Podcasts about business spotlight

This business spotlight episode is a practical deep dive into the Regional Investment Corporation, how it works, why it exists, and how it's helping farmers manage risk and build stronger businesses.CEO John Howard shares his journey across agriculture, food, and finance and breaks down how concessional loans can provide breathing room during tough seasons and create opportunities for long-term growth.This episode explains what RIC does, who it's for, and how farmers can access loans to improve cash flow, rebuild after hardship, or enter the industry. For anyone in agriculture looking to better manage risk, understand finance options, or plan for the future, this is a practical and highly relevant conversation.RIC is the Australian Government's farm business lender providing low-interest loans for farmers and farm-related small businesses to prepare for, manage through and recover from tough financial times.Key insights from the conversation:What the Regional Investment Corporation is (and isn't)The role of concessional finance in agricultureManaging risk through drought, flood, and volatilityWhy timing and preparation matter when accessing financeThe reality of farm business resilience in AustraliaChapters:00:00 Spotlight on Regional Investment Corporation01:30 Understanding RIC's Role in Agriculture03:49 Navigating Hardship and Opportunities06:57 Demand Trends in Australian Agriculture10:49 Innovative Loan Products for Farmers13:03 The RIC Team and Customer Experience14:53 RIC vs Traditional Banks15:34 Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers18:11 Future of Agriculture and Succession Planning19:34 Success Stories from RIC Customers23:09 Practical Steps for Engaging with RIC Running a farm business comes with its challenges; from seasonal conditions to rising costs and cash flow uncertainty, there can be many unknowns along the way. Regional Investment Corporation, simply known as RIC, is the Australian Government's agri-lending specialist, providing low interest loans to help eligible farm businesses navigate challenges. Whether that's starting out, planning for succession, or managing through tough conditions like drought and natural disasters, RIC helps viable farmers to keep farming. With concessional interest rates, RIC loans can provide valuable breathing space, helping farmers manage cash flow while they get through tough times or to build their business. Every situation is different, so it's important to understand what support may be available and what's involved before applying. Visit ric.gov.au to learn more, explore your options, and check your eligibility.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Season 4, Episode 14 of The Front Porch Podcast features Anthony Obiselu, part owner of Yonx Pizza Bar & Co.  Links:Yonx Pizza Bar & Co: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

This week, Lex P and Drea Nicole are back solo and cutting up per usual. From childhood memories of saying “salutations” to getting lit in Houston, the girls recap their weekend, talk tour energy, and get into the chaos that happens when the whole city shows up. They also dive into internet culture—breaking down viral trends like “you the birthday,” the generational gap in humor, and how fast Black slang gets taken, flipped, and forgotten. Plus, a real conversation about giving credit where it’s due and whether viral creators deserve to get paid for the culture they start. Later, they sit down with their girl Helen of Alcove Aesthetics for a Business Spotlight, getting into all things skincare, injectables, and why finding a licensed, knowledgeable provider matters. Helen breaks down the difference between trendy treatments and real results, and how to keep your look natural while still doing what works for you. Of course, it wouldn’t be Pour Minds without a little randomness—grills, bad breath, crawfish etiquette, and why some trends just aren’t meant for everybody. Pour up—this one feels like being on the couch with your homegirls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Join Maxine casting the spotlght local businesses.

Today, we sit down with Mary Spare, founder of Drip On By The Bay, to talk about her mobile IV therapy business and how she is bringing wellness services directly to clients in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, and surrounding areas. Led by Spare, a nurse practitioner with more than 40 years of nursing experience and 8 years as an NP, the company offers mobile IV drips, IM injections, memberships, and event-based services designed around hydration, recovery, and overall wellness. It is a conversation about convenience, health, and a business model that literally comes to you. Drip On By The Bay offers in-home appointments, concierge-style service, and customized treatments for everything from energy and immune support to weight management and recovery, all with a focus on making the experience comfortable and personal. If you have ever been curious about mobile IV therapy, how it works, or why more people are turning to services like this for wellness support, this is a good one to catch. Have a listen! LINKS: Drip On By The Bay (Website) Drip On By The Bay (Facebook)

This week, Lex P. and Drea Nicole are back solo — no guest, just the girls — and somehow the conversation goes from unhinged to deep real quick. From wild bedroom stories to Lex finding out she might’ve saved somebody’s life just by screaming on the podcast (yes, for real), this episode is a perfect reminder that Pour Minds be doing more than just talking shit. The girls get into everything — internet debates about Christina Aguilera, growing up on early 2000s music, and why people are always trying to pit women against each other. They also have a real moment about aging, losing legends, and how scary it feels watching time move fast while realizing we’re getting older too. Of course, it wouldn’t be Pour Minds without a little chaos — from Vaseline debates to concert regrets, Justin Timberlake stories, and random tangents that somehow all make sense. But underneath all the laughs, there’s real talk about health, taking care of yourself, and appreciating life while you’re in it. Plus, the ladies sit down with Vanessa Bouie, founder of Fancy Homebody, for this week’s Business Spotlight — getting into how she turned an Instagram community into a multi-million dollar brand built on comfort, confidence, and everyday luxury. Pour up. It’s funny, it’s real, and it’s very much “we just talking.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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What started as an ambitious idea has grown into one of the more intriguing education stories in Anne Arundel County. Today, we catch up with Roman Hardgrave, founder of the Maryland Curiosity Lab, to talk about how the non-traditional private school has evolved from a concept into a fast-growing learning community. Hardgrave explains how the Lab blends Montessori and Acton Academy philosophies, giving students more ownership of their education while helping them discover what truly sparks their curiosity. The conversation digs into why more families are exploring alternatives to traditional classrooms, how the school encourages a real love of learning, and why freedom, accountability, and self-direction are such big parts of the model. The discussion also touches on the practical side of what makes the Maryland Curiosity Lab different. Hardgrave discusses everything from mixed-age studios and weekly adventure trips to apprenticeships, goal-setting, and the school's thoughtful approach to technology and AI. Rather than chasing grades for their own sake, the focus is on helping students connect learning to purpose, confidence, and real-world experience. It is a fascinating look at how children can thrive when they are trusted to take a more active role in their own growth. And there is plenty happening beyond the classroom as well. Hardgrave also shares details about the upcoming Children's Business Fair, the school's continued expansion, and the search for a larger long-term home that can accommodate the school's vision for the future. For parents curious about different approaches to education, or for anyone interested in how local entrepreneurs are rethinking learning from the ground up, this conversation is worth hearing. Have a listen!

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Today, we speak with Nicholas Buscemi of Eastport Acupuncture, a practitioner of Classical Chinese Medicine, about his Annapolis practice and the principles behind it. Buscemi explains how his work goes beyond acupuncture alone, using a broader approach to help patients address pain, stress, sleep issues, and overall wellness. The conversation also touches on Buscemi's own path into the field, his training, and how traditional techniques like pulse reading, cupping, herbal guidance, and lifestyle changes can work together to support better health and eliminate dis-ease. It is a good introduction to a local business focused on helping people feel better through a more holistic approach. Nick gives me a great look at acupuncture, wellness, and how traditional Chinese medicine can (and perhaps should) be a first line of defense for helping people feel more balanced and healthy. Have a listen! LINKS: Eastport Acupuncture - Nicholas V. Buscemi (Website)

The Education Foundation of Anne Arundel County Public Schools is helping bridge gaps, support innovation, and create new opportunities for students and educators throughout the county. In this week's Local Business Spotlight, we talk with Joe Callahan about why a foundation like this is so important, why bringing it back after a period of dormancy mattered, and why this is such a well-kept secret. We also get into what the foundation actually does—how it helps fund programs, supports schools and teachers, and works to meet needs that might otherwise go unmet. It is a conversation about public education, community support, and the many ways a strong foundation can make a real difference. And because this is not something that happens without community buy-in, we also talk about how people can step up—whether that means donating money, volunteering time, mentoring students, or finding other ways to lend a hand. Have a listen! LINKS: Education Foundation of AACPS (Website) Education Foundation of AACPS (LinkedIn) Education Foundation of AACPS (Instagram)

