Business Scale Insights
By Kimberly Bonner
Business Scale InsightsNov 20, 2017
Thank you from Kim Bonner
Glen Benjamin: Creating Resilient Organizations
Business Scale Insights continues our September, 2020 series on RESILIENCE with Glen Benjamin. Glen is an expert with over 40 years experience helping organzations, large and small, become more resilient, better and more optimal functioning.
Glen is a long-term South Florida resident who has worked in the Technology industry for nearly 40 years in a variety of Sales and Partner/Channel roles for organizations such as HP, Citrix, AT&T, Sprint/Nextel, CenturyLink and is currently a Client Executive for a South Florida-based IT Services Provider, LAN Infotech. Glen has a diverse background in Technology with specializations in Cybersecurity, Edge Devices, Cloud, Connectivity, Business Continuity, Social Media and Mobility-IoT to successfully deliver End-to-End Solutions for his clients.
He has been a member of TechLauderdale and the South Florida Technology (SFTA) as well as its predecessor, the South Florida Telecom Forum (SFTF) for about 20 years and for the past 4 years has been a Board Member of TechLauderdale along with our keynote event that is held annually, ITPalooza. Glen has volunteered his time for a variety of local charities such as the South Florida Institute on Aging (SoFIA), The Superhero Leadership Academy, The Dan Marino Foundation, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Alzheimer’s Association, Multiple Sclerosis Society amongst other organizations.
In my personal time, Glen enjoys spending time with his Granddaughter and family and being a fanatic for the Miami Dolphins.
Feel free to reach out and connect with Glen at:
Email: gbenjamin@laninfotech.com
Telephone: 954-974-6262
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenbenjamin/
Blog: http://mobilitycloud.me
Twitter and Skype: @glenbenjamin
Dr. Thomas Gordon: Creating Resilient Leaders Part 2
Business Scale Insights has dedicated the month of September to covering the topic of RESILIENCE. If ever our community, stakeholders, leaders needed resilience, it is NOW. This podcast series is a MUST for anyone attempting to live and thrive in 2020. If there is any podcast series that is required listening during these troubled times, it is THIS series.
Joining us for another episode to discuss creating resilient leaders is Dr. Thomas Gordon. Tom is the Founder and Partner at TAGA Consulting. http://www.tagaconsulting.com/
Dr. Gordon provides strategic counsel to Fortune 500 enterprises and executives globally. He assists clients to anticipate and respond decisively to complex challenges, design high performance goals, develop the accountabilities to achieve them, and establish the systems to track and reinforce their progress. He draws upon systems thinking, communications, and human dynamics expertise to deliver distinctive leadership and organizational changesolutions.
A licensed psychologist, Tom graduated cum laude from Harvard University; earned his M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Michigan; and completed post-doctoral mass media and conflict resolution study at the University of Pennsylvania/Annenberg School of Communications.
Tom’s career spans 35+ years –as college professor, health and mental health systems manager, psychotherapist, leadership coach, and organizational advisor. His faculty affiliations include: The University of Michigan, Temple University, The University of Pennsylvania, Antioch College, Goddard College, Department of Psychiatry/Thomas Jefferson University, and Family Medicine/Medical University of South Carolina.
He is married, the father of 5 adult children, and grandfather to 7. Tom is an avid, lifelong learner: He travels globally for cross-cultural study and exchange, has coached adolescent basketball, speaks Spanish and Swahili, plays tenor saxophone, and mentors rising professionals.
Dr. Thomas Gordon: Creating Resilient Leaders Part 1
Business Scale Insights podcast is launching a series focused on one concept: RESILIENCE. If ever our community, stakeholders, leaders needed resilience, it is NOW. This podcast series is a MUST for anyone attempting to live and thrive in 2020. If there is any podcast series that is required listening during these troubled times, it is THIS series.
There is no one better to launch a podcast series on resilience that leadership coach and consultant, Tom Gordon. Tom is the Founder and Partner at TAGA Consulting. http://www.tagaconsulting.com/
Tom Gordon provides strategic counsel to Fortune 500 enterprises and executives globally. Tom assists clients to anticipate and respond decisively to complex challenges, design high performance goals, develop the accountabilities to achieve them, and establish the systems
to track and reinforce their progress. He draws upon systems thinking, communications, and human dynamics expertise to deliver distinctive leadership and organizational changesolutions.
A licensed psychologist, Tom graduated cum laude from Harvard University; earned his M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Michigan; and completed post-doctoral mass media and conflict resolution study at the University of Pennsylvania/Annenberg School of
Communications.
Tom’s career spans 35+ years –as college professor, health and mental health systems manager, psychotherapist, leadership coach, and organizational advisor. His faculty affiliations include: The University of Michigan, Temple University, The University of
Pennsylvania, Antioch College, Goddard College, Department of Psychiatry/Thomas Jefferson University, and Family Medicine/Medical University of South Carolina.
