In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred takes listeners inside the 2024 Annual Small Business Success Summit, sponsored by the Florida SBDC Network. The episode features a compelling conversation with Brett Barnhart, Division President for the Treasure Coast at South State Bank. With over 24 years of experience in banking, Brett shares valuable insights on the growth and unique decentralized model of South State Bank, which extends from Key West to Roanoke and is expanding into Texas and Colorado. He highlights the bank's commitment to small business lending through programs like Business Lending Express and emphasizes the significance of local decision-making in the banking process. The episode underscores the critical role that local banks and partnerships play in supporting small business growth and success, as Brett shares a heartwarming story about South State's dedication to customer service that reaches even out-of-state bank branches.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

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• SouthState Bank

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred explores the essential realm of trademarks and legal protections with special guests Melissa Jada and Holly McFall, founders of SecureMark Legal. Recorded live at the 2024 Annual Small Business Success Summit, they discuss critical steps small businesses must take to safeguard their brands. The conversation emphasizes the significance of trademarks, dispels common misconceptions about business name registration, and details the comprehensive services offered by SecureMark Legal. This episode highlights the importance of implementing proper legal measures to protect a business's brand and intellectual property.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

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• SecureMark Legal

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with keynote speaker Patric Young at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida. Patric, a former professional basketball player and now a motivational speaker, shares his inspiring journey from competing under Coach Billy Donovan at the University of Florida to thriving as an entrepreneur. He discusses the significance of mentorship, the challenges he has faced, and how he leverages his experiences to empower others. The episode underscores the importance of networking, continuous learning, and making fiscally responsible decisions to achieve success in business.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

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• Patric Young

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred engages with Lynn McNamee, founder and president of Lone Armadillo Learning, to explore the critical role of employee training in small businesses. Recorded live at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida, Lynn discusses how professional development is key to not only enhancing skills but also improving employee retention and engagement. She explains how Lone Armadillo Learning provides flexible, independent online learning solutions, perfect for small businesses that may lack dedicated HR resources. The episode dives into the rising demand for training, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, and how small businesses can remain competitive by investing in their workforce.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

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• Lone Armadillo Learning

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Boyd Karren, founder of Otro Financial, to discuss the critical topic of startup financing. Recorded live at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida, Boyd shares his entrepreneurial journey and the ways in which Otro Financial helps startups under two years old secure much-needed funding when traditional banks may not offer support. The conversation explores alternative lending options available for early-stage businesses, the qualifications for startup loans, and the broader importance of fostering financial support for businesses in their infancy.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

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• Otro Financial

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred is joined by lending experts Nathan Shepard, Javier Jorge, and Daniel McDonald from Lake Michigan Credit Union. Recorded live at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida, this conversation sheds light on the key differences between banks and credit unions, emphasizing how relationship-building can expedite the lending process for small businesses. The team discusses the growing demand for small business acquisition loans, with a deep dive into the versatile uses of SBA 7(a) loans and the strategic focus on small balance lending. Tune in to learn about the current lending landscape in Florida and how credit unions like Lake Michigan Credit Union play a crucial role in supporting small businesses.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

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• Lake Michigan Credit Union

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred interviews Carol Graham and Isaac Altman from HOCS Consulting, recorded live at the 2024 Small Business Success Summit in Ponte Vedra, Florida. The conversation centers on how small businesses can effectively leverage IT solutions to streamline their operations and safeguard their data. Carol and Isaac dive into the importance of IT support, cybersecurity, and the integration of technology to help businesses scale and maintain efficiency. They also share how HOCS Consulting assists companies through mergers and acquisitions, ensuring smooth transitions from a technology standpoint. This episode provides valuable insights into optimizing business operations through tech-driven strategies.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the Small Business Success Summit hosted at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

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• HOCS Consulting

In this special episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Jonel Hein, the district director of the North Florida Small Business Administration (SBA) District Office. Together, they explore the pivotal role that the SBA and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) play in empowering small businesses throughout Florida.

Jonel shares exciting updates, including North Florida approaching an impressive $1 billion in SBA approvals and contracting. The conversation highlights the various resources, training programs, and support systems offered by the SBA, designed to help businesses navigate government contracts and achieve sustainable growth.

Listeners will gain insights into the importance of the SBA's partnership with the SBDC, along with initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility and support for entrepreneurs. They also discuss ongoing efforts to expand outreach and responsiveness to meet the evolving needs of the small business community.

Join us for this informative episode packed with valuable resources and updates that can help your business thrive!