Podcasts about Small Business Administration

Before he left office, President Joe Biden came to Arizona and formally apologized for the federal government's role in running boarding schools designed to forcibly assimilate Indigenous children. As KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio reports, Biden's words still carry meaning as one group continues fulfilling a promise from his administration. “Children would arrive [at] school, clothes taken off – their hair that they were told was sacred was chopped off. Their names [were] literally erased, replaced by a number or an English name.” At least 526 facilities were built nationwide and resulted in more than 3,000 deaths. “The pain it has caused will always be a significant mark of shame, a blot on American history.” An enduring pain Deb Haaland, Biden's Interior secretary and the daughter of a boarding school survivor, began trying to heal. “For decades, this terrible chapter was hidden from our history books, but now our administration's work will ensure that no one will ever forget.” More than a year later, healing continues within the Gila River Indian Community. “It feels like just yesterday that we were doing our opening, and we were standing up here and telling you how we were going to make this week be a safe space for you.” That's Lacey Kinnart (Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians) with the nonprofit National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition. Their group came to Gila River as part of a national tour collecting boarding school testimonials. They aim to document 400 survivors by the end of the tour. Each video recording will be accessible through the Library of Congress. “One of my favorite things about this work that we do is being able to see healing happening right in front of our eyes.” Charlee Brissette is an oral history program co-director and from the same tribe as Kinnart. “We don't say that we're the healers, but we offer space for healing to happen. By the end of the week too, a lot of our relatives that have shared their story with us come back, because they're like family now.” Like boarding school survivor Ramona Klein, who is from the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa in North Dakota and sits on the nonprofit's board. “I know what it was like for me, so I'm hoping it was kind of like that for them, because there's a relief.” Their intimate project involves a lot of aftercare, with the nonprofit remaining mindful of mental health. “Each survivor will be contacted by the person who interviewed them in the next week or so, and then we continue to follow up for the next year. In addition to that, we offer a healing circle that's virtual. We want to be very cognizant that we don't open up wounds and hurt people.” The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition will stop in Denver, Colo. February 23-27, 2026, to continue its Oral History Project. (Courtesy Rep. Sharice Davids / Facebook) U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids (Ho-Chunk/D-KS) reintroduced this week the Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act to strengthen the Small Business Administration's Office of Native American Affairs, and expand support for Native entrepreneurs. Speaking on the House floor, Rep. Davids said Native entrepreneurs face unnecessary barriers to accessing the tools and resources they need to grow, create jobs, and compete. She says the bill strengthens programs so they can better meet those needs. To introduce the legislation, Davids was joined by U.S. Reps Eli Crane (R-AZ), Jake Ellzey (R-TX), and Kelly Morrison (D-MN). Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out the latest episode of Native America Calling Friday, February 6, 2026 — New art exhibitions offer creative interpretations of Native survival and endurance

The Small Business Administration will no longer allow green card holders to apply for SBA loans. The new policy was announced on Monday and takes effect next month. This program doesn't lend money directly to businesses; it provides loan guarantees to lenders, and the loans are usually cheaper than traditional borrowing. We learn more. Then, for older people, financial strain may be a warning sign of dementia — before doctors or families start noticing symptoms.

The Small Business Administration will no longer allow green card holders to apply for SBA loans. The new policy was announced on Monday and takes effect next month. This program doesn't lend money directly to businesses; it provides loan guarantees to lenders, and the loans are usually cheaper than traditional borrowing. We learn more. Then, for older people, financial strain may be a warning sign of dementia — before doctors or families start noticing symptoms.

The episode centers on practical approaches for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT leaders assessing artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, with David Espindola detailing the crucial distinction between “maker,” “shaper,” and “taker” strategies. David Espindola emphasizes that organizations must intentionally decide their role in AI development and use—whether building proprietary systems, shaping solutions atop existing models, or simply consuming pre-built capabilities. This decision, he notes, is foundational for aligning risk tolerance, investment, and technical capacity with business goals, especially given the rapid pace and inherent uncertainty in AI's evolution.Supporting this framework, David Espindola references insights from a Small Business Administration project, which found that most small businesses are struggling to define applicable use cases for AI and tend toward risk-avoidant stances despite external pressures to adopt the technology. He stresses that AI implementation should not be a solution in search of a problem; rather, an organization's readiness, risk, investment capability, and specific industry context must determine its approach. Key recommendations include conducting readiness assessments, appointing internal AI champions, and starting with small, low-risk pilot projects to build internal understanding and governance processes before scaling.The discussion broadens to ethical and governance considerations, with both David Espindola and the host cautioning that responsible AI adoption is a business necessity rather than a compliance checkbox. They advocate for formal employee training, the establishment of clear usage policies, and strict controls over tool access to mitigate risks such as data leakage, hallucinated outputs, and misaligned communications. The emphasis is on building practical safeguards rather than pursuing AI for its own sake, reflecting a pragmatic, risk-managed approach tailored to each organization's context.For MSPs and IT service providers, the practical takeaways are clear: pursuing AI adoption requires a methodical, risk-aware strategy focused on business relevance, operational governance, and targeted experimentation. The harms of rushed deployments, poor change management, or lack of internal education are underscored, with the implication that long-term value and reduced exposure are found in deliberate, well-governed adoption efforts. Readiness assessments, pilot programs, and robust policy frameworks emerge as the primary enablers of sustainable outcomes in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Kerry Lutz and Bruce de Torres call out California's $20+ minimum wage for crushing small businesses, accelerating closures, and wiping out jobs — while large corporations adapt and smaller operators are left with no escape route. Bruce explains why the minimum wage fight is only a symptom of decades of failed policy and education, and how those pressures have steadily marginalized independent businesses across the country. The conversation then shifts to federal procurement, where Bruce exposes how the Small Business Administration consistently falls short of its 23% contracting goal, allowing large firms to capture work meant to create jobs through small businesses. Find Bruce here: https://asbl.com and here: https://www.dontcheatwomen.com Find Kerry here :https://khlfsn.substack.com and here: https://inflation.cafe    Kerry's New Book "The Armstrong Economic Code: The 5 Truths Investors Must Never Forget" is out now on Amazon!  Get your copy here:   https://a.co/d/bvYbZOz  "The World According to Martin Armstrong – Conversations with the Master Forecaster" is a #1 Best Seller on Amazon. . Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/4kuC5p5  

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth says he is taking a “sledgehammer” to a federal program that many tribes and tribal businesses rely on. He is referring to the Small Business Administration's 8(a) Business Development Program that extends contract priorities to disadvantaged business owners. Hegseth uses words like “fraud” and “scheme” to describe what he says is an outdated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiative. His is part of an overall scrutiny of the program by the federal government. Hundreds of Native small businesses have accessed the program over the past 60 years, and some Alaska Native corporations have multi-million dollar contracts. GUESTS Jon Panamaroff (Native Village of Afognak), co-chair of the Native American Contractors Association and CEO of Command Holdings Kevin Allis (Forest County Potawatomi), founder and president of Thunderbird Strategic and former CEO of the National Congress of American Indians Nick Grube, investigative reporter at Honolulu Civil Beat Break 1 Music: Shawnee Stomp Dance (song) Little Axe Singers (artist) Traditional Voices: Historic Recordings of Traditional Native American Music (album) Break 2 Music: Mahaha: Tickling Demon (song) PIQSIQ (artist) Legends (album)

From one location in Wilmington, North Carolina, Live Oak Bank is the nation's largest Small Business Administration lender and a leading partner in developing technology for community banks. With an uncertain economic and business environment, two top executives from Live Oak Bank joined the ABA Banking Journal Podcast to discuss: How Live Oak delivers personalized banking services to a nationwide footprint. Where small business owners are looking to grow and build in the coming months. The need for liquidity in small business acquisitions and succession planning. The role of technology, including AI, in helping to improve the ability of banks to serve small business clients. How SBA loans fit into the Live Oak business model. Tips for community banks looking to deepen their SBA-guaranteed lending, including outsourcing back-office functions to ensure compliance with guarantee requirements.

