Tallahassee Business Podcast

Ep. 137 - Unveiling Littles to Leaders with Brooke Brunner, Director of Early Childhood Programs, Leon County Schools

Did you know that 90% of brain development happens from ages 0 to 5? This means a child's brain is almost fully developed before they enter kindergarten. In Tallahassee, our kindergarten readiness rate is at an alarming 49%. This means over half of our children who are entering kindergarten are not adequately prepared to adapt to this new learning environment. This is where Littles to Leaders comes in. Littles to Leaders is an initiative by Leon County Schools to help establish parents as f...

Ep. 136 - Busting Myths about Financial Planning and Finding Your ”Why” Behind Your ”What”, William Green & Robbie Kinney, MillCreek Financial Consultants

According to Forbes in 2022, only 23% of Americans had a written financial plan, while 37% had done no financial planning at all. It is a common misconception that you need to have a lot of money or be a business owner to seek out financial planning services and this could not be further from the truth.  On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast we are joined by our 2023 Podcast Presenting Sponsor, MillCreek Financial Consultants. William Green and Robbie Kinney join us to ...

Ep. 135 - Ensuring a Solid Talent Pipeline for our Community and Experiencing Leadership Tallahassee with Dan McGrew, Workforce Program Development Senior Vice President, CareerSource Florida

On this episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by MillCreek Financial Consultants, Dan McGrew, Workforce Program Development Senior Vice President of CareerSource Florida and Leadership Tallahassee Chair joins us to elaborate on the benefits provided throughout the CareerSource network. CareerSource Florida offers an integrated talent support solution to help businesses find, develop, and keep talented employees. They also provide expertise, funding, and resources businesses ...

Ep. 134 - How Would YOU Advance TLH?

When the Tallahassee Chamber was established 100 years ago, we had a vision for our great city. Now, it's time for us to come together and envision where we go next. On this week's episode, sponsored by MillCreek Financial Consultants, we sit down with Terrie Ard, President and Partner of The Moore Agency and Chamber Chair to discuss how through this initiative, we are elevating residents’ voices by gathering feedback and addressing our community’s opportunities and challenges by answering a ...

Ep. 133 - Bringing Down the Wall Between Small Businesses and Access to Capital, Mark Kruse, Florida First Capital

With a constant flow of new businesses entering the market, it is important for small business owners to know their options in Tallahassee. Each day, the Tallahassee Chamber advances opportunities that encourage business expansion, retention, and recruitment while supporting business-friendly initiatives. Florida First Capital is licensed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) as Florida's Statewide Certified Development Company. Their mission, much like The Chamber's, is economic develo...

Ep. 132 - Business Advocacy: Collaboration is Key to Community Improvement, Rob Clarke, Shareholder, Ausley McMullen and Chamber Chair-Elect/Business Advocacy Committee Chair

The Tallahassee Chamber is dedicated to improving the quality of life for our community, but what does this look like? Our focus is creating a strong regional economy by following a pro-job agenda that will foster growth in the areas of talent supply and education; innovation and economic development; community prosperity; and overall business climate. Through the efforts of the Chamber’s Business Advocacy Committee, led by Rob Clarke, Chamber Board Chair-Elect and Ausley McMullen Shareholde...

Ep. 131 Family-Friendly Work Policies a Win for Businesses, Families, and the Future, Madeleine Thakur, Children’s Movement of Florida and Michelle Ubben, Sachs Media

Research shows that higher kindergarten readiness rates translate into better life and health outcomes for children and lower crime rates in our communities. They also keep Florida businesses and workplaces competitive. The Children's Movement of Florida's 'Bosses for Babies' initiative helps employers implement work policies beneficial to businesses and working parents. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by MillCreek Financial Consultants, Madeleine Thaku...