In this week's Local Business Spotlight, we sat down with Thomas Thompson, founder of Eduaide (and former teacher in Anne Arundel County), a locally based, AI-powered platform built specifically for teachers. Eduaide helps educators create lesson plans, classroom activities, graphic organizers, games, and other instructional materials, all with the goal of saving time and making planning a little less overwhelming. Bonus: There is a free version as well as a paid version (which would make an outstanding gift for a teacher in your life). We talked about how the idea came together, what makes Eduaide different from more general AI tools, and why the platform is focused so heavily on practical, classroom-ready support for educators. The company says its tools are designed to help teachers build standards-aligned materials and access a wide range of teaching resources in one place. If you are a teacher, know a teacher, or just want to hear how one founder is using technology to support education in a meaningful way, this is a great conversation. Have a listen! Have a listen! LINKS: Eduaide (Website) Eduaide (Facebook) Eduaide (LinkedIn) Eduaide (YouTube) Eduaide (Instagram) Eduaide (X)

We all need a system. And when systems work well, it's a beautiful thing. Today we sit down with Susie Salinas from Systems by Susie, a professional organizer! From the required junk drawer to that hallway closet to the cluttered kitchen,m we can all use some organization in our lives. But stuff happens, and it gets ignored — at least in my house it does! This is where Susie and her team come in. Imagine an expert setting up your home, with everything in its proper place. Now, all of a sudden, keeping it organized is a breeze. We talk about a 20-minute reset, the key areas that need organization, whether to do an area or a whole house, and why you might need an organizer. Spoiler: the best reason is to regain time! And yes, we do ask about that junk drawer. Could your kitchen, garage, or basement use a bit more organization? Have a listen! LINKS: Systems By Susie (Website) Systems By Susie (Facebook) Systems By Susie (Instagram) -- with great before and after photos!

Brittany, owner of our local independent toy store Marley and Moose, joins us to share the joys and challenges of building community through running a retail store.Check out Marley and Moose's eco-friendly, no-battery toys by visiting the store at 250 Mountain Avenue, or visit their website, marleyandmoose.com

Tune into another amazing episode of the Max Out Girl Podcast as Host Charbria Shine interviews Entrepreneur Dwayne Walker, Owner of Chicagoland Popcorn!

We've all seen the jokes about getting older and the requirement to get into birds. But you know, they ARE fascinating. Today, we talk with Kelly & John Gjovic, the owners of Wild Birds Unlimited in Edgewater, who were a wealth of information and likely the impetus for my next hobby! After a career in the retail and restaurant industry, they decided to make a more relaxing move. Nature is in John's DNA; hailing from North Dakota, he fondly recalls outings with his father and seeing the wealth of birds! While we are not North Dakota, we do have a wealth of birds in the area from finches, to robins, to bluebirds, to cardinals, and they all have different "personalities." And Wild Birds Unlimited has what is needed to bring it all together to make your yard attractive to our flying friends! Stop in and see for yourself and pick up some fresh seed, maybe a bird house or feeder, or go high-tech with a smart bird house and witness the circle of life! And don't forget the Daily Savings Club! But first... Have a listen! PS: On March 7th, Wild Birds Unlimited will host a free seminar with ornithologist Judy Wink, from the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC), to talk all about Bluebirds. Mark the calendar! LINKS: Wild Birds Unlimited (Main Website) Wild Birds Unlimited (Edgewater Specific Site) Wild Birds Unlimited (Facebook)

In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, we dive deep into the innovative world of AMPS Agribusiness. Join us as we sit down with Tony Lockrey, a seasoned agronomist and leader who has dedicated decades to the fields of Northern New South Wales. Tony takes us "under the hood" of AMPS's unique, grower-led model that fast-tracks agricultural research from institutions directly into the paddock.We explore how AMPS has built a seamless ecosystem connecting research, agronomy, and commercial supply. Tony shares the fascinating story of Lancer wheat, a variety that became a regional powerhouse thanks to intensive, localised trials. Beyond the science, we discuss the evolving role of an agronomist, the importance of nurturing the next generation through a "job-first" education model, and the unparalleled value of a business owned and driven by the growers themselves.Chapter Markings[0:00] Introduction: AMPS Agribusiness and the Grower-Led Model.[1:15] Tony Lockrey's Evolution: From Technical Specialist to People Leader.[3:45] The Power of Relationships: When Customers Become Family and Shareholders.[5:10] Research in the Ute: Bringing the Lab to the Paddock.[7:20] Managing the Next Generation: Moving Out of the Way for Growth.[9:05] The Lancer Story: How Localised Research Accelerates Variety Adoption.[12:30] The "How-To" Grow Guide: Turning Data into Decisions in One Season.[14:15] The Origins of AMPS: A Response to Declining Institutional Research.[17:00] Commercial Synergy: Linking Supply, Procurement, and Paddock Outcomes.[19:40] Scientific Rigour: 30,000 Plots a Year and Statistical Significance.[22:15] Paddock Geography: Understanding Elevation, Frost, and Time of Sow.[25:30] Developing the "Agronomy Eye": Training the Future of Ag.[28:10] The Changing Face of Education: Work-First, Degree-Second.[31:00] Building a Safe and Cohesive Team Culture.[34:15] The Resilience of Australian Growers: Innovation Born of Necessity.[37:00] Pride in Cohesion: Six Branches, One Mission.[39:30] Upcoming Events: Winter Crop Reviews and Research Membership.

To those who say we're not an arty town, I say look around! And so does Jen Sterling, an abstract painter based in Annapolis who heads up a non-profit called Artist Open Studios! Today we chat a bit about Jen's work, but the best part is about an art-filled weekend in April (11th and 12th) where artists across Maryland will open their studios to the public! You can create a Maryland Artistic Road Trip and see art being made, not just hanging on a gallery wall! Jen and I chat about the event, some of the can't-miss artists, and a lot about art in general, the benefits, and how fortunate we are to live in an art-filled world! And if you know an artist--make sure they know about this! First, mark your calendars for April 11th and 12th and then.... Have a listen! LINKS: Artist Open Studios (Website) Artist Open Studios (Facebook) Artist Open Studios (Instagram) Jen Sterling Art (Website) Jen Sterling Art (Facebook) Jen Sterling Art (Instagram)

What happens when a new business turns from WTF to OMG? That happened to me and Nothing Bundt Cakes. When they first opened in Annapolis, my initial thought was, bundt cakes?? And then I tried one. Ditch any preconceptions of a dry, dense plate of meh! These are moist, creamy, and delicious, and come in a dozen flavors and many sizes! We recently sat down with owners Glenn and Rhonda Rogers and their Area Director, Samantha Colletti, to talk about bundt! Some fun facts for you. They are all baked fresh daily in the back of the store--each location has its own bakery. The couple currently has three locations (Annapolis, Gambrills, and Severna Park), with another one on the way (Bowie), and potentially FOUR more shortly. Apparently, there is a demand for bundt cakes! If you need a dose of yum... Have a listen! LINKS: Nothing Bundt Cakes (Website) Nothing Bundt Cakes (Facebook) Nothing Bundt Cakes (Instagram)

Domestic abuse is an unfortunate reality for far too many people. Many people will flee a bad situation with no real plan for the future beyond surviving.  Today, we chat with Patti Slaughter, the Founder and Executive Director of  The Bernie House. Named for Patti's father and his legacy of caring, The Bernie House (or houses) is a place for families to live in a true home while they get back on track. Victims of domestic violence will typically flee their situation after seven incidents, but shelters are only a temporary solution. The Bernie House and its four homes are what comes next! (And to correct a statistic that I tried to recall when speaking with Patti-- 2 out of 5 people are victims of domestic abuse!) During their stay, resources for education, employment, and life skills are made available. At the end of their stay, all the contents of their home are left with them. Truly, this is an amazing organization that defines the phrase "small but mighty." We also hopped on the phone with Stephanie Canali, who has written a book about her situation and her experience with The Bernie House-- Breaking Chains, Building Homes: The Bernie House Transformation. Stephanie's story is one of grit and perseverance with a VERY happy ending! Plus, she'll be at Hearts and Hatters (see below) signing books! We also chat about Hearts and Hatters! This gala is an annual event around this time of the year, held in support of The Bernie House. And it is a great time to boot! This year, it will be held on Valentine's Day at the Graduate by Hilton Hotel on West Street. Tickets are available at The Bernie House's website or on the Where In Annapolis (app). Have a listen!   LINKS: The Bernie House (Website) The Bernie House (Facebook) The Bernie House (Instagram)