Tom is married, the father of 5 adult children, and grandfather to 7. Tom is an avid, lifelong learner: He travels globally for cross-cultural study and exchange, has coached adolescent basketball, speaks Spanish and Swahili, plays tenor saxophone, and mentors rising
professionals.
Kevin Cadette: Black Business Finance Matters
Business Scale Insights is continuing its focus on Black Businesses in light of National Black Business Month in the US. Our focus on this episode on the critical need for business financing in the black community to support entrepreneurial ecosystems. BSI reached out to Black Angels Miami Executive Director Kevin Cadette to get his insights on the need and how to successfully navigate business financing from VCs and Angels for black entrepreneurs.
Kevin Cadette is a startup industry veteran and technology leader. A founder of multiple startups and former technology executive with multiple Fortune 50 companies, his experience spans a wide spectrum from bootstrapped start-ups to global corporations.
Kevin has participating in and led over a half-dozen startup organizations including execution of an IPO. His technology experience includes E-commerce, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Privacy, Health Care, Computer Vision, Robotics, SaaS Development, Carbon Emission Management, Education, Private Equity, Incubators and Accelerators.
Kevin has been through 2 IPOs, once as Founder. Kevin started his career with a technology startup in Boston that went public. Since then he has always had a passion for compelling innovative businesses.
His education pedigree includes an MBA from The Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania along with Masters and Bachelors degrees in engineering from Cornell University.
Kevin is a native of London England, and lived in the US since his teenage years. He attended the United Nations International High School. Kevin is passionate about technology, entrepreneurship and diversity. He is a husband and father of two and soon to be THREE in January, 2021!
Check out Black Angels Miami
https://www.blackangels.miami/
Jerome Hutchinson: Black Businesses Matter
On this episode we continue the series discussing in this series the impact of COVID-19 on black lives and businesses in light of the social and economic unrest in the U.S. right now. We invited Jerome Hutchinson, Founder of the International Career and Business Alliance, to discuss why he believes black businesses matter in the U.S.
ICABA® ,International Career and Business Alliance, Inc., is a career and business development company assisting accomplished professionals and entrepreneurs achieve their career, business and lifestyle aspirations through valuable connections, information and opportunities.
He is also he Managing Partner of JHJ Marketing Group, LLC, a South Florida based marketing agency providing its clients with culturally relevant strategies executed through engagement marketing, experiential marketing, advertising, public relations and social media.
Hutchinson made history when he and his Father launched WYCS-TV, Kentucky’s first African American owned television station in his hometown of Louisville, Ky. WYCS-TV signed on-air March 6, 1996. As a serial entrepreneur, Hutchinson’s business interests have included broadcasting, information technology, retailing, and a marketing consultancy. Hutchinson has also enjoyed a successful career as a radio executive from 2002 through 2008 serving as General Sales Manager for three of the nation’s top five urban radio stations: Houston’sKMJQ--FM, Majic 102, Atlanta’s WVEE--FM, V--103, and Miami’s WEDR--FM, 99 JAMZ
Since arriving in South Florida in 2005, Hutchinson has been active in the community serving on the boards of 100 Black Men of Greater Ft. Lauderdale, the Broward Alliance, BB&T Bank Advisory Board (Broward County), Nova Southeastern University Ambassadors Board, the BrowardWorkforce Development Board, the Broward Presidents Community Council, Board Chairman, Broward Health Foundation, Florida Memorial University Business School Advisory Board and the Broward Alliance Governor’s Council. He is also an alumnus of the 2008-09 Leadership BrowardClass XXVII. He has received numerous awards for business and civic leadership; in 2015, the Collective Empowerment Group presented him the “Grand Champion” award and the TJ Reddick Bar Association presented him their “Business Leadership” award. In 2016, the Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce recognized Hutchinson as a “Man of Distinction”.
In 2017, Hutchinson received the Vanguard Award from the Mosaic Group. Hutchinson has also been featured in local and national media for his civic and business leadership. Hutchinson is single and has two (2) daughters, Kristin and Naomi. He is an active member of Potential Church and resides in Sunrise, Florida.
Carla Harris: Black Lives Matter @ Work
In this episode, we tackle the issue of ethic diversity in the workplace in light of racial tensions in the United States after the death of George Floyd and many others.
Business Scale Insights is dedicated to providing critical resources to businesses to help them serve their customers and communities better. In light of that, the podcast is committed to addressing this issue with a series on the topic. Much like this podcast has addressed the COVID-19 crisis with critical information to help businesses survive and thrive, we believe that diversity and inclusion in business and the workplace is truly a "life or death" issue for many in America. And without diversity in business and the workplace, MANY communities CANNOT BREATHE and CANNOT SURVIVE.