Ep. 130 - Florida A&M University ’Boldly Striking’ Through Academic Excellence and Innovation, Dr. Shawnta Friday-Stroud, Dean, School of Business and Industry

Tallahassee has a long-running list of assets and accomplishments, but there’s one that should make the whole community proud. Florida’s Capital City, as of last year, is home to the #1 Public HBCU in the country: Florida A&M University. U.S. News and World Reports awarded FAMU this top position as well as ranking them 103rd of all public universities, a 13-spot jump from the previous year.  In 2022, Florida A&M University launched a five-year strategic plan, ‘Boldly Striking’, with a goal ...

Ep. 129 - Being Mindful of Mental Health, Dr. Jay Reeve, Apalachee Center

May 1 marked the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Month – a topic often avoided because of the stigma brought on by society. The difficult truth is, nearly one in five Americans live with a mental health condition, according to the National Institute for Mental Health. On this special episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by MillCreek Financial Consultants, Dr. Jay Reeve, President/CEO of the Apalachee Center, joins us to normalize the conversation around mental health ...

Ep. 128 - Live Local Act: What it Means for Businesses, Marco Paredes, Stearns Weaver Miller

Ep. 127 - Equipping and Enriching our Local Young Professionals, Jason Hollister, Indoor Environmental Management, Access Tallahassee Chair

Since 2006, Access Tallahassee has provided opportunities for young professionals to connect and engage with others to help them grow personally and professionally. Access has attracted and retained hundreds of local leaders in the capital city through exposure to community movers, shakers, and unique social events. This year, the YP group is taking its programming in a new direction, with Tallahassee’s first-ever young professionals’ summit. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Busine...

Ep. 126: Teacher Turned Entrepreneur Provides an Alternative Approach to Wellness, Ashley Guy, Tallulah CBD Mushrooms THC

In an industry that is not often talked about, Tallulah CBD Mushrooms THC Owner, Ashley Guy is making noise throughout the capital city and beyond. You’ve seen the name and you’ve probably seen one of her six locations, but what’s the story behind Ashley's rapid success? On this week's episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by MillCreek Financial Consultants, we follow this former teacher's path to entrepreneurship and a booming business. Without a business background, Ashley...

Ep. 125 - Fighting Food Insecurity One Meal at a Time, Monique Ellsworth, CEO, Second Harvest of the Big Bend

As students and families gear up for spring break, the team from Second Harvest of the Big Bend is prepping for the Junior League of Tallahassee’s annual Mighty Meals event – distributing meal boxes for families over spring break that rely on school lunches. As a Feeding America local food bank serving 16 counties, Second Harvest is tackling hunger one meal at a time. Second Harvest of Big Bend's CEO, Monique Ellsworth, joins us on this week's episode of the Tallahassee Business podcast, pr...

Ep. 124 Ready for Takeoff: Updates and Announcements out of TLH, David Pollard, Director of Aviation

If you’ve flown through the Tallahassee International Airport lately, you’ve probably noticed a lot happening – updated TSA security scanners, renovations to the terminals, and even a new Dunkin’ Donuts opening soon. But the most recent update might be the most important to local air travelers. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by MillCreek Financial Consultants, TLH Airport Director of Aviation David Pollard joins us to share details about JetBlue’s new a...

Ep. 123 - ”Make Them Drink” - How One Local Business Owner is Encouraging Others to Actively Engage Through Community Black Business Expo, Vaughn Wilson, Mega Ace Media

In a study done by the House Committee on Small Business, Black business ownership declined more than 40% within the first two months of the pandemic- the largest decrease across any ethnic group. Even before the widespread impacts of COVID-19, Black businesses faced many financial hurdles due to racial wealth disparities. Federal funding and many grant programs became available; however, the majority of businesses didn't take advantage of these resources. This is what led Vaughn Wilson, a l...

