unlock hidden potential in contaminated properties.
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. 262 | Sunshine State's Career Goldmine: Unveiling Opportunities with Adrienne Johnston

Under the guidance of Tom Kindred, the Host of Small Biz Florida and Regional Director of the Florida Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, listeners are invited to explore the array of career pathways woven throughout the Sunshine State. Adrienne Johnston, CEO of Career Source Florida, brings her wealth of expertise to the table, shedding light on the myriad opportunities available to entrepreneurs and job seekers alike.
 
Tom Kindred and Adrienne Johnston uncover the spectrum of programs and resources offered by Career Source Florida. From pioneering apprenticeships tailored to emerging industries to innovative virtual services designed for the digital age. 
 
Listeners gain a profound understanding of the transformative impact Career Source Florida has on the lives of Floridians. Whether it's providing tailored training grants to small businesses or spearheading initiatives like the Hope Florida program, Adrienne Johnston and her team are dedicated to fostering a dynamic and inclusive workforce ecosystem.
 
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. 261 | Bridging the Digital Divide: How Comcast Connects Rural Florida with Michelle Oyola McGovern, Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Comcast

This episode of Small Biz Florida dives into Comcast's impactful role in bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth in rural Florida communities.
This episode of Small Biz Florida tackles the critical issue of rural internet access. Host Tom Kindred interviews Michelle Oyola McGovern, Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Comcast. Together, they explore the state and federal government's multi-billion dollar investment in broadband expansion and how Comcast is a key player in bringing reliable internet to underserved communities. The conversation highlights the importance of "beyond the build" initiatives, where Comcast collaborates with local partners to ensure affordability through programs like ACP and Internet Essentials. The episode emphasizes the transformative power of broadband access for rural economic development, attracting businesses, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating remote work opportunities.
 
Special Thanks to: 
Florida Rural Economic Development Summit
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld

Ep. 260 | Leveraging Technology for Rural Economic Growth with GIS Web Tech and Row Bertasi

Unveiling the power of data!  This episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Association (FREDA) Summit, explores how GIS Web Tech empowers rural economic development.
Host Tom Kindred sits down with Row Bertasi, co-founder and CEO of GIS Web Tech, for an insightful conversation on the importance of data in attracting businesses to rural communities. Mr. Bertasi details how GIS Web Tech's user-friendly software equips Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) with the tools needed to showcase their unique assets and propel rural economic growth.
 
 
Special Thanks to: 
Florida Rural Economic Development Summit
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld