The Blind Spot

Have you ever felt disrespected by me? Do we have some old beef just rotting under the surface that we've never addressed? Do you have an unpopular opinion about the transportation industry (or anything else?) Do you just want a platform to vent and be heard in a free and uncensored forum? I'm rebooting my life in 2021, and I want all of you to come with me. It's time to make changes, in our industry and beyond, and we can only do it together. I'm specifically looking at you Bill Faeth, Sam Rubin, Chris Vecchio, Rob Corwin, and Brian Riccio, but literally anyone else is welcome, even if we've never met or spoken before, who has thoughts about this industry and where it's going — good or bad. I'm tearing down walls, opening myself up, taking a humble position, and I'm ready to have the difficult conversations that we all probably need right now. This is the place where grievances can be aired. Let's clear that shit up so maybe we can all start to breathe again.  This is Dave 2.0.20:13#transportationindustry #industrypodcast #themoreyouknow #theblindspotpodcast #whatarentyouseeing #podcast #vlog #blog #daveuziel #urbanbcnworldwide #teamurbanbcn #cleartheair #reboot #2021

*CONTENT WARNING* This conversation includes references to suicide, drug addiction, depression and PTSD.COVID-19 has brought financial hardship for pretty much everyone, but you don't always hear the stories of how people are handling things behind closed doors ... This week I'm talking mental health, during the pandemic and beyond, with my friend Derek Stafford, owner of Elegant Image Limousine in San Luis Obispo, California. We're getting real about how hopelessness can come for you, no matter who you are, and some potential ways to navigate out of it. Major props to Derek for coming into this wide open and willing to share his very personal story. He has a ton of great advice, based on his own experiences, and that also extends into the end of our conversation when we touch on how each of our businesses are doing with the current state of the industry, and where things might be headed next. I loved recording this, and if it helps even one of you find your way out of a difficult emotional battle it'll be more than worth it. Remember that it is ALWAYS a good idea to ask for help if you need it - Derek and I are both proud examples of this (shout out to his counselor, Dr. Jason Richardson, down in Carlsbad). Enjoy guys, and be well.Also available on Facebook, IGTV and YouTube for full video. Spotify and Stitcher, too.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.Read more information about BILL FAETH on the Limo University websiteFollow ELEGANT IMAGE LIMOUSINE on Instagram THE BLIND SPOTInstagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  //  Facebook  //  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  //  Instagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTube  //  Twitter  //  LinkedIn

I literally never met Matt Marcus (@mattynotimes) before we sat down for this interview, but he is immediately my brother. Such a like-minded dialogue about being a business owner before, during, and potentially after the pandemic. We're coming from opposite sides of the country and operating in completely different industries - he has tattoo shops, bars and restaurants - but we dug into so many topics that have touched both of our lives and which I hope will resonate with you as well. He's a man 'with his hands in a lot of cookie jars' and he brings a lot of valuable insight about how to run a business, and really, how to live a life. Shout out to Dinamo in Richmond, VA (and probably Three Kings Tattoo as well, let's be honest) - I'm coming for you as soon as health and safety regulations make it possible! Thanks again to Matt for taking the time, I loved this conversation.Also available on Facebook, IGTV and YouTube for full video. Spotify and Stitcher, too.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.Matt's other business ventures include:A BAR in Brooklyn  Zekes Bar in Brooklyn Franny's Pizzeria in Highlands, NJ Little Wolf WhiskeyTHE BLIND SPOTInstagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  //  Facebook  //  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  //  Instagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTube  //  Twitter  //  LinkedIn

This week I'm sitting down with Simon Curtis of Curtis Gabriel to discuss a topic that's become more and more relevant in the business world: social media. As the founder and Business Development Director of his UK-based digital marketing and advertising agency, Simon has made it the central focus of his team's expertise, and shares so much valuable information about how entrepreneurs and companies can use social media marketing to connect with their communities and build their brand recognition. I don't care what your industry is, this applies to you. Tune in as Simon basically just drops knowledge bombs for an hour - I personally took an entire page of notes - plus we touch on how to start connecting with multiple generations of potential clients, which I think is relevant to everyone right now. I'm excited about this conversation, hope you learn something as well.Also available on Facebook, IGTV and YouTube for full video. Spotify and Stitcher, too.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.Learn more about Operation Healing Forces in Tampa, FLCURTIS GABRIELInstagram  //  Facebook  //  Twitter  //  LinkedInTHE BLIND SPOTInstagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  //  Facebook  //  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  //  Instagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTube  //  Twitter  //  LinkedIn