Ep. 122 - Visit Tallahassee’s Big Plans for Community’s Bicentennial Anniversary, Kerri Post, Director of Tourism

In the midst of our celebration this year for the Chamber’s 100th Anniversary, we’re already looking ahead to another major milestone for the entire community. In 2024, Tallahassee-Leon County will celebrate its bicentennial. Visit Tallahassee, Leon County’s division of tourism has already started to put wheels in motion for the big year. Earlier this month the County Commission approved the formation of a bicentennial steering committee and task force to engage the community and begin plan...

Ep. 121 - Florida Ready to Work: Answering Florida Employers’ Demands, Tiffany Vause, Director of Strategic Initiatives

More than 80 percent of Florida business leaders, across industry sectors, surveyed by the Florida Chamber of Commerce “emphasized the importance of employability skills. These skills which include communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving are universally valuable work competencies that are essential to adapt to shifting demands within and between careers.” The State of Florida is listening to those employer concerns and invested in a free career readiness solution called Florid...

Ep. 120 - Without Business, There is No Community, Sammie Dixon, 2022 Chamber Board Chair

Over the past 12 months, we have accomplished a lot as a Chamber and as a community. Our team has engaged and worked alongside dynamic leaders on our Board of Directors, moving our Mission forward to drive a higher quality of life in our community. This week, we’ve had the opportunity to reflect on another great year and we’re joined by our Board Chair, Sammie Dixon for our final podcast episode of the year. Sammie shares some of his fondest moments as Chair and some of the successes we’ve ...

Ep. 119 - Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend Creating Big Futures for High School Students Through Career Mentorship, Molly Lord, Executive Director

The Tallahassee-Leon County region is continuing to face an ongoing workforce crisis with an extreme talent shortage. Over the past two years, the Chamber has worked to streamline the talent pipeline, encouraging educators and employers to work together and place qualified candidates in high-paying jobs. Through local partnerships, we’re working towards that goal, and thanks to the latest efforts of Big Brothers Big Sisters, we’re one step closer. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee B...

Ep. 118 Tallahassee Startup Week - Celebrating the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in the Capital City

Following a dream and starting a business is a brave task that not many take on. But it is the risk-takers and innovators introducing new technologies, products, and services that create jobs, and change the economic landscape for the future. Next week, our community will come together to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit in the capital city at Tallahassee Startup Week. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, Robert Blacklidge, Executi...

Tallahassee Chamber Candidate Podcast: Laurie Lawson Cox and Alex Stemle, Leon County School Board District 4

Contact Your Candidates Laurie Lawson Cox www.laurielawsoncox4schoolboard.com [email protected] Alex Stemle www.alexstemle.com [email protected]

Tallahassee Chamber Candidate Podcast: Paula DeBoles-Johnson and David O’Keefe, Leon County Commission District 5

Contact Your Candidates Paula DeBoles-Johnson www.imwithpaula.com [email protected] David O'Keefe www.davidforleon.com [email protected]

Tallahassee Chamber Candidate Podcast: Christian Caban and Hannah Crow, Leon County Commission District 2

Contact Your Candidates Christian Caban www.christiancaban.com [email protected] Hannah Crow www.votehannahcrow.com [email protected]

Tallahassee Chamber Candidate Podcast: Josh Johnson and Nick Maddox, Leon County Commission At Large Group 2

Contact Your Candidates Josh Johnson www.voteforjosh.org [email protected] Nick Maddox www.nickmaddox.com [email protected]

Tallahassee Chamber Candidate Podcast: John Dailey and Kristin Dozier, Tallahassee City Commission Seat 4/Mayor

Contact Your Candidates John Dailey www.daileyformayor.com [email protected] Kristin Dozier www.dozierformayor2022.com [email protected]

Ep. 117: Power in Capital. Strength in Equity. 30th Annual Big Bend MED Week - Darryl Jones, Office of Economic Vitality

For 30 years, Big Bend MED Week has celebrated the monumental impacts our small/minority businesses have had on our local economy and recognized business owners for their contributions and leadership. On October 17, 2022, we will kick off the beginning of the 30th Minority Enterprise Development Conference. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast sponsored by The Health Network, Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality’s MWSBE Deputy Director, Darryl Jones join...

