Every business owner has lots to learn. Whether you learn it up front, down the road, or along the way, you’ve got plenty to learn as you create, build, and run your business. The Blackman brothers decided to take the journey together. As young entrepreneurs they focus on building their company through Faith & Focus, Serving Clients with Value, and Going the Extra Mile. They want to give their customers the “Whole Nine Yards”. As friends, brothers, and business partners, Latrell and Lidon Bl...
Feb 13, 2025•24 min
Rooted in a heritage of fabrication and machining expertise dating back to 1970, CKT is ideally positioned and well-guided by its team of seasoned business managers and automotive experts to deliver solutions to answer the industry’s ongoing requirements. CKT is a WBE-certified business comprised of two divisions, with two facilities. It’s a 50+ year old, vertically integrated machine and fabrication job shop. We laser cut it, saw it, bend it, weld it, machine it, turn it, heat treat it, blast i...
Feb 13, 2025•21 min
Ever feel like you’re getting lost in the feed of endless social media posts? Is the algorithm to blame, or could you have used better hashtags? The world of social media is constantly evolving, and you deserve a partner to help you navigate it. At Full Court Social, we’re passionate about helping people find success on social that grows with their business. Let’s talk and discuss your social goals and create a social game plan that works for you. Operating a successful Social Media strategy can...
Feb 13, 2025•28 min
Dan Maddox is the owner and Managing Director of Evolve Document Solutions who supply and service multi functional copiers and printers to businesses. Dan is well established, known, liked and trusted in this industry with 30 years of success behind him and an exciting future ahead for him and his team. You can get in touch with Daniel here on LinkedIn: / daniel-maddox-12302926 🔔 Want your business to be featured as our next Business Spotlight? Book in your FREE podcast slot today via our websi...
Feb 13, 2025•10 min
In this episode of Business Spotlight, host Ted Schmidt speaks with David Ittner, CEO of Fairmount Memorial Association. David reflects on his career journey and shares insights on how his early years might have been different if he had explored various industries to gain broader perspectives. His reflections provide valuable lessons for those navigating their own professional growth and seeking to diversify their experiences. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation with a seasoned leader...
Feb 13, 2025•22 min
In this episode of the Business Spotlight Podcast, our Host Ted Schmidt interviews Shane Johnson, the CEO of Carbon Quest. They discuss Shane’s business journey, how he manages work-life balance, and much more! Don’t forget to like and subscribe to get notifications for more of these kinds of great episodes. You can get in touch with Shane here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-johnson-74003784/ 🔔 Want your business to be featured as our next Business Spotlight? Book in your FREE p...
Feb 13, 2025•31 min
Our guest today on the Business Spotlight is Steve Napoli founder of TERRA, the largest network of certified e-waste recyclers and IT asset disposition (ITAD) providers in the world. Join us as we discuss the origins and importance of the electronics recycling industry, with a focus on proper handling and downstream materials. We also discuss the challenges of encouraging people to do the right thing, and the growing issue of electronic waste and its impact on the environment. You can get in tou...
Feb 13, 2025•43 min
Hi, I'm Jonathan Bennett, Founder and CEO of KAKOU USA, a small privately owned minority business committed to providing our customers with the utmost excellence by delivering quality products and dependable service. Our history of success is directly related to our ability to perform key tasks, including overseeing execution of innovative platform strategies, closely monitoring projects from inception to completion, and driving enhanced business and revenue growth. At KAKOU we are always lookin...
Feb 13, 2025•29 min
In this episode, Craig sits down with Russell Crouch of Enfinity Engineering to explore the fascinating journey of building a successful engineering firm. Specializing in mechanical, HVAC, lighting, power, plumbing, medical gas, and low-voltage technology design for buildings, Enfinity Engineering has carved out a niche in the healthcare sector. Russell shares insights into the challenges of managing client expectations, understanding the construction process, and cultivating strong client relat...
Feb 13, 2025•34 min
Meet Chris Woodrey, owner of Xcel Calibration & Diagnostics who provide automotive safety systems repair and calibration services in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. He started the business in 2021 after years of working in automotive repair and diagnostics. While most of their business is completed via their mobile services, where they go to a large repair shop to perform their diagnostic & calibration services on cars under repair, they have recently opened their first brick and mortar loca...
