Podcasts about business development center

Managing Director of Innovation DuPage Dan Facchini joins Lisa Dent (in for Jon Hansen) on Your Money Matters to discuss how their programs are helping businesses and organizations grow. They are joined by Ileen Kelly, Director of the Business Development Center in DuPage County, and recent graduate of Innovation DuPage's Owner to CEO Business Accelerator Program […]

I'm a sucker for fresh ideas, and this is the most unique marketing case study we've covered on the podcast in ages. In December 2023, Nadine Nethery turned heads with a holiday-themed scavenger hunt on her website aptly named “I've Elfed Myself.” The concept? Nine hidden treasures tucked across her site that had her audience clicking, hunting, and completely hooked. In just 24 days, Nadine grew her list by 50%, generated $9K in revenue from 68 buyers, and secured two new clients — all without spending a dime on ads.  This innovative marketing campaign also unlocked long-term wins, including word of mouth buzz around the scavenger hunt experience in communities beyond her own, inbound summit and podcast invitations, and a surge in both site sessions and engagement time on her site - hello Google optimization! Let's break down the data-driven strategies behind Nadine's festive marketing magic and the ripple effects it continues to create for her brand. View the transcript for this episode at: https://otter.ai/u/qzNnVyqobb4wiIWk1LL8W3FitNc?utm_source=copy_url Thank you to our sponsor! Get the support you need to ignite your business' growth through the Women's Business Development Center! Visit https://wbdc.org to browse all the available programs, services, financial assistance and events they provide. Connect with Nadine: Mastering CX | The Private Customer Experience Podcast: https://link.candocontent.com/cubicle Hidden Gems Mini Training: https://d227cbb2.streaklinks.com/CRKVFTrR0eJGxS1tfAi7KrHN/https%3A%2F%2Fcandocontent.com%2Fhidden-gems IG: @candocontent Iconic business leaders all have their own unique genius. Take this quick 10 question quiz to uncover your specific CEO style advantage: https://ellenyin.com/quiz If you enjoyed today's episode, please: Post a screenshot & key takeaway on your IG story and tag me @missellenyin & @cubicletoceo so we can repost you. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/cubicletoceo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Join our C-Suite membership to get bonus episodes! Check out everything our members get at https://ellenyin.com/csuite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Good morning and happy Tuesday. This is our first in-studio interview of the year! Our guest today is Minerva Calatayud of the Women's Business Development Center here to tell us about an exciting series of workshops, the Government Contracting Bootcamp! These in-person workshops are held in spanish and begin Wednesday, January 22nd with a graduation on Friday, February 7th. This is important and meaningful information so let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - Join the City of Aurora's Human Relations Commission today and let your voice and ideas be heard! The commission conducts in-person meetings at City Hall in the Council Chambers Conference Room at 5:30 pm, every second Thursday of the month. See the flyer for more details and visit the website to apply here: https://www.aurora-il.org/1078/Human-Relations-Commission - Visit Alive Aurora every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for Drop In Space for 5th through 12th graders! From 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm there will be a variety of activities to take part in, teen-led and teen-driven. See the flyer for more details and follow the Alive Center on Facebook and Instagram! Have a great rest of the day! Good Morning Aurora will return with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in 5 days a week, Monday thru Friday from 9:00 to 9:30 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Threads: https://www.threads.net/@goodmorningaurorail Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora ACTV (Aurora Community Television): https://www.aurora-il.org/309/Aurora-Community-TV #positivevibes #positiveenergy #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #morningnews #morningshow #tuesday #WBDC #negocios

What if writing a book could triple your rates and position you as the top expert in your field? Today's case study explores how a self-published book became the ultimate lead generator for Abi Prendergast's service-based business. Abi is the creator of Day #1 Evergreen, the evergreen funnel system that has helped clients generate up to $1.8 million annually — without the stress of live launches. But it wasn't her system that put her on the map—it was the book she wrote about it. In 2023, Abi turned her proven framework into a book designed to position her as the go-to expert in evergreen strategies. With a small email list of just 800 subscribers, her book gained traction almost entirely through Amazon and word of mouth recommendations.  The result? Dream clients started reaching out to hire her and ask her to speak in rooms she never imagined being in, Abi's evergreen funnel service tripled in price to $50K while staying in demand, and she began generating $1-2K per month in passive course sales—all without ads or a large audience. If you play in the high ticket space, discover how a self-published book can amplify your authority and sell out your services. View the transcript for this episode at: https://otter.ai/u/mixuJmG8eHVWvu9NOk-rFHfNYgU?utm_source=copy_url Thank you to our sponsors! Get the support you need to ignite your business' growth through the Women's Business Development Center! Visit https://wbdc.org to browse all the available programs, services, financial assistance and events they provide. Try the #1 all-in-one E-commerce platform: Shopify! Sign up for a one dollar per month trial period at https://shopify.com/ellen Connect with Abi: www.aptcontent.co.uk  IG: @aptcontent https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-prendergast-2a5953b1/ Iconic business leaders all have their own unique genius. Take this quick 10 question quiz to uncover your specific CEO style advantage: https://ellenyin.com/quiz If you enjoyed today's episode, please: Post a screenshot & key takeaway on your IG story and tag me @missellenyin & @cubicletoceo so we can repost you. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/cubicletoceo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Join our C-Suite membership to get bonus episodes! Check out everything our members get at https://ellenyin.com/csuite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've got an online marketing icon behind the mic today! Jasmine Star is a world-class speaker, podcast host, and the founder of Social Curator, a SaaS company that works like a social media marketing agency in your pocket. In today's case study, we uncover exactly how Jasmine fundraised over $555,000 from her community in just 1 hour to propel the growth of Social Curator. Instead of looking to banks, VCs, or angel investors, Jasmine turned to her community of already invested users for a bootstrapped cash injection. We examine the urgency plays she used to exceed her goal amount in under an hour, including the logistics of her best conversion secret: recording hundreds of personalized videos for individuals on her waitlist. View the transcript for this episode at: https://otter.ai/u/06BdGIXMFZe44STr4H1v9Tuvw2E?utm_source=copy_url Thank you to our sponsor! Get the support you need to ignite your business' growth through the Women's Business Development Center! Visit https://wbdc.org to browse all the available programs, services, financial assistance and events they provide. Try the #1 all-in-one E-commerce platform: Shopify! Sign up for a one dollar per month trial period at https://shopify.com/ellen Connect with Jasmine: The Jasmine Star Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jasmine-star-show/id1479619320 Social Curator: https://www.socialcurator.com/ IG: @jasminestar Iconic business leaders all have their own unique genius. Take this quick 10 question quiz to uncover your specific CEO style advantage: https://ellenyin.com/quiz If you enjoyed today's episode, please: Post a screenshot & key takeaway on your IG story and tag me @missellenyin & @cubicletoceo so we can repost you. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/cubicletoceo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Join our C-Suite membership to get bonus episodes! Check out everything our members get at https://ellenyin.com/csuite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you're overworked in your business, the last thing you want to do is add an after-hours commitment. But a strategic evaluation process completed in the evenings over a 2 week window is exactly what allowed this week's guest to cut her weekly working hours from 45 down to 15! Serial entrepreneur and founder of the Pursuit Company, Amanda Moffett, developed the GOLD framework out of this experiment, an approach she utilized to streamline her business, get rid of anything that wasn't necessary, and make her operations as efficient as possible. After working through this framework solo, she brought it to her team and they saw improvements in just 24 hours after implementing new systems. Here's the step-by-step framework that reimagined Amanda's business and reduced the chaos. View the transcript for this episode at: https://otter.ai/u/Or2CyNCryblBcvQqIf_IW8MIxYU?utm_source=copy_url Thank you to our sponsor! Get the support you need to ignite your business' growth through the Women's Business Development Center! Visit https://wbdc.org to browse all the available programs, services, financial assistance and events they provide. Connect with Amanda: Free Resource: The 6 Pillar Business Checklist: https://thepursuit.site/checklist https://thepursuit.site/ Join The Freedom Society: https://pursuit.kartra.com/page/joinnow IG: @pursuit.company IG: @the.pursuitpodcast The Pursuit Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pursuit-podcast/id1727602219 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pursuitcompany/ Iconic business leaders all have their own unique genius. Take this quick 10 question quiz to uncover your specific CEO style advantage: https://ellenyin.com/quiz If you enjoyed today's episode, please: Post a screenshot & key takeaway on your IG story and tag me @missellenyin & @cubicletoceo so we can repost you. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/cubicletoceo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Join our C-Suite membership to get bonus episodes! Check out everything our members get at https://ellenyin.com/csuite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maura Mitchell, a lawyer and MBA, shares her work at the Women's Business Development Center, helping micro businesses test their assumptions and scale. She guides entrepreneurs through a process of testing their early ideas using the Lean Startup Method and the business model canvas. Mitchell emphasizes the importance of market research and customer discovery interviews to validate assumptions and find product-market fit. She also highlights the value of accountability and mentorship in helping entrepreneurs navigate the early stages of their businesses. Mitchell's work includes supporting a retail incubator and coaching and education businesses. She envisions expanding her impact by providing connections and facilitating collaboration among entrepreneurs.

Episode 23 of The Chicago View Podcast dives into some of the biggest stories in the entertainment world. Join hosts Parnell, Lexi, and Shawn Bills as they unpack the latest developments in Cardi B's personal life and 50 Cent's expanding empire.The episode kicks off with a detailed analysis of Cardi B's recent filing for divorce from Offset, marking another tumultuous chapter in their high-profile relationship. The hosts explore the reasons behind the split, focusing on the allegations of cheating, and discuss the implications for both their careers and personal lives, especially concerning custody of their children.Switching gears, the conversation moves to 50 Cent's recent interview where he opens up about his upcoming projects, including a documentary on Diddy and his ambitions for a Super Bowl performance. The team delves into 50 Cent's strategic moves within the entertainment industry, examining his influence and the potential impact of these projects on his legacy.Tune into Episode 23 for a compelling mix of celebrity insight, critical analysis, and the engaging discussions you've come to expect from The Chicago View Podcast. Whether it's the latest gossip or strategic career moves, our hosts cover all the angles, providing listeners with a deep understanding of the dynamics at play.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

This week on Episode 19 of The Chicago View Podcast, join hosts Lexi, DeAngelo, and newcomer Parnell as they dive into the latest controversies from the entertainment world. The episode kicks off with a discussion on Keith Lee's actions at the BET Awards—was he doing too much when he dropped the rose given to him by Taraji P. Henson? The hosts analyze the incident, audience reactions, and what it says about celebrity behavior in the spotlight.The conversation heats up with the latest scandal involving Ryan Garcia. After the famed boxer used a racial slur during a heated rant, the team discusses the repercussions of his words, the public and professional backlash, and the ongoing issues of accountability in sports.Tune in to Episode 19 for a lively and insightful analysis of these topics, featuring the sharp perspectives and unique insights of The Chicago View Podcast team. Don't miss out as Lexi, DeAngelo, and Parnell unpack these pressing stories and more, offering their take on the controversies shaking up the entertainment and sports industries.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

Episode 18 of The Chicago View Podcast dives into two headline-grabbing stories that have taken the entertainment world by storm. First, join hosts Lexi, DeAngelo, and Rita as they explore the controversy surrounding artist Tyla's recent appearance on The Breakfast Club. The episode dissects her contentious refusal to discuss her ethnic background, sparking debates about identity and celebrity privacy. The hosts provide in-depth analysis, weighing in on the public's reaction and the broader implications for artists in the spotlight.The episode then shifts to the surprising news of Diddy's secret marriage to his long-time girlfriend and baby mama. The hosts discuss the details of this unexpected revelation, exploring how it was kept under wraps and the potential impacts on Diddy's personal and professional life. They also consider the reactions from fans and media, offering insights into the dynamics of private relationships in the public eye.Tune in to Episode 18 for a compelling mix of controversy, surprise, and expert commentary, all brought to you by the insightful and engaging team at The Chicago View Podcast. Whether you're here for the celebrity scoop or thoughtful discussions on identity and privacy, this episode promises to keep you informed and entertained.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

Episode 17 of The Chicago View Podcast kicks off with a bang as hosts Lexi, DeAngelo, and Rita dive into Kendrick Lamar's electrifying Juneteenth concert, where he delivered a series of diss tracks aimed at Drake. The hosts unpack the lyrical showdown and its implications, exploring how Kendrick used this star-studded event to make a bold statement on such a culturally significant day.Next, the conversation shifts to a serious public health issue—the alarming surge in STD rates in Texas over just the last weekend. The team discusses the startling statistics, potential causes, and what this means for public health efforts in the region.Wrapping up the episode, the spotlight turns to the sports world where Devin Haney's recent boxing loss to Ryan Garcia has been overturned. This dramatic twist came after Garcia tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs, leading to a one-year suspension from boxing. Our hosts analyze the repercussions of this decision for both fighters and the sport, examining issues of fairness and the future of boxing regulations.Tune into Episode 17 for these fascinating discussions, offering not just news but in-depth insights into the stories that are shaping our culture and society. Don't miss The Chicago View Podcast as we dissect the biggest headlines and their underlying stories.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

Life is precious, and when we are thrown into the depths of despair after the loss of a loved one, you may never feel like you get to the other side, where every day doesn't make you wonder when the grip of sorrow will release its hold. Slowly, we gain the strength to begin to piece together what is to be. There is a saying, "Sometimes what breaks us recreates us." How do you find the strength to move forward after an unimaginable loss? Our guest, Maura Mitchell, opens up about her journey through grief following the sudden death of her husband, Duncan, during a bike ride.  Listen as Maura shares her story, highlighting the resilience needed to endure life's toughest challenges.Discover the transformative power of gratitude and mindfulness in this touching episode. Maura talks about the tools that have helped her—like gratitude journals and meditation—while reflecting on the profound influence of loved ones in finding joy in life's small moments. From the practice of habit stacking to the complexities of aging and finding purpose later in life, this conversation sheds light on how personal loss can shape professional relationships and approaches.Finally, we explore the intersection of self-care and business growth. Mara shares insights on working with women entrepreneurs, particularly those from under-resourced backgrounds, and the crucial role of accountability and goal-setting. We delve into practical tips for capturing spontaneous ideas and using social media for positive messages, emphasizing the importance of physical activity for mental clarity. Get inspired by Maura's ongoing journey of healing and learn about her impactful work in the Chicagoland area. Follow her on Instagram at Sublime 60s and LinkedIn to stay connected.Maura holds a Juris Doctorate and an MBA and is a Managing Director of Entrepreneurial Services at the Women's Business Development Center. She strategizes as a member of the Board of Directors for her family-owned manufacturing business.I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolanHave questions about Faster Way? Feel free to reach out.mfolanfasterway@gmail.comFollow Asking for a Friend on Social media outlets:https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/https://www.facebook.com/askforafriendpod/Please provide a review and share. This helps us grow! https://lovethepodcast.com/AFAFThis podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Episode 16 of The Chicago View Podcast delivers a gripping mix of legal drama and serious social discussions. Join hosts Lexi, DeAngelo, and Rita as they unpack the unexpected turn of events for Chrisean Rock, who ended up behind bars while attending Blueface's court date. This incident sparks a broader conversation about the unpredictability of celebrity lives and the public's fascination with their legal troubles.The episode takes a deeper, more critical turn with the shocking news from the world of streaming. Michael Rainey Jr., known for his role as Tariq on the hit TV show “Power,” was groped during a live broadcast by the sister of famous streamer Tylil. The hosts dive into this disturbing incident, discussing its implications and the different societal reactions to sexual assault on men versus women. This segment aims to shed light on the disparities and double standards in how sexual assault is perceived and addressed, depending on the gender of the victim.Tune in to Episode 16 for these compelling topics, offering not just news but thoughtful insights into the challenges and double standards that persist in entertainment and beyond. The Chicago View Podcast continues to provide in-depth analysis, lively discussion, and a platform for important issues that demand attention.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

Dive into Episode 15 of The Chicago View Podcast, where hosts Lexi, DeAngelo, and Rita uncover a peculiar family incident: a father unknowingly sliding into his daughter's DMs, igniting viral debates about absent fathers and the detrimental impact of the black community because of it. Switching to the legal spectrum, the episode intensifies as we delve into music producer The-Dream's recent lawsuit. The hosts explore the details of the case, its implications for the music industry, and how it reflects broader legal practices affecting celebrities and creators.The conversation heats up further with a discussion on Kanye West's newest legal challenge involving an employee who claims to have been more than just a staff member. This segment sheds light on the blurred lines between personal and professional relationships in the celebrity world, adding depth to the ongoing conversations about workplace dynamics.Tune in to Episode 15 for these fascinating stories, complete with the right mix of controversy, legal insights, and family drama, all delivered with the signature flair and depth that listeners of The Chicago View Podcast have come to expect.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

Tune into Episode 14 of The Chicago View Podcast where hosts Lexi, DeAngelo, and Rita delve into a mix of celebratory debuts and serious controversies shaking up both the entertainment world and the political landscape. The episode kicks off with North West's theatrical debut in the 30th anniversary musical play of “The Lion King,” discussing her performance and the impact of celebrity children in the entertainment industry.The conversation takes a sharp turn as the team explores the recent guilty conviction of Donald Trump. Our hosts analyze what this precedent-setting legal outcome means for his potential run in the next presidential election, examining the broader implications for American politics.Finally, the episode addresses the emerging scandal involving TikTok influencer Fannita and her questionable interactions with fellow TikTok star Carrington. The hosts unpack the details of the controversy, the community's response, and what it says about the power dynamics at play in social media fame.Join us for Episode 14 of The Chicago View Podcast for a thought-provoking blend of news analysis, cultural commentary, and insightful discussions that you won't want to miss.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

Dive into Episode 13 of The Chicago View Podcast as hosts Lexi, DeAngelo, and Rita unpack a week filled with drama and debate. The episode opens with Kelly Rowland's unexpected confrontation with a female security guard at the Cannes Film Festival. Our hosts analyze the incident, exploring the reactions and what it might mean for celebrity-public interactions at high-profile events.Rita takes the conversation deeper with a discussion on "pretty privilege" – examining how beauty impacts social treatment and opportunities, sparked by recent events and general observations in the entertainment industry.The episode heats up with the shocking news of Nicki Minaj's arrest in Amsterdam after authorities found illegal substances in her bag. The team breaks down the details of the arrest, the legal implications, and what this could mean for Nicki's international tours and brand.#FreeNickiTune in to Episode 13 for these hot topics and more as The Chicago View Podcast continues to provide sharp insights, expert analysis, and the engaging discussions you love. Join us to get the full scoop on these unfolding stories and their wider cultural impacts.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

In this revealing Episode 12 of The Chicago View Podcast, Mz. Lexi, Rita, and DeAngelo dive into the explosive new footage of Diddy's confrontation with Cassie in a luxury hotel, offering in-depth analysis and the latest updates on the controversy. This high-profile celebrity scandal has caught the attention of fans and critics alike, prompting a broader discussion on privacy and celebrity culture.Further stoking societal debates, our hosts explore the growing trend of interracial relationships involving white billionaires and black women, examining the cultural and social implications that have sparked discussions and outrage within various communities. This segment taps into ongoing conversations about race, privilege, and the dynamics of power in relationships.The episode also features DJ Akademiks' dramatic declaration that he'll ‘take everyone with him' if convicted, a statement that has reverberated through the entertainment industry. The hosts unpack the implications of his words and what it could mean for his future.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

In Episode 11 of The Chicago View Podcast, Mz. Lexi, Rita, and DeAngelo tackle a week filled with controversy and heated debates in the celebrity world. The episode opens with an in-depth discussion of Doja Cat's recent appearance at the Met Gala, where her daring outfit stirred up significant attention and criticism. The hosts analyze the public's reaction, the fashion implications, and what this means for Doja Cat's image and career.The episode also delves into the unexpected consequences of comments made by Halle Bailey, which led to a widespread movement where people are choosing to block celebrities on social media. Our hosts explore the broader cultural impact of this trend, discussing the changing dynamics between celebrities and their audiences in the digital age.Further stoking the fires of celebrity conflicts, more details emerge in the ongoing beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. The hosts provide updates on the latest exchanges between the two artists, breaking down their lyrical battles and speculating on the future of their rivalry.Tune into Episode 11 for a compelling mix of fashion, social change, and hip-hop drama, with expert commentary that unpacks each layer of these complex stories. Join The Chicago View Podcast for all the latest insights on what's shaking up the entertainment world.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes.Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions ™️

Amanda is a producer, film-maker, branding expert and sought-after public speaker, sharing her “Do Well By Doing Good” philosophy on stages around the country. She demonstrates how both companies and individuals can make a meaningful and positive difference in people's lives, while fostering their own success in the process. She believes that companies must not only identify their brand purpose, but put that purpose into action. Through her work, Amanda has defined what it looks like for brands to truly act “as publishers”creating movements through their content strategy. In her most recent demonstration of this,Amanda was the Chief Brand Officer of Deluxe where the brand challenge was to reach small businesses. The solution? She created, produced and hosted their Emmy-nominated series“Small Business Revolution,” which streamed on Hulu and was named among Inc. Magazine's top shows for entrepreneurs. Through this inspirational reality show, Amanda was able to prove the model of authentic content stretching a brand's spend by achieving 12x the reach through this series over traditional paid media. The program accumulated over 13 Billion impressions, 6,000+ earned media articles and 20 million content views (and counting). Not to mention - this work changed lives, families, small businesses and communities across the country.Amanda is a nationally renowned brand expert, Forbes contributor, and frequent on-camera personality for national news outlets and celebrity interviews, ranging from LL Cool J to Peyton Manning. She has appeared on CNBC's “Cleveland Hustles,” in addition to hosting the online “Small Talks” series that features successful entrepreneurs across the country.That's all while charting an acclaimed career that spans groundbreaking campaigns for brands like BMW, Reebok andSony, in addition to her role as an inspiring female executive at Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies, such as UnitedHealth Group, Allianz, General Mills, and Deluxe. Amanda's current and former board service includes the Children's CancerResearch Fund, Make-A-Wish, the Children's Theatre Company, the Ordway Performing Arts Center, Ad Council, ANA (Association of National Advertisers) and the Women's Business Development Center. She also passionately volunteers for causes such as Special Olympics, Feed My Starving Children, Habitat for Humanity and more. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband (who happens to be her best friend), her daughter (who is a small but mighty force of nature) and their puppy(who is, of course, adorable). Engage with Amanda: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandakbrinkman/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandakbrinkman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandakbrinkman Website: https://amandakbrinkman.com/ Connect with Ginny: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginnypriem/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginny-priem-8a87248/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ginnypriem Website: https://www.ginnypriem.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ginny-priem/message

Good morning friends and neighbors! It's Tuesday morning and we are here with your #auroraweather and your daily news report. There's a lot of things happening in the City and we want you to all be involved, connected and in charge. This Thursday we'll be at the Everyday Heroes event at Prisco Center and Friday we will be live in the field. More news and more Aurora! Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - This summer we will be with our friends from Aurora Fab 5 Dj's at the 3rd annual Picnic In The Park! Aurora & Chicago Dj's throw down for the crowd in an event that's always a good time. This year there is a fantastic lineup and everyone will be crushing it all day! We will be doing interviews, making content and in the field that say so come say hi if you see us! Check out the flyer for more details, save the date and see you there! - Our friends at the Women's Business Development Center have another great announcement! The E-Commerce Cohort is launching soon and registration is open. Learn how to start your business, develop a marketing strategy and work with professionals to guide you during this exciting cohort. Classes will take place every Tuesday from noon to 2 pm, via Zoom, and the cost is free! The cohort will run from May 14th to June 18th so don't delay and sign up today! Visit the link for registration here: http://bit.ly/wbdc-e-commerce-24 - Saturday, May 11th an important community forum about ending gun violence and public safety will take place at the Prisco Center (150 W. Illinois ave) in Aurora. The Kane County Health Department, the START Program and the Project Safe Aurora Violence Prevention Coalition are hosting this event which will feature amazing guest speakers, resources and helpful information to protect our communities. The event will be from 11 am to 2 pm and is free and open to the public. Collectively, we can address issues and find solutions to protect Aurora as we prosper as a city. Your presence is greatly appreciated! For more information visit this link: https://kanehealth.com/Pages/Violence-Prevention.aspx Have a great rest of the day! Good Morning Aurora will return with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in 5 days a week, Monday thru Friday to our FB Live from 9 am to 10 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Threads: https://www.threads.net/@goodmorningaurorail Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora ACTV (Aurora Community Television): https://www.aurora-il.org/309/Aurora-Community-TV #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #tuesday --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Happy Monday! It's a brand new week and your favorite morning news program is ready to get the day and week started off right. We hope everyone had a safe and fun weekend. We have your #auroraweather report with Emir Rodriguez and then we have much community news to discuss. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news:- This summer we will be with our friends from Aurora Fab 5 Dj's at the 3rd annual Picnic In The Park! Aurora & Chicago Dj's throw down for the crowd in an event that's always a good time. This year there is a fantastic lineup and everyone will be crushing it all day! We will be doing interviews, making content and in the field that say so come say hi if you see us! Check out the flyer for more details, save the date and see you there!- Our friends at the Women's Business Development Center have another great announcement! The E-Commerce Cohort is launching soon and registration is open. Learn how to start your business, develop a marketing strategy and work with professionals to guide you during this exciting cohort. Classes will take place every Tuesday from noon to 2 pm, via Zoom, and the cost is free! The cohort will run from May 14th to June 18th so don't delay and sign up today! Visit the link for registration here: http://bit.ly/wbdc-e-commerce-24- Saturday, May 11th an important community forum about ending gun violence and public safety will take place at the Prisco Center (150 W. Illinois ave) in Aurora. The Kane County Health Department, the START Program and the Project Safe Aurora Violence Prevention Coalition are hosting this event which will feature amazing guest speakers, resources and helpful information to protect our communities. The event will be from 11 am to 2 pm and is free and open to the public. Collectively, we can address issues and find solutions to protect Aurora as we prosper as a city. Your presence is greatly appreciated! For more information visit this link: https://kanehealth.com/Pages/Violence-Prevention.aspxHave a great rest of the day! Good Morning Aurora will return with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcastThe second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in 5 days a week, Monday thru Friday to our FB Live from 9 am to 10 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora.Threads: https://www.threads.net/@goodmorningaurorailInstagram: goodmorningaurorailSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP...Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningauroraACTV (Aurora Community Television): https://www.aurora-il.org/309/Aurora-Community-TV#positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #monday --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Episode 9 of The Chicago View Podcast is loaded with hot topics and legal confrontations that have sparked widespread debate. Mz. Lexi, Rita, and DeAngelo first delve into the murky world of viral veneer technicians. They explore allegations that some of these popular figures may be performing dental procedures illegally, discussing the potential risks and repercussions for consumers seeking that perfect smile.The conversation takes a serious turn as the hosts tackle President Joe Biden's recent decision to ban TikTok. They break down the implications of this significant policy shift, what it means for millions of users, and the broader effects on digital privacy and national security.The episode also covers the lawsuit against Megan Thee Stallion, filed by her former employee Emilio Garcia over alleged unpaid employment wages. The hosts provide insights into the complexities of the case, examining what it reveals about celebrity and labor rights in the entertainment industry.Tune into Episode 9 for a deep dive into these pressing issues, complete with critical analysis, engaging discussions, and expert opinions to keep you informed and entertained. Whether you're interested in tech controversies, major legal changes, or celebrity legal battles, this episode has something for everyone.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

In Episode 8 of The Chicago View Podcast, join Mz. Lexi, Rita, and DeAngelo as they unpack a tumultuous week in the entertainment and sports worlds. The episode kicks off with the latest on GloRilla's DUI charges, delving into the details of the incident and what it could mean for the rising star's career.The drama escalates as the hosts explore the recent arrest of NBA YoungBoy, analyzing the recurring legal challenges he faces and their impact on his music and personal life. The episode also addresses the fiery exchange between Chris Brown and Quavo, offering insights into the feud and its reverberations through the music industry.On a positive note, the podcast celebrates a local triumph with Angel Reese being drafted to the Chicago Sky in the WNBA. The hosts discuss her promising career ahead and what her addition means for the team and Chicago sports fans.Packed with critical insights, expert commentary, and the latest news, Episode 8 of The Chicago View Podcast is essential listening for anyone interested in the intersections of celebrity, controversy, and triumph. Tune in to stay informed and engaged with the biggest stories rocking the headlines.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

Service BDC is where it's at! The heart of the dealership...let that sink in...they are the start of most RO's and tasked with enabling loyal clients existence! Hit me up with your feedback - jennifer@edealersolution.com. In this episode, we explore the crucial role of a Business Development Center (BDC) manager as a coach and trainer who actively engages with each team member. By getting in the game with their team, managers set a positive example, build trust and respect, provide real-time feedback and coaching, and identify training needs. Learn how this hands-on approach can lead to a more cohesive team and drive success in the business development arena. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

Dive into Episode 7 of The Chicago View Podcast, where hosts Mz. Lexi, Rita, and DeAngelo navigate through a storm of headline-grabbing events. The episode leads with the news of OJ Simpson's death, examining his complex legacy and the reactions it has sparked across various communities and media outlets.The episode covers new developments in Young Thug's case, providing the latest updates on his trial and discussing the potential outcomes.As the episode progresses, the spotlight shifts to Chance The Rapper as the hosts break down the latest on his surprising divorce announcement. They explore the personal and professional repercussions for the beloved Chicago artist and what this means for his fans and the music industry.The drama continues with a deep dive into the family turmoil surrounding Polo G, focusing on the serious allegations against his mother and the implications of her actions involving his sister's medical records.Join us for an episode filled with crucial discussions on celebrity news, legal battles, and the societal impacts of these significant events. Episode 7 offers a compelling mix of thoughtful analysis, expert opinions, and engaging storytelling, ensuring our listeners are well-informed and thoroughly entertained.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

Join Mz. Lexi, Rita, and DeAngelo in a riveting Episode 6 of The Chicago View Podcast as they dive into the celestial spectacle of the Solar Eclipse sweeping over Chicago. With the city buzzing in anticipation for April 8, the trio uncovers the swirling conspiracies enveloping the event and discusses the expected influx of eclipse chasers descending upon Chicago. They weigh in on the potential challenges and dangers this surge could pose to the city's safety and infrastructure.Switching gears, the hosts also delve into the latest uproar from Atlanta – the Keith Lee “Food Truck” Drama, dissecting the details and its implications in the world of social media controversies.In a lighter, yet fiercely speculative segment, the conversation turns to an intriguing hypothetical: If you could win a celebrity's net worth by winning a fight with them, who would you choose? This playful debate is sure to spark imaginations and laughs, as the hosts share their top picks and the strategic reasoning behind them.Packed with hot topics, expert insights, and a dash of humor, Episode 6 is tailored to keep listeners glued to their speakers, providing a perfect blend of entertainment, information, and thought-provoking discussions. Tune in to stay updated, entertained, and maybe even inspired to choose your own celebrity showdown.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

In this explosive Episode 5, join our vibrant hosts DeAngelo, Rita, MZ. Lexi, and Shawn Bills as they delve into the latest jaw-dropping news surrounding music mogul Diddy. The episode takes a dramatic turn as Shawn Bills leads the conversation on the unfolding marriage drama between "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" star, Porsha Williams, and business tycoon, Simon Guobadia. Beyond the glitz and the gossip, the team also tackles a more profound subject - rejection. With insightful commentary, personal anecdotes, and expert advice, they explore the complexities of dealing with rejection in various aspects of life, offering listeners guidance and support on turning setbacks into stepping stones. Whether you're here for the celebrity scoop or to gain a new perspective on handling life's challenges, this episode promises to keep you engaged from start to finish.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

In this must-listen episode of "The Chicago View," hosts DeAngelo, MZ.LEXI, and Rita delve into the intricate dynamics of frenemies, offering valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone dealing with the unique challenges posed by these complex relationships. Drawing from personal experiences, the hosts explore the nuances of navigating friendships that blur the line between friend and enemy, providing listeners with strategies for recognizing and managing frenemies in both personal and professional settings.This episode is packed with high-value content for listeners interested in Personal Development, Mental Health, Relationship Management, and Emotional Intelligence. Whether you're confronting competitive friendships, seeking Conflict Resolution techniques, or curious about the Social Dynamics that underpin frenemies, DeAngelo, MZ.LEXI, and Rita guide you through the process of establishing Healthy Boundaries and fostering genuine connections.Key topics include:The Psychology behind FrenemiesImpact on Mental HealthStrategies for Dealing with FrenemiesRecognizing and Managing Competitive FriendshipsSelf-Care Strategies and Healthy BoundariesKeywords: Frenemies, Friendship Advice, Relationship Management, Psychological Insights, Personal Development, Mental Health, Professional Relationships, Conflict Resolution, Self-Care Strategies, Healthy Boundaries, Social Dynamics, Emotional Intelligence, Workplace Drama, Competitive Friendships, The Chicago View Podcast, DeAngelo, MZ.LEXI, RitaTune into "The Chicago View Podcast" Episode 4 for a deep dive into the world of frenemies. Discover how to protect your peace, navigate tricky relationships, and turn insights into action. This episode is not only thought-provoking and informative but also packed with relatable stories and advice, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to understand and improve their social relationships.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

In Episode 3 of "The Chicago View" podcast, hosts Mz. Lexi and Rita dive deep into the thought-provoking TikTok trend exploring the reasons behind the fear some black people have of individuals from certain neighborhoods. Their insightful discussion sheds light on societal perceptions and cultural dynamics. Meanwhile, Shawn Bills uncovers the recent revelation of Mike Epps' battle with drug addiction, offering a candid exploration of the comedian's struggles and triumphs. And don't miss Shawn's exploration of Katt Williams' intriguing government theory regarding water, adding a fascinating layer to the episode's eclectic mix of topics. Tune in for a captivating blend of social commentary, celebrity insights, and conspiracy theories that will keep you engaged from start to finish.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

In the highly anticipated second episode of "The Chicago View," In a riveting twist, Shawn Bills brings you the unexpected saga of the Kia Boy's car theft in Chicago, where civilians took justice into their hands. Alongside this gripping tale, dive into the realms of entertainment moguls Diddy and Oprah in "The Chicago View" second episode. This dynamic mix of celebrity insights, urban stories, and unforeseen events delivers an episode packed with intrigue and cultural exploration that you won't want to miss.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

Join Shawn Bills in this episode of "The Chicago View" as he unravels the latest news surrounding Muni Long, Wendy Williams, and Nicki Minaj. From exclusive updates to behind-the-scenes insights, Shawn keeps you in the loop with the hottest happenings in the worlds of these iconic figures. Tune in for an informative and entertaining session that covers the buzzworthy stories you won't want to miss!Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:This episode is brought to you with support from the Women's Business Development Center and Cook County Small Business Source, the real MVPs behind the scenes. Visit wbdc.org and cookcountysmallbiz.org to discover the impactful work they're doing to support and empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.Revoc Productions™️

Season 2- Episode 28 On this episode, former public-school teacher, Gabriell, shares the issues she observed in her time in the classroom, the importance of teaching relatable black history to our youth, the services offered through her tutoring service 'Innovative Learners', the importance of small class sizes, and the many ways of building healthy relationships with your children. https://theinnovativelearners.com/ https://theinnovativelearners.com/testimonials/ Gabriell's love for learning started at a very young age when she watched her mother, a professor, give a lecture on the classic novel Invisible Man. Her passion for learning grew from there, and she began to teach while pursuing a bachelor's degree in communications and two master's degrees - one in Education and another in Public Administration. She has taught in several states, including Texas, New York, and Chicago, and has conducted writing seminars for the University of Illinois. Her tutoring company, The Innovative Learners has helped hundreds of students worldwide to improve their reading and math skills through a personalized approach to tutoring. Her tutoring company guarantees student success by utilizing culturally relevant lessons tailored to the unique needs of each student. Gabriell's tutoring company, The Innovative Learners, is a verified Chicago Public school vendor and has recently partnered with the City of Chicago, Illinois Action for Children, the University of Illinois-Champaign, and the Women's Business Development Center. Homeschool Yo Kids Podcast shares organic conversations that promote confidence, a growth mindset, and are filled with inspiration and good energy. Sharing stories from the classroom, their home learning journey, and other reflections and life experiences, come grow and learn with Jae. Homeschool Yo Kids Organization is a 501c3 nonprofit that provides families with tools to aid unconventional learning experiences, helping to create a positive home learning environment. In addition to this, we are missioned to help families in traditional schools build a healthy collaborative relationship between the school and home. Visit our website!! https://www.homeschoolyokidsexpo.com/Follow us on IG:@homeschoolyokids@homeschoolyokidspodcastJoin our FB Group: Homeschool Yo Kids Jae is a former public-school teacher, now homeschooling her 2 little people. She is the founder of the 501c3 nonprofit Homeschool Yo Kids Organization. Join Jae as she chats with homeschool families, homeschool resource providers, and others that support the homeschool community on this journey of 'reimagining what learning looks like'. Introduction Song- ChrisNTeeb -Expect- Manifestation 2*⁠⁠⁠⁠‎The Manifestation 2 by Chris-n-Teeb on Apple Music⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Manifestation 2 - Album by Chris-n-Teeb | Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠chrisnteeb.com⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/homeschoolyokids/support

In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversation, hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer dive deep into the world of small business support and certification with their esteemed guest, Jessie Leonard. Jessie Leonard, Director of Established Business Program and Services at the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC) in Milwaukee, brings over two decades of experience in diversity practice, administrative management, and human resources to the table.Throughout the episode, Jessie shares invaluable insights into the importance of certification and the plethora of support services offered by the WBDC to women business owners. With a Bachelor's degree in Communications and certifications in Project Management, Human Resource Management, and Supplier Diversity, Jessie is well-equipped to guide entrepreneurs through the certification process and beyond.Listeners will discover the significance of becoming a certified Women Business Enterprise (WBE) and the doors it can open for procurement opportunities with corporate partners. From navigating the certification application to leveraging WBDC's extensive network and resources, Jessie outlines the steps necessary for small businesses to thrive in today's competitive landscape.Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking certification or an established business owner looking to expand your network, this episode provides practical advice and inspiration. Tune in to learn how the Women's Business Development Center empowers women in business and fosters economic growth.To learn more about the WBDC and connect with Jessie Leonard, visit their website at www.WBDC.org or reach out directly at 414-395-4564 or via email at jleonard@wbdc.org. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on navigating the path to small business success!

Good morning friends and neighbors! It is Monday and we are back with a new time and two great guests this morning. We also have #auroraweather for you as well. Our guests today are Minerva Calatayud of the Women's Business Development Center and Brenda Rodgers, realtor and candidate for Kane County Recorder. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - Friday, February 2nd there will be a veteran resource fair and town hall at VFW Post 1197 (645 South River street) in Batavia. From 10 am to 4 pm there will be a business showcase, and from 4:30 to 6 pm officials from the VA will host the town hall portion. This event is open to all veterans and the public. See the flyer for more details! - A very important survey is live for all Aurora residents to provide feedback about affordable housing in Aurora. Our city aims to expand opportunities for housing options and your feedback and opinions are greatly needed! The survey is open until February 23rd and is available in both english and spanish. We encourage you to provide your feedback, this is an important element for the growth of our city and all Aurora households. The link to the survey is here: https://www.aurora-il.org/AffordableHousingStudy - Come celebrate a Legacy Of Excellence at the Fox Valley Mall on Saturday, February 10th from noon to 4 pm. This will be an awesome celebration of culture, history and achievement. There will be music, a fashion show and even spoken word poetry! This event is free and open to the public. Come celebrate the community at Fox Valley Mall! Have a great rest of the day! Good Morning Aurora will return with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Threads: https://www.threads.net/@goodmorningaurorail Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora ACTV (Aurora Community Television): https://www.aurora-il.org/309/Aurora-Community-TV #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #monday --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Good morning and happy Monday! Your favorite morning news show has returned. Also, we have a great returning guest as well. Our guest this morning is Donna Beasley, Director of Government Contracting Services at the Illinois APEX Accelerator. This interview is was conducted at the offices of the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce in downtown Aurora, also the home of the Women's Business Development Center. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - Saturday, February 10th of 2024 the Quince Expo will take place at the Aurora Public Library branch (Santori) downtown. This great community event is open to the public and will feature fashion, talent and more! Artists Juan Diego Rojas and Melany Gonzalez will perform and the event will be from noon to 4 pm. Come join our community for this great event! - Scholarship opportunities are available with the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley. The application is available online and is available until January 31st, 2024. If you are planning for college next year this is a wonderful resource! To begin the application online here: https://www.cffrv.org/ Have a great rest of the day! Good Morning Aurora will return with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Threads: https://www.threads.net/@goodmorningaurorail Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora ACTV (Aurora Community Television): https://www.aurora-il.org/309/Aurora-Community-TV #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #monday --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Good morning Aurora! We hope you are ready for a great show this morning. Also, we have your #auroraweather report with the local temps to start off the show. Our guests are Emma Westfall (Associate Director of Access to Capital Program and Services at WBDC and Kris Jenkins, owner and founder of K25 baseball & Softball Academy. Today we will be discussing direct lending and other programs and services to help business owners and entrepreneurs succeed! We've got a lot to discuss so let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - Thursday, November 30th Women United of the Fox Valley United Way will host: Power Of The Purse. This will take place from 6 to 8 pm at Society 57 in downtown Aurora. Tickets are still available for this awesome event, with 4 chances to win. There are awesome prizes and the grand prize in a Louis Vuitton handbag! Scan the QR codes on the flyer to enter or visit the link here: https://www.foxvalleyunitedway.org/power-of-the-purse - The Winter Community Resources event will be taking place on Saturday, December 9th from 10 am to noon at the Aurora Public Library downtown Santori branch. Youth will receive winter garments while supplies last and the event is free and open to the public. Registration for the event is free, scan the QR code and we will see you there. - To learn more about the services and programs offered by the Women's Business Development Center you can contact them here on Facebook. To learn more and schedule an appointment visit the website here: https://www.wbdc.org/en/staff-teams/womens-business-center-aurora/ Have a great rest of the day! Good Morning Aurora will return with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #friday #k25baseballandsoftball #WBDC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Good morning! we have a great show and discussion for you this morning. Our guest today is Josh Gutstein, Managing Director of the Access To Capital Services and Programs for the WBDC. Today we'll talk all about business and the upcoming Financial Bootcamp courses. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - Sunday, October 29th from 12:30 to 2:30 pm our friends of Wesley United Methodist Church are hosting Trunk Or Treat at the church (14 N. May street)! This event will feature food and much more, and is free and open to the public. Bring your family and friends! - Get ready for Halloween Fest 2023, hosted by our friends of VNA Health Care! This is a fun community resource event with hot apple cider, costumes and spooky fun! Join our Outreach team, our partners of the Aurora Financial Empowerment Center and many other great organizations from 4 to 7 pm at 400 N. Highland avenue. This event is free, open to the public and will be a spooky good time. See you there! Have a great rest of the day! Good Morning Aurora will return Friday with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #wednesday #WBDC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

In this rewind episode, I sat down with Keewa Nurullah. Keewa is mom of two, a fourth generation Black Wall Street descendant, and founder Kido Chicago, a wildly popular children's brand and destination in the Southside of Chicago. In this episode she shares: How she scaled her business from a single onesie to carrying 1000s of children's products online and in her storefront Why she created a community gathering space for parents on Chicago's Southside  How she's carrying on the legacy of her entrepreneurial ancestors affected by the Tulsa Massacre Check out episode 367 and others on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube  This episode is brought to you by:  HubSpot Podcast Network- The audio destination for business professionals with content designed to help you listen, learn, and grow. Listen to Side Hustle Pro and more shows on the HubSpot Podcast Network, at https://www.hubspot.com/podcastnetwork.  Links mentioned in this episode Kido: https://kidochicago.com/  Kido's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidochicago/  Kido's Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kidochicago  The Women's Business Development Center: https://www.wbdc.org/en/  Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): http://sidehustlepro.libsyn.com/rss Announcements Join our Facebook Community If you're looking for a community of supportive side hustlers who are all working to take our businesses to the next level, join us here: http://sidehustlepro.co/facebook Guest Social Media Info Side Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro #SideHustlePro Kido's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidochicago/  Kido's Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kidochicago 