Carla Harris, CEO of The People Institute, will discuss diversity and inclusion in the workplace on this episode.
As the CEO & Managing Director of The People Institute, Carla's sole mission is to help companies and organizations serve clients better by focusing on the dynamics of workplace culture and cultivating synergy across teams. Formerly known as ImageWorks, Carla embarked on her journey in 1997 when she founded the company to assist C-level executives further enhance their professional image in order to be more effective in their roles. In 2018, ImageWorks became The People Institute in order to further align Carla's quest of leading the charge to shift organizational focus from the bottom line to the heart of the people who influence the organizational productivity. "People are the heartbeat of any organization. Focus on the people and the performance will come," Carla says, as her background in assisting both public and private-sector clients have continuously fueled her calling to help others show up as their absolute best.
Jane Doremus: Resources For Employees Downsized After COVID-19
On this episdoe of Business Scale Insights, I interview Jane Doremus Vice President, Consulting Services with Right Management.
Jane is a wealth of information and really gives gems of wisdom for professionals downsized due to COVID-19. She identifies resources and strategies that professionals need to rebound from the downturn or change industries.
This is DEFINITELY an episode that you need to share with those who you know have been downsized or who you anticipate being downsized in the near future.
Jane draws on over 25 years of experience in staffing and career coaching to Right Management. Jane is a seasoned expert who guides professional candidates on managing career development and growth. She has successfully transitioned candidates in a wide variety functions and diverse industries by providing creative, practical and inspirational leadership. Jane is an expert utilizing all aspects of social media and successfully guides candidates to create their own personal media brand through a variety of social media sites where appropriate. Jane has been an instrumental in creating and facilitating Social Media initiatives which include LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and personal websites.
Jane is also the co-creator of Right Management, Florida/Caribbean’s podcast Landed! Advice on Landing the Job of Your Dreams. She keeps abreast of new trends, tools and resources available via the constant changing social media arena.
For more information about Right Management, please visit the website: www.rightflorida.com
Dan Pace: Small Business Finance Opportunities During COVID-19
On this episode of Business Scale Insights, Dan Pace, COO of First Financial, shares his expertise with our audience on Financing Opportunities for Small Businesses During COVID-19. Dan has decades of experience in financing small businesses and expertise with SBA loan products.
Dan goes into detail about specific opportunities that small businesses now have under the CARES Act to have loan payments deferred for six months. And he also goes into detail about the various loan products offered by First Financial for small business owners.
First Financial provides flexible and creative financing for its customers and First Financial believes in establishing a positive relationship right from the beginning. They have a range of small business financing options designed to fit your needs.
To find out more about First Financial's loan products, please visit the website:
https://ffcash.net/sba-express-loan/
Danielle St. Luce: What Small Business Owners Need to Know about Lenders During COVID-19
On today's episode, I interview Danielle St. Luce. Danielle works for BBIF Florida, a statewide Community Development Financial Institution, as their Regional Director in the South Florida market. Her focus is on financing and educating underbanked clients throughout the Miami metro area.
Danielle will talk about what underserved small business owners need to know about accessing capital loans during the pandemic. Sadly, many small businesses are being left behind during the pandemic and need to understand how to best financially navigate the crisis.
Danielle spent her college years in Togo, West Africa where she completed her baccalaureate before moving to the United States for university. After graduating from Cornell University with her bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Labor Relations, she returned to the South Florida area to work in the non-profit world. Before working in finance, she started in education and moved to the arts. She has continued working with small arts organizations in the Overtown area as a consultant specializing in educating small teams in operations and sales.
In work and in life, Danielle consistently seeks individuals and institutions working towards creating equity in an inequitable world. Both professionally and personally, she finds herself involved with working groups focused on a range issues from Opportunity Zones to facilitating dialogue among divergent groups.
LJ Wilson: Crisis Leadership Strategies for Small Businesses During COVID-19
On today's episode of Business Scale Insights, crisis communications expert LJ Wilson share her knowledge, experience and insight on how small businesses can effectively lead during the COVID-19 pandemic.
LJ has worked for over 15 years as a communications director and manager for various corporations and non-profits. She is the Founder and Principal of LJW Social Media & PR Strategies. During this podcast, she provides educates small business owners on crisis leadership strategies for small business owners.
If you are a small business owner and you do not have a crisis communications plan or strategy, reach out to LJ today. This could impact your reputation and brand for years to come!
Her website and Linked In bio are below:
LJ Wilson: Crisis Communications for Small Businesses During COVID-19
On today's episode of Business Scale Insights, crisis communications expert LJ Wilson share her knowledge, experience and insight on how small businesses can effectively communicate with employees, clients and the broader community during COVID-19. LJ has worked for over 15 years as a communications director and manager for various corporations and non-profits. She is the Founder and Principal of LJW Social Media & PR Strategies. During this podcast, she provides educates small business owners on exactly what crsisi communications entails and how to effectively execute a crisis communications plan.