Men are macho and can handle anything and everything!  Right? Maybe not! On Sunday, February 15th, there will be a free panel discussion on Burdens Men Carry focused on mental health for men.  A panel of three experts will be led through a discussion, and then the panel will take questions (face-to-face or anonymously) from the audience, followed by a roundtable discussion.  Today, we chatted with Phil Kaplan, one of the panelists, about his battle with depression and his ongoing work in advocacy.  The event is NOT just for men but for spouses, partners, and families as well.  The free event will be at the Eastport United Methodist Church from 2pm to 4:30pm. Have a listen: LINKS: Burdens Men Carry (Website)

There are some businesses that you never realize you need until you do! I want to introduce you to Graze Craze--a BRAND new charcuterie business in Edgewater. Jennie Pryde and her husband, Jordan Robinson, spent much of their career in the medical realm (and Jennie working in prison--when you go in, ask her about it), but were looking for a chance to work together and to build something for their family. In a very basic sense, Graze Craze is simply a charcuterie place. But when you dig more into it, it is so much more. A place for a healthy single lunch portion. It's a place to grab a tray and nibble while your kid plays soccer. Weddings, birthdays, celebrations of life, football weekends, office meetings and parties, a day on the Bay--the possibilities are endless. AND, it makes a lot more sense than trying to do it all yourself! Have a listen! And then go get a dose of yum (and check out Jennie's original artwork on the walls) LINKS: Graze Craze Annapolis - Edgewater (Website) Graze Craze Annapolis - Edgewater (Facebook)  

When two business partners complete each other's sentences and thoughts, that's a sign of a GREAT partnership. And that is exactly what Alison Harbaugh and Darin Gilliam do. For those unaware, these two are powerhouses behind the arts scene in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, and the owners of Art Farm Annapolis and AND Creative Studio. Today's LBS is a bit longer than usual because there was so much to cover. From what is missing in the arts in the area, to what should go in the middle of Westgate Circle in Annapolis. We talk about the current classes, programs, exhibitions, shows, how it all started, and where it's going tomorrow. We even got the scoop about some big changes coming up in March 2026 (but you need to listen to get that)! And while some say we are not an artsy area, I challenge you to look around--it is literally everywhere! But first... Have a listen! LINKS: Art Farm Annapolis (Website) Art Farm Annapolis (Instagram) Art Farm Annapolis (Facebook) AND Creative Studio (Website) AND Creative Studio (Instagram) AND Creative Studio (Facebook)  

When a 10-year-old kid starts taking notes to critique his Aunt's directing of a Severna Park High School play, you know there is a budding theater kid in there. Fast forward about twenty years, and that kid graduated from Severna Park High and has just won an Annie Award in Arts Education from the Arts Council of Anne Arundel County. Along the way, Atticus Boidy has made a huge name for himself in the realm of the theatrical arts in Anne Arundel County. He teaches at the Children's Theatre of Annapolis, consults with many elementary and high schools in the county, and works with AACC and many other theater companies in the region. Along the way, he has launched his own consulting firm-- Theatrical Success Consulting. Truly a fascinating individual! Have a listen! LINKS: Atticus Boidy (Website) Theatrical Success Consulting (Website)  

They say most people fear public speaking. Well, there's a cure for that up in Severna Park. Toastmasters of Severna Park (or Toast of Severna Park) is a local chapter of an international organization that meets twice monthly to help people overcome that fear. We sat down with Geri Cvetic, the club's President, to talk about the club and what it can do for virtually anyone. With COVID, we have become somewhat isolated and a bit introverted. Toastmasters has the tools to help you out in one-on-one conversations or on a stage in front of thousands! Do you freak out when you need to speak in front of people? Have a listen! LINKS: Toastmasters of Severna Park (Website) Toastmasters of Severna Park (Facebook)  