Good morning ladies and gentlemen! We have another great show for you all this morning. Our guests today are Kristen Gehrig & Aisha Ahrens of the WBDC (Women's Business Development Center) here to talk to us about the upcoming 5 day Digital Bootcamp. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - Monday, September 21st from 5 to 8 pm the Kane County Democratic Women will host their annual fundraiser at Brother Chimp Brewing in North Aurora. As always this event will be fun and entertaining, highlighting support for candidates and work being done for our community. The event will be from 5 to 8 pm and tickets are $80 per person. See the flyer for more details. Save the date and come support the KCDW! - The next 6 week virtual business cohort, Childcare Business Program will begin September 7th and will be via Zoom. The time will be from 1 to 3 pm and will end Thursday, October 12th. Learn how to grow your business and plan for your future in childcare. To register and select a date visit this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elevate-grow-your-childcare-business-tickets-663066849797?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshwebdesktop - Free financial coaching as a public service is available from the City of Aurora's Financial Empowerment Center and the Neighbor Project. Help is available in over 150 languages and our counselors are standing by to help you. Visit their office Mondays thru Fridays from 9 am to 5 pm at 712 South River Street or call (630) 256-4552 and schedule your appointment today! Have a wonderful day! Good Morning Aurora will return Friday with more news, more weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #wednesday #WBDC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Good morning Aurora! Our guest this morning is Minerva Calatayud of the WBDC (Women's Business Development Center) here to talk to us about the Elevate! Childcare Cohort. There is also the 2023 Midwest Business Conference taking place on Wednesday, September 6th in Rosemont. To register and sign up for the 6 Week Cohort visit this link: https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/elevate-cohort-2023/ - Monday, September 21st from 5 to 8 pm the Kane County Democratic Women will host their annual fundraiser at Brother Chimp Brewing in North Aurora. As always this event will be fun and entertaining, highlighting support for candidates and work being done for our community. The event will be from 5 to 8 pm and tickets are $80 per person. See the flyer for more details. Save the date and come support the KCDW! - September 1st will be the next First Friday in downtown Aurora and the CottonSeed Creative Exchange has a great event taking place that night. Beginning at 5 pm will be the Pop Up & Artist Talk with HML. The Cotton Seed is a great location for local merch and awesome community events. It's also a fantastic community space so enjoy downtown shopping in the city at Cotton Seed! - The campaign fundraiser for our friend Dr. Monica Silva will be at French 75 on Thursday, August 31st from 5:30 to 7 pm. A great upscale experience located in the heart of downtown Aurora, enjoy the atmosphere, drinks and company at French 75. See the flyer for ticket and sponsorship information. Have a great day and an awesome week! Good Morning Aurora will return Wednesday morning with more news, more weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #monday #WBDC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Bob Gower is the Chief Operating Officer of Traver Connect, a company enabling automotive dealers to maximize service lane revenue and turn leads into car purchases. He has over 36 years of experience in Automotive with more than fifteen of those in retail automotive. Starting at the bottom is not uncommon to him, as he has had every job in the dealership from Sales, and Service to Management and Operations working his way to General Manager. In this Summer Camp Series episode of the Parts Girl Podcast, Kaylee Felio and special guest Bob Gower delve into these challenges and provide valuable insights on improving customer retention in the industry. The automotive industry is experiencing increasingly fierce competition, with third-party service providers offering convenience and the perception of better pricing. Customer retention has become a crucial challenge for car dealerships, calling for innovative strategies to win back customers and keep them coming back.  Technology also plays a central role in today's customer-centric world. Car dealerships need to leverage technology effectively to provide a high level of service and convenience to customers. Personalized text messages, appointment scheduling services, and other innovative tools can improve communication, enhance the customer experience, and build loyalty. One key strategy discussed in this episode is the implementation of a Business Development Center (BDC). BDCs can serve as a vital asset to handle customer calls and inquiries, ensuring prompt and attentive service. Whether staffed on-site or outsourced, BDCs can significantly contribute to customer retention and profitability. Overwhelmed service departments and understaffing can also often hinder customer service efforts. Prioritizing tasks and effectively delegating responsibilities can alleviate the pressure on dealership staff, enabling them to focus on delivering exceptional service. Outsourcing certain functions or hiring additional personnel can also help alleviate workload and improve customer satisfaction. In an ever-evolving industry, customer retention has emerged as a critical factor for success in the automotive marketplace. Car dealerships must adapt to the increasingly high-touch and high-tech expectations of customers. By utilizing technology, implementing a Business Development Center, and addressing staffing needs appropriately, dealerships can drive customer retention, enhance the customer experience, and ensure long-term profitability. Takeaways Prioritize customer retention. Leverage technology for convenience. Implement BDCs and additional staff. Quote “Fixed operations is the new variable. That's where the profit is today." -Bob Gower Connect Bob Gower LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bob-gower-a9727b14 Website: www.traverconnect.com Phone: 713-320-9436 Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl Website: www.partsedge.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thepartsgirl/message

Good morning friends! We have a great show for you all this morning. Our guest today is Gabriella Bomben, Access to Capital Associate Director for Kiva at the WBDC (Women's Business Development Center) here to talk to us about loans for entrepreneurs. Let's get ready to learn! #goodmorning - Sunday, August 6th West Aurora school district 129 is hosting a great back to school, backpack and supply giveaway! Eligible students should already be registered for the 2023-2024 school year. The event will be held at the West Aurora Learning Center located at 1870 W. Galena blvd. There are two times available, 11 am to 1 pm and 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. This event will also feature activities and much more. Reserve your backpack and supplies here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sd129-back-2-the-books-event-evento-back-2-the-books-del-ds129-tickets-656964617857 - Saturday, August 12th from 11 am to 2 pm, 1st Ward Alderman Emmanuel Llamas & Gamma Beta Chapter of Hermandad De Sigma IOTA Alpha, Inc. will host the Annual 1st Ward Back to School Bash! This will take place at Garfield Park in Aurora, and will feature great entertainment, food and much more! Many great sponsors are a part of this great event as well. See you on the 12th! Have a great rest of the day and an awesome weekend! We will return on Monday with more news, weather and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #friday #kiva #microloans --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Watch On Youtube: https://youtu.be/8zyEw0QUOt0 On This episode of Dealership Fixit, We revisit a 2022 webinar For Digital Dealer and Carwars going over the Key to building BDCs for dealerships. The phones are critical to the overall process inside the dealership. They still chat & message but the phone call gives the customer instant gratification. The dedicated team available for the customer allows a smoother customer journey and removes friction for the buyer. Take it one step at a time and make the process your own. 1 agent or 10, the build-out will look different for everyone. Follow Our Host Jacob: https://twitter.com/mrjacobberr https://linkedin.com/in/jacob-b-berry https://absolutemarketingperformance.com Follow the Fixit: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3N9lzfg Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/43FoanX YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dealershipfixit Twitter: https://twitter.com/DealershipFixit TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dealershipfixit Facebook: https://facebook.com/dealershipfixit Instagram: https://instagram.com/dealership_fixit Comments, Questions or Want To Join Us: dealershipfixit@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dealershipfixit/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dealershipfixit/support

Good morning and happy Monday! We hope you all had a great weekend. Our guest today is Donna Beasley, the Director of the Illinois APEX Accelerator at the Women's Business Development Center. Today we will discuss and learn more about procuring government contracts for small businesses. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - The next CAAN Network vendor pop up event will be Friday, August 4th beginning at 5 pm. This will take place in Water Street Mall, adjacent to City Hall. There will be music and a lot of great vendors. The next event will be in October so don't miss this! Call 331-575-4630 for more information. - Summer camps for youth will take place again on July 11th through the 13th at Mutual Ground, 418 Oak avenue. There will be many fun family activities and registration is required. Contact Kim Allen by email at kallen@mutualground.org or call (630) 320-3316! - Tomorrow is the day! The next Coffee & Connections will be taking place Tuesday, July 11th at Jennings Terrace, located at 275 LaSalle street. These events are great ways to network, fellowship and meet Aurora professionals from all different backgrounds. Learn more about the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce today by visiting the link and becoming a member today: https://www.aurorachamber.com/membership/ Have a positive, awesome and blessed day and week. We will see you all Wednesday morning with more news and the very best of Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #cityofaurorail #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #monday #WBDC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

The legendary Garry Moore joins Greg and Dan to talk about the Minority Business Development Center's June Outdoor Marketplace in Saturday, June 24th from 11 AM to 3 PM at SLE (1112 Pioneer Parkway). Moore will be signing copies of his new book, “The Little Black Book for Journalists (Un) Afraid of Race.” The Marketplace also includes a tribute to two local music icons for Black Music Month, and creative entrepreneurs (Arie's Touch, My Mother's Community Garden, YB Creations, and many more). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 7, 2023--Host Dan Gjerde speaks with Mary Anne Petrillo, Executive Director of West Business Development Center, about jobs in the  economy within Mendocino County.

Good morning friends! It is Friday and we've made it to the end of the week. We have a special show for you this morning. Our guest is Minerva Calatayud, director of the Women's Business Development Center. We will be speaking about this weekend's Child Care Summit, as well as other programs and opportunities for businesses in the city of Aurora. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - There will be a great summer fair taking place at La Garrafa on Saturday, June 10th. This will be from 11 am to 5 pm. There will be prizes, fun and ballet folklorico dancing. Come have fun! - Free STEAM summer camps are happening now, courtesy of our friends of APS Training Academy! There are two available times, Monday thru Friday. The first is 9 am to noon, the second sessions are from 1 pm to 4 pm. For kindergartners to 8th grade, learning and fun activities are available all summer! Visit the website here and sign up today: https://www.apstrainingacademy.org/ - Join our friends of The Neighbor Project for their 2nd Annual Community Day to be held at Everlasting Word Church (22 N. Highland ave) on Saturday, June 10th. This will be a fun family event with music, food, and of course housing resources and information. The event is free and open to the public, and in collaboration with many great sponsors. This event will be held from 11 am to 1 pm, we look forward to seeing you! Have a great day and a wonderful weekend! Good Morning Aurora will return Monday morning with more news, weather, and the very best of Aurora. Please subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorningaurora #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #friday --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goodmorningaurora/support

Another Bluegrass State Solutionary is in the Cafe'. Lou & Fred are excited and beyond honored to brew this #5Liner with David Kain. David is President of Kain Automotive Inc., an industry leading provider of Automotive Internet Sales, Fixed Ops, Business Development Center and Digital Marketing training and consulting which he founded in 2003. Kain Automotive has been recognized as the #1 Dealer Rated Internet Training Company in the U.S. David sold his first car in college in 1980 and worked for 20 years in his family dealership group, Kain Auto Group, where he is still a partner today. In 2000, he co-founded FordDirect.com where he served as the COO before leaving to start Kain Automotive in 2003 to teach dealers how to successfully market and sell vehicles online. David enjoys speaking at various industry events in the U.S., and abroad as well as conducting interviews with Industry leaders and posting on YouTube and hosting his online program Kain & Co. on CBTNews.com and of course now the Car Guy Coffee Podcast, Let's Brew!Brew Brought By Our Proud Sponsors At:www.vincue.comwww.fixedopsdigital.comwww.teammxs.comwww.shopsmartautos4dealers.comwww.m1-data.comwww.321ignition.com

This week in the guest chair we have Keewa Nurullah. Keewa is mom of two, a fourth generation Black Wall Street descendant, and founder Kido Chicago, a wildly popular children's brand and destination in the Southside of Chicago. In this episode she shares: How she scaled her business from a single onesie to carrying 1000s of children's products online and in her storefront Why she created a community gathering space for parents on Chicago's Southside  How she's carrying on the legacy of her entrepreneurial ancestors affected by the Tulsa Massacre Check out episode 336 and others on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube  This episode is brought to you by:  HubSpot Podcast Network- The audio destination for business professionals with content designed to help you listen, learn, and grow. Listen to Side Hustle Pro and more shows on the HubSpot Podcast Network, at https://www.hubspot.com/podcastnetwork.  Links mentioned in this episode Kido: https://kidochicago.com/  Kido's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidochicago/  Kido's Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kidochicago  The Women's Business Development Center: https://www.wbdc.org/en/  Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): http://sidehustlepro.libsyn.com/rss Announcements Join our Facebook Community If you're looking for a community of supportive side hustlers who are all working to take our businesses to the next level, join us here: http://sidehustlepro.co/facebook Guest Social Media Info Side Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro, #SideHustlePro Kido's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidochicago/  Kido's Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kidochicago

Hedy Ratner was born to pursue social justice.  What continues to fuel her impact is tireless worker as a mentor.  For more than five decades Hedy's been at the forefront of advocacy for women's issues and civil rights. During this episode of the Crisis Cast, Lissa and Thom marvel at her impact as co-founder of the Women's Business Development Center.  You'll also evesdrop on a conference where Hedy championed Lissa's leadership for a national award. Hedy also reveals why her work is never done, and her self-care secrets in stamina.

Colin Thomas and Dominic Cergnul who both have extensive experience building and managing Business Development Center initiatives across the country discuss Quality VS quantity in the BDC and shifts in dealers BDCs over the past few years.

Good morning and happy Monday! The 2nd largest city's 1st daily news podcast is here with another great episode. Our guest today is Maura Mitchell of Women's Business Development Center here to talk with us about upcoming events and useful information about the center and what they do. Let's get ready to learn! Here's the news: - Wednesday, October 19th from 2 to 4 pm the Dupage Kane County Disability Resource Committee will be having a hiring event taking place at Aurora Public Library, Illinois. This event is free and open to the public and aims to help diversify your team with awesome candidates. Shouts out to great community partners and sponsors like Association for Individual Development, Illinois Department of Employment Security - IDES & Waubonsee Community College. - Tuesday, October 18th, Fifth Third Bank will be holding a Homebuyer Seminar at The Neighbor Project satellite Customer Service Center at Everlasting Word Church. Guest speaker will be Nancy Alfaro; learn about products and services from industry professionals. Get your questions answered! This will be from 6 to 7 pm and is free and open to the public. See the flyer for more details. - Get ready for Holiday Hoopla! This fun event will be Sunday, November 13th from 11 am to 3 pm at the Kendall County Fairgrounds. Hosted by Moms4Moms Vendor Events, NFP, there will be food, hot cocoa, santa, shopping and so much more! You won't want to miss this. For more information send an email to: moms4momsinfo@gmail.com Have a wonderful, motivated and fantastic day! Good morning Aurora will return Wednesday with more news and more Aurora. Subscribe to the show on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodMorningAuroraPodcast The second largest city's first daily news podcast is here. Tune in everyday to our FB Live from 8 am to 9 am. Make sure to like and subscribe to stay updated on all things Aurora. Twitter: goodmorningaur1 Instagram: goodmorningaurorail Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dVweK5Zc4uPVQQ0Fp1vEP... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../good-morning.../id1513229463 Anchor: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora #positivevibes #positiveenergy #downtownaurora #kanecountyil #bataviail #genevail #stcharlesil #saintcharlesil #elginil #northaurorail #auroraillinois #auroramedia #auroranews #goodmorning #goodmorningaurora #comedy #news #dailynews #subscribe #youtube #podcast #spotify #morningnews #morningshow #WSBDC --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/goodmorningaurora/support

Welcome to Women's Business Development Center's Digi Tips and Tools Podcast Series – where we tackle some of your questions when it comes to your digitizing your business processes and discuss possible solutions.  These solutions include easy digital tips and tools that can help your business increase revenue, save money and optimize your time.  Today we'll talk about a sore topic for many business owners when it comes to accounting and bookkeeping, and that is tracking expenses. In this episode we talk with Tony Pittman about what expenses you need to track and what digital tools can you use to help make tracking expenses easier. Tony Pittman currently serves as tax consultant and preparer with RE Clemons and Associates Tax and accounting.  RE Clemons and Associates Tax and Accounting have a staff of Enrolled Agents and CPAs with over 40 years of experience in corporate and personal taxation and bookkeeping.  Their involvement in local and national tax associations keeps the firm on the "leading edge" of the ever-changing tax laws and accounting methods. Digi Tips and Tools is produced in partnership with iDream.tv, a multi-media production company.  This episode is being sponsored by US Bank, our valued corporate partner.  

Ever wonder what a Business Development Center is? How it should work? Why it can make a huge difference in your dealership? Listen in to Mike and Jacob and hear from a dealership that runs one of the best BDC's out there.

