Best TechBridge Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 342 | Closing the Talent Gap: Zera Techbridge Connects Veterans to High-Tech Careers 19:43

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2h ago19:43

19:43

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the spotlight is on bridging the national talent gap in high-tech careers through veteran entrepreneurship. Recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, this episode features an in-depth conversation with Devon Stevenson, CEO and co-founder of Zera T…

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Ep. 341 | The “Tax Trifecta”: Carl Cyrius Builds a Global Financial Firm for Veterans 11:27

2h ago11:27

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, we return to the dynamic atmosphere of the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. This episode features Carl Cyrius, a veteran and the founder and CEO of The Oasis Firm—a company offering a comprehensive and client-focused approach to financial services through wha…

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Ep. 340 | Training the Tower: Bruce Bevins Builds the Future of Air Traffic Control with ATCFO 12:15

1d ago12:15

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the spotlight is on innovation and veteran entrepreneurship at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. Tom interviews Navy veteran Bruce Bevins, founder and CEO of ATCFO (Air Traffic Control Future Operators), the first accredited air traffic control training pr…

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Ep. 339 | From Marine to Master Barber: Nicholas Romero’s Vision for the Industry 17:07

2h ago17:07

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the spotlight returns to the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches—a premier event celebrating veteran entrepreneurship. Tom sits down with Marine Corps veteran Nicholas Romero, the owner of Thank My Barber Shop in Fort Myers, Florida. Nicholas shares his journey from cutti…

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Ep. 338 | Printing the Future: Drew Williams on 3D Construction Innovation with Wall-R 13:55

2h ago13:55

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the conversation centers on innovation in the construction industry and the entrepreneurial journey of Air Force veteran Drew Williams, founder and CEO of Wall-R. Recorded at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitch in Tampa, Drew shares how he transitioned from military ser…

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Ep. 337 | From Service to Self-Care: Samuel Medina’s Mission with Down to Earth Massage Therapy 9:12

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Samuel Medina, an Air Force veteran and the founder of Down to Earth Massage Therapy. Recorded at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitch in Tampa, the conversation explores Samuel’s transition from military service to entrepreneurship. He shares how a variety of post…

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Ep. 336 | From Air Force to Activator: How Casa Bruni Brings Tampa Spaces to Life 15:08

2h ago15:08

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred continues his coverage from the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, showcasing the innovative spirit of veteran entrepreneurs. Tom sits down with Air Force veteran Bruni Oquendo, founder of Casa Bruni—an events lifestyle activation and programming company that’s trans…

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Ep. 335 | From Ranger to Regeneration: How Blueprint Hemp is Redefining Florida Agriculture 14:24

2h ago14:24

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred takes us to the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa to spotlight the entrepreneurial journey of Army veteran Nate Rowe, founder of Blueprint Hemp. Nate shares how his service in the 75th Ranger Regiment shaped his path to launching a mission-driven hemp business focuse…

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Ep. 334 | Healing Hearts & Paws: The Nonprofit Turning Pet Loss into Purpose 13:41

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In this heartfelt episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts live from the Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, spotlighting a unique nonprofit born from love, loss, and service. Tom sits down with Laura Tracey, founder and director of the Everyday Feathers Foundation, and her husband, Chris Clemons, a veteran an…

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Ep. 333 | From the Marines to Media: How “Failure is Knowledge” Fuels Podcasting Success 13:35

2h ago13:35

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred highlights veteran entrepreneurship live from the Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. Tom speaks with Terrell Humphrey, a Marine veteran and the dynamic founder and CEO of FIK Advertising—short for "Failure is Knowledge." Terrell shares his powerful journey from working at…

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Ep. 332 | Cybersecurity for Small Biz: A Veteran’s Mission to Protect Main Street 17:03

2h ago17:03

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred comes to you live from the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitch in Tampa, where he highlights the role of veterans in entrepreneurship. Tom sits down with Darwin Rivera, an Air Force veteran and founder of Guayama Group, a cybersecurity consulting firm dedicated to protecting smal…

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Ep. 331 | Cybersecurity First: John Gibson on Protecting Small Biz in the Age of AI 17:44

23d ago17:44

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred continues his on-site coverage of the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitch event in Tampa, where veteran entrepreneurship takes center stage. Tom interviews Navy veteran John Gibson, founder of Just Right IT, a Tampa-based company providing specialized cybersecurity services. John…

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Ep. 330 | Rewriting the Narrative: Petra Wilkes Blends Therapy, Storytelling, and Entrepreneurship 14:33

25d ago14:33

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Petra Wilkes, founder of Sage and Lore Counseling Services, during the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. A Navy veteran and former air traffic controller, Petra shares how her personal journey through mental health challenges led her to create a counseli…