Feb 10, 2025•24 min
In this episode, Harvard and Penn graduate José Padilla shares his unique journey—from shunning a traditional legal career to pioneering AI-driven tools that empower business owners to navigate legal challenges across the globe. José discusses how his dual ventures, Padilla Law (www.Padilla.law) and Legalmente (www.legalmente.ai), are transforming the legal landscape by providing accessible, affordable legal insights and solutions. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or someone seekin...
Feb 10, 2025•31 min
Warren Fiihr interviewed William, AKA Bill, to discuss large and small companies, and how different it is to work for each of them. William pointed out the benefits of both, balancing the exposure a large company provides with the variety of small businesses. You can get in touch with William here on LinkedIn: / william-e-preston-08783810 🔔 Want your business to be featured as our next Business Spotlight? Book in your FREE podcast slot today via our website: https://www.businessspotlightseries....
Feb 10, 2025•39 min
Perry Languirand's entrepreneurial journey began at an impressively young age. By 14, he had already started and successfully sold his first business, quickly earning a role as a District Manager. Although his school years temporarily interrupted his ambitions, Perry graduated at 16, and took his next steps. His military service provided not only valuable skills but also connected him with a future business partner. Together, they pioneered work in computer systems and security long before "hack...
Feb 10, 2025•21 min
Alex Glaser, Workpays Insights from the interview: Hire correctly and manage them correctly; Create smart goals at beginning of every week; You can get in touch with Alex here on LinkedIn: / alex-glasner 🔔 Want your business to be featured as our next Business Spotlight? Book in your FREE podcast slot today via our website: https://www.businessspotlightseries.com #business #advice #podcast #businessowner #businesstips #growth #businessgrowth #businesslesson #businessessentials #howtostartabusin...
Feb 10, 2025•14 min
In this episode of Business Spotlight, host Sonali Nigam interviews Greg Dorban, who shares his approach to achieving success and balance. Greg emphasizes the value of compartmentalizing thoughts, focusing on one task at a time, and delivering results rather than trying to juggle everything at once. He also discusses his philosophy of being a "quality parent" rather than focusing solely on quantity. Greg's insights are a must-watch for anyone looking to improve productivity and maintain a health...
Feb 10, 2025•17 min
In this episode of Business Spotlight, host Ted Schmidt interviews Luke Baumgarten to discuss his journey and insights into journalism, media, and business. Luke shares his thoughts on the challenges of work-life balance, the state of journalism in Spokane, and rebuilding a sense of community in the media industry. He also reflects on the importance of businesses recognizing their role within the larger ecosystem and his own shift from working in his business to focusing on growing it. This conv...
Feb 10, 2025•27 min
In this episode of Business Spotlight, host Sonali Nigam talks with Kerry Mayo from NPF Bassetts Pole Adventure Park. Kerry shares insights on the importance of being proactive rather than reactive in business and highlights the challenges of staying memorable in a competitive market. She discusses the critical role of communication and why customers still value personal connections in today's fast-paced world. Kerry's perspective offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business owners str...
Feb 10, 2025•14 min
In this episode of Business Spotlight, host Sonali Nigam sits down with Priyan Dhutia to uncover the truths behind entrepreneurship. Priyan shares his perspective on the biggest misconception about being a business owner, that the job is easier than it seems. He discusses the importance of being proactive, setting clear boundaries between work and personal life, and the unwavering determination it takes to succeed in business. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner,...
Feb 10, 2025•11 min
In this episode of Business Spotlight, host Ted Schmidt interviews Mark Norton, Executive Director of Northwest I90 Manufacturing Alliance. Mark shares his perspective on the challenges and importance of maintaining work-life balance, especially in leadership roles. He offers valuable insights into how professionals can effectively balance their personal and professional lives while driving success in their industries. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with practical advice and inspira...
Feb 10, 2025•22 min
In this interview with Warren Fiihr, Carla Bisong shared her journey into the art business, starting from a finance background and transitioning into becoming an art dealer. They talked about the challenges of running an art gallery and her vision for expansion. Carla views her role more as a connector between artists and art buyers, rather than a traditional salesperson. Her insights on hiring, managing, and following her passion are brilliant! You can get in touch with Carla here on LinkedIn: ...