Today's Friday the 13th, 2022, and it's time for your weekly News Roundup episode, where I read the news so you don't have to. A lot happened last week and there's a lot coming up in terms of local events and things to do that you won't want to miss, including things going on tonight, so don't wait to listen! As always, you can find the show notes for this episode on my website at discoverdaytonpodcast.com.    Organizations mentioned in this episode include: Ohio Statehouse Central State University Sinclair Community College City of Dayton Ghostlight Coffee 2nd Street Market Gulzar's Indian Cuisine AES Five Rivers Health Centers Dayton Peace Prize Dayton Council on World Affairs Hall Hunger Initiative Heart Mercantile Mission of Mary's CSA Dayton Women's Rights Alliance Top of the Market Liftoff Entertainment Humane Society of Greater Dayton Blind Bob's  Shiloh Farmer's Market NCCJ Dayton Beer Company Liederkranz-Turner German Club Salar Wiley's Five Rivers MetroParks The Neon Yellow Cab Tavern TheatreLab Dayton PNC Arts Annex   Show Transcript:   Hello and welcome to the Discover Dayton podcast, the show that's all about the Gem City's past, present, and future. I'm Arch Grieve and I'm your host, and today's episode is the weekly news roundup for Friday the 13th of May 2022, so if you're superstitious be careful today. There's a lot that happened last week though, including an update to Ohio's redistricting process, good news for Dayton residents on their electric bills, and the opening of some new places to eat downtown, as well as lots of stuff to do this weekend and beyond, so stay tuned!   And now for last week's news:   Well, the news about the Ohio congressional district maps isn't great, as towards the end of last week the Republican-dominated Ohio Redistricting Commission voted down a set of maps drawn up by the consultants that they hired, and then immediately voted to approve a set of maps that the Ohio Supreme Court has already declared unconstitutional. Protestors in attendance yelled “shame,” at the commission members, but their cries were ineffective in causing any type of change amongst the members because the Republican members of the commission have no shame. Secretary of State Frank LaRose, who is a commission member, explained his rationale for supporting the third set of maps by claiming that it would be the easiest set of maps for local boards of elections to use. At the end of the meeting, Democratic Minority House Leader Allison Russo read out a “minority report,” which laid the blame for the redistricting process mess at the feet of her Republican counterparts.    Also happening at the state level right now is discussion around a bill that would put an end to local municipalities' abilities to manage short-term rentals, such as Airbnbs. House Bill 563 is currently being debated at the Ohio Statehouse, with opponents of the bill saying that it would take away home rule from cities and curtail their ability to self-govern, so now is your time to contact your local representative or senator if you have an opinion about it.    Central State University's Dayton Campus is getting a cash infusion from the U.S. Department of Commerce, which is awarding the HBCU $3.6 million in ARPA funds to quote, “tackle workplace shortages,” which have been made worse by the pandemic. Much of the money will go towards funding workshops that are geared towards educating students about advanced materials, advanced manufacturing, IT, and advanced data management. Central State is also putting in an additional nearly $90K towards its Workforce Training and Business Development Center, which will specialize in employment-related training. As a result of the expansion, Central State is expecting a 50% increase in enrollment this fall and expects to go from 2,000 students to 3,000 who are physically attending campus classes, and from 4,000 to 7,000 students attending online.    Just for full transparency for this next story, I need to acknowledge that I am a Sinclair employee, but Sinclair has had some good news recently in that it graduated a record number of students at last week's graduation ceremony, with 8,919 students being awarded degrees or certificates, or a 14% increase over last year. Of those, a record number were also black men, 1,548 students to be exact, as well as a record number of minority students at just over 3,000.    There's good news for Dayton residents recently from the city, which is that they recently announced that residents will be getting 100% renewable energy starting in June of this year which will be 30% cheaper than AES Ohio's standard service rate, which is the company that used to be DP&L. They also assured residents that Dayton will not be impacted by the recent rate hikes proposed by AES thanks to the new aggregation program. Savings are expected to average approximately $300 per Dayton customer over the 12-month period that the deal is in effect, for a total of $10 million combined for all residents in savings. If you wish to participate in the program, you don't have to do anything, but if you wish to opt-out then letters are being sent out soon.    There's good news for Ghostlight Coffee fans, which is that you can now find them on weekends at the 2nd Street Market. They're opening a bagel bakery there called DOUGH. Ghostlight owner, Shane Anderson, told the Dayton Daily News that he always wanted to have a location in the market, but that there was already a coffee shop there. However, they learned recently that there was an opening for a sandwich shop, so they put forward the concept of a bagel soup and sandwich shop, and now they're in the soft opening phase of its existence. They plan to release more items moving forward, but you can also find them at their original location on Wayne Ave. or over next to Old Scratch on Patterson Blvd. They'll also soon be coming to the Dayton Arcade.    In other news-related food, I'm sure many of you will be as excited as I am to learn that there's a new Indian restaurant in downtown Dayton now. The family-owned Gulzar's Indian Cuisine opened last Thursday at 217 N. Patterson, just across from the Dragon's stadium and next to Winans and Flyboys. Wife and husband Deepika and Jay Singh co-manage the restaurant together, and Jay's brother manages the family's other restaurant in Richmond, Indiana. The restaurant features authentic Indian cuisine, including my favorite, chicken tikka masala, but if you're looking for their most authentic dishes you can find those on the menu under Chef Specials. They also have a lunch buffet, which is $13.99. You can find their menu and learn more at gulzarsindiancuisine.com. I just had lunch there earlier this week and I definitely recommend it!   There's a new Five Rivers Health Centers campus in the Edgemont neighborhood of Dayton after they held its grand opening Wednesday of this week. The campus location will provide a number of different health services, including dental care, women's health, sports medicine, eye care, and primary care. After being founded just over ten years ago, Five Rivers Health Centers now has 9 locations geared towards providing health services to low-income residents. The new facility is now accepting patients, and you can learn more at fiverivershealthcenters.org.    Last week former Congressman and Ambassador, Tony Hall, received the Dayton Peace Prize, which is awarded jointly by the Dayton Council on World Affairs and the Dayton Peace Prize Selection Committee. Hall was a US Congressman from 1979 to 2002, after which he served as the US Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture. He also started the Hall Hunger Initiative here in Dayton. Past recipients of the award include President Bill Clinton, Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.    Well if you're in the Oregon District looking for Heart Mercantile then you'll need to find them in their new location, which is on the other side of the street from their old one. They're now at 601 E. Fifth St. across from Trolley Stop in a space that's double the size of their old location. Also starting today, they are now open one hour later every day, with hours from 11:00am to 8:00pm now. Learn more at heartmercantile.com.   If you're in the market for sustainable, locally-grown produce, then you might want to check out Mission of Mary's CSA, or community-supported agriculture. Their CSA program runs from this month until November of this year, with pickups every Wednesday from 2:00-6:00pm. You can sign up to get vegetables weekly from them on their website at missionofmary.org.    And finally, before we get to the more fun events happening this weekend and beyond, there's also a Rally for Abortion Rights at Courthouse Square this Saturday, May 14th from 2:00-3:00pm. You can learn more about the event on the Dayton Women's Rights Alliance on Facebook or end40days on Instagram.    All right, and now for things to do in Dayton:   If you're looking for a drive-in movie experience but don't want to travel very far, you can go and see the Princess Bride tonight at Top of the Market Banquet Center, which is hosting a pop-up drive-in movie screening in conjunction with Liftoff Entertainment. The cost is $30-40 per vehicle and the lot opens at 7:30pm with the movie starting at 8:45pm. You can visit the show notes on my website for the link to purchase tickets, which is a long EventBrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wheels-and-reels-princess-bride-tickets-321481538937   If you're more in the mood for music tonight, you can head over to Blind Bob's for a show that starts at 9:00pm. Performing tonight will be Jon Snodgrass, DL Burdon, Joe Anderl, and Josh Goldman. The cover is $10.    Pet lovers who enjoy walking or running with their animals are in luck this weekend as the Furry Skurry 5K event is happening Saturday, May 14th, from 8:00am-noon. General Admission is a $40 registration fee. After you're done running (or if you don't want to run at all) there will also be a beverage tent with bloody marys, mimosas, wine, and beer, as well as a pancake breakfast and more. This fundraising event is put on by the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, and you can find tickets at hsdayton.org/events.    Also happening on Saturday is the 2022 opening day for the Shiloh Farmers Market, which takes place at 5300 Philadelphia Dr from 9:00am to 2:00pm. In addition to the veggies you can purchase, the Smokin' Barrels Food Truck will be there as well.    Another thing you can do Saturday is participate in the Pride Rocks! suicide prevention program, where you can join in rock painting, enjoy a free meal, participate in educational programming about mental health, and listen to LGBTQ+ musicians. The event is free to attend, and goes from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Levitt Pavilion. The event is put on by the NCCJ, or the National Conference for Community and Justice of Greater Dayton.    And there's more happening tomorrow, including the Dayton Beer Company's 10th anniversary celebration, which goes from noon to 11:00pm Saturday, May 14th. The event promises to have fun for the whole family, including the little ones, with live entertainment, games, and more. So cheers to 10 years to the Dayton Beer Company!   And if that wasn't enough, you can also visit the Liederkranz-Turner's Biergarten on Saturday from 5:00-10:00pm. Trivia is back, and there are now over 70 German beers you can try. Food is available, and there are games and activities for people of all ages.    If you'd like to see the Dayton Playhouse's production of “Hello Dolly,” the only remaining tickets the last I checked were for Saturday night at 8:00pm, so visit daytonplayhouse.com soon for info on how to get tickets.    And finally moving on to Sunday, May 15th, you can stop at the 2nd Street Market if you've been collecting pop tabs, which of course were invented here in Dayton, and participate in Tab-a-PULL-Ooza, which is a family-friendly event that benefits the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton. There's a competition to see who has the most tabs, although to be honest I couldn't find what you'll win, but it all goes towards a good cause.    Also happening Sunday is a SUNDAYton Tea dance, where you can go to the Bar and Bistro and participate in a tea dance hosted by Dayton drag queens. This Sunday's show will feature Jessica Marie Jones, Jackie O, MAGESTIK, and Dana Sintell. The event takes place from 4:00-7:00pm and the cost ranges from free to $10 to attend.    Also happening Sunday evening at Salar is the Rosé All Day wine dinner, where for $89 you can get a choice of 5 wines to go with Chef Margot Blondet's patio favorites. Visit salarrestaurant.com for ticket information.    If you're in the mood for some comedy after that, you can head over to Wiley's for their Sunday Comics series, going from 7:15-9:00pm. The Sunday Comics are a mixture of local amateurs and nationally-touring acts who are working on material and perform short comedy sets. The cost is $15 and tickets can be purchased at wileyscomedy.com.    And if you need some exercise after a weekend full of food and drinks, on Monday you can head down to RiverScape MetroPark from 6:00-7:30pm and do the Boot Camp with The Unit-Community Fitness activity. On Mondays and Wednesdays, The Unit will be meeting for group fitness activities from now until October, and all fitness levels are welcomed and encouraged.   On Tuesday of course at The Neon is $6 Movie Day, and playing will be Inland Empire, Petite Maman, and The Duke. Visit neonmovies.com for showtime and ticket info.    Also on Tuesday from 6:00-7:00pm at RiverScape you can do Tai Chi and Qigong next to the river. The guided meditations, stretching, and exercises do not require any special skills or equipment in order to participate.    On Wednesday and Thursday of next week there will be performances by The Nerve, which is presenting its show “Friend Art,” by Sofia Alvarez at the PNC Annex. The Nerve is an ensemble-driven theatre company working to build a safe and encouraging artistic community in Dayton where local artists can discover their voice and explore their craft. Thursday's performance starts at 7:00pm and costs $22, although Wednesday's performance is “pay what you want” pricing. Visit daytonlive.org for more ticket information.    Friday May 20th is National Bike to Work Day, and the Fiver River MetroParks Bike to Work Day celebration is happening that morning. The first 500 riders to register and check in at the event receive a gift, and you can pre-register now online at MetroParks.org. The event takes place from 7:00-9:00am at the RiverScape Metro Park on Monument Ave. and features a free pancake breakfast, live music, a bike expo, and more, so hopefully I'll see you there!   Also starting Friday, Sideshow, one of the Dayton Yellow Cab's annual shows, is coming back this month on May 20th and 21st, after taking several years off due to Covid-19. This year performers will include Far From Eden, Tino, Nautical Theme, Snake Oil Revival, and more. Ticket information is available at yellowcabtavern.com.   TheatreLab Dayton will be ending its first season since rebranding from Dare 2 Defy Productions with the show “Something Rotten!” The show takes place at the Victoria Theatre on May 21st and 22nd and the cost to attend ranges from $18 to $63. You can purchase tickets at theatrelabdayton.org or daytonlive.org.    That's it for this week's news roundup episode, and if you enjoyed this episode please be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. As a reminder, there is now merch on the podcast's website, and I recently started offering a new service for local organizations where I will come and do Dayton-themed trivia for your employees or members, so if you're interested reach out at discoverdaytonpodcast@gmail.com. You can also find the transcripts for this news roundup episode in the show notes on my website, discoverdaytonpodcast.com. Thanks as always for listening, and stay funky, Dayton.  

This week we return to in-person sessions as Elio interviews LoLo Smith and George "Ski" Zarebski of the Urban Business Development Center. The U as it is commonly known envisions a world where systematic oppression is not an obstacle for Black and Brown businesses. The U fulfills this vision by bridging the access gap ensuring awareness of resources, providing culturally competent education, facilitating impactful collaboration and engagement for Owner-Operated, Lifestyle businesses and start-ups run by People of Color. Ski and LoLo share the origin story of The U, how the survived the pandemic, and the importance of creating a sense of belonging when launching and scaling companies started by People of Color. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/614startups/support

America's Small Business Development Centers: A free resource to entrepreneurs and business owners across the US, putting our tax dollars to good use, and often hiding in plain sight. Like franchises, they have locations in all major metros. So, two Business Consultants from one of their local Centers join us to describe the breadth of services available at no cost. A Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a digital media and commercial video production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network and learn more about our other services today on HurrdatMedia.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John Traver joins Scott Joseph and Sandy Cerami in this week's episode of move. crush. count.  John invented the original Business Development Center for the automobile industry in 1991. He is now the founder and CEO of Traver Connect, which offers a complete suite of solutions for automobile dealerships to convert BDC leads into sales and to maximize service-lane opportunities. Scott, Sandy, and John talk extensively on what skills businesses need to thrive and maintain success as well as answer viewer questions. 

Learn how the Sustainable Business Initiative can give you the tools to "pandemic proof" your business. Www.evolvbiz.org Schedule your FREE consultation today. Robyn@evolvbiz.org

As scary as it is, most dealers believe that review manipulation isn't a big deal and don't realize the implications with incentivizing reviews. There are many forms of review manipulation but today we will talk specifically about dealers who chose to compensate their customers with prizes, gift cards or other forms of "appreciation" for writing a review. Want premium, Episodes? Become a Paid Subscriber: https://anchor.fm/colint/subscribe If you want to unlock episodes that show you step-by-step how and why Colin recruits, trains and builds some of the best performing BDCs in the US, consider becoming a paid subscriber for a BDC blueprint. Here are just a few of the episodes that give you a blueprint to building a sustainable and profitable Business Development Center in your store or group: "The power of a live TO" - how to instantly save 4-6+ car deals per rep per month in your BDC. Recruiting strategies - who to look for, how to write ads and a unique twist on the application process designed to evaluate potential new hires ability to communicate with your customers in a way that's been described by dealers' as "brilliant" Compensation in the BDC - how to pay your reps and for what activities as well as what activates NOT to pay for! Your BDC doesn't "DB" - I can show you in 60 seconds that your BDC is not developing any business and is simply selling the lowest of the low hanging fruit. In this episode you will learn how to install a process in your BDC to empower your reps to put an additional 2-4 car deals out a month per rep. BDC Accountability Hacks - how using either a traditional whiteboard or digital "Go Green Board" will transform the way your BDC is run. This will allow you and anyone else to view, on demand, real time BDC stats that empower your BDC Director or Manager to intervene with BDRs who are struggling to make course corrections in real time. No more waiting until the end of the day, week or even worse, month to realize your BDRs aren't producing the way you'd like. "CRM Opt-Out" - Your sales floor isn't using your CRM in harmony with your BDC, and it's costing car deals. Become a Paid Subscriber: https://anchor.fm/colint/subscribe Whether you have your BDC, sales floor or a hybrid working leads and phone ups, BDC Colin can analyze your process, make recommendations on how you can sell more cars, assess the sustainability of your team members, provide one time or ongoing training and coaching both in a classroom group environment and one on one, help your BDM or BDD by installing tools and metrics to hold your team accountable, or have an open-house recruiting event for your sales floor or BDC, Call BDC Colin to schedule your onsite dates 708–733-5463 or 708-RED-LINE. BDC Colin works with all NEW unit OEMs --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

This week's guests are Colette Bishamy and Melody Roberts. Colette is the Director of Women's Innovation Learning Labs at the Women's Business Development Center. The organization is focused on supporting and accelerating innovation by and between women business owners, subject matter experts, and corporate partners. Melody is the CEO and Co-Founder of Liv-Labs. They focus on combining self-care tools and easy-access services for convenient health management, starting with pelvic floor fitness. In today's episode, we talk about how innovation is a crucial aspect of business growth. Unfortunately, the pandemic has made innovation difficult but not impossible. Listen to the episode and learn how to continue innovating and thriving when facing the modern world's challenges. Thank you for listening; we hope Colette and Melody help inspire others to grow their tech career.

This summer, Michael Deemer was tapped to serve as the next President and CEO of Downtown Cleveland Alliance after founding President and CEO Joe Marinucci announced his retirement. This was a critical transition during a time when urban centers across the country were facing uphill battles during a challenging year. Top concerns were maintaining residential growth, boosting development, filling office space, and supporting small businesses.rnrnMr. Deemer joined the Downtown Cleveland Alliance in 2011 as Executive Vice President of Development, where he established the Business Development Center, a single point of contact and go-to resource for Downtown Cleveland's public and private partners. Prior to this, Mr. Deemer was the Economic Development Policy Advisor for the Ohio Governor's office, where he was instrumental in forming the Ohio Department of Development's strategic plan and shared responsibility for implementing its $1.8 billion biennial budget.rnrnJoin us, in-person, at the City Club on September 17th to hear how Downtown Cleveland has fared over the last year, and the priorities that will move Downtown Cleveland forward in this new era of leadership.

Adivina qué; son más noticias B2B con la invitada especial Minerva Calatayud de WBDC (Women's Business Development Center). ¡Tenemos café, una rebanada de pastel de limón con semillas de amapola de Tredwell Coffee y listo! ¡Hagámoslo! - ¡El portal ya está abierto! Si usted es propietario de una pequeña empresa en Aurora, puede calificar para subvenciones B2B (Back 2 Business), de $ 5,000 a $ 150,000. Con muchas de nuestras industrias aún recuperándose de las dificultades económicas, el @Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (ILDCEO) tiene como objetivo ayudar a las empresas de Illinois como parte del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense. Nuestros socios comunitarios de confianza de Waubonsee SBDC están listos para ayudarlo. El enlace a la aplicación se encuentra a continuación. Para obtener ayuda para navegar por el programa, comuníquese con nuestros socios enumerados a continuación. ¡No espere! ¡Aproveche esta oportunidad hoy!¡El portal ya está abierto! Si usted es propietario de una pequeña empresa en Aurora, puede calificar para subvenciones B2B (Back 2 Business), de $ 5,000 a $ 150,000. Con muchas de nuestras industrias aún recuperándose de las dificultades económicas, el @Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (ILDCEO) tiene como objetivo ayudar a las empresas de Illinois como parte del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense. Nuestros socios comunitarios de confianza de Waubonsee SBDC están listos para ayudarlo. El enlace a la aplicación se encuentra a continuación. Para obtener ayuda para navegar por el programa, comuníquese con nuestros socios enumerados a continuación. ¡No espere! ¡Aproveche esta oportunidad hoy! - ¡Prepárate para el mercado artesanal de Oaxaca! El evento tendrá lugar el domingo 29 de agosto de 1 a 7 pm en Casa Santa Maria ubicada en 314 E. Downer Place. Arte auténtico, danza folclórica de ballet y música, ¡este será un gran evento comunitario que no querrá perderse! #oaxaca - ¡Llamando a todos los artistas! Nuestros amigos de Culture Stock están dando vida al clásico juego Loteria; ¡Aurorita La Bella! Podría aparecer tu creación de una carta clásica en el juego. El primer viernes de noviembre Culture Stock presentará y dará a conocer todo el juego y las presentaciones. Todas las presentaciones deben recibirse antes del 15 de septiembre. Solo en formato JPEG y PNG. ¡Envíe un correo electrónico a Xeli Xelz a aracelia@culturestock.org para comenzar! #loteria Este fue un gran día para las noticias y una manera increíble de conectar a nuestra gente con los servicios. Hay tantas cosas maravillosas que están sucediendo aquí en Aurora, seamos cariñosos y amables con los demás. Nos complace brindarle noticias, entrevistas y la cultura Aurora. Suscríbase al programa en YouTube haciendo clic en el enlace a continuación. ¡Que tengas un gran día y gracias por tu apoyo!

In this episode of #BuyDiverse, Chicago MSDC President and CEO J. Vincent Williams is joined by Emilia DiMenco, President and CEO of the Women's Business Development Center. Hear as Emilia shares the importance of the partnership and longstanding collaboration with Chicago MSDC and ways the organizations work closely together over the years. Listen as Emilia […]

The Millionaire Car Salesman Full Episode Blog: How To Build An Automotive Business Development Center (BDC) That Actually Works Training your team in areas like automotive BDC, CRM, and effective marketing procedures is strategic, yet very rewarding. From your customers, salespeople, and managers of the dealership, everyone shows out on top when they have the tools for success guiding the way! Most Dealership GMs and DPs can find training a staff to be strenuous, and financially draining. However, it doesn't have to be, especially when you're placing money and time in the proper avenues. Higher grossing in your dealership begins with confident salespeople that are reinforced with reliable procedures and products.  The Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast Presents: Optimize the Full Potential of Your Dealership's BDC with Sean V. Bradley, CSP As a featured guest speaker for the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD) virtual conference, Sean V. Bradley leads a workshop that is all about building and maintaining an Automotive Business Development Center (BDC) properly! With all of the issues that come to surface at a dealership, Automotive BDC shouldn't be at the top of that list. About Sean V. Bradley, CSP Sean V. Bradley is an automotive internet sales and BDC expert with more than 20 years of experience under his belt. Through his company, Dealer Synergy, Bradley has been able to generate over $1.3 billion in additional revenue for approximately 150,000 automotive professionals during his tenure. While being proud to say that he is internationally recognized in four countries and over 3,500 dealer rooftops, Sean V. Bradley is an eight time winner of the Dealer's Choice Award for Best Automotive Internet Sales Trainer. Sean is not only an Amazon bestselling author to Win the Game of Googleopoly, but is also a FranklinCovey certified trainer and facilitator, and member of the National Speakers Association. Automotive BDC Resources Dealer Synergy & Bradley On Demand: The automotive industry's #1 training, tracking, testing, and certification platform and consulting & accountability firm. The Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast: is the #1 resource for automotive sales professionals, managers, and owners.  Also, join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! The Against All Odds Radio Show: Hosting guests that have started from the bottom and rose to the top.  Also, join The Against All Odds Radio Show Guests & Listeners Facebook Group for the podcasted episodes. For more interactivity, join The Millionaire Car Salesman Club on Clubhouse.Win the Game of Googleopoly: Unlocking the secret strategy of search engines. The Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast is Proudly Sponsored By: VinCue: In addition to being built by dealers for dealers, VinCue is an All-In-One Digital Platform.  At the end of the day, it can help your Dealership! AutoWeb: Visit AutoWeb.com/dealers for help in revolutionizing your business to help you sell more cars. Dealer eProcess: Specializing in responsive websites.  Without a doubt, DealereProcess.com is the auto industry's leading custom website provider. CarNow: Sell more cars now!  Not only is CarNow.com. the market leader in tailored digital solutions, but they are built to help dealers sell more cars.

Due to the stigma around mental health in the marginalized population she's serving, Shaniqua aims to be that therapist providing a safe space where clients can have a comfortable conversation (over a cup of tea, if you like!) But surely her trailblazing doesn't end there. Having that firsthand experience of life transitions and evolution, she gives back to her community by fulfilling them with emotional and mental health support— teaching them how to embrace their deficits and turn them into strengths so as to move forward and cultivate in a space to thrive. Thus her mission statement, “helping folks really evolve and harness their power.” Today's guest is a graduate of the Dope Therapist Academy and epic student of the Elite Coaching Mastermind. A walking testimony of living life abundantly, she talks about what it's like for therapists to brand themselves, build their own profitable business, and having that dream schedule as a result of being resilient and passionate towards her personal goals and the community she serves. --- Take the first step to Manifest A Profitable Private Practice! Join the waitlist for the Dope Therapist Academy at https://www.dopetherapistacademy.com/dta-waitlistBe informed of the latest updates for the Elite Coaching Mastermind 2022 by joining the notification list at https://doctortk.lpages.co/ecm-waitlist Guest Bio:  Shaniqua Ford is the lead therapist and wellness coach at Soul Werk Café LLC in the south suburbs of Chicago. Shaniqua is a clinically licensed social worker (LCSW), with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago with over a decade of experience in mental health and holistic wellness focused on trauma, including racial and spiritual trauma, grief & loss, identity, depression, and anxiety. Shaniqua is dedicated to helping individuals harness their power to evolve & thrive in wholeness. She created Soul Werk Café LLC with a mission to help individuals remember their own intuitive knowing, cultivate self-trust, & strengthen the connection with self to heal and create the fulfilling powerful life they deserve.Understanding life transitions and the fight for personal liberation, Shaniqua combines her clinical training and lived experience within mental health, social justice work, wellness, and ancestral healing practices to bring a powerfully aligned therapeutic and transformative experience to clients. Shaniqua has been featured as a speaker on the Rising to Thrive Podcast and Perceptions Theater “Talk Back” segment. She has facilitated workshops for the University of Chicago, Women's Business Development Center, Veterans Business Opportunity Center, and the Black Mental Wellness Expo on topics including, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and maintaining mental and emotional health as BIPOC creative entrepreneurs. Connect | ShaniquaWebsite: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/ Shop: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/shop-1 IG: @soul.werk.cafe (https://www.instagram.com/soul.werk.cafe/)  Episode Timeline:An overview about Shaniqua and her practice (02:37)How did she get into the mental health field? (03:48)What population does she currently serve? (06:39)Shaniqua describes her practice throughout the years (09:49)What were her huge wins after being a biz owner? (19:39)Th