Business mentoring plays a pivotal role in the long-term growth and sustainability of organizations, as noted by Forbes and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Let's examine the research: Survival Rate: 70% of mentored small businesses remain operational for five years or longer, nearly double the survival rate of those without mentorship. Profitability & Growth: Businesses with mentors report increased profitability, with revenue growth rates that are 83% higher compared to companies lacking mentorship. High Demand: 89% of small business owners who did not have access to a mentor express a desire for mentorship. Jerry Brazie is an accomplished entrepreneur who has built, acquired, and sold more than a dozen companies generating over $450 million in revenue during the past three decades. His remarkable journey—from experiencing severe poverty and personal adversity as one of nine children, to overcoming violence and hardship—has fostered a resilient mindset that drives his ongoing success. Today, he manages both eight- and seven-figure enterprises and has recently launched The Kronos Group: a peer network designed for serious business operators seeking candid discussions and genuine accountability. For more information, visit: https://thekronosgroup.org/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kelly Loeffler, 28th Administrator of the Small Business Administration, makes her debut on the morning show with Sid live in-studio to discuss all the work she's doing in support of the Trump administration, helping the President tout his budding economy while he speaks out in Davos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just how much taxpayer money has gone down the drain to scammers? At the Biden-era Small Business Administration, it could be more than $200 billion. New administrator Kelly Loeffler talks about the battle to uncover that fraud and revive genuine American small business. Plus, as protests surge across Iran, Mahyar Tousi explores the question of how many have been killed, how unified the protesters are, and what the prospects are for another quagmire if America gets involved. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just how much taxpayer money has gone down the drain to scammers? At the Biden-era Small Business Administration, it could be more than $200 billion. New administrator Kelly Loeffler talks about the battle to uncover that fraud and revive genuine American small business. Plus, as protests surge across Iran, Mahyar Tousi explores the question of how many have been killed, how unified the protesters are, and what the prospects are for another quagmire if America gets involved. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humble Beginnings in a Feed Store Sarah Cohen never imagined she'd spend her life making potato chips in rural Virginia. Growing up in Washington, DC, where she worked in her family's restaurant and hotel business from age 12, she learned work ethic early. However, manufacturing knowledge? That came later—much later. In her twenties, Sarah launched Route 11 Potato Chips in an old feed store in Middletown, Virginia. The setup was as bare-bones as it gets. "We had wooden floors," she recalls, still sounding slightly incredulous. "I know it sounds like the 1800s." The operation ran on 1960s equipment, and workers literally carried potatoes through the office to reach the peeler. Most remarkably, they stirred batches of chips with a garden rake. "I thought we must be the absolute most inefficient chip factory in the world," Sarah admits. Nevertheless, something magical happened. The local community grew curious, came to watch, tried the chips, and became advocates. That grassroots support hasn't stopped since day one. The Power of Transparency From the beginning, Route 11 did something unusual for its time: they installed viewing windows. Initially, this decision stemmed from necessity rather than marketing genius. Without a packaging machine during the first year or two, the company hand-packed chips and relied on customers coming directly to buy them. The window gave visitors something to do besides standing awkwardly in a "weird little wooden building." Before long, tour buses arrived. People came out of sheer curiosity to watch food being made—a rarity in manufacturing. When Route 11 moved to Mount Jackson in 2008, the town made "fry viewing" a stipulation of the deal. Sarah and her business partner Mike embraced this transparency wholeheartedly. "We're very shameless about just showing it as it is," Sarah explains. "This is the real deal. This is how something is made." Today, this openness feels prescient. Craft breweries and artisan food makers routinely showcase their processes, but Route 11 pioneered this approach decades ago. The Partnership That Changed Everything Running a chip factory with breaking-down equipment from the 1960s proved exhausting. Sarah attended food shows unable to sell with confidence because she couldn't guarantee production without breakdowns. Then came a serendipitous encounter in a Winchester bar. Mike, who had been "fixing lawnmowers in his diapers," loved the product but saw room for improvement. An Army veteran with an engineering mindset, he brought manufacturing vision and intensity to complement Sarah's creative approach. "We are very different types of people," she notes. "He's very engineer brain, sees the world in very black and white terms, whereas I'm much more muddled." Mike's obsession with preventive maintenance transformed the operation. Eighteen years later, visitors consistently comment that the equipment looks brand new. "That's because we take care of it," Sarah says simply. "We baby it and pamper it." This philosophy stands in stark contrast to many manufacturers who adopt a "run it until it breaks" mentality. As the conversation reveals, preventive maintenance literally saves money, especially in today's world of long lead times for parts. Route 11 maintains stockpiles of commonly needed components because they can't assume availability when equipment fails. Keeping It Simple: The Ingredient Philosophy Route 11's chips contain a remarkably short ingredient list. This minimalism serves multiple purposes. First, it lets potato chips taste like potatoes—a revolutionary concept in an industry often dominated by artificial flavors and additives. Second, it reduces exposure to recalls. As Sarah explains, "The more ingredients a product has, the more exposure you have to a recall. If one ingredient gets recalled, then you've gotta pull all that product." The company operates as a gluten-free certified facility with only one allergen: dairy, found in trace amounts in their dill pickle chips. They've developed careful protocols for running dairy-containing flavors at the end of the day, followed by thorough cleaning. Interestingly, Route 11 pioneered the dill pickle chip flavor—now ubiquitous in the snack aisle. Sarah, who enjoyed mixing pickle juice with her potato chips and grilled cheese sandwiches, decided to formalize the combination. The flavor garnered press coverage, morning show appearances, and a mention in Oprah's Magazine. "It's the closest thing we've actually formulated," Sarah says. "It's our version of a Doritos." The Costco Courtship Route 11's relationship with Costco began unexpectedly. The buying team discovered their dill pickle chips at a Leesburg deli and started calling. Sarah, having just moved to Mount Jackson, felt unprepared. "I was nervous about it," she admits. Costco persisted, eventually sending their buying team to the facility. They offered flexibility: "Just do what you're comfortable with. You tell us what you can do." This approach proved crucial for a small manufacturer wary of overextending. Today, Route 11 supplies Costco's northeast region—roughly 20 Virginia warehouses. They've learned that many small businesses mistakenly believe they must supply all Costco locations nationwide. Regional arrangements exist precisely for companies like Route 11. Supplying all 90 warehouses would require two to three truckloads weekly—essentially their entire production capacity. "We need a separate Costco production facility to be able to maintain this," Sarah jokes. Instead, they've found their sweet spot: getting chips into as many Virginia locations as possible while maintaining quality and reliability. Costco's rigorous annual audits have elevated Route 11's standards. "Their standards are higher than anybody's," Sarah notes. While the company would maintain high standards regardless, having customers with such exacting requirements pushes continuous improvement. The Flavor Balancing Act Route 11 currently offers eight flavors plus seasonal varieties, including the cult-favorite Yukon Golds. When Yukon Gold season arrives, the company experiences what they call "the Gold Rush"—digging, cooking, and shipping the chips as fast as possible before they sell out. However, Sarah learned a counterintuitive lesson about flavors: more doesn't equal better. "I was very delusional," she admits about her early vision. "I thought everybody's gonna love the chips so much, they would take one of each bag." Reality proved different. People have favorite flavors, and for all potato chip companies, most customers reach for the classic salted variety. Route 11's lightly salted chips represent 60% of sales. When slower-moving flavors like Chesapeake Crab occupy shelf space, they create holes where the lightly salted should be, hampering overall sales velocity. Consequently, Route 11 actually offers fewer flavors now than when they started. To introduce a new flavor, they must discontinue an existing one. This disciplined approach extends to their mission statement, which Sarah describes as "not very exciting": make a great product in a clean and safe environment. For a single-facility operation, one recall could prove catastrophic. Larger manufacturers can shift production to different locations; Route 11 has no such luxury. Crisis and Innovation: The Ukraine Connection The war in Ukraine delivered an unexpected blow to Route 11. Ukraine supplies 90% of the world's sunflower seeds, and when shipping stopped, the entire vegetable oil market seized up. "This is how we're gonna go out of business because we can't get any oil," Sarah remembers thinking. Their oil supplier found peanut oil—more expensive and carrying the stigma of being peanut oil—but something proved better than nothing. Route 11 had to apply different labels to every single bag, creating what Sarah describes as a "dizzying" OSHA hazard. Fortunately, the situation lasted only a couple months, and loyal customers understood. Yet this crisis sparked innovation. While desperately searching for sunflower oil, Sarah discovered a North Carolina farmer preparing to press his own oil. Soon, Route 11 will receive their first tractor-trailer load of oil from this farmer—just five hours away. For the first time, they'll purchase directly from a farm rather than through distributors. "I would not have necessarily found him had we not been turning over every single rock," Sarah reflects. This development aligns perfectly with Route 11's original vision of being regional, local, and sustainable. They already work with local potato growers in Dayton, Virginia, and certified organic sweet potato growers in Mattaponi, Virginia. Adding a sunflower oil supplier completes the circle. The Sweet Spot of Growth Route 11 now employs 53 people and operates on a four-day, 10-hour workweek. They cook during the day, with no Saturday or night shifts. This schedule reflects a deliberate choice about growth and quality of life. "We could add another shift if we wanted to," Sarah acknowledges. However, additional shifts mean accelerated equipment wear, increased maintenance costs, and the prospect of 2 a.m. phone calls about breakdowns. "That's the beauty of having your own business," she says. "You can make decisions like that. We know what we can manage." This philosophy recognizes a truth many businesses miss: there's a profitability sweet spot. Beyond a certain point, scaling up means doing more work for proportionally less profit. Route 11 has found their equilibrium—large enough to matter to suppliers, small enough to maintain quality and control. Instead of adding shifts, they've focused on optimization. Recent investments include a bigger water line for faster cleaning, an additional warehouse for better organization, and new oil tanks for receiving directly from farmers. These improvements help them "eek out more pallets of product" without fundamentally changing their operational model. Retail and Tourism: The Other Revenue Stream While wholesale accounts like Costco generate significant volume, Route 11's retail operation remains vital. The facility welcomes visitors who tour the production area, purchase chips, and browse merchandise including t-shirts and tins. The company ships nationwide, serving customers far beyond their regional grocery footprint. This retail presence serves as their primary marketing channel. People experience the product, see how it's made, and become evangelists. The model has proven so successful that Mount Jackson now hosts an annual Tater Fest—a potato-themed festival celebrating the town's most famous product. Lessons from the Trenches When asked what advice she'd give aspiring food manufacturers, Sarah's immediate response is characteristically honest: "Don't do it. Whatever you do." Then she elaborates more seriously. Small business ownership is all-consuming, like having children. Everything that can go wrong does go wrong. Success requires time, money, deep pockets, and support systems. Sarah deliberately avoided investors, unwilling to be "enslaved" to return-on-investment demands or have others dictating shortcuts for profit. Realism matters, but so does a touch of delusion. "If I had been realistic, I never would've done it," Sarah admits. Vision must balance with number-crunching. She credits the Small Business Development Center where Bill helped her develop a business plan and understand concepts like breakeven points. The timeline proves sobering: Route 11 took nearly seven years to break even. During that period, Sarah worked part-time at a pizzeria while her co-founder worked as a line cook at the Wayside Inn. They put every dollar back into the business, personally making no money. "You have to be in your twenties," Sarah jokes. The energy and resilience required make this a young person's game. When people call seeking mentorship while envisioning running their company from a beach in St. Barts, Sarah's response is blunt: "No, sorry. If you're already envisioning yourself running your company from the beach, you probably should not even start." Manufacturing demands on-site presence. It's like being a conductor, orchestrating multiple moving parts simultaneously. Customers calling with problems don't want to hear ocean waves in the background. Looking Ahead Route 11's future involves maintaining and growing thoughtfully. The pandemic forced a holding pattern, but Sarah feels ready to resume trade shows and active selling now that they've optimized production capacity. Challenges loom, particularly federal government layoffs affecting the DC market—a significant customer base for Route 11. Many restaurants are closing due to reduced lunch business, and Route 11 has been part of that ecosystem. Adaptation will be necessary. Yet Route 11's greatest strength remains reliability. "The most important thing about selling to somebody is that you're reliable," Sarah emphasizes. Potato chips move quickly, and if you can't deliver on time, customers find alternatives. Route 11's commitment to reliability has built trust that transcends market fluctuations. From wooden floors and garden rakes to Costco shelves and 53 employees, Route 11 Potato Chips embodies the American manufacturing dream—not the fantasy version where entrepreneurs run companies from tropical beaches, but the real version requiring grit, adaptability, community support, and an unwavering commitment to quality. As Cohen surveys her 20,000-square-foot facility, the journey from that cramped Middletown feed store seems both improbable and inevitable. "It's just a very interesting story," she says with characteristic understatement. For anyone who's ever tasted a Route 11 chip—crispy, perfectly salted, tasting unmistakably like actual potatoes—the story is more than interesting. It's inspiring.

