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Fired Up Success with Lisbeth Calandrino

Fired Up Success with Lisbeth Calandrino

By Lisbeth Calandrino

"In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
-Albert Schweitzer
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Dr. Tom Denham, Careers in Transition, Coach

Fired Up Success with Lisbeth CalandrinoApr 30, 2020

00:00
30:17
Andrea Blackbourn, Executive Director, Floor Covering Industry Foundation

Andrea Blackbourn, Executive Director, Floor Covering Industry Foundation

Andrea joined the Floor Covering Industry Foundation in 2016 as Executive Director and oversees grant programs, donor engagement, fund development, strategic marketing, and board relations.

Previously, she had a 12-year career at United Way of Northwest Georgia where she expanded the organization's capacity by developing new philanthropic programs and volunteer initiatives. As the Director of Donor Engagement & Strategy, she headed up strategic marketing, donor relations, and leadership of marketing and fundraising staff and volunteers. She led the organization to reach $4M in annual contributions through payroll campaigns, major gifts, and corporate investments. In addition, her roles have included writing and implementing marketing plans, speech writing, donor database management, and design of printed, electronic, and social media, and corporate event planning. She has led sessions at United Way and Points of Light national conferences, as well as spoke to numerous local school groups about careers in non-profit organizations.

She previously served as the Director of Community Engagement at United Way and oversaw organizational marketing, donor affinity groups, and volunteerism. She launched a full service Volunteer Center with hands on projects and an online platform for non-profits to post volunteer opportunities with which the public could connect. In 2012, she led the creation of the Women’s Leadership Council, which raises over $1M annually through leadership gifts of $1,000 or more. She coordinated large community days of service – mobilizing over 1,000 volunteers annually through corporate volunteer projects, national service holidays, and school projects. She led the formation of the Corporate Volunteer Council, created Volunteer Vacation – a youth service camp, and launched the partnership with Presidential Volunteer Service Award program. She also brought BOARDWALK to the greater Dalton community – a program that has trained over 250 volunteers to serve on non-profit boards of directors. In 2008, she wrote and administered a federal grant that placed over 150 AmeriCorps VISTA members in the local community over the next eight years who expanded the capacity of non-profits to recruit and train volunteers. As the New Business Development Coordinator she launched the Young Leadership Society in 2006, a giving circle for young professionals, which she led for the next 10 years. In her her first role at United Way, she served as a Loaned Executive, giving over 250 fundraising presentations to companies across the community.


Jul 28, 202134:42
Interview with Amy Amaroso, Director, Veteran Business Outreach Program, VBOC, region 2

Interview with Amy Amaroso, Director, Veteran Business Outreach Program, VBOC, region 2

Amy Amaroso is Director of VBOC, Veteran Business Outreach, a  program which  assists  veterans and military spouses to start, purchase or grow a business.  Within the United States, there are 22 VBOC programs, which work for the S.B.A. 

For more information, reach Amy at VBOCregion2.com. 

May 11, 202124:46
Interview with Kristin Smith, President of Smith Flooring; Discussion on MWBE Status for Floor Covering Stores and Union Affiliation

Interview with Kristin Smith, President of Smith Flooring; Discussion on MWBE Status for Floor Covering Stores and Union Affiliation

Smith Flooring is a woman and minority-owned business in Chester, PA, a suburb of Philadelphia. Kristin discusses the challenges of doing business during the pandemic and how her strong union relationships helped her business to survive and thrive during the shutdown.

President Joe Biden recently met with the Smiths to discuss how the relief package, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) helped millions of Americans and family-owned commercial flooring contractors maintain operations. (to read the entire article, see Floor Covering News, Biden Kicks Off Help is Here Tour)

“Smith Flooring strives to lead the commercial flooring industry in the Delaware Valley. Since day one, Kristin Smith and James Smith have focused on three promises: Completing work on-time, on-budget, and with the highest professional quality. By consistently delivering results, we’ve earned the trust of many loyal, longtime customers who know they can count on us for superior service. Smith Flooring is also a company of integrity and is a certified MBE, DBE, WBE, and WBENC Women-Owned Business. We regularly invest in our facilities and equipment to expand production capabilities and improve quality, and ensure all employees are well-trained and certified at a high level of craftsmanship.”