Due to the stigma around mental health in the marginalized population she's serving, Shaniqua aims to be that therapist providing a safe space where clients can have a comfortable conversation (over a cup of tea, if you like!) But surely her trailblazing doesn't end there. Having that firsthand experience of life transitions and evolution, she gives back to her community by fulfilling them with emotional and mental health support— teaching them how to embrace their deficits and turn them into strengths so as to move forward and cultivate in a space to thrive. Thus her mission statement, “helping folks really evolve and harness their power.” Today's guest is a graduate of the Dope Therapist Academy and epic student of the Elite Coaching Mastermind. A walking testimony of living life abundantly, she talks about what it's like for therapists to brand themselves, build their own profitable business, and having that dream schedule as a result of being resilient and passionate towards her personal goals and the community she serves. --- Take the first step to Manifest A Profitable Private Practice! Join the waitlist for the Dope Therapist Academy at https://www.dopetherapistacademy.com/dta-waitlist Be informed of the latest updates for the Elite Coaching Mastermind 2022 by joining the notification list at https://doctortk.lpages.co/ecm-waitlist Guest Bio: Shaniqua Ford is the lead therapist and wellness coach at Soul Werk Café LLC in the south suburbs of Chicago. Shaniqua is a clinically licensed social worker (LCSW), with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago with over a decade of experience in mental health and holistic wellness focused on trauma, including racial and spiritual trauma, grief & loss, identity, depression, and anxiety. Shaniqua is dedicated to helping individuals harness their power to evolve & thrive in wholeness. She created Soul Werk Café LLC with a mission to help individuals remember their own intuitive knowing, cultivate self-trust, & strengthen the connection with self to heal and create the fulfilling powerful life they deserve. Understanding life transitions and the fight for personal liberation, Shaniqua combines her clinical training and lived experience within mental health, social justice work, wellness, and ancestral healing practices to bring a powerfully aligned therapeutic and transformative experience to clients. Shaniqua has been featured as a speaker on the Rising to Thrive Podcast and Perceptions Theater “Talk Back” segment. She has facilitated workshops for the University of Chicago, Women's Business Development Center, Veterans Business Opportunity Center, and the Black Mental Wellness Expo on topics including, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and maintaining mental and emotional health as BIPOC creative entrepreneurs. Connect | Shaniqua Website: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/ Shop: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/shop-1 IG: @soul.werk.cafe (https://www.instagram.com/soul.werk.cafe/) Episode Timeline: An overview about Shaniqua and her practice (02:37) How did she get into the mental health field? (03:48) What population does she currently serve? (06:39) Shaniqua describes her practice throughout the years (09:49) What were her huge wins after being a biz owner? (19:39) Thoughts on office visits vs Telehealth (22:56) Introducing her wellness kits for self-care (28:21) A message for people ambivalent about getting help w/ their biz (34:36) Standout Quotes from Shaniqua: "I use WE a lot because I use a lot of collective and inclusive language as part of decolonization. However when I started DTA, I was a solo practice and now I've transitioned into a group practice; we've had our first mental health interns since January and we have new youth and adolescent therapists who will be onboarding by the middle of June.... And I wanna say, 3 months till the end of that quarter when I signed up, I had my first 10K months ever in my life." (14:54) "Huge win is, I don't have to work a 48-hour/week; I'm still self-sustaining and still have savings. One of the biggest things for me to unlearn is that I did not have to grind to get what I was worth and to earn my life." (21:44) "Building self-awareness helps our mental and emotional state." (29:38) Standout Quotes from Doctor TK: "Anything is possible but it can only be done if you make the moves. I can give you the map but you still gotta go do it." (17:18) "If you work with that population— when you mention the word community— you don't even have to start back in the office. You can stay Telehealth but why not make part of your practice in the actual community?" (24:20) Resources Mentioned: Get access to the Dope Therapist Community Freebie Library Join the Elite Coaching Mastermind 2022 Notification List Join the waitlist for the Dope Therapist Academy: Manifest A Profitable Private Practice Connect: Find | Doctor TK On Instagram: @DoctorTKPsych On Facebook: @DoctorTKPsych On Pinterest: @DoctorTKPsych On Youtube: @Doctor TK SUBSCRIBE & RATE On Apple Podcast On Google Podcasts On Spotify On Audible

Due to the stigma around mental health in the marginalized population she's serving, Shaniqua aims to be that therapist providing a safe space where clients can have a comfortable conversation (over a cup of tea, if you like!) But surely her trailblazing doesn't end there. Having that firsthand experience of life transitions and evolution, she gives back to her community by fulfilling them with emotional and mental health support— teaching them how to embrace their deficits and turn them into strengths so as to move forward and cultivate in a space to thrive. Thus her mission statement, “helping folks really evolve and harness their power.” Today's guest is a graduate of the Dope Therapist Academy and epic student of the Elite Coaching Mastermind. A walking testimony of living life abundantly, she talks about what it's like for therapists to brand themselves, build their own profitable business, and having that dream schedule as a result of being resilient and passionate towards her personal goals and the community she serves. --- Take the first step to Manifest A Profitable Private Practice! Join the waitlist for the Dope Therapist Academy at https://www.dopetherapistacademy.com/dta-waitlistBe informed of the latest updates for the Elite Coaching Mastermind 2022 by joining the notification list at https://doctortk.lpages.co/ecm-waitlist Guest Bio: Shaniqua Ford is the lead therapist and wellness coach at Soul Werk Café LLC in the south suburbs of Chicago. Shaniqua is a clinically licensed social worker (LCSW), with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago with over a decade of experience in mental health and holistic wellness focused on trauma, including racial and spiritual trauma, grief & loss, identity, depression, and anxiety. Shaniqua is dedicated to helping individuals harness their power to evolve & thrive in wholeness. She created Soul Werk Café LLC with a mission to help individuals remember their own intuitive knowing, cultivate self-trust, & strengthen the connection with self to heal and create the fulfilling powerful life they deserve.Understanding life transitions and the fight for personal liberation, Shaniqua combines her clinical training and lived experience within mental health, social justice work, wellness, and ancestral healing practices to bring a powerfully aligned therapeutic and transformative experience to clients. Shaniqua has been featured as a speaker on the Rising to Thrive Podcast and Perceptions Theater “Talk Back” segment. She has facilitated workshops for the University of Chicago, Women's Business Development Center, Veterans Business Opportunity Center, and the Black Mental Wellness Expo on topics including, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and maintaining mental and emotional health as BIPOC creative entrepreneurs. Connect | ShaniquaWebsite: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/ Shop: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/shop-1 IG: @soul.werk.cafe (https://www.instagram.com/soul.werk.cafe/) Episode Timeline:An overview about Shaniqua and her practice (02:37)How did she get into the mental health field? (03:48)What population does she currently serve? (06:39)Shaniqua describes her practice throughout the years (09:49)What were her huge wins after being a biz owner? (19:39)ThConnect: Find | Doctor TK On Instagram: instagram.com/doctortkpsych On Facebook: facebook.com/DoctorTKPsych On Pinterest: pinterest.com/DoctorTKPsych On Youtube: youtube.com/c/DoctorTK SUBSCRIBE & RATE On Apple Podcast On Google Podcasts On Spotify

Due to the stigma around mental health in the marginalized population she's serving, Shaniqua aims to be that therapist providing a safe space where clients can have a comfortable conversation (over a cup of tea, if you like!) But surely her trailblazing doesn't end there. Having that firsthand experience of life transitions and evolution, she gives back to her community by fulfilling them with emotional and mental health support— teaching them how to embrace their deficits and turn them into strengths so as to move forward and cultivate in a space to thrive. Thus her mission statement, “helping folks really evolve and harness their power.”  Today's guest is a graduate of the Dope Therapist Academy and epic student of the Elite Coaching Mastermind. A walking testimony of living life abundantly, she talks about what it's like for therapists to brand themselves, build their own profitable business, and having that dream schedule as a result of being resilient and passionate towards her personal goals and the community she serves.  ---  Take the first step to Manifest A Profitable Private Practice! Join the waitlist for the Dope Therapist Academy at https://www.dopetherapistacademy.com/dta-waitlist Be informed of the latest updates for the Elite Coaching Mastermind 2022 by joining the notification list at https://doctortk.lpages.co/ecm-waitlist   Guest Bio:   Shaniqua Ford is the lead therapist and wellness coach at Soul Werk Café LLC in the south suburbs of Chicago. Shaniqua is a clinically licensed social worker (LCSW), with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago with over a decade of experience in mental health and holistic wellness focused on trauma, including racial and spiritual trauma, grief & loss, identity, depression, and anxiety.  Shaniqua is dedicated to helping individuals harness their power to evolve & thrive in wholeness. She created Soul Werk Café LLC with a mission to help individuals remember their own intuitive knowing, cultivate self-trust, & strengthen the connection with self to heal and create the fulfilling powerful life they deserve. Understanding life transitions and the fight for personal liberation, Shaniqua combines her clinical training and lived experience within mental health, social justice work, wellness, and ancestral healing practices to bring a powerfully aligned therapeutic and transformative experience to clients.  Shaniqua has been featured as a speaker on the Rising to Thrive Podcast and Perceptions Theater “Talk Back” segment. She has facilitated workshops for the University of Chicago, Women's Business Development Center, Veterans Business Opportunity Center, and the Black Mental Wellness Expo on topics including, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and maintaining mental and emotional health as BIPOC creative entrepreneurs.   Connect | Shaniqua Website: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/  Shop: https://www.soulwerkcafe.com/shop-1  IG: @soul.werk.cafe (https://www.instagram.com/soul.werk.cafe/)    Episode Timeline: An overview about Shaniqua and her practice (02:37) How did she get into the mental health field? (03:48) What population does she currently serve? (06:39) Shaniqua describes her practice throughout the years (09:49) What were her huge wins after being a biz owner? (19:39) Thoughts on office visits vs Telehealth (22:56) Introducing her wellness kits for self-care (28:21) A message for people ambivalent about getting help w/ their biz (34:36)   Standout Quotes from Shaniqua: "I use WE a lot because I use a lot of collective and inclusive language as part of decolonization. However when I started DTA, I was a solo practice and now I've transitioned into a group practice; we've had our first mental health interns since January and we have new youth and adolescent therapists who will be onboarding by the middle of June.... And I wanna say, 3 months till the end of that quarter when I signed up, I had my first 10K months ever in my life." (14:54) "Huge win is, I don't have to work a 48-hour/week; I'm still self-sustaining and still have savings. One of the biggest things for me to unlearn is that I did not have to grind to get what I was worth and to earn my life." (21:44) "Building self-awareness helps our mental and emotional state." (29:38)   Standout Quotes from Doctor TK: "Anything is possible but it can only be done if you make the moves. I can give you the map but you still gotta go do it." (17:18) "If you work with that population— when you mention the word community— you don't even have to start back in the office. You can stay Telehealth but why not make part of your practice in the actual community?" (24:20)   Resources Mentioned: Get access to the Dope Therapist Community Freebie Library Join the Elite Coaching Mastermind 2022 Notification List Join the waitlist for the Dope Therapist Academy: Manifest A Profitable Private Practice   Connect: Find | Doctor TK  On Instagram: @DoctorTKPsych On Facebook: @DoctorTKPsych On Pinterest: @DoctorTKPsych On Youtube: @Doctor TK   SUBSCRIBE & RATE On Apple Podcast  On Google Podcasts On Spotify On Audible

When you excel working for the Chamber of Commerce and you turn that experience into a Business Development Center you begin helping businesses globally. Today's guest, Dr. Edwin Elam, Founder of EdwinElam.com made this a reality. Enjoy his story of working for the Chamber in Memphis, TN, helping to turn it into an Award Winning Chamber in the 80's then using that experience to develop field support in the hair industry in Georgia & Florida, now globally. Dr. Edwin has built his business into a Global Business Development Company over the past 40 years. Visit www.EdwinElam.com to learn more about the many services they offer to help your business grow.  Thank you for listening to another episode of the Perky Collar Radio Show. Warmest Regards, David M. Frankel Perky Collar Inventor, Perky, LLC Founder & Perky Collar Radio Show Host, Commercial Real Estate Broker & Business Broker www.PerkyLLC.com, www.BBOTC.net Feel free to join my Entrepreneur Group on Facebook www.Facebook.com/Groups/CharlotteEntrepreneurThinkTank Feel free to learn more about The Fenx and join fellow successful Entrepreneurs https://entrepreneurs-maclackey.thrivecart.com/the-fenx-monthly/?ref=cettsupport Feel free to connect with me on Linkedin www.Linkedin.com/in/DavidMFrankel --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/perkycollaradioshow/support

The KPI Cafe returns to the BDC in this episode with Marija Cvetkovska, formerly of the Suburban Collection and current member of PCG Digital. With years of experience both as an agent and manager in a dealership's Business Development Center, she and host Dane Saville dive into what it really means to leverage this operation to actually develop business. Marija offers up robust morsels regarding touchpoints, products expertise, lines of questioning, the handing off of warm leads, and much more. Along the way, she'll share her issues with how dealers can significantly undervalue the work accomplished in a BDC. If you're looking to up your game to get better metrics out of your own department, this one won't disappoint.Here's what you can expect:4:33 Marija's Automotive Origin Story8:59 BDC for Sales and ServiceSkills DifferencesService Acquisition (Development)Marketing Strategy SupportLifetime Customer Value17:36 Touchpoint Strategy for AppointmentsLead Source DifferentiationFilter Wisely"Call Center" TreatmentPandemic Effect23:04 BDC Agents as Product ExpertsTrims, Payments, Et CeteraConsequences and Outcomes26:20 Guiding CustomersQuestions, Questions, QuestionsBack to BasicsSell Brand, Sell Store, Sell Self30:31 The Handoff ProcessWarm Transfer SystemVariablesDo More, Get More35:32 Level of Collaboration between BDC and MarketingAvoid DisconnectCross-Departmental Knowledge38:54 BDC Reps to Establish Customer Book?Turnover RateRole Presentation and Pay Issues43:40 Marija's Ideal BDC48:26 In-House vs. Outsourced BDC50:29 Tools for Your BDC55:26 Let's Play Pittsburghese!