Ep. 116 - Rethinking Construction to Solve the Affordable Housing Crisis, Kyndra Light, Precision Building & Renovating

Earlier this year, we hosted our annual Prosperity Summit, highlighting the local affordable housing crisis. With alarming statistics shared with no relief in sight, it was apparent that we were going to have to think outside the box and find innovative ways to solve this problem… And that is exactly what Kyndra Light was doing. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, Kyndra, Owner of Precision Building & Renovating shares how she and her...

Ep. 115 Florida by the Numbers: Metrics to Help Secure Our Future, Dave Sobush, CEcd, Florida Chamber Foundation

In January 2021, the Tallahassee Chamber launched The Community Scorecard as a data-driven approach to measure our progress in the Tallahassee-Leon County area. This monthly report focuses on twelve key factors that have demonstrated proof in driving regional economies and success in other communities including jobs, industry diversification, poverty and crime rates, kindergarten readiness, third-grade reading scores, and post-secondary attainment rate. On this episode of the Tallahassee Bu...

Ep. 114 - Election 2022: Shaping the Future in Tallahassee-Leon County, Mark Earley, Leon County Supervisor of Elections

“Voting is the most important expression of our collective wisdom.” 2022 is a big election year in the Capital City and there are many divisive reports about the voting process. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, Leon County Supervisor of Elections, Mark Earley joins us to address the misconceptions. Mark walks us through the voting process and explains why it’s important you participate in both the primary and general elections. Wit...

Ep. 113 - Ensuring Your Business is Red Cross Ready, Sharon Carraway and Tom Derzypolski, Red Cross Capital Area Chapter

June 1 marked the beginning of hurricane season. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predictions, we’re facing an “above-average” 2022 Atlantic hurricane season with 14 to 21 named storms, including three to six major hurricanes. Are you prepared? Is your business? On this special episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, sponsored by The Health Network, local business owner, Tom Derzypolski who serves as Chair of the Capital Area Red Cross joins us with E...

Ep. 112 - How the Labor Market Shift Has Led to New Employee Recruitment Strategies, Tammy Edwards, City of Tallahassee

They call it the "Great Resignation" or the "Big Quit". With statistics showing two jobs to every applicant, employers are having to get creative with employee recruitment and retention. When the City of Tallahassee reached out to the Tallahassee Chamber team about getting the word out about job openings, we knew our TalentHub platform would be the perfect tool to host a Virtual Hiring Event. On this week's episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, Tammy ...

Ep. 111 Local Roots and Relationships Lead to a World of Opportunity, Calvin Ford, Tremont Concrete Construction, Inc.

When we met Calvin Ford, Owner of Tremont Concrete Services (and many other ventures), he was a true testament to the fact that Tallahassee is open for business and there is a lot of opportunity in the Capital City. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network Sue sits down with the new friend of the Chamber as they discuss the amount of growth happening within the region and how small businesses like Tremont are expanding their footprint throu...

Ep. 110 TLH International Airport: The Premier Gateway to the Capital City and Big Bend Region, David Pollard, Airport Director

The Tallahassee International Airport has been a busy place lately. Last month, TLH released statistics showing the demand for air travel has significantly increased, nearing record-breaking numbers marked in 2019. Through the first quarter of 2022, passenger traffic at Tallahassee International Airport is up 93.9% compared to the first quarter of 2021. So, what does this mean for travelers? On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, we are ...

Ep. 110 TLH International Airport: The Premier Gateway to Northwest Florida and Big Bend Region, David Pollard, Airport Director

The Tallahassee International Airport has been a busy place lately. Last month, TLH released statistics showing the demand for air travel has significantly increased, nearing record-breaking numbers marked in 2019. Through the first quarter of 2022, passenger traffic at Tallahassee International Airport is up 93.9% compared to the first quarter of 2021. So, what does this mean for travelers? On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, we are ...

Ep. 109 Honoring the Past and Celebrating the Future of Tallahassee’s Southside, Christic Henry, Soul of Southside Festival

Tallahassee roots run deep – especially in the capital city’s Southside neighborhoods. Something that needs to be remembered and honored. This is why the Soul of Southside Festival was created back in 2021 and has already grown into a weeklong celebration with more than 12 events. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, community advocate Christic Henry joins us to talk about the rich and diverse history of Tallahassee’s Southside neighbor...

Ep. 108 Improving the Patient Experience and Boosting the Bottom Line - Dustin Rivest, The Health Network

You’ve heard the name at the beginning of every Tallahassee Business Podcast episode, but what exactly is The Health Network? Dustin Rivest, the Founder of THN joins us for a special sponsor highlight this week as he talks about the history of the tech company and where it’s headed next. Dustin and The Health Network team have worked closely with a number of local healthcare practices to change the patient experience while helping local businesses advertise on a unique platform. Learn more...

Ep. 107 - 2022 Legislative Session Recap with Herbie Thiele, Partner, Sachs Media

This year’s legislative session ended with the largest budget passed in state history of $112B with a surprisingly low number of bills filed. What is even more interesting is what passed (and what didn’t). On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, Sachs Media Partner, Herbie Thiele joins Sue to discuss some of the major items that landed on the Governor’s desk including COVID liability laws, hometown heroes program, gas tax and more. Tune in...

EP. 106 Launch Tally: Taking Tallahassee’s Tech Industry to the Next Level, Eddie Gonzalez-Loumiet, Ruvos

On March 23, the Tallahassee tech industry will finally have something many have been waiting for. Launch Tally is a hub for resources, opportunities and talent where tech folks can discover the best news, events, programs and jobs from across the community. Tech companies will now have a one-stop-shop to post jobs, share wins and connect with fellow tech peers. On this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, Launch Tally leader, Eddie Gonzalez-Lo...

Ep. 105 - Celebrating 40 Years of Leadership in the Capital City, Dionte Gavin, Leadership Tallahassee Class 38

It’s always a competition between Leadership Tallahassee classes as to who truly is the #BestClassEver. The LT experience is so much more than a leadership program and with the 40th anniversary upon us, this year’s LT class might truly be the best class ever. In this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, Leadership Tallahassee Class 38 member Dionte Gavin joins Sue to share his experience within the LT program and what potential applicants can l...

Ep. 104 CESC: Connecting Everyone with Second Chances - Rick Kearney & Samantha Vance, CESC, Inc.

CESC, Inc. is a local non-profit organization that not only provides emergency shelter and immediate services to those experiencing homelessness but programs to help individuals get back on their feet and lead a self-sufficient life. On this episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, CESC Executive Director, Samantha Vance, and the local businessman who brought the project to life, Rick Kearney join Sue to talk about the critical services they provide to c...

Ep. 103 Tally Job Hop: A New Direction for Local Talent Retention - Ebe Randeree, FSU’s College of Communication & Information

On February 2, 20 local college students will embark on a half-day to visit six area tech companies that are looking for interns and employees from our local universities. Unbeknownst to many students (and residents), Tallahassee is home to more than 60 tech-based companies and the industry is responsible for creating 13,000+ local jobs. In 2016, Access Tallahassee decided it was time to take students out of the campus bubble. In this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast prese...

CBD in the Capital City, Ashley Guy, Tallulah CBD + Juicebar

When Ashley Guy moved to Tallahassee from Seattle, she had a vision that no one else saw. She wanted to be the first one to bring CBD to the capital city and she did just that. Tallulah CBD + Juicebar opened in the Market District in September 2019, and it’s grown quicker than even Ashley could have expected. In this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, Ashley talks about how she’s embraced a new community, networked and cultivated a major foll...