If you are a small business owner and you do not have a crisis communications plan or strategy, reach out to LJ today. This could impact your reputation and brand for years to come!
Her website and Linked In bio are below:
https://ljw-social-media-pr.constantcontactsites.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lj-wilson-m-a-74282025/
April 29, 2020
No Small Business Left Behind Virtual Summit May 12, 2020
Dr. Khia Thomas: Helping young people and parents successfully apply to college and beyond
We conclude our Back to School series with an interview of Dr. Khia Thomas.
Dr. Khia Thomas (pronounced: ‘Kee-yah’) is a proud graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and the University of Michigan, where she earned a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology.
Thanks to her hard work, motivation, and persistence at Stanton College Preparatory School, in Jacksonville, Florida, she embarked on her college career with several academic scholarships under her belt. She graduated without having to pay a dime in college costs. She doubled down on a doctoral fellowship at the University of Michigan, which paid for virtually all costs associated with her Ph.D. program.
As a psychologist, Dr. Khia forged an area of research expertise in adolescent development and the transition to adulthood, and has presented at national conferences and published in academic journals and texts. She began her post-graduate career in mental health research, and soon found herself longing to return to higher education. In 2011, she accepted a full-time faculty position at Broward College, and has earned high praise as a gifted teacher, mentor, and student advocate.
Experience + ExpertiseDr. Khia is a self-professed psychology nerd and a cheerleader for student potential and possibilities. After fielding tons of questions on college and career (who better to ask than a professor?), she embarked upon mastering a new skillset: college admissions consulting. Currently, she is a candidate for certificate in Independent Educational Consulting through the University of California at Irvine.
A unique set of experiences shapes Dr. Khia’s expertise as an educational consultant. She has over 20+ years invested in the field of higher education. She clears up myths, misconceptions, and getting-into-college confusion with rock solid information. She walks her talk as a mentor who is there for students – personally and professionally – and truly derives satisfaction in helping students achieve their highest potential.
Her company, Admissionisms, provides the following services:
If you need individualized guidance, tailored advice, and hands-on support, that’s where we step in.
Pre-college counseling is essential in helping students:
- Identify and satisfy college admission requirements
- Pursue challenging academic coursework to maximize college options
- Explore extracurricular activities to build core college- and career-related skills
- Navigate the maze of colleges, affordability options, and how-tos of applying to college
Student works with us on a one-on-one basis (with regular parent check-ins!), with a high degree of personalized care, time, and attention. They are strategically steered through a process of identifying “best fit” colleges where your student is likely to thrive, supported with customized application plans to ensure that no important date is left behind, and help crafting applications that speak to their unique strengths, interests, and stand out from the crowd.
Tony Hall: Teaching Kids Confidence & Self-Esteem Through Martial Arts
We are continuing our Back to School series with the owner of American Professional Martial Arts, Sensei Tony Hall.
Sensei Tony began his Martial Arts Training at 9 years old in Fort Lauderdale Florida. While training towards Black Belt in a Kenpo based blended style of Martial Arts, Tony loved to help teach classes and assist instructors in everyday activities.
At 13 Years old Tony received his 1st Degree Black Belt. After Graduating from High School tony Enlisted in the United States Marines. There he studied the Marine Corps Martial arts Program becoming a Brown Belt and getting a Honorable Discharge as a Sgt after 5 years of Service and one tour overseas.
After leaving the Marines, Sensei Tony became a Police Officer for the City of Auburn, AL, where he served 5 Years and also filled the role of Self Defense Instructor on Auburn University.
In 2012, Sensei Tony relocated to be closer to his family and began working with the Martial Arts school that he originally received his Black Belt. Realizing his passion for training and teaching again, He purchased a school in Boca Raton in 2013 and that school is now American Professional Martial Arts.
Sensei Tony believes a Family that kicks together sticks together. His wife Jennifer is a Black Belt and his two sons train actively as well.
At American Professional Martial Arts in Boca Raton, builds up students dedicated instruction and unwavering support.
The Kids Martial Arts program uses the excitement of kicks and punches to challenge a child's mind, help them stay physically active, and instill in them a wide range of skills and values that will carry them onto success in all aspects of life.
Dana Cahn: Co-Parenting Tips for Back to School Season
Business Scale Insights continues our focus on Back to School issues facing Parents and Children with Dana Cahn. Dana Cahn is the Founder and CEO of F.A.C.E.S., Family and Co-Parenting Enrichment Services. F.A.C.E.S is a resource center for families going through divorce, separation, paternity and post-dissolution issues so that the emotional well-being of children is enhanced.