Today Crystal is joined by the legend that is Monisha Harrell to talk about public safety and policing bills in the state legislature, Bruce Harrell's run for office, and mainstream Seattle politics finally realizing that there is more than one Black leader in Seattle. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available below and at officialhacksandwonks.com. Find the host, Crystal Fincher on Twitter at @finchfrii and find today's guest, Monisha Harrell, at @RuleSeven. More info is available at officialhacksandwonks.com.   Resources Learn more about the passage of Initiative 940 last fall here: https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/initiative-940-modifying-law-regulating-police-use-of-deadly-force-holds-strong-lead-in-tuesdays-returns/  Read about how previously fired cops end up back on the force here: https://crosscut.com/news/2021/04/how-fired-cops-win-their-jobs-back-arbitration  Read the recent Crosscut in-depth report on cops with credibility issues still working in Washington State (by friend of the show and previous guest, Melissa Santos): https://crosscut.com/news/2021/04/nearly-200-cops-credibility-issues-still-working-washington-state  Learn more about the bills discussed on the show today here: https://southseattleemerald.com/2021/03/12/ground-breaking-police-accountability-bills-pass-the-house-await-senate-consideration/  Follow all police accountability bills before the legislature this year here: https://www.seattle.gov/community-police-commission/current-issues/state-legislative-agenda/bill-tracker    Transcript Crystal Fincher: [00:00:00] Welcome to Hacks & Wonks. I'm your host, Crystal Fincher. On this show, we talk to political hacks and policy wonks to gather insight into local politics and policy through the lens of those doing the work and provide behind the scenes perspectives on politics in our state. Full transcripts and resources referenced in the show are always available at officialhacksandwonks.com and in our episode notes.  We are thrilled today to be joined by Monisha Harrell. Thank you for joining us, Monisha. Well, I just wanted to take some time to actually read your full bio, which I'm indulging myself in doing. Because a lot of times we hear about people - we see you in one capacity or another capacity. Lots of people know you're the Board Chair for Equal Rights Washington, you've done work around politics and around legislation and policing, but they don't know the full story. And I just enjoy, especially for women and people of color, just to really understand what you've done and what you've been involved in. So let me tell you who Monisha Harrell is. She's a Seattle native, Board Chair for Equal Rights Washington, and she chairs the National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund. She served as a fellow for Lifelong AIDS Alliance, co-chair of the Capitol Hill LGBTQ Public Safety Task Force. She's an appointee of the City of Seattle's 2017 search committee for a new director of police accountability and co-chair for the De-escalate Washington Campaign Committee, requiring deescalation training for all law enforcement officers in the state in 2018. The Stranger named Monisha one of the smartest people in Seattle politics - I concur - in 2013. And she was most recently honored as the Greater Seattle Business Association's Community Leader of the Year for 2018. As chair of Equal Rights Washington, Monisha helped lead the work to ban conversion therapy for minors in Washington state, pass an updated uniform parentage act to support LGBTQ families, and banned trans panic and gay panic as legal defenses for violence against the LGBTQ community - still such a critical issue. Harrell was recently appointed in July 2020 by Governor Inslee to serve on a task force to provide recommendations for legislation on independent investigations involving police use of force, and recently completed work as a member of the Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson's Hate Crime Advisory Working Group. In 2019, Monisha participated in a leadership exchange program with the American Council of Young Political Leaders, supporting LGBTQ community advancement in both Thailand and Malaysia. Monisha owns and operates a small marketing firm, Rule Seven, focused on offering community-driven outreach and engagement. She has an undergraduate degree from Columbia University and an MBA from the University of Washington Foster School of Business. In 2017, she was named the University of Washington Consulting and Business Development Center's Alumni of the Year.  Man, Monisha. You - that's Monisha, and I have admired Monisha and watched her just do her thing and impact policy and politics and life for a lot of people - we were just talking, for a decade plus now. And just seriously, one of the smartest people in Washington politics - in politics period. If you want to figure out a successful path for whatever you want to do, Monisha can make that happen, so I am just thrilled to have you on the show today. Monisha Harrell: [00:04:10] Thanks so much, Crystal. It's hard to believe it's been a decade of working together. It's amazing because one, I don't feel that old, but I learned so much from your leadership in those early phases, particularly of politics and really learning how to navigate political circles, particularly as a young Black woman. It's been a great decade together and looking forward to many, many more decades ahead for us. Crystal Fincher: [00:04:48] Absolutely. I mean, you've gone global with your influence and advocacy, so I'm just watching and cheerleading from the sidelines over here. But what I wanted to talk about - something you're involved in - in a variety of ways and have been, are the policing bills going through the legislature right now, the entire conversation about what we need to do and how we need to change that. I guess starting off, and just a recap or overview in what is happening in Olympia right now? There was lots of fanfare going into the session in response to demands from community that we finally take action to stop some of the abuses and the violence that we have seen from police, and just the absolute lack of accountability in so many spaces. What is on the table to address that right now? Monisha Harrell: [00:05:48] Yeah, absolutely. I'll start back with Initiative 940, De-Escalate Washington. That work was really - it was really interesting because there wasn't a lot of political will around it back when that work was beginning in 2016 and 2017. There were a lot of people in positions of power who really believed that the work around police accountability was being kind of blown out of proportion. Communities of color, particularly Black communities, have often been the canaries in the coal mine when it comes to, "No, please listen to us, this is important, and this is serious." And the great thing about the work with De-Escalate Washington was it hearkened back to "The Four Amigos", right? Communities from different segments of the state coming together and saying, "We're going to use our collective power in order to create the change that we know we need to see." And people said, "If you pass Initiative 940, you'll have people leaving policing in droves. You'll never have enough police to be able to fill all the spots." And here's what happened. We knew the public was with us. The public wanted reform and the people spoke, and the people spoke loudly. Halls of power weren't ready to address policing issues that our communities were.  Fast forward to last summer, to George Floyd. And if we had voted on De-Escalate Washington last summer, the numbers would have even been higher. But we knew that that initiative was just the beginning. We knew that there is no one single piece of legislation - to be candid, there's not 10 pieces of legislation - that are going to solve the problems that we need to solve around police accountability. And so, 940 was a start. And the tailwinds of last year gave us the political power to be able to go back to legislators who were like, "Our districts are basically up in arms. What do we do?" And then we had their ears - "Okay. We've been trying to tell you what to do. But now that you're saying, what do we do? Here's the package." And that's where we ended up this year. I'd love to talk just a little bit about some of the package that was offered and some of what's moving forward. Crystal Fincher: [00:08:28] Yeah. What is in that package? I mean certainly, we did see protests and just people sick and tired of seeing over and over again, violence against - disproportionately - people of color. But certainly dramatically impacting the disabled community - I mean, communities far and wide, this is affecting all of us. And then no accountability afterwards. It just feels like this lawless attack on community, where we are actually powerless. If someone who's not wearing a badge commits a crime - that should never have happened, but when it does, there is accountability. But if you have a badge, it's just completely different. How is that being addressed with legislation? Monisha Harrell: [00:09:20] The interesting thing that we learned, and I'll say it over and over again, there's no one piece of legislation that's perfect and that will fix everything. One of the things we learned from Initiative 940 was - we passed a law that required de-escalation training for all law enforcement officers in Washington state, that required an independent investigation for lethal use of force incidents by law enforcement. And what we found is that - we expected, naively, officers of the law to follow the law. But without teeth, Initiative 940 was ineffective. It was legally put in place, but we found that there were so many police departments and law enforcement agencies that weren't following it. And so, that's not a mistake that will repeat again. That is something that we learned from that. And so, this year's police accountability legislation shows, actually, that we've learned and we're beginning to put teeth in some of what is being passed as legal. I'll kind of start with Senate bill 5051, sponsored by Senator Jamie Pedersen. That bill has a pathway for de-certification for law enforcement officers that have histories of misconduct. Prior to this bill, and as it stands right now - we haven't passed it yet - but prior to, if you have an officer that's got a history of misconduct in one department, well they basically can just say, "Well I'm about to get in trouble for all this stuff over here, let me go 10 miles down the road to that police department." And then they get a whole clean slate. The investigation at the previous department - it ends - and over at this new department, they have a brand new record and they're a shiny new officer again. And what we've found is that, it's those officers - these incidents like George Floyd, they don't just happen. Derek Chauvin, he had a record of misconduct. If in Minnesota, they had a way to begin to de-certify officers that have records and histories of misconduct, he wouldn't have even been on the job that day. So we as Washington State, we've taken that responsibility to say, "No, you can't just switch departments and get a clean record. We're actually going to ensure that your history follows your career. And if you're not deserving of a badge and gun, a state sanctioned badge and gun, then you shouldn't have a state sanctioned badge and gun." That's the gist around Senate bill 5051. It looks that it will be passing this year. It's cleared both the Senate, and then it's cleared the House committee. It's just ready to come to the Floor for a vote. Crystal Fincher: [00:12:20] That's really interesting, and on that issue, certainly, it is a big problem where officers can just department hop, to escape their past. And they do successfully escape them. Monisha Harrell: [00:12:35] Look at Ian Birk, right? Everybody said that the John T. Williams shooting was unjustified, and what did he do? He left Seattle and he went to Shoreline. So again, 10 miles north, and he's got a whole new career. Crystal Fincher: [00:12:50] Yeah. It's a big problem. It looks like that's going to pass. Is there anything else that looks like it's also going to pass? Monisha Harrell: [00:12:58] We surprisingly got a really sturdy slate this year - not that there's not more to do - but another one and I'll relate it again back to the Chauvin case and George Floyd's death. We have Senate bill 5066, which is duty to report and duty to intervene. What that bill basically says is - if you are an officer and you see another officer using excessive use of force, you now have a duty, a responsibility - a legal responsibility - to intervene in that excessive use of force in order to save that person's life. So unlike in the case of George Floyd, where you saw officers standing by, it would now be illegal for them to just stand by and watch another human being be murdered, when they have the power to do something about it. That originated in the Senate and is ready to come to the House. Another one passed both chambers yesterday - it passed the Senate last night, which was House bill 1054, which is law enforcement tactics bill. And again, I'll go back to the George Floyd case just because it's such a good example of all of the things that can go wrong and that have gone wrong. But in House bill 1054, it will ban choke holds and neck restraints, as well as a few other police tactics - no-knock warrants, in the case of Breonna Taylor. It would ban those police tactics for all law enforcement officers in Washington State. These are good practices. These are good policies. They're not theoretical, because we can point to the real life cases of where, with this in place, we would have saved lives. Crystal Fincher: [00:14:56] It certainly appears that those bills do have legs and that they are an improvement over current policy. I don't think that there's many people who are earnestly trying to address this issue, who don't think those are improvements over good policy. It is - just looking at the conversation and where we are now - is so much different than where we were 5 years ago, 10 years ago. And even just in the public conversations around the idea of reform, they're like, "Okay, we're actually over reform. It's time to transform and to reconfigure, to fundamentally revisit how we address the structure and function of public safety and policing. Down to examining - why do we need an armed response to the wide variety - to everything, really, right now - and how do we change that? And do we need police to respond, period? And models of community-based alternatives to an armed police response or a police response, period. And people saying, "We don't have the time to keep tinkering around the edges and for incremental change in the public safety process, because people continue to die." Even when it's not the worst case scenario with dying, people are having their civil rights violated, their lives turned upside down. Even if they're unjustly arrested because they were over policed and now they're saddled with legal bills and missing work, just to get out of something that they never should have gotten into. Looking on the front end - Monisha Harrell: [00:16:50] Yeah. Crystal Fincher: [00:16:50] Can that be addressed in the legislature? How do you see that? How do you address that? Monisha Harrell: [00:16:56] There are so many people in this fight, and in this battle, right? I'm one person, one type of person. I always say when you're a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. I'm a policy person, so I'm dealing with it from a policy perspective because that's where my expertise is. I am grateful, grateful, grateful for the folks who, maybe they're not the policy person, but they put the boots to the ground and they protest. They give us the wings to be able to do this policy work, right? I have had many great and wonderful conversations with Nikkita Oliver, and we have a different approach to how we show love within community and how we do this work. You need all types. You need all types of leadership to be able to step up and step into the places where they provide expertise to do it. We don't talk enough about things like, do we need an armed response? The answer is no, we don't always need an armed response. In fact, there's probably very few times where you actually need an armed response to a certain situation, particularly because, and this is where Nikkita and I will probably agree, a lot of times 911 is called after the incident. Crystal Fincher: [00:18:22] Mm-hmm [affirmative]. Monisha Harrell: [00:18:22] So you don't need an armed response when the incident has passed. Now we have different approaches for how to get there. But I think what we're working for, I think ultimately the vision of what we're working for in community, is very similar, right? We need less policing, right? We need more resources so that there's a requirement for less policing. We need more money into education and social services, so that we can spend less on what is called criminal justice. I don't think anybody is disagreeing with all of those things. We don't want to spend our money punitively. We want to be able to pool our resources into what lifts us up, not what holds us down. What people may think are very different people - we're actually not that different. We're just working from different angles. We have different perspectives and we have different strengths. You need all of those different strengths to be able to come to the table, to be a part of the conversation, to figure out where do we go and how do we get there, right? What I'll also say is - you made me think of it with the choke holds - it's not just that they cause death. We're talking about the scars that they leave on communities. If you cut off somebody's oxygen for a minute, you may not leave them without life, but you leave them without brain. Crystal Fincher: [00:20:04] Mm-hmm [affirmative]. Monisha Harrell: [00:20:07] Seconds without oxygen is brain death. So maybe they are still walking of this earth and their body is living, but you've left them with mental impairment, permanent lifetime mental impairment. That's what we're talking about, right? There are better solutions and we have to be willing. We have to be willing to work towards those better solutions. Crystal Fincher: [00:20:32] We do. And I appreciate, just you addressing that in your response and talking about - people have different expertise and are in different lanes. And that we need all of those lanes. We need all of those lanes pushing, in order to actually get change accomplished. Pushing in just one of those is not sufficient. I think we have seen, in a variety of situations - that okay, if people are only paying attention in the policy sphere with no connection to community, with no mandate from folks in the community and in the streets - that that leaves people in a position where they don't have power on the inside. And if we're only talking about what's happening in terms of protest and community engagement, then turning that into policy or impacting the institutions that really, whether we choose to or not, we have to engage with in our daily lives - that there is no change made there. And that things stay as they are, and the status quo is unacceptable. So it really does take pushing by people in politics and policy, and community organizations engaging in meetings and on the street - to get it all done. And there are so many conversations about, "Well, which way is better? Either or. Do we do this or do we do that?" And my response to that is always, "It takes all of it." We make a change when we are pushing in all of our different lanes to get that accomplished. I appreciate your lane, it's necessary. I appreciate the lane of people who are in the streets and holding power accountable that way, because that is a lever of accountability and necessary. It just takes all of it. We can't just say - we can't do part of it. It's unfortunate that people who are being harmed have been the ones who've had to mount up and lead in fixing the issue. That should not be the case, but unfortunately, that is the situation that we're in right now. Monisha Harrell: [00:23:05] Absolutely. It's always been an and. It's always been an and. You need Rosa Parks and Medgar Evers. You need Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King. You need James Baldwin and Lorraine Hansberry. You need and, and a call-out, right? And we need our allies. Sometimes you're going to be the leader, and sometimes you're going to be an ally - and if you see a situation, the best way to get this work done is to join in community with others, where sometimes you're going to be the leader and sometimes you're going to be an ally, but you have to add your strength in order to change these systems. Because these systems - power will never concede itself, we know that. We hear that over and over again. Power won't concede itself, but if we work together, we can do anything. Crystal Fincher: [00:23:55] Absolutely, and I'm glad you brought that up because that is actually one of the things that I personally appreciate most about you - is that you're always willing to be an ally. People see when you're out in front, but I have been able to see several opportunities across several policy spheres, and in community, in organizing, supporting, where you've just been like, "Hey. However I can help, however I can support. I know how to do this and the other. I can make a connection." You have always offered yourself as a resource and as an ally in supporting. I know that has been instrumental in so many things happening in so many different areas. Just the amount of policy that you have been involved in across the sphere - in campaigns, elections, ballot initiatives - the list is long that people know about, but where you have been really supportive and instrumental in your knowledge has been helpful, that list is much more broad. Monisha Harrell: [00:25:02] I've had so many people invest in me, right? It's a requirement. It's a requirement to be able to give back, because - I never know what the story is that people think of me or see of me, but I was born to two teenage parents. My mom was still in high school - I'm in the 1976 Garfield yearbook in the little nursery that they had there, right? And yet, I have still had people who have invested so much in me, who have given so much of themselves, so much of their time, their energy, their wisdom, and I feel the responsibility to pay that forward. I really do feel like, despite the hard times, I have been incredibly fortunate. The only way for me to show that, my love language, is paying that forward to other folks. Crystal Fincher: [00:26:03] Well I've been a beneficiary of that, I appreciate it. I know many others who appreciate it. And yeah, I'm just thankful.  Now, I do have to ask you about your uncle. I don't know if people know your last name is Harrell. You share a last name with Bruce Harrell, who is a former Seattle City councilman. He was briefly the mayor. Monisha Harrell: [00:26:36] Five days. Crystal Fincher: [00:26:36] Five days. And now he is running, for the second time actually, running to be Mayor of Seattle. And he has caught my attention. Monisha Harrell: [00:26:48] Yeah. Crystal Fincher: [00:26:49] Principally for a couple of statements that he's made on this subject of policing. One, when he - I think it was when he was announcing and he was talking about the subject of policing - and said that the first thing he's going to do, is have officers watch the video of George Floyd and sign a pledge saying that that's unacceptable. And then last week, few days ago - time is running into itself for me. But within the past week, said another statement, "Hey, if I'm mayor and we go a week without having a shooting or a murder of a Black person, we're going to go to the precincts and high five the officers." Monisha Harrell: [00:27:43] Yeah. So here's what I'm going to say. He is actually quite smart and he is good for sound bites, right? He gives a sound bite that gives people something to talk about. You have to get to the bottom of - but what is he really getting at? What is he actually talking about? And what he's talking about is culture change, right? We have to have a culture change in policing, and particularly at SPD, in order to be able to effectuate real change. And it's an example of a thing that would be done, but not the only thing done. It's an example of, how do you ensure that if you're going to invest in an officer, if you're going to invest training in an officer, education into an officer, support into an officer, that you have a baseline to even start with. And so, watching the George Floyd video - it shows - can this person even admit at a baseline level that that is wrong? If they can't admit that's wrong, then any amount of education or training that we try to put into this person is going to be wasted. They're not who we spend energy on. It comes out sounding really simplistic, because it's a sound bite versus what you're actually getting at, which is not everybody is suited to be an officer. And we have to admit that. We have to admit that there are people - not everybody is suited to every job. And how do you just, at a baseline level, root out who is not suited for that job? And so you get this over simplified example. But it's actually - as an example, it shows you what kind of conversations we have to be willing to have. We have to be willing to say, "This person is not suited for this role. We are not going to expend education and resources into trying to train this person for something that they are just - we can't teach this value. If you can't see this and say that's wrong, there's no amount of sitting you behind the desk and training you, that is ever going to get you to the point where you realize that that's wrong."  I get it. It's definitely something that people talk about, but hopefully they also kind of get to the deeper issue around that, which is we have to determine who has the basis, who has the heart, to do public service and public safety, be a servant leader in that way. And who just, it's not a job that's a fit for you. It's not going to be a job that's going to be a fit for you. And we need to move you on. Crystal Fincher: [00:30:38] I appreciate your perspective and context around that. That certainly is a conversation worth having, and one I think that we should. I'm looking forward to the full, robust debate about policing in Seattle overall, from all of the candidates and evaluating who is best suited, in terms of the ability to lead, and enacting the policies we need with a sense of urgency that it requires. I'm looking forward to that continuing throughout the place. And what else I appreciate about this, is that we have a number of people of color running. We have more than one Black person in the race. We have some of everybody. I've said this before and I think is useful - we aren't all the same. We are not a monolith. We have different opinions and different approaches and we have the opportunity... Monisha Harrell: [00:31:34] Thank God people are realizing that, right? Crystal Fincher: [00:31:36] Right. Monisha Harrell: [00:31:36] Thank God we don't have to all be the same person anymore. Crystal Fincher: [00:31:40] Yes. For those candidates whose perspectives I find myself aligned with and others where I don't, I do think that it is useful for the wider community to see a range of opinions and perspectives addressed, because that's absolutely true and valid. We know that. We've known that, but sometimes the wider community has a harder time engaging. I feel like it's been in the past year or two, where they stopped referring to people just as "Black leaders." Monisha Harrell: [00:32:19] Right. Crystal Fincher: [00:32:20] That's okay, we don't elect Black leaders. For other people, they use their title. For this person, it's "Black leader." Is there anything else to the story? Or they'll just be like, "activist." Monisha Harrell: [00:32:33] It's always funny, because I was always like, "When did we vote? When did we ..." Crystal Fincher: [00:32:35] Right. Monisha Harrell: [00:32:36] And that - to be candid, that's annoyed me, beginning from the '80s. When I started kind of thinking about it, they would say "Black leader" and then they would have somebody talking on the news and I thought, "Well, who elected them to speak for all of us?" I appreciate the fact that there's more nuance these days. I have to give some credit to social media for actually allowing us to have more of a voice, because if we were relying on mainstream media, we'd still have just one Black leader. I'm grateful that we get to have a few at this juncture. I get to be on this program with one of our Black leaders, so I'm happy that we get a full ... Look, this is radio, so y'all can... Crystal Fincher: [00:33:24] I am not claiming that title, just to be clear - I'm a political consultant with a podcast. That's it. Monisha Harrell: [00:33:30] Look, I want people to understand - Crystal and I have a deep, deep respect for each other, but could not be more different. Crystal is on this radio show looking fabulous right now, and I'm sitting here in some Adidas sweatpants. So I just want you all to know that there is many, many ways to be, and we deserve the humanity to be able to be all of those things and the entire robustness of how that shows up. Crystal Fincher: [00:33:57] Oh my goodness. Okay. Yes, all of these things.  Okay. We're in podcast only time and not in the airtime on the radio. Let's just be real - I'm here. I just got into wigs, y'all. They're so simple and easy and wonderful. Look! I threw on this wig. I'm looking at Monisha on this online chat - weird seeing each other, just we're not putting out the video on the podcast - but I mean, look, it's just a wig. It's just a wig and I have my other wig that you saw that I was wearing yesterday in the meeting that we were in about something else. It's totally - it's a different color. It's a different length, but they all take about two minutes to put on... Monisha Harrell: [00:34:43] I'm just saying ... Crystal Fincher: [00:34:44] ... and look like I actually did something. Monisha Harrell: [00:34:45] ... you look ready to go out. And I look ready to go take a nap. Crystal Fincher: [00:34:49] And what you see, is just the very top. Look, you don't see the below the screen situation happening right now. It's not consistent, I'll just tell you that. It is not consistent with what this appears to be. And even this is optimized for two minutes. Just in the interest of realness, I think you probably spent more time getting ready and prepared than I did today. I'm fairly positive about that. Monisha Harrell: [00:35:19] Not in this Zoom world. In this Zoom world, I only gotta dress from the shoulders up. Crystal Fincher: [00:35:24] That's the situation. And that's probably more information than you bargained for, podcast listeners, but there you go. That's real. This is where we're at.  Well, I appreciate you taking the time to join us and talk to us today. I appreciate you, Monisha, period. I appreciate you addressing your uncle's comments and providing some more context and the basis for a useful and necessary conversation. Just thank you. Monisha Harrell: [00:35:56] Yeah and I appreciate being here. It's always a pleasure to talk to you, Crystal. And I listen to your show, I'm a big fan. I like Hacks and Wonks, and I hope more people are listening, because they will learn as much about politics from you as I have learned from you. So it's a great opportunity. Crystal Fincher: [00:36:18] You're too kind and I appreciate it, but thank you everyone and enjoy your day. Thank you for listening to Hacks and Wonks. Our chief audio engineer at KVRU is Maurice Jones Jr. The producer of Hacks and Wonks is Lisl Stadler. You can find me on Twitter @finchfrii, spelled F-I-N-C-H-F-R-I-I. And now you can follow Hacks and Wonks on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever else you get your podcasts. Just type in "Hacks and Wonks" into the search bar. Be sure to subscribe to get our Friday almost live shows and our mid-week show, delivered to your podcast feed. You can also get a full text transcript of this episode and links to the resources referenced during the show at officialhacksandwonks.com and in the podcast episode notes.  Thanks for tuning in. Talk to you next time.

2:31​ Shawn sympathizes with COVID-19 victims weather it be health, loss of life or change of life, work, etc. 3:38​ Shawn believes that the virus leveled the playing field between dealers. 4:50​ for those of us not in the business, Shawn explains the term 'digital retailing' and the role of BDC (and what the term BDC means) 7:27​ Jeff clarifies and reiterates that the USA as a country, is certainly ahead of Canada. 8:29​ Shawn describes digital retailing distilled. Perfectly. 10:02​ Shawn on why when he makes a BDC call, he's not here to sell anybody. 10:15​ Jeff: a very low percentage of people beginning on the internet actually leave in the exact vehicle that they researched or "chose" in advance of the visit. 11:32​ Jeff on why it's a great service (to the customer) to get a potential client into the showroom 16:55​ Shawn on gaining success through the people he is responsible for. 20:40​ Jeff schools Shawn "a well-done steak is NOT ok (neither is medium)" 20:57​ Shawn: BDC (dealership Business Development Center) is essentially there to assist, and basically to guide the customers on maybe some elements that they're not aware of. But this only comes through fact finding through questions. 21:54​ technically, we're always selling something. selling yourself at every opportunity Really? Well, when you go into a job interview, you're selling yourself, 22:03​ let's be clear to the doctors and lawyers watching. Sales is way more important than what you do. :) 22:10​ Shawn debunks some dealership rumors (rumours to you in Canada :) ) 23:18​ about Carvana and fixed price vs negotiating in dealerships 26:11​ Shawn on the "glovebox trunk opener button" 26:22​ 26:20​ Jeff checks to see if Shawn knows he's black (he plays hockey) :) 27:21​ Shawn shows off speaking French 28:14​ Shawn is related to a pro hockey player! 29:10​ problems with 1 price (non-negotiating) dealerships. 30:17​ Shawn on shrinking new car margins and how price impacts payments. 34:04​ Jeff regarding trying to get a better deal vs dealership advertised specials.

Club E will be joined by Renee Frey, Founder of TalentQ to discuss best practices around hiring key talent. When employees thrive...businesses thrive. There is a direct correlation between morale, productivity, and revenue and with today's reliance on technology and home offices, leaders are having to shift how they attract and interact with their employees. Join the conversation and learn how to: • Virtually engage with your employees in new, creative ways • Effectively hire and onboard in a virtual environment • Reassess your employment branding so you are competitive in the marketThis Mastermind session will empower you to • Virtually engage with your employees in new, creative ways• Effectively hire and onboard in a virtual environment• Reassess your employment branding so you are competitive in the marketAbout Renee: As a recruiting expert, speaker, author, and podcast host, Renee Frey founded TalentQ, Inc., a nationwide recruiting firm to clear the noise in recruiting and improve the process for everyone involved. Renee has over 17 years of recruiting experience in a Search Firm and Fortune 30 Company and is the author of, "I Hate Mondays: A Guide to Landing a Job That Makes You Jump Out of Bed." Renee is sought out by industry leaders to speak and educate on topics related to the recruiting industry and the complexities of today’s employment market. TalentQ is proud to be certified by the Women’s Business Development Center as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and Women Owned Small Business (WOSB) and is revolutionizing the recruiting industry with their proven process backed by data analytics.

This week's guests are Colette Buscemi and Melody Roberts. Colette is the Director of Women's Innovation Learning Labs at the Women's Business Development Center. The organization is focused on supporting and accelerating innovation by and between women business owners, subject matter experts, and corporate partners. Melody is the CEO and Co-Founder of Liv-Labs. They focus on combining self-care tools and easy-access services for convenient health management, starting with pelvic floor fitness.In today's episode, we talk about how innovation is a crucial aspect of business growth. The pandemic has made innovation difficult, but not impossible. Listen to the episode and learn how you can continue to innovate and thrive when facing the modern world's challenges.Thank you for listening; we hope Colette and Melody help inspire others to grow their tech career.

In this episode of the KPI Cafe, Laurie Foster of Foster Strategies Group challenges the status quo to dealerships' sales process. With compressed margins, increased competition from new players like Carvana, and the fluctuating circumstances of the economy, it's more important than ever that your process gives you more at-bats with every opportunity. Part of that means activating your finance managers earlier in the process because you know that in-market car shoppers have questions regarding financing and leasing; part of that means thinking about your Business Development Center as more than a call center. Laurie also gives insights about how to get buy-in from your team with these fundamental questions, as well as some tips about compensation for the new duties assigned. In the end, it's all about alignment.Here's what you can expect: 3:22 Laurie's Automotive Origin StoryFurniture SalesProjected Growth Path in AutomotivePossibilities4:45 Foster Strategies GroupLeadershipServing OthersMaximize Management PotentialVendor Partnerships6:37 Context for the EpisodeInventoryMargin CompressionIssues7:03 Activating Your F&IRole Redefinition and ClarificationCurrent Process and Its IssuesA Fresh Approach16:40 Good Customer Experience. Better ResultsCustomer IntentFrictionDollars and “Sense”PVRLess TimeProduct Penetration and Revenue Projections21:18 Getting Buy-InKnow Your AudienceMeasurement24:00 Training for ComfortabilityRoleplayPriming the Customer25:26 Managing Other Staff ConcernsGetting the Help WantedGreater Communication27:53 What Does the Whole Process Look LikeForward MomentumBDC Statistics29:40 Optimal BDCBreak It DownCurrent Role / Responsibility31:41 Alignment on Shifts in RolesTop-ThroughCohesionTap the Brakes33:51 Perception vs. Reality35:43 Customer-Centric. Dealer-Centric.Good Experience Across TouchpointsDealership Customer37:17 Better TogetherMore OpportunitiesMarket StatisticsThe Right Principles38:45 Breaking Down the SilosValue and ElevationBusiness. Development. Center.Football Analogy44:06 The Hiring ProcessChange Our Words46:01 What's Coming Up with Laurie

In this episode, Sokal Marketing Strategist, Katy Saunders, sits down with Dealer Process Coaches, Charity Rudisill and Tammie Ventura, to discuss what a typical BDC department looks like, what issues dealers have with traditional BDCs, and the benefits of utilizing a remote BDC.This episode of GSP is sponsored by Sokal Digital's Email Marketing—one of the best ways to stay in contact with current and new customers. Whether you are trying to promote sales events, service deals, or just keep your audience informed, our detailed reports will show you what goes on in each send.

Guests will include former White House Administrators, Current high-profile politicians, and a lot more. Make Your Mark - Breaking the Glass Ceiling - Women, Voting, and Equality.A Podcast Series Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Woman’s Right to Vote and the 19th Amendment.Presented by the Women's Business Development Center, a National Non-Profit Organization. WBDC.ORG

Host Katy Saunders interviews Sokal’s Dealer Process Coach Charity Rudisill about data mining and how dealerships can use it to attract and retain customers.This is the third episode of the Go Sokal Podcast, a podcast devoted to advertising in the automotive industry made by the leading automotive focused agency Sokal. This episode is sponsored by Mystery Shops, a powerful service that allows you to shop your dealership and your competition the way your customers do, by internet, phone, or email. To learn more, click here.

What an honor it was to be joined by Emilia Dimenco, CEO of the Women's Business Development Center on today's Episode of Lead Up for Women: Speak Up to Lead Up Podcast! Be sure to listen in to hear motivation and direction on how to get cash during the Pandemic and Pivot your business for continued success in this new reality.

Tony Schultz from the NE Business Development Center is on to update all us small business owners on the government assistant programs. Share this episode with your small business owner friends. TONS of info!  tonyschultz@unomaha.edu 402.554.2521 Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Also follow up on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram #patandjtpodcast #podcastlife #podcaster #podcast #omahapodcast #nebraskapodcast #SupportIndiePodcasts A Parkville Media Production. A podcast management and audio production company based in Omaha, NE.