Ep. 101 The Final Farewell - Jay Smith, Ajax Building Company/2021 Chamber Board Chair

It’s the final farewell. On the last episode of the year, it was fitting to have our 2021 Board Chair, Jay Smith join us on the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network. Even in some of the most uncertain times, Tallahassee’s private sector has shined. The Chamber Board along with the team have worked tirelessly over the past 12 months to support our member businesses through innovative programming and strategic partnerships within the community. We hope you’ll take a f...

Ep. 100 Advancing Diversity in Healthcare Through Community Partnerships - Alan Keesee, Capital Regional Medical Center

Chamber partner and community hospital, Capital Regional Medical Center has an exciting year ahead. Throughout their 40 years in Tallahassee, they have invested in students interested in the healthcare industry. Next year will be even bigger. In this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, CRMC CEO, Alan Keesee joins us to talk about new programs being launched and a major partnership with Florida A&M University. Capital Regional Medical Center a...

Ep. 99 How Florida Retailers are Preparing for Black Friday/Small Business Saturday - Scott Shalley, Florida Retail Federation

This year’s Black Friday and Small Business Saturday will look a little different. Sales began running weeks in advance, encouraging shoppers to make their purchases ahead of the big weekend. Scott Shalley, President/CEO of the Florida Retail Federation says his 3,000+ retailers have been preparing months in advance for the holiday madness. In this week’s episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast presented by The Health Network, Scott shares some insight into how his retailers are getting...

Ep. 98 - A Day of Love, Family and Community, Christic Henry, Kingdom First Realty

Christic Henry is not only a well-known real estate broker in the area, but she is a powerful and passionate advocate for the Tallahassee community and southside neighborhoods. Thanks to the leadership of Christic, Ron Sachs and community partners, the Friday after Thanksgiving is now known as Family Day. Tallahassee-Leon County is the first community in Florida to recognize Family Day, a holiday that celebrates the importance of family togetherness, support and love. On this day, you’re en...

Ep. 97 - Collaboration is Key to Business Success, Katrina Tuggerson, Capital City Chamber of Commerce

Every now and then, we are asked the question “What does a Chamber of Commerce do?” While every Chamber has a different mission statement, we all have one goal in mind: to support local businesses. When resources and funding became available for organizations struggling during the pandemic, it was clear to all three Chambers that the best way to support our members was to work together, bringing our strengths to the table and do whatever we could to help our business community survive. On t...

Ep. 96 Local Resources Helping to Prepare Entrepreneurs for Global Success, Keith Bowers, FAMU Small Business Development Center

The needs of a business are never universal and are continuously changing throughout every phase of the business life cycle. The Small Business Development Center at Florida A&M University (Florida SBDC) works with existing and startup small businesses to help them grow and compete in today’s global economy. Whether you’re looking to create a business plan, analyze your financials, or need help navigating an HR issue, the experts with the FAMU SBDC offer customized consulting at no cost to yo...

Ep. 95 - Global Disruptions Creating New Challenges for Local Businesses, Tracey Shrine, Full Press Apparel, Inc.

When you walk into a store, you’re starting to see more empty shelves, your online orders are taking weeks longer to be delivered, your options are limited. Every industry has been feeling the effects of what they’re calling a global “bottleneck recession” and Tracey Shrine, Owner of Full Press Apparel says it will be months before things are back to normal. On this episode of the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, Tracey talks about this new reality and how she’...

Ep. 94 Utilizing Your Social Media Presence to Boost Business, Erica Woods, State Policy Manager, Facebook

This week, we celebrate National Minority Business Development Week with the timely theme of “Reimagining Opportunity: Building Back Better, Together!” This week on the Tallahassee Business Podcast, presented by The Health Network, we’re joined by Erica Woods, State Policy Manager of Facebook.   This week was the perfect opportunity to have Erica share the various resources the social media platform provides for small businesses. “Small businesses really are the backbone of Facebook.” Eri...