Today I'm sitting down to dig in on a question that's been floating around in the transportation industry ever since Uber entered the marketplace in 2009: What is the difference between us, and the services that these TNC's (Transportation Network Companies) provide? The most obvious divergence everyone likes to point to is the money, and of course that's a factor. But especially right now when all the behind-the-scenes protocols you perhaps don't see are so important - like sanitation and internal company regulations - I felt like it was time to really highlight these details so everyone seeking transportation services can make informed decisions. I'm in conversation with two industry leaders: COO of SLADE Services, Charlie Horky, is back, along with Robert Alexander, current National Limousine Association President and President / CEO of RMA Worldwide. Join us for a discussion around the internal workings of our companies, our mindsets regarding how to run our businesses, and thoughts about the industry in general, especially as we continue to navigate the pandemic landscape. This isn't an hour of TNC-bashing. Even we can admit that they fill a specific space in the industry. But the misconception that 'they' are 'us' needs to be addressed. So, if you want an unfiltered and uncut look at how we're approaching the decisions and choices that shape our companies (and affect your experiences) stick around. There's a lot of truth and a lot of knowledge getting dropped today ... mostly by the other guys. Thanks again to Charlie and Robert! Also available on Facebook, IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.SLADE SERVICESInstagram  //  Facebook  //  Twitter  RMA WORLDWIDEInstagram  //  Facebook  //  TwitterNLALinkedIn  //  Facebook  //  TwitterTHE BLIND SPOTInstagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  //  Facebook  //  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  //  Instagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTube  //  Twitter  //  LinkedIn

This week Robin Horwitz, my friend and fellow PowerWod trainee with Jesse Burdick at CSA Gym, is back - you might remember him from Episode 6, when we discussed specific ways the deaf community has been affected by the pandemic. In addition to being a serial entrepreneur and powerlifter, Robin is a self-taught stock market aficionado. Starting as a day and swing trader, he's worked his way up in knowledge and skillset, and has taught me a lot about how the market works and how to navigate it as I've set up my own portfolio. From options to futures (his favorite) to hedging and beyond, we touch on a lot of different aspects and Robin gives some advice on how you might start with your own stock explorations. Thanks so much to our two ASL interpreters, Jewel and Janina, for making this conversation possible. Also available on Facebook, IGTV and YouTube for full video of the ASL content. If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.ROBIN HORWITZManaging Partner at Interpreter-Now robinhorwitz@me.comTHE BLIND SPOTInstagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  //  Facebook  //  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  //  Instagram  //  Facebook  //  YouTube  //  Twitter  //  LinkedIn

Buses fill a specific role in transportation, and they've always been loved for their 'recession-proof' status. Turns out that solid standing doesn't translate to a pandemic. Kevin Duff, President of Chicago's Signature Transportation Group, and TJ Doyle, VP of Operations at Gold Shield Transportation in Lexington, KY, are buddies of mine through our NextGen Collective group and they've both given me a lot of advice over the years, specifically around adding buses to my fleet and how to enterprise there. Today we're talking about how each of our companies are addressing safety and sanitation with the coronavirus, what the industry looks like today (and what we're hoping for over the next 6 months), not to mention TJ's brush with COVID-19, and I even let drop a little trivia about my uncle who you probably already know ... This is a great industry discussion with a lot of personal notes thrown in, and I really appreciate these guys coming in to break it all down with me.Also available on Facebook, IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.SIGNATURE TRANSPORTATIONInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  TwitterGOLD SHIELD TRANSPORTATIONInstagram ||  Facebook  ||  TwitterTHE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

Today we're addressing (and hopefully clearing up) some questions and misconceptions around CBD, the different ways it can be incorporated into your life, and who might benefit from its use. Robyn Goldenberg of HempCann Association is back, along with Todd Dewitt, owner and founder of Leven CBD, and Shira Adler, owner and founder of Shira Synergy Products. All three are entrepreneurs and progressive voices in the CBD space, and we discuss the potential of CBD for PTSD support, the stigma of marijuana as a 'gateway drug,' getting started with a CBD business, different modalities for CBD use, the communities it could help, and so much more. Obviously this topic has a lot of angles, and we couldn't cover all of them, but I hope you'll come out of it with a better understanding of exactly what CBD is (and isn't) and how you could potentially explore it for yourself, either as a client or a person wanting to break into the industry. Todd has even offered my listeners an exclusive discount code to get you started: Use BLINDSPOT20 through the end of the year at www.levencbd.com for 20% off any non-sale items and free shipping on your first order.Also available on Facebook, IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.TODD DEWITT:  LinkedInLeven CBD:  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  WebsiteROBYN GOLDENBERG:  LinkedInHempCann Association:  Instagram  ||  Website  Strategy Leaders Business Consulting:  Instagram  ||  Website NextGen Collective:  Instagram SHIRA ADLER:  LinkedInShira Synergy Products:  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  WebsiteTHE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