Today's Local Business Spotlight might get a little sticky! We are chatting with Brittney deVicq, who owns West Annapolis Acupuncture, which has been helping people for more than 20 years, 13 of them right on Giddings Avenue in West Annapolis. Ever the skeptic, we covered a lot of ground. What do you say to a skeptic like me? So what ailments can you help with? Who comes to see you? We learned about the hundreds of points, saw the needle, and listened to a few stories about wonderful successes. A surprise for me? How much the patient needs to be involved. If you want acupuncture to help with poor sleeping habits, it can--but you need to stop chugging that soda right before bed! And while most treatments are not accomplished in a single visit, it does not need to be a life-long endeavor! Bonus: They accept some insurance! This was a VERY fascinating one for me. Have a listen!

We all know the Visitor's Center on West Street in Annapolis, right? We also know that little outpost in the harbormaster's building....oh wait, I mean that wild looking trailer down at City Dock, right? But do you really know what Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County actually does? Do you know how important tourism is to our economy? Today, we chat with CEO Kristen Pironis to talk all things travel and tourism. From a new center at BWI, assisting with workforce development, major events, and even a Bay ferry system. We cover a lot of ground in 48 minutes and 33 seconds!  Have a listen! LINKS: Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (Website) Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (Facebook) Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (Instagram) Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Foundation (Website)  

When you put a chiropractor in the same building as a boutique gym, you have a good idea! Thrive Sports & Spine shares a space with Maxed Out Fitness in Annapolis, and this makes SO much sense. Today, we talk with Dr. Erik Korzen, who is a chiropractor for scores of local athletes and people who just need to feel better. He's also the team chiropractor for the Annapolis Blues! Dr. Korzen believes in starting with the least invasive means to cure pain and then working your way up the ladder. He sees all sorts of patients from adjacent gym clients to student athletes to new parents not used to picking up toddlers to older folks who just overdid it! If you have joint pain, are recovering from surgery, have experienced an injury.... Have a listen! LINKS: Thrive Sports & Spine (Website) Thrive Sports & Spine (Facebook) Thrive Sports & Spine (Instagram)  

Every week, we hear of animals being surrendered to the SPCA because the humans cannot afford care! What if there was a solution? Robin Catletyt and Dr. Holly Mazzurco have a solution with H.E.A.R.T. HEART (Helping Every Animal Receive Treatment) is a new nonprofit initiative that provides low-cost medical care to pets in need. With a mobile clinic, low-cost vaccinations and medical treatments can come to a neighborhood, allowing animals to remain with their loving families! We all know how much our dogs and cats become family members, and we all know the pain of losing them. While HEART will not stop aging, it can go a long way toward ensuring pets live as long as possible by providing the necessary medical care! A great idea with some HEART! Have a listen!

What does California have that Annapolis does not? Well if it was more than 13 years ago, that answer would be an online resource focused on moms! Lisa Peri moved back to her hometown from LA and was looking for doctor recommendations and was struggling, so she solved the problem and started Annapolis Moms. Now with more than 27,000 members, this is the go-to place (online or on Facebook) for all the moms (and a few dads) in the area and provides a wealth of information from the best diapers to a CPA suggestion to the best place to get your car fixed. The secret is that it is highly vetted, and the members are ALL local. So it makes sense that they recently (yesterday) launched a new job board. It also makes sense that they have established a fund with the Annapolios Community Foundation to offer help to moms in need. Lots of great stuff! Have a listen! LINKS: Annapolis Moms Media (Website)] Annapolis Moms Media (Job Board) Annapolis Moms (Facebook Group) Annapolis Moms (Instagram) Annapolis Moms (YouTube) Friends of Annapolis Moms (FOAM)  

When you want some heat for your meal, there is no need to head to New Orleans when we have our very own Naptown Sauces right here in Anne Arundel County! Bet you didn't know that! Neither did I until I saw a jar at Naval Bagels and made a call. Today, we sit down with James Young, the founder of Naptown Sauces. We learn how a guy who had zero interest in gardening left a corporate job after COVID to grow peppers in his backyard and create some of the best sauces you will taste! We learn how sauce is made, how he almost gassed out his daughter with spice, and just what makes a good sauce. You can order online or pick them up at several places all around town. Have a listen!