We're the owners of a small business, Parkville Media. As we all know small business have been hit hard with the COVID pandemic and subsequent quarantine. Tony Schultz from the NE Business Development Center is on to help us all navigate the coming government assistant programs for small business. Share this episode with your small business owner friends. TONS of info!  tonyschultz@unomaha.edu 402.554.2521 Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Also follow up on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram #patandjtpodcast #podcastlife #podcaster #podcast #omahapodcast #nebraskapodcast #SupportIndiePodcasts A Parkville Media Production. A podcast management and audio production company based in Omaha, NE.

We are grateful for a woman's service in the military. We need to consider the issues a woman faces when leaving the military, and re-entering civilian life. Those of us who have not served need to understand these issues because we can help.I asked my guest, Ariel Shivers-McGrew, what the greatest benefit she received from being a woman in the military. Her answers may surprise you! And, they were positive! Now, she helps women understand and solve the issues of re-entry into civilian life.Re-entry can be difficult:Finding work.Re-establishing family life.Substance abuse after leaving.Finding a mentor to help with the transition.A year ago, I found myself with bags of clothing to give away, clothing that reflected years on stage as a speaker. When I looked for a place to donate it, I was delighted to find that, on that very day, there was a clothing drive for women leaving the military and entering the civilian work force.I hadn't thought about that need before. Have you?Even though I haven't served myself, I saw that there were community needs for these women that I was unaware of. Today's guest drawsattention to the unique needs of women leaving the military.HIGHLIGHTS OF TODAY'S EPISODE:Answers to...How do women in the military have to segment their lives?What is the most common career trajectory for a woman leaving the military?Why is this topic of issues facing women leaving the military so important at this time?What are the pitfalls and landmines that military women face when leaving?What about culture shock?What issues do military women face when coming home?How do military women find civilian jobs after their service?>>>>> Don't miss all the good stuff at the bottom of this page for you.ARE YOU--OR, HAVE YOU BEEN--IN A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP WITH A PARTNER, EX, PARENT, OR SIBLING?Join my OptimizeCircles.com and get the insights and support you want--safely off social media and it works just like Facebook! Many other free & low-cost resources to help your relationships. All safely off social media, too!___________________________________GUEST: ARIEL SHIVERS-MCGREWA careerist in the United States Army Reserves, an EOL (Equal Opportunity Liaison), a DARN (duty appointed reenlistment NCO), ASISTer (applied suicide intervention skills trained), primarily responsible for the analysis, development and distribution of intelligence used for information and psychological effect.I’ve authored two young adult fictions, managed to find myself a lead contributor for a women veteran’s network in an online magazine and recently presented a proposal on Incivility in the workplace and career counselor preparedness in the 21st century as a PhD student.I’m a former SFL-TAP (transition assistance program) Counselor. I’ve taught women veterans how to start their own business across the Chicagoland area as the Director, Women Vetrepreneurship while simultaneously serving as the Associate Director, Veterans Programs for the Veterans Business Outreach Center at the Women’s Business Development Center for a three-state region (WI, MN, IL).FREE GIFT FROM ARIEL:Career Genogram You can find it by visiting her website.CONTACT INFO FOR ARIEL SHIVERS-MCGREW:Website: TactfulDisruption.coPodcasts:LinkedIn: @ArielShiversMcGrewFacebook: @LLCTactfulInstagram: @LLITactfulTwitter: @LLCTactfulYouTube: CONNECT WITH DR. RHOBERTA SHALER:Website: TransformingRelationship.comFacebook: RelationshipHelpDoctorTwitter: Twitter.com/RhobertaShalerLinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/RhobertaShalerInstagram: Instagram.com/DrRhobertaShalerPinterest: Pinterest.com/RhobertaShalerWANT TO ASK ME QUESTIONS AND HAVE DIRECT ACCESS TO ME IN MY SECRET (Off Facebook) GROUPS?Be first to get my videos. Even, two group Ask Me Anything calls each month.You can. Join my Optimize Circles! CLICK HERE And, get my 21 Steps to Empowered Emotional Savvy via email FREE!Free Passive-Aggressive ChecklistFree Relationship ChecklistSubscribe to Dr. Shaler's newsletter, Tips for RelationshipsFREE ebook: How to Spot a Hijackal®If you have not worked with Dr. Shaler before, you can have your first one-hour session for only $97.#militarywomen #womenleavingthemilitary #reentryformilitarywomen #militaryculture #relationshipadvice #Hijackals #toxicpeople #RhobertaShaler #healthyrelationship #toxicrelationships #narcissisticabuse#narcissists #borderlines #antisocial #difficultpeople #emotionalabuse #verbalabuse #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #difficultconversations See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We are grateful for a woman's service in the military. We need to consider the issues a woman faces when leaving the military, and re-entering civilian life. Those of us who have not served need to understand these issues because we can help.I asked my guest, Ariel Shivers-McGrew, what the greatest benefit she received from being a woman in the military. Her answers may surprise you! And, they were positive! Now, she helps women understand and solve the issues of re-entry into civilian life.Re-entry can be difficult:Finding work.Re-establishing family life.Substance abuse after leaving.Finding a mentor to help with the transition.A year ago, I found myself with bags of clothing to give away, clothing that reflected years on stage as a speaker. When I looked for a place to donate it, I was delighted to find that, on that very day, there was a clothing drive for women leaving the military and entering the civilian work force.I hadn't thought about that need before. Have you?Even though I haven't served myself, I saw that there were community needs for these women that I was unaware of. Today's guest drawsattention to the unique needs of women leaving the military.HIGHLIGHTS OF TODAY'S EPISODE:Answers to...How do women in the military have to segment their lives?What is the most common career trajectory for a woman leaving the military?Why is this topic of issues facing women leaving the military so important at this time?What are the pitfalls and landmines that military women face when leaving?What about culture shock?What issues do military women face when coming home?How do military women find civilian jobs after their service?>>>>> Don't miss all the good stuff at the bottom of this page for you.ARE YOU--OR, HAVE YOU BEEN--IN A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP WITH A PARTNER, EX, PARENT, OR SIBLING?Join my OptimizeCircles.com and get the insights and support you want--safely off social media and it works just like Facebook! Many other free & low-cost resources to help your relationships. All safely off social media, too!___________________________________GUEST: ARIEL SHIVERS-MCGREWA careerist in the United States Army Reserves, an EOL (Equal Opportunity Liaison), a DARN (duty appointed reenlistment NCO), ASISTer (applied suicide intervention skills trained), primarily responsible for the analysis, development and distribution of intelligence used for information and psychological effect.I’ve authored two young adult fictions, managed to find myself a lead contributor for a women veteran’s network in an online magazine and recently presented a proposal on Incivility in the workplace and career counselor preparedness in the 21st century as a PhD student.I’m a former SFL-TAP (transition assistance program) Counselor. I’ve taught women veterans how to start their own business across the Chicagoland area as the Director, Women Vetrepreneurship while simultaneously serving as the Associate Director, Veterans Programs for the Veterans Business Outreach Center at the Women’s Business Development Center for a three-state region (WI, MN, IL).FREE GIFT FROM ARIEL:Career Genogram You can find it by visiting her website.CONTACT INFO FOR ARIEL SHIVERS-MCGREW:Website: TactfulDisruption.coPodcasts:LinkedIn: @ArielShiversMcGrewFacebook: @LLCTactfulInstagram: @LLITactfulTwitter: @LLCTactfulYouTube: CONNECT WITH DR. RHOBERTA SHALER:Website: TransformingRelationship.comFacebook: RelationshipHelpDoctorTwitter: Twitter.com/RhobertaShalerLinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/RhobertaShalerInstagram: Instagram.com/DrRhobertaShalerPinterest: Pinterest.com/RhobertaShalerWANT TO ASK ME QUESTIONS AND HAVE DIRECT ACCESS TO ME IN MY SECRET (Off Facebook) GROUPS?Be first to get my videos. Even, two group Ask Me Anything calls each month.You can. Join my Optimize Circles! CLICK HERE And, get my 21 Steps to Empowered Emotional Savvy via email FREE!Free Passive-Aggressive ChecklistFree Relationship ChecklistSubscribe to Dr. Shaler's newsletter, Tips for RelationshipsFREE ebook: How to Spot a Hijackal®If you have not worked with Dr. Shaler before, you can have your first one-hour session for only $97.#militarywomen #womenleavingthemilitary #reentryformilitarywomen #militaryculture #relationshipadvice #Hijackals #toxicpeople #RhobertaShaler #healthyrelationship #toxicrelationships #narcissisticabuse#narcissists #borderlines #antisocial #difficultpeople #emotionalabuse #verbalabuse #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #difficultconversations See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Beth Kieffer Leonard is the managing partner of Lurie, LLP. In her role, she is focused on the firm's strategy and effectiveness, including the growth of the firm and the development of people. She has led the firm for the past decade and expanded both the service offerings and geography of Lurie. The firm has over 78 years of supporting entrepreneurs from start-up to succession and Beth has continued this tradition through her leadership. In addition to her role in managing the firm, she has expertise in assurance services, mergers, and acquisitions as well as all areas of taxation. Beth works with closely-held businesses and their owners to achieve their business and personal goals. Active in several civic organizations, Beth's leadership role has won recognition from numerous national and regional associations, including “Women in Business Champion” from the Small Business Administration—Minnesota, the Advocacy Award from the Women's Business Development Center in Chicago, and Innovation in Finance Award from the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). Beth was honored as a “(Real) Power 50” by Minnesota Business and was a Top Women in Finance honoree by Finance & Commerce. She is also a recipient of the “2017 Most Powerful Women in Accounting” award by CPA Practice Advisor and was inducted into the NAWBO Minnesota Women Business Owners Hall of Fame in 2018. What You Will Learn: How Beth shook things up in the name of collaboration and effectiveness at her firm Beth's unconventional, risk-taking approach to her professional life as an accountant The transformation of Beth's firm culture and how that affected its employees Beth's leadership style Where Beth draws her inspiration and mentorship from How Beth uses her position to elevate and inspire other women business owners What Beth sees as the future of business and technology Beth's best practices for being and staying an unf♥

Welcome to the 5th episode of our weekly podcast here at Miracle Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram! In this episode, we talk with Marcy Miller, a Business Development Center Representative. Topics Discussed: Marcy’s backstory and how she got in the car businessThe role of the BDC (Business Development Center)Frequently Asked Questions that customers askWorking with customers with challenged creditWhat makes Miracle differentThe difference between a “locally owned” dealership and a “corporate giant”What Marcy enjoy’s doing during her time off Transcript Opening John Haggard: 00:02 Welcome to the Miracle Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram podcast, where each week you’ll be able to learn the best ways to purchase or lease, maintain and accessorize, and how to sell your vehicle for the highest resale value possible, when you’re ready. I’m your host John Haggard, and throughout each month, right here we’ll have different team members join us from Miracle to bring you tips that you can actually use. John Haggard: 00:25 We do post a transcript of each podcast so you can easily refer to it for information. Maybe you heard something and you just want to get more detailed. What was it that he said or she said? Well, you can go right to the transcript and see it and not have to listen to the entire podcast to get back there, so we’ll have that for you. John Haggard: 00:42 On this podcast, we’re talking about what a Business Development Representative does at Miracle Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Gallatin. We’ve got Marcy Miller with us here today. Hey Marcy. Marcy Miller: 00:52 Hey John. How are you? John Haggard: 00:54 I’m doing good. Hope you are too. Marcy Miller: 00:56 I’m doing great. Tell Us a Little Bit About Yourself John Haggard: 00:57 Great. Well, welcome to the podcast. You know, anytime we have a guest on the podcast, Marcy, people want to know something real about this person. It’s not just a talking head, if you will, but really get to know them. So tell us a little bit about you. Where’d you grow up? How did you get started in the car business? Marcy Miller: 01:12 Okay. Well I came here from Ohio, honestly. I grew up in Ohio. I’ve been around the country, lived in [inaudible], lived in Los Angeles and landed in Nashville 21 years ago, a singer. So I followed the music and ended up in Nashville. So… John Haggard: 01:30 You know, a lot of people do that. Don’t they. Say we’re going to come to Nashville. Do you still sing? I mean, do you do like any of that? Marcy Miller: 01:36 I do. I sing a lot. And I try to karaoke any time I can. I don’t do anything professionally, but I just do it for fun and enjoy it. How Did You You Get Into The Car Business? John Haggard: 01:46 Yeah. Yeah. So tell us how you wound up going to work for Miracle. Marcy Miller: 01:50 Okay. Well, I started in the car business 14 years ago. I’ve been in a lot of dealerships, and I have been a salesperson before. But I figured BDC was kind of my specialty. I was really good at being on the phones with customers and I’m great with people. So, I just got better and better at it and I’m still in the BDC, so I’ve been here for four years and I love Miracle. It’s a great company and it’s a great family owned dealership to work for. And I feel like I’m family. What Does BDC Mean, and What Is Your Role On The Miracle Team? John Haggard: 02:23 Yeah. And when you say BDC, just for the folks out there, that’s the Business Development Center that we’re talking about, is that right? Marcy Miller: 02:29 Yes sir. John Haggard: 02:29 Gotcha, Gotcha. So what is, what do you do exactly, cause people say, “well business development manager, I mean what does that really mean”? What do you do? Marcy Miller: 02:37 Basically when the phone rings I answer it, or when customers send in internet inquiries, I call them and I just try to see how I can help them answer their questions, and see if they can come on in and take a look at what they’re looking at online. So sometimes we have to work some things out on the phone first and sometimes they are just wanting to see if something’s available. So I check and make sure it’s available. They come in and get with the salesperson and purchase a vehicle. So it’s all about customer service and helping the customer in any aspect that they need. What Are Frequently Asked Questions That Customers Ask? John Haggard: 03:19 Okay. And what do you find when people are calling for information, what are the top say, three or four questions that people are asking today? Marcy Miller: 03:29 They will ask you first of all if the car is available that they’re looking at, unless they’re looking at new cars and they’re kind of in general looking at new cars and don’t know specifically what they want, and they have questions about those and the trim levels and that kind of thing. So the other questions: I would say typical questions would be about their financing and if they have to put money down and that kind of thing. Can You Work With Customers With Challenged Credit? John Haggard: 03:57 Now what if somebody has let’s say less than good or less than perfect credit? Maybe we’d call it challenged credit. What about folks like that? How can you help them? Marcy Miller: 04:06 Yeah, we help people with challenged credit all the time. We do have our bankruptcy programs through Rich Craycroft who is amazing. He’s the best in the business and we thank God we have him every day. A lot of times we can help them get into something right away. They don’t even need to be discharged. What Makes Miracle CDJR and the Miracle Auto Group Different? John Haggard: 04:26 So we have Marcy Miller, the Business Development Representative for Miracle Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram on the podcast today. And you know, Marcy, everybody says “we’re the best”. “We can get it done”. Come now. If you were going to tell people about Miracle Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, why they should deal with the Miracle Auto Group versus a lot of other people who say, “we’re the biggest, the best, the brightest” or whatever, what would you say? Marcy Miller: 04:50 I would say that we are transparent. We try to put our best foot forward and tell you everything upfront. We don’t hide anything. And I feel like people are so used to playing games. We don’t do that. We’re just very straightforward and real. And that’s why I can work for this company because I wouldn’t have it any other way. Is There a Difference Between a Locally Owned Dealership and A Large Corporate Giant Dealership? John Haggard: 05:15 And you talked about locally owned. Have you worked for dealerships that were like corporate giants, if you will, or parts of big corporations. Marcy Miller: 05:24 I sure have. John Haggard: 05:24 And what’s the difference there? Marcy Miller: 05:26 A difference is that you’re expendable. You’re not important to them and they make you feel like you’re not important, regardless of how great you are and how good of a job you do. It doesn’t matter. If you don’t fit into their mold, they’re not going to keep you. Miracle isn’t like that. They keep you, they try to make everything work for you. They care about their employees and I’ve always felt like I was important here. That’s definitely important to me. What Do You Do In Your Time Off? John Haggard: 05:56 We talked a little bit earlier, you said that you are a singer, came to Nashville a little over 20 years ago. So when you’re not working, is singing your hobby or are there other hobbies, fun things that you like to do on your time off? Marcy Miller: 06:09 Well I have three kids and one of them is leaving me on Saturday. She’s going to college. So I’m a mom, I’m a single mom. And, I love my kids and I try to spend as much time with them as I can. Other than that, I like to spend time outdoors, go kayaking, canoeing, anything I can on the water. This summer has been all about water for me. I’ve been on boat rides and everything else. So, I try to just stay busy and, and try to enjoy my life because I’m realizing that it’s just passing me by and I’m trying to enjoy every minute of it. I feel like I wasted way too many years not enjoying my life and that’s what I’m doing. I’m enjoying it. John Haggard: 06:58 You know, that hindsight, 2020 for all of us, it’s that sort of Woulda, Shoulda, coulda. If I had only… Is that what you’re saying? Marcy Miller: 07:05 Yeah, and that’s not what I’m saying anymore. I’m not saying it anymore. I’m doing it and I’m enjoying my life. Closing John Haggard: 07:12 Well thanks Marcy. That’s Marcy Miller, everybody the Business Development Representative for Miracle Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, and you know that you can join us right here for other topics on the podcast throughout each month because our goal is to show you the best ways to purchase, maintain and accessorize your new or preowned vehicle. Then how to sell your vehicle for the highest resale value possible when you’re ready to do it. And don’t forget, we’ve also posted a transcript of each podcast right here on the website. You can easily refer to it and get all the information you need in summary form at your fingertips. I’m your host John Haggard, and we will see you next time.

This week, Dave travels to Rexburg to speak with Will Jenson, the Director of Business Research at the Research & Business Development Center. We talk about his college life at Utah State, how Economists see the world, and his favorite book about Nike. Also in this show, we have a special Research & Development edition of Five by Five, and our listeners attempt to stump McCauley with questions about Online vs. Brick and Mortar clothing stores, Instagram Marketing, Cocktail Parties and Sole Proprietorships vs. LLCs.Learn more about the RBDC from today's show:http://www.rbdcenter.orgFor all of your Idaho BizCast needs, check out our new website here: https://idahosbdc.org/resources/podcasts/As always, tweet us your questions and feedback @IdahoBizCast, or send us an email at BizCast@idahosbdc.org.

Today's episode we'll tell the key success factors to have a successful Business Development Center.

Derek Brown is a keyboardist, guitarist, and tour manager for The Flaming Lips, and also runs the Business Development Center at ACM@UCO. It was a pleasure to have him on. We talked about music, spirituality, politics, and more music. You can go see The Flaming Lips on tour in various places, and you can listen to their new album, King’s Mouth. http://www.flaminglips.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/santiagoramones/support

In this episode of “Tales from Around the Water Cooler,” Karen Goldner, author, Managing Director of Established Business Services and Director of the Illinois SBDC at the Women’s Business Development Center, shares her experiences in helping women launch and grow businesses. As the number of women-owned businesses continues to rapidly grow, Karen and Kristen discuss common challenges women entrepreneurs face in managing their businesses, and they share strategies to persevere.   Get connected to Karen Goldner! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengoldner/ Website: https://www.wbdc.org/2016/03/04/karen-goldner/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kgoldner?lang=en   Check out Karen’s novels, Passing Semis in the Rain: A Tina Johnson Adventure and Heavy Traffic: A Tina Johnson Adventure!  https://www.amazon.com/Karen-Goldner/e/B01MZDPPW8   About Karen Goldner: Karen Goldner is Managing Director of Established Business Services and Director of the Illinois SBDC at the Women’s Business Development Center. She leads the WBDC’s established business practice, providing counseling to established businesses including certified Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), as well as startup and emerging entrepreneurs. Her passion is helping entrepreneurs reach their dreams. Karen has spent twenty years working with, in and for small businesses. She has worked in for-profit and non-profit early stage investment organizations, including creating and managing the first for-profit technology-focused angel fund in Northeast Indiana. Karen served as Interim President of a $6 million defense manufacturer that was owned by her investors. Prior to that, she managed a community development loan program for the City of Fort Wayne, and served as Fort Wayne’s Director of Economic Development. Karen earned her Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs, and her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Nebraska.

Join us for an in person conference on maximizing your dealership's BDC with Joni Stuker! https://dealersedge.com/stuker/

What do you do when your family business is running you into the ground? How do you balance your relationships as family members and business partners? And when is it time to take a break? There are many big life questions in this letter from a listener who signs her name “Boss & Daughter”. Dr. Momma B provides lots of good resources for this precarious balancing act, and we hear advice and stories from another wise woman with a family business: singer Ruth Pointer of The Pointer Sisters. I’m sooooo excited (for you to hear these stories!) .·:*'`*:·..·:*'`*:·.·:*'`*:·..·:*'`*:·.·:*'`*:·. MOMMA B’S GOODIE BAG OF HELPFUL LINKS Women’s Business Development Center: https://www.wbdc.org/ SCORE for Small Business Advice: https://www.score.org Inc article: “7 Rules for Avoiding Conflicts of Interest in a Family Business” https://www.inc.com/guides/201102/7-rules-of-conduct-for-family-businesses.html Your new favorite Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/1239148391/playlist/5PWHd3QySdpUXDOmEFrPsd?si=AmCwT2-TQx2syaWJLyY3sQ Your new favorite YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkLYXIc69XH8hYpvhC8kO90_uKtZnWob_ .·:*'`*:·..·:*'`*:·.·:*'`*:·..·:*'`*:·.·:*'`*:·. Support Advice from Mom by supporting our sponsor: For $30 off your first week of HelloFresh, visit hellofresh.com and enter discount code Pickleball30 Advice from Mom is a production of Wise Ones Advice Services. It was produced by Juliet Hinely & Rebecca Garza-Bortman. Editing by Juliet Hinely and Samantha Land. Mixed and mastered by Jake Young. Publicity by Anna Beyder. Audio assistance by Bryan Garza. Ruth’s interview recorded by Isis Madrid. The song under our question is Rebel in Motion by Scissors for Lefty. Our theme music is by Love Jerks: www.lovejerks.com This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to offer diagnosis or treatment of any medical or psychological condition. All treatment decisions should be made in partnership with your health professional.