Episodes like this one are basically the whole reason I started this podcast. The slogan is ‘What aren't you seeing?' and we really get to explore that concept this week, on multiple levels. I know Robin Horwitz from CSA Gym, and he brought his friend Gerardo Di Pietro to join us for one of the more interesting conversations I've had in a long time. Both of them are deaf, and together with their interpreters we discuss how the pandemic has been affecting their lives, and the lives of others in the deaf community — face mask difficulties, and beyond. Thanks again to our interpreters, Kristina and Carol. If you'd like to see the video version (obviously the visuals for this one are an important part of the conversation) head over to our Facebook, IGTV or YouTube channels.Watch a video detailing the UrbanBCN vehicle cleaning procedures here: https://bit.ly/nottodaycovidIf you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.THE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

On this episode of The Blind Spot, we get to know Mark Kini, 20-year owner of Boston Chauffeur and founder of the fitness apparel brand Iron Essential. Not only is he a great friend and mentor, he's become like a brother to me over the years and is definitely one of the people who helped make me a better operator back when I was first starting out in the transportation industry. He started building this life back when he was just a youngster, and we dive into a lot of fun stuff as we talk about what that journey has looked like for him, plus some workout and fitness tips, and which celebrity he briefly worked as a body double for. Hope you enjoy this one! Also available on IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.MARK KINIInstagram  ||  FacebookBOSTON CHAUFFEURWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  TwitterIRON ESSENTIAL Website  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook THE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInURBANBCN WORLDWIDEWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

Chief Marketing Officer and head of Business Development at Strategy Leaders Business Consulting, strongwoman in training, powerhouse mom, and co-founder of HempCann Association, Robyn Goldenberg is basically an all-around badass and I am so lucky to have her on the podcast this week. We met through limo industry channels, and then connected over powerlifting - she was training for a strongwoman competition before the pandemic shut it down - and realized we should probably be friends. Turned out great, as you'll see. If you're any kind of entrepreneur or business owner, she definitely has some tips for you as she talks all stuff EIDL and PPP. Plus her wealth of knowledge about just life in general and how to be happy in it makes this episode a winner on multiple levels. Also available on IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.Robyn GoldenbergInstagram  ||  LinkedInHempCann AssociationInstagram  ||  Website  Strategy Leaders Business ConsultingInstagram  ||  Website NextGen CollectiveInstagram The Blind SpotInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDave UzielInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInUrbanBCN Worldwide, Executive Transportation and Private AviationWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

‘Candid' doesn't even begin to describe my conversation with this week's guest, Charlie Horky. A true legend in so many circles, Charlie lays it all out on the table as we discuss his 40 years in the limousine and luxury transportation industry. From living and working during his heyday running EmpireCLS in Las Vegas, to his experiences with the ‘ultimate timeout' of a 22-month prison stint, to what he thinks gives him an edge in his current position as COO of SLADE Services. If you've ever wondered about Charlie's approach to life and the things he's seen along the way — and even if you haven't — this episode is for you. Thanks so much to Charlie for his transparency, and for sharing so many insights about the state of the business economy and how to stay competitive in an ever-changing environment. This is one for the books, sit back and enjoy. Also available on IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.CHARLIE HORKYInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedInSLADE Services, Chauffeured Transportation ManagementWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedIn  THE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInUrbanBCN Worldwide, Executive Transportation and Private AviationWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedInALSO REFERENCEDEmpireCLS Worldwide Transportation Services

And we're back, thanks for tuning in. Really trying to break things down a bit in this episode ... we're all looking at a lot right now. Not only has the global pandemic crippled our economy, but a horrible death occurred in Minneapolis that has brought some core issues to the surface in a nationwide conversation. Additionally, there have been groups of people avoiding the direct issue and causing destruction to cities across the country. Today, I invited three great friends of mine - Tamekius Breland, Mike Fridge and Eddie Monroy - to discuss race in America and their personal experiences. This isn't meant to be political, but rather four adults having a discussion in order to better understand each other, and the state of things. Also available on IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.THE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInUrbanBCN Worldwide, Executive Transportation and Private AviationWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