I encourage you to check out their website at: http://www.smithflooringinc.com/

Apr 23, 202136:12
Brett Miller is the V.P. Technical Standards, Training & Certification at the National Wood Flooring Association. Brett  talks about the wood flooring industry and services of the NWFA.

Brett Miller is the V.P. Technical Standards, Training & Certification at the National Wood Flooring Association. Brett talks about the wood flooring industry and services of the NWFA.

Brett Miller, has a long history in the flooring business specializing in wood flooring. His history includes both retail and wholesale before transitioning to the National Wood Flooring Association. I have been on several committees with him over the years; he is extremely knowledgeable about wood flooring and is a great resource. 

Brett is happy to take questions, here is his direct phone, 314-607-2237, Central Time Zone. 

Nov 05, 202029:29
Interview with Chris Ogden, Director of Marketing, Q-Floors

Interview with Chris Ogden, Director of Marketing, Q-Floors

Chris talks about business, getting organized and marketing to your customers. She is the Director of Marketing for Q-Floors. Chris majored in  marketing and college as has spent  20 years in the marketing field.  Chris talks about their software system and what customers and  can simply do to market their business. She also talks about being a woman in the flooring business and the changes she has seen. 

QFloors is a user friendly flooring software designed to streamline operations for small, mid-size, and large carpet and flooring stores.  Chris can be reached at 801-563-.0140. 

Oct 13, 202030:43
Julie Kerkochian establishes online women's group with Carpet One

Julie Kerkochian establishes online women's group with Carpet One

Julie Kerkochian is the owner of United Carpet One in Fresno, CA. United Carpet is a family business that's been in existence for 50 years. Julie decided she would develop a women's group comprised of business owners from Carpet One. The group has 29 members. Julie talks about the group and her commitment to the flooring industry. 

Sep 22, 202029:09
How are Flooring Retailers Doing? Listen to Barry McEntire, in Panama City, Florida

How are Flooring Retailers Doing? Listen to Barry McEntire, in Panama City, Florida

Barry McEntire, is CEO/Owner of Flooring Depot of Panama City, Florida. Barry has decided to open a new store in the midst of the pandemic. Listen to his ideas and strategies. 

Sep 07, 202028:57
"You are stronger than you think you are." The loss of a friend prompts Denee Bruce to Travel Alone Cross Country

"You are stronger than you think you are." The loss of a friend prompts Denee Bruce to Travel Alone Cross Country

Denee Bruce is the Senior National account Manager for HandiProducts is your full-service solution for anti-slip products.  Listen to her story about finally getting her wings. 

"It's crazy to look back on the past 3 years. I bought a bike because I was so tired of not riding. I'd never been on my own. I got a 2009 with 3000 miles. I wouldn't go more than 20-30 miles away and would have to stop and check where i was because i didn't have GPS or a phone mount. In 2 years I put 500 miles on her and rarely did over 50 mph. This year I have put 4500 miles on the tires, rode the interstate for the first time, went to Sturgis and back alone, learned to fix her on the side of the road, rode over 500 miles just to get a hamburger, and jump at the chance to hit winding roads that lead who knows where.

It took 43 years but I'm finally finding my wings!"

Sep 03, 202029:54
What is the Future of Fitness Centers, How will they Grow? Interview with Bryan Nunziato, owner of Synergy Fitness & Nutrition, 54 State Street, Albany, New York

What is the Future of Fitness Centers, How will they Grow? Interview with Bryan Nunziato, owner of Synergy Fitness & Nutrition, 54 State Street, Albany, New York

Bryan Nunziato discusses the future of fitness and his ideas for for fitness in the future. Reach out to Bryan at omni54fitness@gmail.com or gotosnergyfitness.com. 

Aug 27, 202029:15
Customer service is the backbone of most industries. Listen as CFI Level II Master Installer Roland Thompson shares his thoughts about achieving success

Customer service is the backbone of most industries. Listen as CFI Level II Master Installer Roland Thompson shares his thoughts about achieving success

After 4 years of learning the flooring installation trade, in 1976, Roland Thompson decided to set out on his own as a residential and commercial installer. Roland's craftsmanship, hard work  and outstanding  service won him contracts for the Camp David Presidential Retreat under five United States's Presidents.  His talent and customer service focus  has earned him hundreds of certifications and friends in the flooring industry and organizations such as ABC Extreme Makeover and the food network's Restaurant Impossible.