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Ep. 329 | Crafting Success: Jake Schmidt Turns Military Precision into Heirloom Woodworking 15:17

21d ago15:17

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred reports from the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, spotlighting veteran entrepreneurs who are transforming their service experience into business success. Tom interviews Navy veteran Jake Schmidt, founder of Tekton Trades, a custom woodworking business known for pro…

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Ep. 328 | Mindset Over Mission: Paris Cheffer Chief Experience Officer at JULO Strategy Global on Training Veterans to Lead Like CEOs 12:52

1M ago12:52

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred continues coverage of the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches—an event designed to support and spotlight veteran entrepreneurs across Florida. The expo brings together a wide array of business resources, mentorship opportunities, and startup showcases, all aimed at helping vete…

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Ep. 327 | Securing the Future: How Steadfast AI is Tackling Risk in the Age of AI 18:00

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred brings listeners inside the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa a gathering of veteran entrepreneurs focused on innovation, networking, and resource sharing. One of the expo’s standout moments is the Battle of the Pitches, where veteran-led startups showcase their busi…

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Ep. 326 | Tech-Driven Success: Veteran Michael Carroll Wins Big with IT Innovation 11:21

1M ago11:21

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred reports from the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa, shining a spotlight on veteran entrepreneurship and the high-energy pitch competition that showcases innovative veteran-led businesses. Featured in this episode is Michael Carroll, an Air Force veteran and CEO of Te…

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Ep. 325 | From Service to Startup: Maxine Reyes Empowers Veterans Through Entrepreneurship 13:16

1M ago13:16

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Maxine Reyes, veteran entrepreneur and founder of With Courage and Grace. Recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches, this conversation explores Maxine’s inspiring transition from 22 years of military service in the Air Force and Army to launching a…

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Ep. 324 | SBA Q3 Insights: Loan Growth, Rural Expansion & Disaster Readiness 22:23

2M ago22:23

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In this quarterly SBA update, host Tom Kindred is joined by Jonel Hein, District Director for the SBA North District, and Althea Harris, Deputy District Director for the South District, to discuss the Small Business Administration's latest strategic efforts. From the North District's ambitious billion-dollar goal in lending and contracting to the S…

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Ep. 323 | From Stage to Strategy: Hillary Blair on Powerful Communication for Entrepreneurs 24:06

2M ago24:06

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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 entrepre…

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Ep. 322 | Unleashing Your Unfair Advantage with Kevin Crowder of Business Flare 23:14

3M ago23:14

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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…

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Ep. 321 | Your Gateway to Growth: Previewing the 2025 Small Business Success Summit 19:11

3M ago19:11

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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…

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Ep. 320 | Driving Innovation Across Florida: Inside the Florida High Tech Corridor 13:58

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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. Co…

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Ep. 319 | From PR Pro to Chief Gardener: Caitlin Gardner on Strategic Storytelling & Brand Growth 15:55

5M ago15:55

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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…

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Ep. 318 | From Kitchen to Cold Treats: How Guanabana is Redefining Popsicles in Florida 14:30

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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 th…

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Ep. 317 | SBA's Billion-Dollar Mission: A 2025 Vision for Florida's Small Business Growth 17:58

5M ago17:58

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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 focu…

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Ep. 316 | Marketing Rural Florida for Economic Growth with 365 Degree Total Marketing 18:16

6M ago18:16

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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 econ…

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Ep. 315 | From New Jersey to Florida: Comarco Products’ Journey with Tom Hoversen 15:30

6M ago15:30

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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. T…

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Ep. 314 | Powering Rural Florida’s Future with Optimus Energy Solutions’ Ben Pauluhn 17:13

6M ago17:13

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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 stati…

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Ep. 313 | Financing Small Business Growth with Florida First Capital’s Mark Kruse 19:05

6M ago19:05

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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 sma…

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Ep. 312 | Driving Economic Growth in Okeechobee County with Alex Tijerina 14:39

6M ago14:39

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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 connect…

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Ep. 311 | Unlocking Rural Florida’s Economic Potential with Columbia County’s David Kraus 13:40

6M ago13:40

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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 …

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Ep. 310 | Strengthening Rural Economies Through Retail with Lacy Beasley 26:49

6M ago26:49

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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…

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Ep. 309 | Powering Economic Growth in Florida with FPL’s Wes Hudgens 12:39

6M ago12:39

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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 s…

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Ep. 308 | Strategic Growth & Infrastructure in Rural Florida with MWB’s Erica Sittler 12:29

6M ago12:29

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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 t…