There is a new business incubator in our city and if you weren't there for the grand opening in December you missed a treat! In December 2016, Better Family Life located in the city of St. Louis opened a beautiful, new Business Development Center to support people who want to start a small to mid-size business or get help with an existing business. Cheryl and Christy are joined by the leadership team of this new venture, Eddie Davis, Neelu Panth and Rasheed Ingrim. They are sharing about this exciting new venture and the impactful partnership developed with Carrolton Bank which together they have created the new Better Family Life Micro Loan Fund. Also joining the conversation is Bianca Jackson, an entrepreneur they are working with who talks about her business and how Better Family Life has impacted and supported her new venture. Connect and learn more at betterfamilylife.org/

There is a new business incubator in our city and if you weren’t there for the grand opening in December you missed a treat! In December 2016, Better Family Life located in the city of St. Louis opened a beautiful, new Business Development Center to support people who want to start a small to mid-size business or get help with an existing business. Cheryl and Christy are joined by the leadership team of this new venture, Eddie Davis, Neelu Panth and Rasheed Ingrim. They are sharing about this exciting new venture and the impactful partnership developed with Carrolton Bank which together they have created the new Better Family Life Micro Loan Fund. Also joining the conversation is Bianca Jackson, an entrepreneur they are working with who talks about her business and how Better Family Life has impacted and supported her new venture. Connect and learn more at betterfamilylife.org/

There is a new business incubator in our city and if you weren’t there for the grand opening in December you missed a treat! In December 2016, Better Family Life located in the city of St. Louis opened a beautiful, new Business Development Center to support people who want to start a small to mid-size business or get help with an existing business. Cheryl and Christy are joined by the leadership team of this new venture, Eddie Davis, Neelu Panth and Rasheed Ingrim. They are sharing about this exciting new venture and the impactful partnership developed with Carrolton Bank which together they have created the new Better Family Life Micro Loan Fund. Also joining the conversation is Bianca Jackson, an entrepreneur they are working with who talks about her business and how Better Family Life has impacted and supported her new venture. Connect and learn more at betterfamilylife.org/

How can you fast track your career and perceived as a valuable asset in your organization? Let Emilia Dimenco answer those questions for you. As the President and CEO of Women's Business Development Center (WBDC), Emilia talks about the various support they offer to several types of businesses. Having a successful 30-year career in the financial services, Emilia shares her experience in investment banking and the value of sponsorship in accelerating her career – from being an intern into becoming a leader in various financial organizations. She explains why having a sponsor is key if someone is aiming for the executive level and how working with clients accelerated her career growth. Plus, she shares 2 key factors that jumpstarted her career and led her to become a senior vice-president, and later, an executive vice-president. Lastly, Emilia explains the importance of being respectful towards the knowledge and experiences of those around you. And, how working with leaders could potentially increase your chances of getting ahead in your career.   In this episode, you'll learn: • The various types of support business owners can expect from Women's Business Development Center. • The difference between mentorship and sponsorship. Tweetables: • If I could teach a business owner only one thing, I would teach them what creates value in a company and what destorys value in a company. • The people that are closest to their clients are the people that will get the greatest attention. Big Takeaways: • Having a good personal relationship with a sponsor isn't enough. You have to turn sponsors into advocates by showcasing your abilities to them. • It's not enough that you have a great idea. You have to let others jump in and let them become involved in bringing your idea into life. • Working with leaders starts with understanding their decision-making process and discovering their agendas. Related Links & References: • Women's Business Development Center official website: www.wbdc.org • Mindy's LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/emilia-dimenco Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1.Darren Walker, BEAN founder Having been a business man from a very early age, Darren Walker became frustrated with the challenges of limited access to people and resources that could advance his business and personal endeavors. Thus, Walker created Black Economic Advancement Network (BEAN) to provide a way for African Americans to connect with business owners and capital to make it easier to identify and support each other's businesses. At age 25, Walker—together with his friend and partner Dustin Young established GOES (Green Opportunities Energy Solutions). GOES was the first among the companies then incubating at Moore Norman Technology Center whose sales exceeded $1 million in its first year of operation at the Business Development Center where it started. Darren Walker is the youngest of six children born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. He has been happily married to Lucy Walker for eight years, with whom he has two precious daughters, a toddler and an infant. 5th Annual San Francisco Green Festival, May 28-June 3 2. 8:30AM - Rachel Caplan (executive director, founder SFGF), and Jim McSilver director of OAKLAND ORIGINALS   3. 9AM - Michelle Grace Steinberg director of BEYOND RECOGNITION, and Shadia Fayne Wood for OUR POWER FULL FORCE 4. Originally from New York, Suraya Keating is Shakespeare for Social Justice Director for Marin Shakespeare Company, Clinical Supervisor for an Expressive Arts Therapy Program at Martinez Hospital and master trainer in Expressive Arts and Drama Therapy. Suraya is also an Adjunct Professor at the California Institute of Integral Studies and maintains a private practice in the Bay Area.

The PTAC - Procurement Technical Assistance Center is a great place to get free advice about federal contracting before you hire a consultant, get a GSA schedule or even write your first federal proposal. PTAC Director Frieda Curry at the Women's Business Development Center in Chicago is the Guest on the Federal Sales Sherpa Show and she will explain to Eileen Kent what she and PTACs in your back yard can do to help you get closer to winning federal contracts. In addition, Eileen will have Rosemary Swierk of Direct Steel & Construction on the show since she mentions how she utilized the WBDC and PTAC in Illinois in a recent GRID story in the Chicago Sun Times:  http://www.chicagogrid.com/enterprise/government-contracts/ Eileen Kent is the Federal Sales Sherpa and has trained over 10,000 people nationwide on Federal Sales, Proposal Writing and GSA Schedule Contracting. Currently, Eileen works with companies one-on-one performing detailed competitive analysis, building and action plan and training the team on how to play the federal sales game to win. But before you bring Eileen onto your team, you may want to  get your certifications and registrations completed by working with your local PTAC first. You can look yours up at http://www.aptac-us.org/new/  Join Eileen this week - and every week - at 5PM Central Time on Tuesday on the Federal Sales Sherpa Show!

Audio File:  Download MP3Transcript:  An Interview with Genevieve Thiers Founder, ContactKarma and SitterCity.com Date: May 7, 2012 [intro music] Lucy Sanders:     Hi, this is Lucy Sanders, the CEO of NCWIT, the National Center for Women in Information Technology. This is another in our series of interviews with women who have started tech companies and we've got a great serial entrepreneur to talk to you today. With me is Larry Nelson W3W3.com. Hi, Larry. Larry Nelson:     It's a pleasure to be here and I'm looking forward to this very, very much. Lucy:             Well, we've got with us today Genevieve Thiers who is a serial entrepreneur in many spaces. In preparing for this interview, I learned quite a bit about a couple of marketplaces. For example, the need for childcare services. It's an 18 billion dollar market and projected to grow 39 billion by 2015. Genevieve, who was the founder of Sitter City recognized the importance of this marketplace and perhaps she will tell us more about it in this interview when she really set out to tap into it. Long story short, Sitter City, very successful. She has moved on to start another company called Contact Karma, which is really a B to B, business to business matchmaker of sorts, which really uses a combination of deals and recommendations and trusted contacts to match business users with service providers. Genevieve has been recognized nationally. We are very happy to have you here today, Genevieve, to be talking to us. Welcome. Genevieve Thiers: Well, thanks for having me. Lucy:             So why don't you tell us just a little bit about what's going on at Contact Karma and if you want to throw any other stories about Sitter City, we'd love to hear them, too. Genevieve:    Sure. Well, one of the great things going on right now is that Chicago is undergoing a tech renaissance really. It's very exciting. I don't know if you guys have been keeping tabs on Chicago's tech entrepreneur scene but we have a number of groups here who have been very staunch advocates of the space. Particularly the CEC. It's just been really exciting. They've recently launched this wonderful new co-working space in Chicago called 1871. It's something like 300, 400 companies all in one spot. All tech companies, all in that early disruptive phase. So as you can imagine I'm in heaven.  I actually have a couple of things I'm co-founding right now, mostly with new, emergent women entrepreneurs. So, it's been a real unique thing to springboard into from my Sitter City experience. Lucy:             We've heard Chicago is quite the hotbed and we have had several interviews now with women tech entrepreneurs from Chicago. Genevieve, can you tell us a little bit about how you first got into technology. You are a serial entrepreneur. It sounds like that's continuing. How did you first get interested and what do you think are the particularly interesting technologies today? Genevieve:        Well, frankly, how I got involved in technology is a pretty funny story. It was a complete and total accident. I was an English and Music major in college and trained primarily most of my life in opera since the age of 11. I'm primarily a performer which is very interesting. I fell into tech. I was sitting in my college dorm room my senior year of college in the year 2000. I remember I saw this nine months pregnant mother climbing up 200 steps, posting fliers for babysitters. It was too early for me to go to opera school, my voice wasn't quite ready. Your voice usually matures around the age of 30 and I was in my early 20's. I thought, "Oh gosh, here is something else I could do. I could create a solution to this problem. Why isn't someone taking all the caregivers in the city or the nation and put them all in one place where you can easily find them? But more importantly, just quickly screen them?" So that is what sittercity.com became. It's America's first and largest network to connect parents with caregivers nationwide. We have millions of caregivers in five different divisions: child care, pet care, senior care, home care and tutoring. Lucy:             It's been quite the success and everybody has been checked out, credentials and so on and so forth. Genevieve:        We believe that if you are a mom bringing a caregiver into your home, you should be the one to screen them. That's a common sense thing I think a lot of people miss but I am the oldest of seven kids so I was a baby sitter and nanny my whole life. It's really quick to check a caregiver. There is a four step process. You quickly check their references. You do a quick interview. There is usually a background check process, and parents might leave a review. It's a very simple process. It doesn't have to be complicated. Sitter City is quite neat because it allows the sitters to actually run the background check on themselves and it gets posted in their profile for you to see. It's all right there. There's no waiting. There's no 24 hour turnaround time. It's instant access to what you need. Lucy:             OK. Cool. Larry:            Yeah, very cool. What technologies do you think are cool today? Genevieve:        Oh gosh, what technologies do I think are not cool? Basically, anything that has to do with women in tech. Personally, I like technologies that solve women's problems, particularly problems for moms. Four months ago, I had identical twins, Ari and Leo Ratner, with my husband, Dan Ratner, and they are just adorable. It's amazing how much my own product has just saved my life. I hired this absolutely amazing baby nurse through Sitter City, and she is [laughs] the reason that I'm standing. I'd be on the floor without her. I like solutions that women entrepreneurs tackle to solve issues for other women or other moms. Lucy:             Let's sing an NCWIT song. Larry:            Boy, I'll say. Lucy:             Absolutely. Genevieve, tell us why you're an entrepreneur. You gave us a little bit of the history of the story about how you first started to think about Sitter City. Why, in general, are you an entrepreneur? What do you like about being an entrepreneur? Genevieve:        First of all, there's nothing not to like. It's a crazy roller coaster ride. You're constantly challenging yourself to the utmost. Yeah, it's got real down moments, but it's got some absolutely amazing highs. I think I became an entrepreneur by accident, but then later I began to realize, really, it's the perfect role for me. Did you know that the root of the word entrepreneur actually used to mean an opera impresario? Lucy:             Is that right? Is that...  [crosstalk] Genevieve:        It used to refer to an opera producer. Lucy:             My goodness. Larry:            Why would you know that? [laughter] Genevieve:        I know that because I'm an opera singer. I just thought, initially, that I would create a company so that I'd have more money for singing, frankly. I didn't want to wait tables, that sort of thing. It turned out to be much, much bigger than that. I'm an accidental entrepreneur, really. I thought, hey, I'll just build this thing. It's just a solution to a problem, and it turned out to just be gigantic, because it was a solution to an enormous problem that women had all over the world. Yeah, it's been a fun ride. Larry:            That's fantastic. Now, along the way, who are some of the people who supported you, really helped you get on your way, and your role models or your mentors? Genevieve:        My main mentor has been my husband, Dan Ratner, who has created a number of companies before he even met me. It's a funny story, too, because I was actually online on match.com researching it, because Sitter City is very similar to the online dating service model. I needed to study the model, and that's where we met. [laughter] Genevieve:        He's so cute. He's had several other companies before he even met me. Then he joined forces with me in 2005 to run Sitter City, which was awesome. He was helping from the beginning. I had a very small site in the beginning that I paid a couple of college friends to build. It started breaking right away, and Dan was right there to fix it every time, so he's been there from the very beginning, working alongside me. That's been wonderful. There's so many organizations in Chicago that are immensely helpful. Like I mentioned, the CEC is just incredible, and I can't wait to be in 1871. I'm actually going to be there with a desk, alongside founding entrepreneurs and other established ones, like myself. Also, the Women's Business Development Center here is great, the I2A Fund. Sitter City just stumbled across these really wonderful organizations as we've moved along. Particularly, what I'm proud of, too, is that we have some wonderful investors, all of whom are dead, I might mention. [laughs] [laughter] Genevieve:        [inaudible 08:35] Capital, Latex Capital, New World, and Baird. You get venture partners, all very wonderful firms, and great, great guys. It's really good to have them on the board. Lucy:             Along the way, as you started Sitter City and also Contact Karma, you said there had been highs, and there had been lows. Tell us about one of the toughest things you've had to do in your career. Genevieve:        Mainly the toughest period I faced with Sitter City was that, in the beginning, I was launching it in the middle of the dot-com crash, and I was literally left out of rooms. I couldn't get the investors to understand it, because they'd never babysat, so I kept hearing, "My wife handles that." I kept thinking, "Gosh, get her in here." [laughs] "She'd understand." This is big. I just, at that point, kept going and built it myself because I was in the middle of the dot-com crash and not even really realizing. I just went ahead and built it myself because I realized that there was an incredible need. The moms I was talking loved it, it was just the investors I had the challenge with. It's funny, companies that built out of challenges, I find, Contact Karma, which is my latest company, is this really neat fusion of the Yelp business model, the review model, and a deal site. What we've done is, we've applied review the deals to the phase. If you're looking for a lawyer, or an accountant, or a bookkeeper, or any kind of vendor, you can go to the Contact Karma website, and you can put that in. We'll send you, within 24 hours, recommendations for our top three recommended vendors. It's not based on what we think, it's based on who else in the Chicago entrepreneurial field has used them and liked them. Then we'll give you a deal as well, so you're saving money, but you know you can trust the vendor. That company came out of an intense need to really just find vendors that weren't going to tank the business situation you're in. That came out of an intense need to basically make sure that vendors, that companies you're using when they're just getting started, don't essentially tank the company. Start-up costs for new companies are very high and we've been able to prove so far, you we can get those down to at least 70 percent of what they used to be, probably 60 percent, by the time we're done. That's exciting to me in addition to the fact that less start-ups will be having wipe-outs because they hired the wrong vendor, and blew a whole bunch of money and don't have any left to try again. Lucy:             That's a great point and I want to return a moment to the point about Sitter City being bootstrapped. I think it's, again, a good reminder that companies are started in all different ways, and bootstrap is a great alternative in some situations. Larry:            Yeah, in many situations. Lucy:             In many situations. Larry:            Yeah, you bet. Now, Genevieve, if you were, right now, sitting at a table, or a desk, and there was a young person who was looking into entrepreneurship, what advice would you give them? Genevieve:        I've got a number of things that I think are really important. The first, most important thing, that I would say to an entrepreneur just getting started is, "There are no problems. There are just sticky situations, waiting for resolutions." [laughter] Genevieve:        Problems can't exist for you if you're an entrepreneur, insurmountable ones. You have to see them as opportunities to solve something. It's just interesting. I see a lot of entrepreneurs who think, "I have to solve this problem." They go out and they get all fired up, and then two days later, they give up because somebody poked some holes in it. You can't see holes. You just have to keep rolling right over them and stay focused on your vision, because there's very little out there that people will actually pay for. Once you find something that they will pay for, and you've got a narrow enough niche that you are extrapolating that from, you really can't lose. I have a couple other things I'm always saying. "Keep it simple and stupid. Don't make it complicated at all. Do something that you're familiar with." Those are more traditional pieces of advice, however. Lucy:             Keeping it simple is important. People over-complicate things all the time. Genevieve:        Oh my goodness, all you have to do is make sure that it's OK and out the door. [laughter] Larry:            Yeah. Genevieve:        You don't need anything in a start-up to ever be perfect. Lucy:             Absolutely. Well, along the same lines as the previous question, what personal characteristics do you have that you think give you an advantage as an entrepreneur? Genevieve:        To be honest, you have to have blinders on. [laughs] You have to be that person who's willing to just go running into the field, charging with a flag above your head, with a battle cry. That's not usually the smartest person in the pack, I'll tell you that right now. [laughs] It's usually the dumbest, but, dumb but brave is a good thing. Not really thinking too much about stuff, just hurling yourself into it, is good. I think I had a particularly interesting situation, in that I've never taken a business class in my life. I came out in the middle of the worst dot-com crash, the worst recession really, since the latest one that we've had. I didn't even know we were in a recession. I didn't really know what a recession was. I was [inaudible 13:49] . [laughter] Genevieve:        It was funny. I was just an idiot savant. I [inaudible 13:56] and I just kept going off and building it, and it worked, but stress on the idiot part, because it was just something I thought I would do. It was a hobby. That's a good characteristic, the ability to just run with blinders on and not get knocked over by problems coming at you from every side. Also, in my case, I found that being a performer really helped. The more that you get in front of people and perform and evangelize, whether it be yourself, or a song you're singing, or a product, the better you get at it. It's kind of an art. You really do have a challenge when you create a new web tech company because I tend to create things that haven't been done before. Fusions that haven't been done. You have a real challenge getting people to actually do it. It's really hard. You've got to chase them down in supermarkets. [laughter] Genevieve:        You've got to do crazy guerilla tactics just to get their attention. I like that. I get a kick out of that, maybe because of the opera training. You can't be afraid to be in front of people and get right in front of them and tell them about what you're doing and talk them into doing it. Larry:            Yeah. Lucy:             That's interesting. The person who has the flag, running out ahead, charge. I think sometimes we call that courage. [laughter] Genevieve:        Well, yes. Larry:            It's been called other things, too. Genevieve:        Or stupidity. Lucy:             Yeah. I think it's really, really true. The thing you're talking about. You can't get the whole, you just have to keep going. Larry:            Yep, you betcha. Wow. Now with all of the things that you've been through, I think it's really interesting and neat that you're starting this other company and everything else. How do you bring balance into your personal and your professional lives? Genevieve:        One of the interesting things I'm finding, and this was not really deliberate, but it has definitely occurred and it's exciting, is that what I'm building is helping me save time in my life. If you talk to any new mom, the one thing she wants more than anything in the world is time. It's a pretty desperate commodity for most of us. Through Sitter City I found this amazing baby nurse and suddenly I have lots of time. So much time that I'm actually co-founding multiple companies now with new, emerging women tech entrepreneurs in Chicago. That's really exciting. Conjit Cuervo, which is one of the new companies I'm working on, also saves time. One of the things that we do is we have a top ten list of vendors for starting your business, for example. Across these top 10 vendors that we've found, in everything from website design to incorporation to logo creation to your opening document suite that you need for a new company, we've been able to bring the cost of creating a new company down to 70 percent of what it once was. We're also able to save you time. Imagine how much time it takes the average entrepreneur pounding the phones, talking to people. It can take them days or weeks to find a vendor and suddenly they go to event and stumble across a friend and that friend knows somebody, but it's pure serendipity. I like imposing order on those processes so that I can save time. [laughter] Genevieve:        More time means more time with my husband and my kids. Larry:            There you go. Lucy:             It's great that you can have businesses that integrate so nicely between your personal and your professional life. Genevieve:        Absolutely and the next two that I've got integrate as well. It's very exciting. There's a mentality I find, particularly among the women tech entrepreneurs that I work with, pure organization. That's really refreshed. It's the ability to not only run a company, but in some cases I've seen them running multiple departments, families, personal lives, artistic lives all alongside each other. It's neat. We're very good at organizing. We might as well try to put that into companies. It's a great skill. Lucy:             It reinforces something that we really believe at Nancy Witt, that women's creativity really does inform technology products and services. Genevieve:        Absolutely. Lucy:             I think that it's important to see that instantiated in what's out there. It's very, very inspiring. Genevieve, what's next for you? You've achieved so much and it sounds like you've got more tricks up your sleeve. Genevieve:        To be honest, I'm just playing. I really came straight out of college into what became Sitter City. Sitter City, today, is just amazing. Not only do we have our subscription service, but we have a corporate program, which is absolutely wonderful in companies like Avon and Mastercard and Monsurowide and the whole U.S. Department of Defense, for example, use Sitter City's corporate programs to, basically, connect their employees with care. That's been incredible. The next phase is international expansion. All of that is just amazing. I never really had a lot of downtime to play around and figure out who I was. I have sung opera professionally, or semi-professionally, in Chicago here and there and kept that up. I'm in this interesting spot where I'm just having a lot of fun. The twins are wonderful. [laughter] Genevieve:        That was just an amazing thing to meet them and go through that. Now I'm co-founding a couple of things that help promote new emerging women in tech and I'm auditioning and I'm singing in concerts. I'm just having a blast. Lucy:             [laughs] Sounds that way. Larry:            Yeah. Genevieve:        I love this time with my family and with myself. Lucy:             Well, that's just really awesome and very inspiring to talk to you. Larry:            It sure is. Lucy:             To know that you're there in Chicago, and elsewhere, and making such a big difference. Thank you so much, Genevieve. I want to remind listeners that they can find this interview at w3w3.com and also ncwit.org. Larry:            Yeah. Lucy:             Thank you, Larry. Larry:            Thank you, Genevieve. Genevieve:        Thank you. [outro music]     Series: Entrepreneurial HeroesInterviewee: Genevieve Thiers Interview Summary: Genevieve created her first company, Sittercity.com, because she recognized a need for an online space where working mothers could go to find reliable caregivers for their children. A similar concept helped her to develop her newest company, Contact Karma, an online company that strives to match the consumer with a vendor that meets their specific needs. The advice that Genevieve has for aspiring entrepreneurs is that it is important to remember "There are no problems, there are just sticky situations waiting for solutions." Release Date: May 7, 2012Interview Subject: Genevieve ThiersInterviewer(s): Lucy Sanders, Larry NelsonDuration: 19:17