Welcome to the Holiday Edition of Issaquah Buzz! In this episode, Autumn and Alexis dive into the latest business news, holiday events, and local shopping highlights happening around Issaquah.

Annapolis has its fair share of characters… and then there's Chef Big Money. If you've spent any time at the Anne Arundel County Farmers' Market on Riva Road (and honestly, why wouldn't you?), you've probably seen him: the loud, laughing, larger-than-life pie guy holding court behind a table full of ridiculously good pies and breads, all baked in his cottage kitchen. In this episode, we dig into his story, his recipes, and what makes a "Big Money" pie different from anything you're grabbing at the grocery store. I've been hooked for years—my holidays basically don't start until I've got at least one of his pies on the table, and yes, mine are already on order. It's a fun, local spotlight with a guy who backs up the personality with serious flavor. Have a listen! LINKS: Chef Big Money (Website) Chef Big Money (Facebook) (443) 223-2895 (Phone or Text)  

Looking for a career change can be a drag. For employers, hiring the wrong person can be expensive. But, if you have Beth Rosenberger from Halsen Solutions on your side, it does not have to be. Beth is the owner of Halsen Solutions, a 10+ year old recruiting company based here in Annapolis, and understands the complexities of hiring the right person for the right job at the right time. Do personalities mesh? What non-monetary reward is a prospect looking for? How do the Boomers, Millennials, Gen X, and Gen Z interact at a particular company? Finding the next career step is much more than an app and a cover letter. For applicants, Halsen Solutions can make sure you are not wasting your time. And for employers, they can make sure you are not wasting your money! Today's job market is complex, and Halsen Solutions has its finger on the pulse to build the relationship you need to kickstart your next move! Have a listen.

Cooking and entertaining is hard work. But when you have an expert on hand, it suddenly gets a lot easier. April Koppenhoefer is that expert and the owner of April's Table, a wonderful catering company in Severna Park! Today we chatted about her background (classically trained French), how April's Table started, and all of their capabilities--from a gathering of a few friends with a "Grazing Box," to an off-the-charts party. Need something to pick up and enjoy one evening? Check out the Dinner Club. Need a small venue because you don't have the room (or patience) at home to entertain--April's Table is the place! April and her team can even handle the wings for your Super Bowl party! Have a listen. LINKS: April's Table (Website) April's Table (Facebook) April's Table (Instagram)

Everyone has some musical talent, says Sophia Hardesty. And she'd know. Sophia is the owner of Naptown Sings and Plays, a wonderful school for musicians from toddlers to teens. The catch? They specialize in modern music! What started out as a glee club in a shared space twelve years ago has blossomed into a full-fledged music school. If your child loves to sing, there is a group or individual class for them. If they love to strum on a guitar, Naptown Sings and Plays checks that box as well. With a cadre of professional musicians on staff, Naptown Sings and Plays positions kids for a lifetime of love for music! Plus a convenient location off West Street and plenty of free parking! Have a listen. LINKS: Naptown Sings and Plays (Website) Naptown Sings and Plays (Facebook) Naptown Sings and Plays (Instagram) Naptown Sings and Plays (YouTube)

Is your life a hot mess? Join the club! Is your home or office a hot mess? Join that club too! But, for that club, Tina Gann has the answer. Simply Organized is a professional organizer that was born out of Tina's own "aha" moment when, during an overseas move, she was forced to live out of a suitcase! Simply Organized doesn't just come and organize; they will actually learn how you live and organize according to your lifestyle, which makes perfect sense to me. They can work hand-in-hand with you, or you can give them free rein to get you less stressed and more productive. One service that made a lot of sense to me was unpacking. Say you are moving and your new home is a blank slate, why not let Tina and team come in and organize and unpack it for you? I'm planning an extra night in a hotel to let Simply Organized handle that for my next move! And, before we stopped recording, Tina left us with some solid DIY tips for getting our organizing act together! Have a listen.