Back to School can be a difficult transition period. However, navigating the communication and emotional issues with parents and children going through a divorce can become almost impossible without help. Dana Cahn provides very real-world, practical advice for parents going through that in this episode.
If you live in South Florida and are going through a divorce, FACES has the resources you need to transition into healthy co-parenting. The services include but are not limited to:
1- Co- Parenting Classes
2- Supervised Visitation
3-Monitored Exchanges
4-Private Sessions
5- Therapeutic Supervised Sessions
6- Anger Management Classes and More!
Check out the website for details: https://www.faces.family
Dr. Deborah Tillman: America's Supernanny Gives Back to School Tips for Parents
We continued our focus on children's focused services and business in August by interviewing the incredible Dr. Deborah Tillman. Dr. Deborah is a familiar face to so many as she has appeared on Lifetime TV's Supernanny series. She is a force of nature and shares her riveting personal story of how she started her child care services and how they have expanded and now have an impact around the world. You really do NOT want to miss this episode.
Deborah L. Tillman is a Consultant, Speaker, Author, Founder of Happy Home Christian Leadership Academy for Early Learners and “America’s Supernanny” on Lifetime Television. Labeled “A Force for Good” by The Washington Post, Tillman has a deep passion for children. She began her career over twenty-five years ago when she became frustrated with the lack of quality childcare her son was receiving and as a result, quit her lucrative accounting job and started her own successful childcare center in 1994.
Dr. Deborah holds a Masters’ Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from George Washington University and a Doctorate in Education from the Richmond Virginia Seminary. She has also studied at Oxford University, Magdalen College in England. Among her many accomplishments, Deborah has been a recurring parenting expert on the HARRY and Steve Harvey Daytime Talk Shows. She has also been seen on The View, Today Show, Katie Show, Wendy Williams, Great Day Washington, and CNN to name a few. In 2018, Deborah was asked to join the faculty of the #1 Leadership Expert, John Maxwell Team to create parenting and family content all over the world.
She is the author of Stepping out On Faith - How to Open a Quality Childcare Center and Parenting on Purpose: A Menu for Raising Children in Today’s Society. In 2017, Deborah designed an online Greater Parenting System (GPS) that supports parents as they become the best version of themselves so that their children have every opportunity to reach their fullest potential and Divine Destiny. She also created her own childcare curriculum called “The Guiding Light:” from infants through five-year-olds.
Lifetime Television Executives have called her “a miracle worker” but Deborah is “a proud mom” and humble servant doing the work of the Lord with a LIGHT shining bright for children and families everywhere. Dr. Deborah currently resides in Northern Virginia with her son Zeplyn who graduated from Georgetown University.
For more information about Dr. Deborah and her work visit the site:
www.deborahtillman.com
John Lipetz: Helping Children & Families Enjoy, Preserve and Understand Nature
Business Scale Insights kicked off a series on children focused services and business this month in light of "Back to School" season. The first interview in the series was with John Lipetz, CEO and Founder of Fish and Explore in Falls Church, VA. https://www.fishandexplore.com/guides-tours/
Fish and Explore enables children and adults to learn and enjoy outdoor activities in a safe environment. Children in particular who previously do not express interest in nature and the environment often become enamored with FAE's work and become outdoor lovers for LIFE!
Fish and Explore is a experiential learning leader dedicated to developing programs that are well suited for all ages.
The focus is on youth programs, which are structured around elements that naturally excite children – Animals, Water, and a little Dirt! Our programs build confidence in a natural way, by providing guided instruction to introduce anyone to the outdoors while allowing them to explore their abilities.
Be it through fishing, exploring, or both, FAE engages all explorers in the wonders of the great outdoors in a safe and fun environment.
FAE is looking to expand its footprint beyond the Washington, DC/metro area and is looking to partner with interested franchisees around the country. If you enjoy the outdoors and children, this may be just the right business for you.
For more information about franchise opportunities, click on the website.
https://www.fishandexplore.com/franchise/
https://www.fishandexplore.com
Nick Nelson & Michelle Talbert: The critical role of branding for your career and business
We closed out this series on Branding with Nick Nelson, CEO of Brandprenuer, and Michelle Talbert, CEO of Her Power Moves. This episode is chock full of wisdom and insight on why branding is so critically important for small businesses and small business owners and what branding is ALL about. So, you definitely want to listen and share this episode with friends and colleagues.
Nick F. Nelson is an entertainment marketer, author, and motivational speaker. Nelson is an innovative force and has produced targeted marketing and communications strategies for some of television’s highest rated shows and more than 20 number-one box office films.
Nelson’s keen ability for connecting brands to targeted consumers through entertainment, has led to him working with leading consumer, brands. Most notable include Disney, ESPN, General Mills, HBO, NBC, STARZ, Warner Bros. Pictures and Walmart.