This is a good one. If you don't know Jesse Burdick, he's a lifelong powerlifter and coach, and has worked with some of the best athletes around with the strength training program he developed, PowerWod. It's currently accessible online via digital membership or in person at Combat Sports Academy in Dublin, CA. But really those accolades are just scratching the surface - his knowledge about almost everything is amazing, and I'm lucky to have him in my corner. We could have gone on for hours, maybe he'll have to come back for Round 2. For now, hope you enjoy it. Also available on IGTV and YouTube for full video.If you like this episode, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.JESSE BURDICKJesseBurdick@Gmail.com  ||  Instagram  PowerWOD strength training programInstagram  ||  FacebookCombat Sports AcademyInstagram  ||  FacebookTHE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInUrbanBCN Worldwide, Executive Transportation and Private AviationWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

What's up guys - super excited about the return of my podcast. At times like this, we need to come together, and ideally have some fun. Tune in as I cover topics from industry news and social commentary to health and wellness, and most importantly: personal development and growth. I hope you really enjoy it. If you're excited to follow the series, please consider sharing, subscribing or leaving us a 5-star review. It helps people find us, and is greatly appreciated.THE BLIND SPOTInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTubeDAVE UZIELInstagram  ||  Facebook  ||  LinkedInUrbanBCN Worldwide, Executive Transportation and Private AviationWebsite  ||  Instagram  ||  Facebook  ||  YouTube  ||  Twitter  ||  LinkedIn

Whats up everyone? I hope you all had a great holiday season and a happy New Year. For UrbanBCN Worldwide, 2018 was amazing and 2019 will be just as great. This episode talks about my personal struggles that have caused me to be absent from a lot of my life. I hope this opens even just one person's eyes to the idea that we all might carry personal demons. Thanks for listening, and follow along on IG and FB.

Whats up everyone? Thanks for tuning in to another episode of the Limo Lounge Podcast. I had the chance to sit with a good buddy Sam Emam from BZZ Limousines out of New Jersey while we were at the LCT show in Atlantic City. We really got into deep conversation about his move from his family business to BZZ and how it allowed him to really step up his game. Everyone knows Sam as a great guy and this episode shows why. Hope you enjoy it.

Hey Everyone. Hope you guys are enjoying the podcast. This episode, I sit with my buddy Nick Boccio from Buffalo Limos. Learned a lot about the history of his family's company which was started by his grandpa. Hope you guys enjoy this one.

Hi Guys, had the opportunity to sit with Richard de Krijger from DMC of Amsterdam. Richard is a character in his own ways but his company has become one of the leading affiliate provider in his native country. We talk about the different rules that US operators should know when booking in Amsterdam. Hope you enjoy this.

Had the opportunity to sit with Raman Bhardwaj of CsrLuxe in New York and hear his story. It's the true struggle of the american dream. Hope you guys enjoyed it because I did.

This interview is special to me because I had the opportunity to get to know Kevin Duff over the last 9 months as he is a member of my Strategy Leaders Next Gen Group. Kevin has a wealth of knowledge which makes him an asset for his company. With all politics and bullshit aside, Kevin is a good dude and many people don't know him that well. I hope you enjoy this one. 

Our special guest on this episode of the Limo Lounge Podcast is Tina Nguyen of Concierge Limousine in Southern California. She wears various hats at Concierge Limousine but many people know her as the affiliate manager. We talk about a lot of important topics that are part of this industry and she doesn't hold back her feelings. I hope everyone enjoys this episode.

This episode will be great for anyone looking to build their own sales team. For most, its us as owners that are the sales people but Lori gives us some great insight. Lori comes from Premier of Dallas, where she has successful grown the sales side of their company. Hope you enjoy this one.

This was a great chat with Lexi Tucker of LCT Magazine. It was unfiltered and just a blast to hang out with someone I just had met. I asked her a few questions on her personal opinion on things. Please remind yourself that her is opinion is her own and not of LCT Magazine. I think she carried herself so maturely in this episode. Hope you enjoy.

We dive into the ever so growing affiliate world with our special guest Corey Witzel. Corey currently works remotely for UrbanBCN Worldwide in San Francisco but has over 20 years of experience in the industry. From a driver to a dispatcher to an affiliate manager, Corey has seen every aspect of the limo industry and its given him the life he loves so dearly. Hope you enjoy the episode. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Facebook...

This episode is just about me and the reasons why I wanted to do this podcast. I am not in it for anything other than learning from all the amazing industry people.