The Small Business Administration is enlisting Palantir's help in its nationwide probe of suspected loan fraud, as yearslong fraud allegations in Minnesota draw national attention. According to federal spending records, the SBA signed a $300,000 contract with the data analytics and software giant last week. The contract's description read “SBA Fraud Prevention Pilot and Bootcamp,” and has a projected end date of April 4. The contract, signed through the General Services Administration's Multiple Award Schedule, was made public just days after SBA Secretary Kelly Loeffler announced that the agency had suspended 6,900 Minnesota borrowers for alleged fraud following its review of thousands of pandemic-era loans administered to the state. Loeffler said the borrowers were approved for 7,900 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster (EIDL) loans totaling about $400 million. When asked about the Palantir contract, SBA spokesperson Maggie Clemmons pointed to the agency's Minnesota probe, writing: “We're now expanding our investigations nationwide as part of a broader zero-tolerance policy on fraud.” Clemmons added: “The agency has multiple audits underway, from pandemic-era programs to federal contracting, and will work with law enforcement to hold fraudsters accountable and put the criminals who have cheated American taxpayers behind bars.” The Office of Personnel Management launched a new workforce data website last week, replacing an antiquated interface and aiming to bring more transparency to federal employment figures. OPM officially announced the new Federal Workforce Data site last Thursday, with data up to November for most categories. That site includes accessible statistics of interest — such as a reduction of 220,000 workers under President Donald Trump — as well as multiple interactive charts that users can filter by agency, timeframe, or other factors. In a written statement, OPM Director Scott Kupor called the website “a major step forward for accountability and data-driven decision-making across government.” While federal workforce data has long been made publicly available online, the old interface, FedScope, was cumbersome and offered data updates on a quarterly basis that lagged by months. In addition to a more modern interface, the new website adds datasets for payroll and recruitment, and promises updates on a faster monthly interval. Per a note on the website, FedScope will no longer be available as of Jan. 28. Despite controversy over the Trump administration's efforts to shrink the workforce, publication of the website was immediately well received by federal data users and advocates. In comments to FedScoop, several sources both applauded the new website and noted that interest in improving the publication of federal workforce data began before the current administration. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