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Ep. 307 | Strengthening Florida’s Workforce with DC Jaeger Corporation 11:00

7M ago11:00

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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 s…

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Ep. 306 | Driving Economic Growth in West Palm Beach with Rabi Sami 11:55

7M ago11:55

11:55

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 …

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Ep. 305 | Education, Workforce Development, and Leadership with St. Thomas University’s David A. Armstrong, J.D. 16:02

7M ago16:02

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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 developme…

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Ep. 304 | Revolutionizing Workforce Training with Bisk’s Dr. Jennifer B. King 20:47

7M ago20:47

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Dr. Jennifer B. King, Senior Vice President of Workforce and Education at Bisk, during the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum. The conversation explores the rapidly evolving EdTech space and how Bisk is transforming corporate training and education through innovative onlin…

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Ep. 303 | The Future of Manufacturing in Florida with FloridaMakes 15:55

7M ago15:55

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred, Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, speaks with Kevin Carr, CEO of FloridaMakes, at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum. The discussion centers on the rapid growth and evolving landscape of Florida’s manufacturing sector. Kevin…

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Ep. 302 | Tackling Florida’s Affordable Housing Crisis 14:52

7M ago14:52

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred takes a deep dive into Florida’s affordable housing crisis with Heather Kasten, President and CEO of the Greater Sarasota Chamber, and Ashon Nesbitt, CEO of the Florida Housing Coalition. Recorded at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum, this discussion sheds light on the growing bu…

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Ep. 301 | The Impact of AI on Education and Small Business 18:35

7M ago18:35

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred explores the transformative role of artificial intelligence in higher education and small business at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum in Orlando. He is joined by Liane Sippin, Program Director at Florida International University (FIU), and Dr. Bruce Fraser, Director of the Inst…

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Ep. 300 | Bridging Education and Industry with Dr. Timothy Moore of IRSC 12:15

7M ago12:15

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Dr. Timothy Moore, President of Indian River State College (IRSC), at the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum in Orlando. Dr. Moore shares how IRSC plays a crucial role in supporting the local business community through innovative educational programs and strategic indus…

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Ep. 299 | Building a Safer Workplace with the Florida Chamber Safety Council 22:27

7M ago22:27

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Jason Mozo, Senior Vice President, and Konrad Sikora, Senior Safety Manager of the Florida Chamber Safety Council. Together, they discuss the Council’s mission to make Florida the safest, healthiest, and most sustainable state in America by 2030. Jason and Konrad share their persona…

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Ep. 298 | The Power of Tourism with Visit Orlando’s Cassandra Matej 10:01

8M ago10:01

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum in Orlando, where he sits down with Cassandra Matej, President and CEO of Visit Orlando. Cassandra shares her journey in the hospitality industry and how Visit Orlando plays a vital role in driving economic growth across Central F…

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Ep. 297 | Bridging Education and Workforce with Xello 19:05

8M ago19:05

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In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Ralph Aiello, Partnership Manager for Work-Based Learning at Xello, during the 2024 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum. Xello is an innovative online platform designed to support Florida's 67 school districts in building a seamless cradle-to-career pipeline. Ralph shares how…

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Ep. 296 | Master SBA Financing with Rapid Business Plans: Insights from Ross McClellan 13:51

8M ago13:51

13:51

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Ross McClellan, Director of Business Development at Rapid Business Plans, during the 2024 Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (FLAGGL) Conference at the JW Marriott in Orlando. Ross shares the pivotal role business plans play in securing SBA loans and funding for…

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Ep. 295 | Social Media Strategies for Small Biz Owners with Chelsea Krost 26:40

8M ago26:40

26:40

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred welcomes Chelsea Krost, founder of Chelsea Productions, during the 2024 Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (FLAGGL) Conference. Chelsea shares her inspiring journey from starting in radio at just 16 years old to becoming a leading digital media expert. The conversation dives d…

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Ep. 294 | How to Maximize Your Business with Fractional CFO Services at ONE10 14:45

8M ago14:45

14:45

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred welcomes Tim Roverts, who serves as Manager of Business Development & Integration at ONE10, during the 2024 Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (FLAGGL) Conference at the JW Marriott in Orlando. Tim shares his background and discusses the services provided by ONE10, which inclu…

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Ep. 293 | Exploring New SBA Programs and Capital Access with Randy Puckett and Sandro Murtas 19:28

8M ago19:28

19:28

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2024 annual FLAGGL conference in Orlando, focusing on small business capital access. Featuring guests Randy Puckett, Senior Financial and Loan Specialist in the Office of Financial Assistance at the U.S. Small Business Administration, and Sandro Murtas, Lead Export Finance M…