He continues to volunteer his time and expertise to organizations such as Building for America's Bravest. Building for America's Bravest is a program of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation that builds Smart Homes for our most catastrophically injured service members returning home.

Aug 24, 202028:50
Dr. Lisa Henkel, Specializes in Creating, Implementing and Managing Plans to Support and Improve School Leadership and Student Achievement
Aug 18, 202030:40
How does one change change their entire life with no support? Inspiring interview with radio personality, RoseMarie Andrews
Aug 12, 202028:59
Ursula Ruedenberg, Affiliate Network Manager, Pacifica Radio talks about the history of Pacifica Radio and its contribution to independent broadcasting

Ursula Ruedenberg, Affiliate Network Manager, Pacifica Radio talks about the history of Pacifica Radio and its contribution to independent broadcasting

Pacifica Radio, listener-funded radio foundation that is the oldest independent media network in the United States. Pacifica owns and manages five listener-supported, noncommercial FM radio stations: KPFA in Berkeley, California (inaugurated in 1949); KPFK in Los Angeles (1959); WBAI in New York City (1960); KPFT in Houston (1970); and WPFW in Washington, D.C. (1977). Pacifica also funds and promotes news and public affairs programs, most notably Democracy Now! and Free Speech Radio News, for its own and nearly 165 affiliated community radio stations. 

The organization’s main contribution to U.S. journalism has been the consistent airing of perspectives of the American and global political left.

Aug 03, 202025:37
Interview with Eric Boender, Vice President, Business Development, Starnet Worldwide Commercial Flooring Partnership
Jul 28, 202029:30
Interview with Tatiana Gjerji , Executive Director, Noteworthy Resources of New York and How She is Building Her Not-for-Profit Resource Center
Jul 20, 202030:06
Michelle Winters, Women of the Flooring Industry
Jul 13, 202030:44
Interview with John Gregory; why the vacuum cleaner business doesn't suck during COVID-19

Interview with John Gregory; why the vacuum cleaner business doesn't suck during COVID-19

John Gregory, owner of Capital Vacuums in Albany, New York and Charlie's Vacuums in Glens Falls, New York, discuss why it's smarter than ever to be in the vacuum cleaner business now. To learn more, reach out to vacuumrepairshop.com to learn more about the business. 

Jul 07, 202030:54
Interview with Scott Levy, President of Arley Wholesale; Wholesale distribution of exceptional quality tile, stone and sundry items.

Interview with Scott Levy, President of Arley Wholesale; Wholesale distribution of exceptional quality tile, stone and sundry items.

In 1935, Irving Levy moved to Scranton, PA from Brooklyn, NY and opened a paint store that sold wholesale and retail. Fast-forward to the 1990s and the third generation joined the company, continued to expand their products  and  brought their various work experiences to Arley. To read the entire story, https://www.arleywholesale.com/about-arley.

Arley Wholesale continues to strive to provide Service, Selection and Stability for the industry and live up to the entrepreneurial vision of Irving Levy by standing behind his motto:

Be honorable in everything you do.

Live up to your agreements…your word is your bond.

Be loyal to your suppliers and customers, they are the backbone of your business. 

Jun 30, 202029:05
Rachel Berlin, Interior Designer and Sales Consultant, Precision Floors and Decor, Plymouth, WI

Rachel Berlin, Interior Designer and Sales Consultant, Precision Floors and Decor, Plymouth, WI

Rachel has been an Interior Designer for 14 years and shares her recent experiences with consumers shopping for flooring during COVID-19. Interestingly enough, consumers are upbeat and serious about making changes in their homes. 

Rachel discusses how Precision Floors and Decor stayed in touch with their customers during COVID-19 and the "personal service" they gave their customers. She also discusses how Floor Force has helped grow their business. 