Administrator Kelly Loeffler of the U.S. Small Business Administration joins the show to discuss the SBA's action on the Minnesota fraud scandal and what's ahead for small businesses in the new year. After years of red tape, regulation, and COVID-era damage, small business owners are looking for real relief. Loeffler explains how new policies, tax relief, and regulatory rollbacks are aimed at bringing small business back to life. The message is clear: small business is the backbone of this country, and it's poised to thrive again.

The Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration discuss the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, on January 8, 2026. Speakers: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya Dr. Ben Carson (former HHS Secretary) HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Brian Christine The event took place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration discuss the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, on January 8, 2026. Speakers: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya Dr. Ben Carson (former HHS Secretary) HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Brian Christine The event took place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration discuss the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, on January 8, 2026. Speakers: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya Dr. Ben Carson (former HHS Secretary) HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Brian Christine The event took place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration discuss the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, on January 8, 2026. Speakers: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya Dr. Ben Carson (former HHS Secretary) HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Brian Christine The event took place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration discuss the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, on January 8, 2026. Speakers: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya Dr. Ben Carson (former HHS Secretary) HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Brian Christine The event took place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration discuss the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, on January 8, 2026. Speakers: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya Dr. Ben Carson (former HHS Secretary) HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Brian Christine The event took place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration discuss the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, on January 8, 2026. Speakers: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya Dr. Ben Carson (former HHS Secretary) HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Brian Christine The event took place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Steve sits down with Administrator Kelly Loeffler of the U.S. Small Business Administration to talk about the big stories already shaping the new year, from the dramatic capture of Nicolás Maduro to how the President is delivering on promises that impact everyday Americans. They discuss new tax breaks and economic policies helping individuals and small businesses, the SBA's recent decisive action suspending nearly 7,000 Minnesota borrowers and halting federal funding amid a massive pandemic fraud probe, and her outlook for small business growth in 2026. It's a common sense conversation about accountability, opportunity, and the road ahead for Main Street and national security alike.

Following his "annexation" of Venezuela over the weekend, Donald Trump told reporter Michael Scherer of The Atlantic over the weekend that Greenland is likely going to be the next target. Trump specifically told Schere that "we need it" when discussing his long-held desire to annex the territory. Trump continues to push the narrative that Greenland is essential for national security and military purposes, but that ignores the fact that the US already has a military presence there and has for years. The Trump administration has announced that they are employing the "Trump Corollary" or "Donroe Doctrine" to the longstanding Monroe Doctrine from the 1800's. This unofficial policy is what Trump is using to go in and overthrow the governments of South and Latin American countries as he pleases, and is a continuation of the "Roosevelt Corollary" to the original Monroe Doctrine. The man is so desperate to cement his legacy that he's named the worst foreign policy move in decades after himself just so people remember him. MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell's campaign for governor in Minnesota is already off to a crazy start. He decided to kick things off late last week by going on Steve Bannon's podcast to talk about his platform, which consists of just putting all Democrats in jail and, of course, getting rid of all the voting machines that he can find. But it was the way that this lunatic delivered his platform that ended up making him come across as an escaped mental patient.Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has always been one of the biggest war hawks in Washington, and now that he knows that Donald Trump is willing to just bomb other countries and depose their leaders, he has a wishlist of countries that he'd like to see targeted next. The first one on his list is China, followed by Russia, North Korea, and Iran. The man would gladly start World War III just for the fun of it, and he's hoping that Trump will grant his perverted wish.While most of MAGA seems delighted that Donald Trump has overthrown a foreign government without provocation, there are still plenty in the movement that feel betrayed that he's started another conflict (and that he's bombed 8 separate countries in his first year in office.) They are also angry that he's ignoring Americans, in spite of his "America First" pledge throughout all of his campaigns. In other words, they are shocked to learn that everything this man has ever said to them was a lie.In a truly bizarre appearance on Fox News recently, Kelly Loeffler, the head of the Small Business Administration, proudly proclaimed that Donald Trump will NOT ever pardon a criminal. She said this in reference to the alleged child care scam that happened in Minnesota, but that statement doesn't even apply to that situation. Furthermore, her comment is completely detached from reality, as Trump has pardoned closer to 2,000 criminals in his first year in office.Text and and let us know your thoughts on today's stories!Subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay up to date on all of Farron's content: https://www.youtube.com/FarronBalancedFollow Farron on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FarronBalanced Twitter: https://twitter.com/farronbalanced Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farronbalanced TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farronbalanced?lang=en