Feb 10, 2025•35 min
In 1998 I had just started my first mechanical engineering job out of school and joined up with the local community band in Lexington, Kentucky. Most of my engineering graduate studies have revolved around acoustic modeling of the trumpet shape, proving out several observations people had made in the past. However, there was very little work done on the structure and other aspects not associated with the air-column. After playing extensively for many years after completing a BA in music, I wante...
Feb 06, 2025•38 min
Meet Marisa O'Neill who is the CEO of RetireMed based in Cincinnati, Ohio. RetireMed is a health plan advisory service firm guiding individuals to find the best healthcare options while also partnering with employers mostly in the tri-state region. She has a wealth of leadership experience in the industry while being with RetireMed for ~15 years and serving in the CEO role the last 4 years. She shares how the business has grown to over 125 employees with a focus on providing outstanding service ...
Feb 06, 2025•26 min
In Today's Business Spotlight interview, Sonali Nigam interviews Rebecca Galley, CEO at Tornado Wire Ltd. Rebecca shares her experience that doing difficult things has helped her develop her business self. Leaving your comfort zone is one big learning, and networking is crucial. Her biggest piece of advice: Hire people based on values. You can get in touch with Rebecca Galley here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccaga... 🔔 Want your business to be featured as our next Business Spot...
Feb 06, 2025•14 min
🎙️ Welcome to the Business Spotlight Series with your host, Kay Cote! In this episode, we sit down with Jon Stone, Managing Director of Frederick Cooper, to uncover the secrets of running a successful business in the high-end automotive industry -- yes we're talking 007 James Bond! 🚗✨ Jon shares his journey from accounting graduate to leading a renowned company specializing in premium paint spraying and powder coating for luxury car brands like Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, and Bugatti. Learn how...
Feb 06, 2025•24 min
Warren Vandever's journey from military service to founding and leading Gophr, a logistics technology company, is a testament to resilience and adaptability. This interview explores his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. Initially conceived as a simple solution to a personal problem, Gophr evolved into a sophisticated platform addressing a significant need in the logistics industry. The company's growth has not been without its hurdles; navigating th...
Feb 06, 2025•35 min
ActionCOACH Sugar Land coach Warren Fiihr interviews Larry Galan for insight on why startups fail, helping businesses succeed, and focusing on what really counts. You can get in touch with Larry here on LinkedIn: / larry-galan-47ab453a 🔔 Want your business to be featured as our next Business Spotlight? Book in your FREE podcast slot today via our website: https://www.businessspotlightseries.com #business #advice #podcast #businessowner #businesstips #growth #businessgrowth #businesslesson #busi...
Feb 06, 2025•25 min
In this Business SPotlight episode, host Sonali Nigam interviews Craig Bunting, Co-founder of BEAR. His biggest learning in business is that trial and Error is what has worked for him and also how to react to things beyond your control. He recommends to work with people whom you share same mindset. You can get in touch with Craig Bunting here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-bun... 🔔 Want your business to be featured as our next Business Spotlight? Book in your FREE podcast slot t...
Feb 06, 2025•15 min
Join host Heather Frierson on the Business Spotlight Podcast as she interviews Michelle Tinsley, former Intel executive turned CEO of Sciata. Michelle shares her inspiring journey from corporate America to becoming a successful entrepreneur and angel investor. She dives into her career transitions from finance to product management, sales, and ultimately leading a custom software solutions company. Discover Michelle's goal-driven mindset, her insights on navigating the shift from corporate to st...
Feb 06, 2025•39 min
Welcome to the Business Spotlight Series! I'm your host, Kay Cote, and today we’re thrilled to feature James Haslam, CEO of Calztec. In this insightful episode, we explore James' journey to becoming a successful business owner, from his entrepreneurial beginnings to running a thriving commercial refurbishment company. Learn about the challenges he faced, the lessons he’s learned, and his best practices for growing a resilient team and business. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a business pr...
Feb 06, 2025•15 min
Join host Kay Cote in this inspiring episode of the Business Spotlight Series as she sits down with Tyler Amundsen, CEO of LightDoc. Tyler shares his entrepreneurial journey, from launching a startup in the AI space to transforming the insurance industry with innovative solutions. Discover how Tyler identified inefficiencies in the insurance sector and built cutting-edge AI tools to streamline document processing and empower professionals. He also dives into the importance of networking, setting...
Feb 06, 2025•19 min