Jun 14, 202028:51
Interview with Brian Witkin, Flooring Consultant, New Jersey

Interview with Brian Witkin, Flooring Consultant, New Jersey

Brian Witkin has been a long time business associate and friend from the flooring industry. He has held  high level sales positions in Manufacturing  and Retail Flooring; today he shares  his ideas for helping both Manufactures and Retailers 'survive and thrive' during the 'new normal.' He can be reached at 201-376-6162.(New Jersey)

Jun 09, 202030:54
Interview with Jodie Watford, Owner of BEST Instruments, LLC. Are you looking to improve your employees communication skills?
Jun 03, 202000:44
Interview with Paula Figaldo, Writer and TV Personality

Interview with Paula Figaldo, Writer and TV Personality

As a National Queen Paula is required to make public appearances throughout the country talking about her platform: BREAKING THE SILENCE OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. Look for her new book.

May 26, 202030:57
Interview with Cynthia Pooler, Podcaster, Focus on Albany, Women Who Inspire

Interview with Cynthia Pooler, Podcaster, Focus on Albany, Women Who Inspire

Cynthia Pooler is a political junkie; she says she can see the capital from her front window. 

May 22, 202026:52
 Dr. Tom Denham, Careers in Transition, Coach

Dr. Tom Denham, Careers in Transition, Coach

Dr. Tom Denham is a Career Coach, and is located at 11 computer Dr., #112, Albany, New York 12205. He can help you review your career, your goals and update your resume. 

His phone number is 518-366-8451. 

Apr 30, 202030:17
Episode with Kevin Clancy _ Is it Home Sweet Home When we Have to Stay at Home?

Episode with Kevin Clancy _ Is it Home Sweet Home When we Have to Stay at Home?

Kevin Clancy gives us a look into the real estate business since COVID-19 and before. What has changed in the market, who is the target customer and what are they looking for. When this is over, will their home still be their castle?

Kevin Clancy of Clancy Real Estate 1 Fletcher Road, Albany New York 12203. Phone: 518-861-7016.,Email: kevin@clancyrealestate.comTalking 

#kevinclancyrealestate #lisbethcalandrino.com #realestate.

Apr 23, 202027:40
How To Keep You Business Alive and Kicking Through COVID-19

How To Keep You Business Alive and Kicking Through COVID-19

Deborah Vincent Evans is best known for her marketing and social media consulting; find out more about Deborah on Buzzwords.marketing. Now is not the time to take your foot off the gas, push through with social media and digital marketing. Keep the tone light and not 'sales-y.'

Apr 20, 202029:07
A Clear Vision of the World Through the Eyes of a Blind Man

A Clear Vision of the World Through the Eyes of a Blind Man

I  can't thank Blaise enough for candidly sharing his perspective of life and negotiating the world. Blaise is a Producer at WCAA-FM -107.3. community radio in Albany, New York. He is a graduate of the  College of St. Rose and the New School Center for Media. 

Apr 13, 202029:25
Talking with Children During the COVID-19 and Staying Hopeful

Talking with Children During the COVID-19 and Staying Hopeful

Conversation with JoAnn Stevelos, Public Health Advisor, Speaker, Children's Health Advocate.

JoAnn shares tips and recommendations from UNICIEF's evidence based resources for helping parents talk to their children about COVID-19.

Here some resources to help you during this trying time: 

OMH Emotional Support Line, 1-844-863-9314. (The don't ask your name,  or if  you have health insurance. It's free for everyone living in New York State.)

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-942-6906.

Apr 08, 202025:35
Keeping Connected While Corona is Keeping Us Apart: Interview with Public Health Educator Deb Vincent

Keeping Connected While Corona is Keeping Us Apart: Interview with Public Health Educator Deb Vincent

Social distancing and self-isolation is a necessary evil to limit the spread of the virus. It can also leave us disconnected, alone and afraid. There are ways to counteract this but it takes a community that cares. 

Healthliteracyforall.org can provides training, tools and information for ways to ensure no one gets left out. Of call Public Health Educator, Deb Vincent at 518-269-6747.


Mar 13, 202030:43
Keep Your Business Clean from Covid 19 with Greg Hadfield, CEO Century Professional Flooring and Cleaning, Grand Rapids, MI
Mar 13, 202029:44