This season we are exploring all the different ways the David Eccles School of Business has impacted our alums, and today we are exploring the benefit of generational engagement with the Eccles School and the U, for businesses, communities, and families. We're back for more stories about the impact the David Eccles School of Business has on their lives and careers, and for this episode, host Frances Johnson is joined by Jeff Young, Executive Vice President at YESCO. In this episode, host Frances Johnson is joined by Jeff Young, Executive Vice President at YESCO, a custom electric sign company. Frances talks to Jeff about his multi-generational family business, its origins, and its evolution, including key projects like the 2002 Winter Olympics and the massive screen installation at the Las Vegas Sphere. Jeff discusses the deep-rooted connection between his family and the University of Utah, including a 100 year legacy of family alumni. He also emphasizes the impact of the David Eccles School of Business on their success. Jeff highlights the importance of continuous learning, leveraging networks, and investing in education for the company's growth. This episode underscores the reciprocal relationship between YESCO and the Eccles School, illustrating how education and community engagement drive long-term business success.Eccles Business Buzz is a production of the David Eccles School of Business and is produced by University.fm.Eccles Business Buzz is proud to be selected by FeedSpot as one of the Top 70 Business School podcasts on the web. Learn more at https://podcast.feedspot.com/us_business_school_podcasts. Episode Quotes:Why investing in the U is a growth strategy for business owners [25:34] If you go to the Small Business Administration statistics, we know that businesses just don't… You have a higher chance of failing than not. And with the headwind we have in our economy, in our world, you've got to pursue every possible avenue to create a successful trajectory. And that means hitting all channels. If you are not investing in yourselves and in your organizations and your people, you're going to fail, probably. And the university… I can't think of a more beautiful, well-situated campus, meaning the business school campus, a set of buildings, and a group of more capable people to help host events, and a more capable group of people who can help bring material and content to the training than the University of Utah. I mean, I'm practically looking at it out my window. I'm facing north. Having grown up in, basically, in the University of Utah neighborhood, I have a real deep feeling of love and appreciation for everything that you do and the value you bring. And so, we, as an organization, you just wonder where we'd be without the benefit of having this university so close and all the insights, thoughts, skills, aptitudes that have come because of that.How Jeff's ties to the U and the Eccles School help sustain a multi-generation family business[10:02] Frances Johnson: I'd love to hear from you how your connection to the U and to the Eccles School has helped sustain your family business into so many generations.[10:13] Jeff Young: That's really a great question. Without the knowledge of how family businesses operate within the state, we've been able to meet dozens and dozens of other family businesses that strangely are also centennial-long businesses, and it's amazing to know that our grandfathers knew each other. Our grandmothers knew each other. Our fathers and mothers knew each other. And in current generations, a lot of them have gone through the University of Utah. And so, it's great to have the familiarity and that point of reference. And so, the business building in particular, we know where to go. We know who the people are, and it just feels like home to us. And we look around the room and see everyone else in that conference, and we say, "Yeah, we started here. We're still here. And we continue to decide to be here for all the right reasons." So, that continuing education and connection is vital. On how Eccles School equipped Jeff for success[4:00] The challenges we're facing today are much different than they were when we went to school. But the aptitude to want to learn, to apply, and to continue to learn and apply remains true. As recently as this morning, I had my face in a book. I've just purchased it. I've got 90 people coming to a training next Tuesday. This training has to be fresh and to the point, and pertinent to what they're facing. It's a sales group, right? And you say, "Okay, here's some additional tools that you can apply in your life to make your lives better." And the idea that we're not fearful of learning more is we've got to continue the learning and the application of that learning. Every day, every week, every month. That spirit of that is as alive today as it was when I was walking in and out, it's a new building, walking in and out those buildings that are long since gone. It's as fresh today as it ever will be. There's no way that I could do any of that today as well as I am if it hadn't been for the education I received at the University of Utah. There's just no way.Show Links:Jeff Young | LinkedInJeff Young | Family Business Magazine ProfileYESCO.comDavid Eccles School of Business (@ubusiness) | InstagramUndergraduate Scholars ProgramsRising Business LeadersEccles Alumni Network (@ecclesalumni) | Instagram Eccles Experience Magazine

Join me and my guest April Sheris.  April is a pioneering force in media and cultural entrepreneurship, redefining BIPOC storytelling on a global scale. Upland Studios, which started in 2012, is a multifaceted empire celebrated for amplifying diverse voices, with Shereice having over 12 years of experience in publishing, media, and innovation. She also founded New Mexico's first on-rail book club in partnership with NM Railrunner Express and has taught marketing at the University of New Mexico through the Small Business Administration.April SherisInstgram: @aprilsherisWebpage: www.uplandstudios.comhttps://booksarethenewrich.comFacebook: April SherisWould you like to be a guest or sponsor?Contact us at: ⁠⁠https://www.levelingupthepodcast.com/shop⁠⁠Reach Dr. Alethia Tucker by going to: Email: atucker@joleaseenterprises.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachalethiatuckerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alethiaatuckerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/joleaseenterprises/Facebook: www.facebook.com/alethiatucker

In a lively episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Carl Knoblock, Virginia District Director of the Small Business Administration, for a candid discussion about artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing influence on small businesses. Meeting at the bustling Espresso Bar in downtown Winchester, the two dive into the realities, misconceptions, and opportunities that AI presents for entrepreneurs. Demystifying AI: More Than Just Buzzwords Janet opens the conversation by asking Carl to break down AI in simple terms. Carl draws a parallel between traditional business record-keeping and modern AI, explaining that while businesses once relied on handwritten logs, today's AI systems gather and analyze vast amounts of data from the internet. However, he cautions that AI is still in its infancy—capable of collecting information but not yet adept at discerning relevance or context. As Carl puts it, "AI is just grabbing anything, like kids in a store." The Human Touch: Training and Taming AI Transitioning from theory to practice, Janet and Carl discuss the importance of human involvement in shaping AI outputs. Janet likens training AI to raising a toddler: the more you interact and correct it, the more it adapts to your style and needs. Both agree that while AI can automate tasks and provide insights, it requires ongoing supervision and fine-tuning to ensure accuracy and authenticity. "If you have great data, you're okay. If you have poor data, you're going to have to build it," Carl notes, emphasizing the need for quality input. Practical Applications: From Forecasting to Customer Service The conversation shifts to practical uses of AI for small businesses. Janet highlights how AI can streamline market research, identify customer preferences, and even generate strategic plans—tasks that once required hours of manual effort. Carl adds that AI can help businesses analyze sales data, manage inventory, and forecast trends, allowing owners to make informed decisions. However, they caution against over-reliance on AI, stressing the importance of human oversight, especially when interpreting nuanced data or handling customer interactions. Addressing Fears: Will AI Replace Human Jobs? Naturally, the discussion turns to the fear that AI will eliminate jobs. Carl draws historical comparisons to the rise of automation in manufacturing, pointing out that while machines can handle repetitive tasks, they cannot replicate human creativity, problem-solving, or empathy. Janet echoes this sentiment, noting that AI excels at logic but falls short in situations requiring intuition or emotional intelligence. Both agree that rather than replacing humans, AI will shift the nature of work, creating new opportunities for those willing to adapt. The Limits of Automation: Why People Still Matter Janet and Carl explore scenarios where AI falls short—such as handling sensitive customer service issues or adapting to unique, real-world challenges. They recount stories of businesses losing customers due to impersonal AI-driven support systems and highlight the value of empathy during life events like bereavement. "Companies don't even think about the human side," Carl observes, urging businesses to integrate compassion into their processes. Looking Ahead: Embracing Change with Confidence As the conversation draws to a close, Janet asks Carl for advice to small business owners just beginning to experiment with AI. Carl recommends starting with forecasting and data analysis, leveraging existing information to make better decisions. He encourages business owners to seek help from tech-savvy students or professionals and to remain open to learning and adaptation. Janet concludes by emphasizing the importance of implementation—reminding listeners that while AI can provide valuable insights, it's up to humans to put those ideas into action. Conclusion: The Future is Collaborative Ultimately, Janet and Carl agree that AI is a powerful tool, but its true value emerges when paired with human judgment, creativity, and empathy. As technology continues to evolve, small businesses that embrace both innovation and the human touch will be best positioned to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

0:30 - Trump defends Truth Social post on Reiner 20:23 - VT Rep. Becca Balint rips Trump on House floor over Truth Social post on Reiner 37:31 - Providence Police Chief Oscar Lopez won't disclose what shooter allegedly yelled upon opening fire 01:01:18 - Liel Leibovitz, editor at large for Tablet, on the mass shootings at Bondi Beach and Brown University: “Every single one of the left's core values destroyed in one fell swoop” Liel also hosts the Rootless podcast 01:16:39 - In-depth History with Frank from Arlington Heights 01:20:17 - Casey Mulligan, Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the Small Business Administration, breaks down the economics of Obamacare, calling it “a sack of broken promises.” 01:38:05 - Founder of Wirepoints Mark Glennon calls for a culture change in Chicago’s approach to crime, saying too many repeat offenders are being left on the streets. Check out Mark’s substack - substack.com/@markglennon 01:54:01 - Rev. Robert A. Sirico, co-founder and President Emeritus of the Acton Institute, checks the morality of Illinois new right to die law and the silence from the west on Jimmy Lai 02:07:41 - Cook County judges given new guidelines for dealing with cross-dressers, homosexuals in courtSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thomas English talks with a guest from the U.S. Small Business Administration about the upcoming Disaster Loan Assistance deadline. The guest is SBA's Public Affairs Specialist Matthew Lambert. He discusses the loan process and a new grace period that will be put into effect. He also discusses the reasons for the grace period and how residents can take advantage of the support. 