Recognized as the “Agency Marketer of the Year” by the Atlanta Chapter of the American Marketing Association in 2012, Nelson became the first, and only, African-American to receive the honor in its more than 50-years of existence.
Michelle Y. Talbert is the CEO of Her Power Moves and is hosting a Branding unNetworking event in South Florida on Saturday, August 17, 2019 and Nick Nelson will be the featured guest and speaker. http://herpowermoves.com/
To reach Nick or book with him, please connect with him here: https://www.brandprenuer.com/about
John Chapman: From Incarceration to Disrupting Vocational Trade Training in the U.S.
Business Scale Insights continues its series on Branding with a focus on the development of a Brand Narrative or Story. To illustrate the power of a great brand narrative or story to propel a business, we invited John Chapman, CEO or Johnny Apple Seed Association (JASA), onto the program to share his compelling testimony.
John Chapman was sent to jail for selling Walt Disney World tickets on Craigslist in the state of Virginia. At the time, it was a crime. What followed after the incident is nothing less than shocking and quite frankly horrifying. You MUST listen to his story to truly appreciate it.
After Mr. Chapman's brush with the criminal justice system in the state of Virginia, he had a difficult time finding employment and was homeless for a period of time. He kept going in and out of interviews. Once he found a job he could not keep the job after the initial background check.
His own personal experience inspired him to create JASA. JASA helps ex-offenders train and get placed in trades. It is a training program for people to become electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians and other skilled trades. At the end of the program, participants receive tools and job placement assistance.
Mr. Chapman's initiative is apparently in dire need in the U.S. right now with aging baby boomes and younger generations not properly trained for the trades. Recently, INC magazine quoting the Society of Human Resource Management's (SHRM) "2019 State of the Workplace stated that the
The top six missing skills in job applicants are:
1. Problem-solving, critical thinking, innovation, and creativity (37 percent)
2. Ability to deal with complexity and ambiguity (32 percent)
3. Communication (31 percent)
4. Trade skills (carpentry, plumbing, welding, machining, etc.) (31 percent)
5. Data analysis / data science (20 percent)
6. Science / engineering / medical (18 percent)
https://www.inc.com/ryan-jenkins/this-is-most-in-demand-skill-of-future.html?cid=hmsub3
Trade skills are lacking in the work force to a GREATER degree than data analysis, science, engineering and medical skills.
If you are interested in finding out more about JASA or John Chapman, please feel free to reach out him via the URLs below:
https://presjasa.wixsite.com/website-1/staff
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-chapman-6736574b/
http://whatsupwoodbridge.com/manassas-trade-school/
Starr Dawkins: From Social Media Influencer to Trailblazing CEO
Business Scale Insights continues the series on Brand Building by focusing on the rise of social media influencers and their impact on the success of brands and businesses. To help explain all things INFLUENCER, we invited Starr Dawkins, CEO of The Sweet Cookie Jar, on the program. Starr Dawkins began her career as an aspiring actress. She wanted to perform in LA and hoped that she would someday get her big break. She started sharing her story on You Tube, Instagram and Snapchat.
She started making a name for herself with Jamaican social media influencers and by talking frankly and openly about taboo topics like sex, sexual health and feminine hygiene. From those taboo topics, her audience encouraged her to start creating a line of feminine hygiene products that they could actually use that were all NATURAL . Those products were initially sold online and her following continued to grow. Soon a brand of feminine hygiene products was born: From washes and cleansers to sanitary napkins.
The market for Feminine Hygiene Products published by Allied Market Research is expected to be $42.7 billion by 2022, registering a CAGR of 6.1% during the period 2016-2022. North America has observed higher penetration of panty liners and internal cleansers & sprays.
Starr Dawkins has capitalized on this market opportunity by opening a retail location, Sweet Cookiee Jar in Sunrise, Florida. The location focuses on providing spa services like waxing, V- steams, and Vajacials and also selling her products. She has transitioned from social media influencer and educator on female hygiene and sexual health to CEO of a pioneering feminine hygiene brand. Starr Dawkins is an outstanding case study of the power of social media influence to not only grow brands but to literally CREATE one.
To reach out to Starr or order her products, check out the site: https://sweetcookies.org
Josh Gerben: Building Your Brand By Protecting Your Trademark
We are continuing our series on building your brand by focusing on the intellectual property aspects of branding. That means in this episode we are focused on ALL things Trademarks.
Many small business owners are unsure of or are downright confused about trademarks and their importance. Many do not understand how trademark relates to the value of a brand and your long term CHOICES to scale, expand, sell or develop additional revenue streams. Thus, if you desire to scale understanding why trademark protection is important and what benefits it provides you is CRITICAL.