Thankfully, mental health is no longer a quiet whisper. Taking care of your mental health is equally (if not more) important than your physical health. And thankfully we have a bunch of resources in the area for just that. Today we are speaking with Dr. Teresa Shank, the Director of Psychological Services at CPE Clinic in Annapolis and Lutherville. Dr. Shank specializes in treating anxiety disorders, pediatric and adult obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and body focused repetitive disorders (BFRBs) such as skin picking and hair pulling. We discussed many of the concerns she sees in today's youth and discussed ways to help them. CPE Clinic is uniquely situated due to their wide range of services, from coaching to counseling, to evaluations, to psychiatry, with specialists on staff for most disciplines. They are truly a practice where solutions are offered under one roof! And did you know that Octoebr 12-18 is International OCD Awareness Week? Have a listen. PS: Wondering what CPE stands for? I did, so I asked! LINKS: CPE Clinic (Website)

Teens can be challenging. If only there was someone to coach you through those years that can be so tough for parents and teens alike! Well, now there is. Samantha Straub is the Founder of Teen Savvy Coaching and she has a thing or two to say! We sat down at Rise Up in Severna Park to discuss all the ways I screwed up when my kids were little how parents can make sure their teens thrive during that period and beyond! With a background in education, counseling, therapy, and parenting, Samantha is in a unique position to offer up some great advice including a free resource on her site! Have a teen? Or maybe an emerging teen? Need a tip or two? Have a listen. LINKS: Teen Savvy Coaching (Website) Teen Savvy Coaching (Facebook) Teen Savvy Coaching (Instagram) Teen Savvy Coaching (YouTube) Teen Savvy Coaching (Linked In)

 In 2019, Gerardo Martinez had a crazy idea to buy a vacant lot in Edgewater that was overgrown and had become a town dumping spot and turn it into a sustainable farm. Here we are five years later and Wild Kid Acres is an international model for sustainability and Gerardo now sits as the Goodwill Ambassador for Regenerative Agriculture at the United Nations! To say this little farm has come a long way is a gross underestimate. We spoke with Gerardo back in 2022 and wanted to catch up and see what was new. Farm visits continue, but has expanded to include a huge educational element. Gone is the cinder block shed, replaced with a 10,000 SF barn built by a small Army (err I mean Navy) of volunteers. The present is busy, and the future looks bright as Gerardo takes his ideas around thye globe to demonstrate how farms will sustain us in so many ways--with nourishment to community! And to celebrate their success, they are hosting a 5-YEar Anniversary Celebration on October 4th! Have a listen. LINKS: Wild Kid Acres (Website) Wild Kid Acres (Instagram) Wild Kid Acres (Facebook)

This week on Pour Minds, Lex P and Drea Nicole are back with a solo episode that quickly spirals into one of their funniest debates yet: why young people with old names always seem to act up. From Harriet, Bernice, and Bartholomew to whether “Rubi” only works if you add the Rose, the ladies play the ultimate Name Game—and even reveal the cringey “dream baby names” they came up with back in the day. The laughs don’t stop there. Lex and Drea unpack Kash Doll’s natural-hair era, argue over whether juniors should exist for women, and side-eye folks who keep their last name after marriage. Then it’s time for our very first Business Spotlight with Jalisa, founder of Salt XO, the feminine wellness brand changing the game. Jalisa shares how she went from making soap in her college dorm to running a 7-year powerhouse brand with viral TikTok products. From waxing aftercare and scar-fading oils, to libido-boosting shower gels and even booty deodorant, she breaks down what makes Salt XO so effective—and why every woman (and her man) needs it. Of course, the Pour Minds couch keeps it messy and fun with candid girl talk about hygiene routines, sex aftercare, and why boric acid suppositories might just be the real MVP. This episode is sponsored by Taylor Port. Bold, bright, and unapologetic—just like the Pour Crew.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.