Congress zeros in on Small Business Administration fraud, the Fed votes to cut rates, and foreign travelers to the U.S. may soon have to provide more than just their passport to enter. Get the facts first with Evening Wire. - - - Ep. 2529 - - - Wake up with new Morning Wire merch: https://bit.ly/4lIubt3 - - - Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacy morning wire,morning wire podcast,the morning wire podcast,Georgia Howe,John Bickley,daily wire podcast,podcast,news podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Holman welcomes back Everett Woodel, Jr., SBA's Great Lakes Regional Administrator, Ohio. The nomination deadline for the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2026 National Small Business Week awards has been extended? (to Dec. 22, 2026 at 2 p.m. ET.) For more than 60 years, the SBA has celebrated National Small Business Week, tell us about that? (highlighting the vital contributions of America's entrepreneurs and small business owners.) That next National Small Business Week will be held May 3-9, 2026, what's planned? Tell us about Award categories for Michigan businesses? (Small Business Person of the Year Small Business Exporter of the Year 8 (a) Graduate of the Year Phoenix Award for Small Business Disaster Recovery Small Business Manufacturer of the Year (District Award) Rural Small Business of the Year (District Award) Blue-Collar Small Business of the Year (District Award)) Where can folks get more information? (visit: SBA.gov/NSBW) Remind us about that great story of a Michigan business that got recognized last time? (In 2025, the owners of Sterling Heights, Mich.,-based NTL Industries won Michigan Small Business Persons of the Year and went on to win the national title of Small Business Person of the Year.) » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ WASHINGTON — This week, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) extended the 2026 National Small Business Week awards nominations deadline to 2 p.m. ET on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of America's 36 million small businesses – which make up 99% of all businesses in America, create two out of every three new jobs, and employ about half of America's workforce. National Small Business Week will take place May 3 – 9, 2026. National awards will be presented during this week at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. A business owner from each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam will be selected for State Small Business Person of the Year awards. State award winners will compete for the 2026 National Small Business Person of the Year title, SBA's signature award. To nominate a small business in your area, download related forms, and to view criteria, and guidelines and the full list of awards, visit sba.gov/nsbw. # # # About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

Kelly Loeffler, 28th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, joined The Guy Benson Show today to discuss her investigation into PPP and EIDL fraud identified by the SBA, including the ongoing Minnesota fraud case involving more than a billion dollars allegedly funneled through the Somali community in the state. Loeffler also broke down the strong state of the U.S. economy, which is proven by indicator such as strong GDP growth, job creation, confidence, and spending. Loeffler also acknowledged the disconnect between those positive indicators and how Americans are feeling on the ground, but noted the progress the Trump admin has made as they work to climb after the economic damage of the Biden years. Listen to the full interview below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Essintial Enterprise Solutions LLC v. The United States Small Business Administration

Or maybe both. Kristi Noem announces DHS is investigating visas handed out by the Walz administration and finds at least half are fraudulent. And now the Small Business Administration is on the case, joining House Oversight and the Treasury Department in probing fraud across Minnesota. Pete Hegseth launches a lethal strike against the media which are called out by the New York Times for fabricating a story insinuating Hegseth said "Kill Everyone" during President Trump's first narco terrorist strike in the Caribbean.

A bill that would overhaul how the federal government purchases software has found itself in a familiar place: moving forward in the House while awaiting Senate consideration with just a few weeks left in the congressional calendar. The Strengthening Agency Management and Oversight of Software Assets (SAMOSA) Act advanced out of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on Tuesday, teeing it up for a vote in the full chamber. The SAMOSA Act, which would direct federal agencies to assess their software licensing practices and streamline future IT buying decisions to avoid duplicative purchases, was reintroduced in the House in September following the Senate's move to do the same in July. The bill passed the House a year ago but stalled out in the upper chamber, despite backing from a host of software and IT trade groups, including the Computer & Communications Industry Association, the Alliance for Digital Innovation, NetChoice, OpenPolicy and the Software Information Industry Association. Congress has been trying to move forward with the SAMOSA Act since at least 2022. House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, R-Ky., noted during Tuesday's markup that the current iteration of the SAMOSA Act is “identical” to what passed the chamber last year. In other news: The Small Business Administration may soon be forced to confront the flawed rollout of an online certification platform it launched late in the Biden administration.The House on Monday passed a bill that would require the SBA to implement nearly a dozen recommendations made in a Government Accountability Office report about the agency's Unified Certification Platform for small business contracting assistance. The lawmakers behind the SBA IT Modernization Reporting Act — Reps. Gil Cisneros, D-Calif., and Brian Jack, R-Ga. — believe the legislation will help the agency avoid various pitfalls that plagued the UCP, helping it better develop and manage digital projects going forward. The UCP project was launched in 2023 with the goal of easing small businesses' interactions with the SBA's contract assistance programs. But deployment of the platform was delayed and applications for certification were paused in August 2024. The UCP went live two months later, but according to the GAO, work to migrate data and secure the system was incomplete. House Small Business Committee Chair Roger Williams said before Monday's vote that the “failed … portal rollout resulted in delays, errors and cybersecurity risks, shutting out small businesses from the vital government contracting opportunities.” The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

Over a month of frozen federal functions stalled Small Business Administration loan approvals and cut off IRS data that lenders rely on. Those disruptions rippled through housing markets and raised questions about systemic vulnerabilities. Here to walk through the lessons and what's next is Dave Bohrman, Co-Founder and VP of Marketing at Tax Guard.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of "The Valley Today," host Janet Michael welcomes Carl Knoblock, Virginia District Director of the Small Business Administration, for a spirited discussion on the true value of small businesses. While Small Business Saturday often takes center stage during the holiday season, Janet and Carl argue that supporting local businesses should be a year-round commitment. Their conversation, rich with anecdotes and actionable advice, offers a roadmap for both consumers and business owners eager to strengthen their communities. The Backbone of the Community From the outset, Carl emphasizes a staggering statistic: 99% of businesses in the United States are considered small. Yet, these enterprises often go unnoticed in favor of their larger counterparts. Janet and Carl highlight how small businesses—ranging from family-owned shops to local farmers—form the backbone of local economies. They recount how events like government shutdowns disproportionately affect these businesses, underscoring their vulnerability and the ripple effects felt throughout the community. Beyond Retail: The Many Faces of Small Business Transitioning from statistics to stories, the conversation explores the diversity of small businesses. Janet points out that support shouldn't be limited to retail stores; restaurants, service providers, and even seasonal attractions like corn mazes all contribute to the local fabric. Carl suggests creative marketing ideas, such as selling experience packages or collaborating with other businesses, to keep customers engaged beyond the holiday rush. The Power of Consistent Support Janet and Carl agree that one day of shopping small isn't enough. Instead, they advocate for ongoing support, especially during slower months. They share practical tips for consumers, such as exploring new local shops and considering gift cards or unique experiences as presents. For business owners, Carl stresses the importance of proactive marketing and customer engagement, reminding listeners that a single social media post is rarely sufficient to attract attention in today's fast-paced digital world. Collaboration and Community Spirit The discussion shifts to the power of collaboration. Janet recalls successful partnerships between local businesses, like cross-promotions between coffee shops and theaters, which benefit everyone involved. Carl notes that when businesses work together—offering complementary deals or simply recommending each other—they foster a sense of community that keeps main streets vibrant and thriving. Advice for Business Owners: Heart and Hustle Throughout the episode, Carl and Janet offer candid advice for small business owners. They urge entrepreneurs to focus on customer experience, hire staff with genuine enthusiasm, and maintain both their physical and online storefronts. Janet highlights the importance of using modern point-of-sale systems to streamline inventory and online sales, making it easier for customers to shop local from anywhere. Conclusion: A Call to Action As the conversation wraps up, Janet and Carl encourage listeners to step outside their routines, discover new local businesses, and remember that every purchase makes a difference. Their message is clear: supporting small businesses is not just a holiday tradition, but a vital, ongoing investment in the health and happiness of our communities. By shopping small and supporting local year-round, everyone can play a part in building stronger, more resilient communities.