To help listeners understand trademarks better, BSI invited trademark expert and attorney Josh Gerben onto the broadcast. Josh Gerben is the Princpal of the Gerben Law Firm that is based in the Washington, DC area. Josh provides boutique trademark services that are accessible in price for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
He joined Business Scale Insights to provide a solid overview of the fundamentals of trademarks for entreprenuers and small business owners. If you or someone you know is unsure about HOW trademarks works be sure to tune into this episode.
To reach Josh, please check out more information on his lawfirm website: gerbenlaw.com
Suzzette Turnbull: Brand Building for Small Business Success
Business Scale Insights is kicking off another series to help you scale your business. The focus of the series is BRANDING. We have invited 6 different guest speakers to share their wisdom and insight on branding building keys to business success. Our first branding building expert guest is Suzzette Turnbull, CEO of Uncommon Marketing.
Suzzette Turnbull is an Author, Speaker, and Founder/CEO of Uncommon Marketing. An accomplished business expert, she knows your brand is everything. Using media and brand management, marketing and social media, she expands your brand. Suzzette is also the author of The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Getting Started with Social Media. She is currently a doctoral candidate at the Ashford University pursuing Organizational Development and Leadership with a specialization in Social Media and Technology.
Notable clients have included Henry Fernandez Ministries – a global mega ministry; The Faith Center Ministries – mega ministry in South Florida; and Terrell Fletcher, former NFL athlete, author and senior pastor. These clients along with countless others have attributed their online brand recognition and/or development to Suzzette Turnbull and her company.
Residing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Suzzette enjoys performing arts, outdoor activities, time with family and friends, and lots of laughter with good food. If you would like to work with Suzzette and her team, she can be reached here: https://suzytalks.com/meet-suzzette/
Tayana Carper: Unleashing the Power of Cold Pressed Juice in South Florida
To close out the Business Scale Insights series on the restaurant/food and beverage business, we interview the CEO of Unleash Life Tayana Carper. Tayana and her partner Kelly lead an award winning cold pressed organic juice business in South Florida. They deliver juices daily to homes and businesses across South Florida and the BUZZ about the business and the RESULTS from individuals taking their juices is tremendous.
Their mission is to "improve your life by making it as easy as possible to obtain optimal health in an ecofriendly way." The company and founders believe in the "the power of healing through food, hydration and Eastern medicine, which we bring to you in the form of cold-pressed, raw and organic juice. We are the one of the few South Florida companies to deliver raw cold pressed organic juices to doorsteps in Broward, West Palm Beach and Miami-Dade. We make our weekly bottle deliveries and pick-ups between Monday night and Tuesday morning. Committed to the planet’s health as well as yours, we sanitize and reuse all bottles to keep them from entering the waste stream."
In the last three years, hundreds of customers have shared their stories of how Unleash LIFE has contributed to improved health, including critical measures such as lower blood pressure and total reduction of chronic pain. You can find testimonials here: https://unleashlifejuice.com/testimonials/
Check out the episode and if you are in the South Florida area you definitely need to check them out.
Jarael Holston: Sharing His Recipe for Business Success As A South Florida Restauranteur
On this episode of Business Scale Insights, we continue the series on keys to success in the restaurant business and focus locally in South Florida with restauranteur Jarael Holston. Mr. Holston owns Fat Boyz BBQ and Crazy Cajun Crabs in Broward County, Florida. The restaurants are family-owned, veteran-owned and locally owned and have a very strong brand following and strong brand loyalty locally.
Mr. Holston shares an incredibly inspirational story about why he started the business and eventually included his entire family. The business truly started from love and is a labor of love. What started out in front of his local church that he pastored, eventually became a food truck and now is at 4 locations and counting!
He shares so many gems in this episode. But in particular he shares the 3 KEYS that he wishes others shared with him at the beginning of his business journey. If you are a budding restaurant owner or you know someone who is, you do not want to miss this episode. It is chock full of insight for you to start and grow your restaurant business.
If you would like more information about Fat Boyz BBQ, please visit the website at www.fatboyzbarbecue.com.
Here's to your success!
Sammy Aldeeb & Jaime Torres: Bringing Urban Bricks Restaurants to the Masses
Business Scale Insights continues the series on success in the restaurant business by interviewing leaders of the Urban Brick restaurant franchise, Sammy Aldeeb and Jaime Torres. Sammy Aldeeb is the CEO of Urban Bricks and Jaime Torres is an Area Developer with a focus on the state of Florida. Both have a passion for the company, the restaurant business and getting the word out about Urban Bricks.
Sammy Aldeeb's career in franchising started in 2005 when he opened up his first Marble Slab Creamery. The success from his location inspired him to open another franchise for Subway and eventually another for Great American Cookies. Within 10 years Sammy amassed a portfolio of more than 20+ franchise locations between Marble Slab, Subway and Great American Cookies. In 2015, Sammy decided to take his ventures to the next level and create a brand that specializes in fast-casual pizza, pasta, paninis and salad. Since the debut of Urban Bricks Kitchen in 2015, Sammy has been opening stores nationwide and internationally to expand the Urban Bricks Brand while catering to millennial markets and forward-thinkers. Since 2015 more than 100+ have been sold.
Sammy and Jaime understand what it takes to build a great brand and what it takes to succeed in the restaurant industry. Check out this episode to learn more.
Marco Scanu: Restaurant Business Financials- What You Need to Know
We kick off our series on the restaurant business by interviewing Marco Scanu. Mr. Scanu works with clients in Europe, Africa, Latin America, and the United States. He has coached Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals in four different countries and across ten different professions. Mr. Scanu also serves as a venture coach for the University of Miami's Launch Pad program and is a board member of the Entrepreneurship Advisory Board at The School of Hospitality Business - Michigan State University. He also serves on the Board of Advisors of the Pino Global Entrepreneurship Center at Florida International University.
In addition to having served as a judge for world renowned business plan competitions and programs such as Start-up Chile, Start-up Peru, Intel® Global Challenge, and The FIU Pino Shark Tank, Mr. Scanu has been an invited speaker in national and international events and has been a panelist at several immigration CLE events and conferences. Mr. Scanu is also a Chevalier of La Chaine des Rotisseurs, the oldest and largest food & wine society in the world.
Mr. Scanu earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida before going on to earn an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital and high-growth enterprises. Mr. Scanu is a certified coach from the University.
On this episode, Mr. Scanu provides restaurant business owners key financial and business metrics that they need to master to scale their businesses effectively.
Julia Aquino Pt. 2: Know Your Numbers to Grow Your Numbers
In honor of National Small Business Week, BSI continued an interview Julia Aquino to discuss financial literacy for business owners. She continued to detail key financial concepts that business owners need to master in order to effectively scale and grow their businesses. Julia has over 20 years of experience in finance, strategy and operations. Her Bachelor's degree is in Finance and she has an MBA with a specialization in accounting. Julia understands how to simplify the complexity of finance so that business owners can utilize the power of financial information and reports to both manage and build a business.
If you would like to reach Julia, you can connect with her via her business at www.allsystemsgrow.co. If you would like to ask a question or possibly be a guest on Business Scale Insights, please send an email to bizscalepro@gmail.com
Julia Aquino Pt 1.: Know Your Numbers to Grow Your Numbers
In honor of National Small Business Week, BSI interviewed Julia Aquino to discuss financial literacy for business owners. Julia has over 20 years of experience in finance, strategy and operations. Her Bachelor's degree is in Finance and she has an MBA with a specialization in accounting. Julia understands how to simplify the complexity of finance so that business owners can utilize the power of financial information and reports to both manage and build a business.
If you would like to reach Julia, you can connect with her via her business at www.allsystemsgrow.co. If you would like to ask a question or possibly be a guest on Business Scale Insights, please send an email to bizscalepro@gmail.com
Liane Sangollo: Attracting and Retaining Top Talent
During the interview, she shared some of the biggest challenges for motivating employees and workforce development. She also highlighted keys for leaders to unlock their potential and their teams.
If you are thinking about expanding your staff now or in the near future, you really need to listen to this episode.
To reach out to Liane, she may be reached at
hrrhvisionconsulting@gmail.com
www.hrrhvisionconsulting.com
Michael Schunk: Employee Benefits That Retain Top Talent & Control Costs
If you are a small business looking to scale, you do not want to miss this episode.
Feel free to reach out to Micheal at www.ebafl.com
Wai Poc: Developing a Dynamic Workplace Culture
Toula Amanna: Trailblazing Founder of FlashBack Diner
If you are a budding restaurant owner, you need to listen to this episode. It's chock full of wisdom and insight from two veterans in the restaurant business. For more information about FlashBack Diner, please visit the website: www.flashbackdiner.com
Brittany Rose: Developing the next generation of leaders with More Than Cheer
Gwyn Whittaker: Disrupting the restaurant business with GreenFare
Michelle Talbert: Empowering Women Owned Businesses
Dale V.C. Holness & Paola Isaac Baraya Pt. 2: South Florida & International Business
Dale V.C. Holness & Paola Isaac Baraya Pt. 1: South Florida & International Business
Michael D. Young: Belize is open for business
Russell Thompson: SCORE helps startup businesses succeed
Russell also shares the tremendous FREE resources that SCORE provides startup entrepreneurs all over the United States. In particular, Broward County SCORE has several events in 2018 to assist business owners succeed. Check out the website: broward.score.org/
PSA:Playing Podcasts with Alexa on Amazon Echo
Max Cortese: Taking the Hawaiian Poke' Bowl to the Masses.
For more information about The Poke Company, check out the website, www.eatthepokecompany.com.