On The exchange from In Focus, we look ahead to Small Business Saturday with the U.S. Small Business Administration and a Dothan entrepreneur.

Shop local this holiday season After experiencing a large dip during the pandemic, holiday shopping has been steadily rising over the last few years, with a record 186 million people planning to shop from Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday this year, according to the National Retail Foundation. While Black Friday is the most popular day to shop, 67 million people plan to shop specifically on Saturday, with 80% of those saying they want to support local businesses on Small Business Saturday. Ohio has more than 90,000 small retail businesses, who employ almost 180,000 workers in the state, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. We're going to devote Tuesday's "Sound of Ideas" to highlighting the entrepreneurs, makers and artists from across Northeast Ohio who rely on this time of year to keep doing what they love. Guests: -Mike Brighton, Owner, Gray Dog Comics -Corbin Wandling, Production Manager, Nosh Butters -Lori Parnell, Founder and Maker, Black Culture Candles -Dominic Caruso, Communications Director, Downtown Akron Partnership -Charlie Malta aka Guice Man, Artist -Tessa Lebaron, Artist -Maureen Ater, President and CEO, ArtsinStark

In this episode, Bruce De Torres breaks down the myths surrounding federal support for small businesses and the real impact of the Small Business Administration. He reveals how only a tiny fraction of small businesses ever receive SBA-backed loans—despite the narrative pushed in politics and the media. De Torres calls for a closer look at the numbers and a serious rethink of how government programs are evaluated when it comes to helping America’s entrepreneurs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danielle M. Haywood and Ellen Israel, Public Affairs Specialists for the U.S. Small Business Administration, join Mesa Chamber President and CEO Sally Harrison in discussing disaster loans available for eligible small businesses, nonprofits, homeowners, and renters affected by Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond. Tune in to learn details about loan terms, benefits, and deadlines. Learn more about the U.S. Small Business Administration at sba.gov. The Mesa Chamber of Commerce Inside Business Podcast is a production of the Mesa Chamber of Commerce. Inquiries regarding the MCIBP can be made via email to info@mesachamber.org. The Podcast interviews members and individuals/organizations on topics of interest to Mesa Chamber members. Learn more at mesachamber.org. ©2025 Mesa Chamber of Commerce

storically tumultuous year for federal employees didn't dim the public's pre-shutdown view of government services, according to a new survey that largely credited tech adoption for the positive perceptions. The 2025 American Customer Satisfaction Index Federal Government Study, released Tuesday, found citizen satisfaction with federal government services at a 19-year high with a score of 70.4 on a 0-to-100 scale, a 1% jump from 2024. The survey of 6,914 randomly chosen respondents was conducted before the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, but ACSI's director of research emeritus emphasized that the results still “reflect real momentum in improving how citizens experience federal services.” Forrest Morgeson, an associate professor of marketing at Michigan State in addition to his role at ACSI, said that the introduction of AI is making a large impact, and such advancement “signal a future where government services can be more responsive and accessible to all.” Many of the highest-ranking federal agencies in customer satisfaction were lauded for their implementation of technologies, including USDA, the State Department and the Small Business Administration. The National Institutes of Health didn't ensure that the entity housing personal health information of over 1 million people — including biosamples — implemented proper cybersecurity protocols, according to an internal watchdog. In a report publicly released Friday, the Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Inspector General made five recommendations for the security of the All of Us program — a database of diverse health information from 1 million participants that's meant to aid research — after finding weaknesses. According to the report, while the award recipient operating the program's Data and Research Center implemented some cybersecurity measures, NIH failed to ensure other controls were addressed. The report found that NIH didn't ensure that the awardee, which wasn't identified, appropriately limited access to the program's data and didn't communicate national security concerns related to maintaining genomic data — or data relating to DNA. It also failed to ensure that weaknesses in security and privacy were fixed within a timeline outlined in federal requirements. The audit was initially conducted by the inspector general due to the threats that cyberattacks and the potential exposure of sensitive information can pose to the agency's programs. The watchdog's objective was to scrutinize the access, security and privacy controls of the program. Also in this episode: HPE Networking Chief AI Officer Bob Friday joins SNG host Wyatt Kash in a sponsored podcast discussion on how agencies can leverage cloud and AI to build more automated, secure and mission-ready networks. This segment was sponsored by HPE.

Whether you're a veteran, an employer, or someone who wants to support veterans in your community, this episode is packed with practical advice and up-to-date resources to help ensure our veterans thrive after service.Welcome to another episode of "Looking Forward Our Way." This time, we're putting the spotlight on the unique challenges faced by military veterans as they re-enter the civilian workforce. Joining hosts Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson is Ryan Blackburn, Senior Manager for Military and Federal Programs at Jobs Ohio and a veteran himself. Together, they explain the realities behind veteran employment, from overcoming resume roadblocks and translating military skills, to the vital support services Ohio offers. You'll learn what's working, where gaps still exist, and how local employers can play a pivotal role in creating meaningful job opportunities for those who have served. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!Moments00:00 "Advancing Veteran Workforce in Ohio"03:36 Supporting Veterans Through Education08:57 "Veteran Hiring Resources in Ohio"12:23 Helping Veterans Highlight Individual Contributions13:16 Translating Military Skills for Jobs16:48 Veteran Job Transition Challenges20:02 Guiding Veterans in Corporate Growth23:17 "Ohio Jobs for Veterans"26:24 Military Transition Support Conversations32:40 DoD SkillBridge: Transition Internship Program35:34 Ohio's Economic and Military Development39:44 "County Veteran Services: First Stop"40:55 Shoutout to Murphy, Air ForceTop takeaways for professionals, employers, and anyone passionate about supporting veterans:• Bridging the Employment Gap: Veterans often struggle to translate their military skills into civilian resumes. Programs like OhioMeansJobs Centers and Jobs Ohio's "Find Your Ohio" initiative are connecting veterans with job resources and employers—sometimes before they even separate from the service.• Supporting Underemployed Veterans: While veteran unemployment rates are typically low, underemployment remains a concern. Employers and workforce agencies are collaborating to ensure vets find roles that match their skill sets and leadership experience—not just a quick paycheck.• Empowering Through Local & National Resources: Ohio offers veteran services offices in every county, and there's an abundance of government and nonprofit support for veterans and their families. The key? Knowing where to look and leveraging those resources—from federal Small Business Administration support to local mentorship and networking programs.We would love to hear from you.Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.Find us on Bluesky and Facebook.Please review our podcast on Google!And of course, everything can be found on our website, Looking Forward Our Way.Recorded in Studio C at

Die US-Bundesregierung hat 67 als verschwenderisch bewertete Verträge beendet oder reduziert, was Einsparungen von 648 Millionen US-Dollar bringt. Besonders betroffen sind Verträge im Außenministerium, der Social Security Administration und im 8(a)-Programm der Small Business Administration.

The Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration lays out how the shutdown delayed the delivery of more than $5B in loans to small businesses and what comes next. Then retail traders break their dip-buying streak. How that impacts the momentum trade. Plus, the CEO of Cognizant, after striking a new deal to expand the company's enterprise AI portfolio. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Six years ago, I launched a new venue, The Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. The podcast has welcomed guests across the entertainment and lifestyle industries.   The guests have ranged from Emmy-winning journalists such as Anne Trujillo, Elex Michaelson, and Michael Mackie, and Emmy-winning actor Mike Manning, to Tony-winning producer Evan McGill and Reality TV legends such as Beth Stolarczyk, Derrick Kosinski, Ethan Zohn, Jon Brennan, Mark Long, Rachel Reilly, Rob Cesternino, and Syrus Yarbrough.  I am incredibly grateful to all the publicists and talent management teams who trusted me with their clients.  I am grateful for the friendships that I built along the way with my podcasting colleagues and guests. They include my friends over at AGT Time Pod, Brent Wolgamott (who was my first guest), Challenge Historian's Jacob, Challenge Mania's Derrick and Scott Yager, Drew Angelman, Josh Skinner, Matt Cohen, Mike Lewis, Paige of Most Likely & TikTok, Tony Berado, and Wes of Thinking Critical.  I want to thank my dear friends and family who supported my podcasting journey, especially my mom, Gloria, my dad, Matthew, my brother, Aaron, my sister-in-law, Whitney, my nephew, Nash, my nieces, Emory and Kennedy, and my doggy nephew, Maxwell.   Finally—and most importantly—I want to thank you—the listeners from over 80 countries—for taking time out of your schedules to watch and listen to my content! I am grateful for your continuous support.  For my sixth anniversary episode, I am delighted to welcome my longtime friend, Becky Wilson! Becky runs WDS Marketing and Public Relations. WDS is a boutique agency with a unique and proven niche. Their focus is on helping savvy entrepreneurs and clever business owners tell their stories. Results included increased awareness, enhanced credibility, and new relationships in the business community.  Becky leverages media, accolades, events, and other prime opportunities to elevate client brands and help them become known in the most positive, dynamic, and delightful ways.   WDS received honors from the Kansas City Business Marketing Association's Fountain Awards program and the Kansas City Public Relations Society's Prism Awards. Becky Wilson has been honored twice by the U.S. Small Business Administration as a regional “Women Business Champion.”She is the co-founder of the Kansas City Council of Women Business Owners (KC-CWBO), which was designated as one of the most outstanding women's business organizations in the United States by the Stevie Awards for Women in Business.   WDS offers pro bono and discounted services to select nonprofit and business organizations each year. We have recently assisted the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center, the Center for Spirit at Work, and the KC-CWBO. They also volunteer for committee work and currently serve on the membership committee of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Kansas City.  On the latest edition of The Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Becky Wilson shared WDS Marketing and Public Relations' origin story. She also talked about her passion for America's Got Talent (AGT). Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Story of the Week (DR):Citi's Jane Fraser consolidates power with board chair vote — and a $25 million-plus bonus to boota one-time equity award (the Award), consisting of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) with a grant date value of $25 million and 1.055 million Citigroup stock optionsthe Compensation, Performance Management and Culture CommitteeDuncan P. Hennes (Chair)*Peter B. Henry*Other directorships: Nike, Inc., Analog Devices, Inc., National Bureau of Economic Research (Board), The Economic Club of New York (Board), Protiviti (Advisory Board), Biospring Partners (Advisory Board), Makena Capital (Advisory Board), and Two Bridges Football Club (Board)Renée J. JamesOther directorships: Oracle Corporation, Sabre Corporation, Vodafone Group Plc, President's National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee (Member and Prior Chair), and University of Oregon (Trustee)Gary M. Reiner*Diana L. Taylor*Other directorships: Brookfield Corporation, Accion (Chair), Columbia Business School (Board of Overseers),Friends of Hudson River Park (Chair), Mailman School of Public Health (Board of Overseers), The Economic Club of New York (Member), Council on Foreign Relations (Member), Hot Bread Kitchen (Board Chair), Cold Spring Harbor Lab (Member), and New York City Ballet (Board Chair)Casper W. von KoskullCommittee Meetings in 2024: 15Citi elected CEO Jane Fraser as ChairJohn Dugan, who served as Chair of Citi's Board since 2019, will become Lead Independent DirectorCEO armies MMElon Musk Wants ‘Strong Influence' Over the ‘Robot Army' He's BuildingIn a Tesla earnings call Wednesday, the world's richest man pondered the future of his company's Optimus robots—and his control over them.“If we build this robot army, do I have at least a strong influence over this robot army?” he told investors. “Not control, but a strong influence… I don't feel comfortable building that robot army unless I have a strong influence.”His repeated use of the word “army” certainly stands out, suggesting the robot could eventually be used as a weapon. Is Musk considering having his robots be deployed as soldiers?Elon Musk Threatens to Leave Tesla if Shareholders Don't Approve His Trillion-Dollar Pay Package – Warns, “Which Other Automotive CEO Would You Like to Run Tesla Because It Won't Be Me”Secret Plans Reveal Amazon Plot to Replace 600,000 Workers With Robot ArmyThe ongoing CEO/Trump Oligarchical BromanceTrump pardons convicted Binance founder Changpeng ZhaoZhao, who is widely known as CZ, had pleaded guilty in 2023 to enabling money laundering while CEO of the huge cryptocurrency exchange.Zhao's plea was part of a $4.3 billion settlement Binance reached with the DOJ in 2023.The pardon of Zhao, widely known as CZ, came two months after The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump family's own crypto venture, which has generated about $4.5 billion since the 2024 election, has been helped by “a partnership with an under-the-radar trading platform quietly administered by Binance.”NBC News, citing a public disclosure filing from Monday, reported that Binance in September had retained the services of the lobbyist Charles McDowell, who is a friend of the president's son, Donald Trump Jr.Trump calls off planned 'surge' of federal forces in San Francisco after talking to Jensen Huang and Marc BenioffHere are the donors contributing to Trump's White House ballroomIn summary: techbros, oil, tobacco, cryptoCorporationsAltria Group, tobacco (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)Amazon (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)Apple (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)Booz Allen HamiltonCaterpillarCoinbase (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)In February, the SEC dropped a pending case against the firm.Comcast Corporation (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)Google (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)$22 million toward the ballroom came from a settlement Trump reached with the Google-owned video site YouTube, ending a lawsuit he brought over the company's 2021 decision to suspend his account in the wake of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.Hard Rock InternationalHP Inc.Lockheed MartinIn an emailed statement, the company said it was “grateful for the opportunity to help bring the President's vision to reality and make this addition to the People's House, a powerful symbol of the American ideals we work to defend every day.”Meta Platforms (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)In January, Meta agreed to pay $25 million to settle a 2021 lawsuit brought by Trump that alleged the company's suspension of his social media accounts after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol amounted to an act of censorship.Micron Technology (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)MicrosoftNextEra Energy (donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)Palantir TechnologiesHas won hundreds of millions of dollars in new and expanded business since Trump's second term began, including contracts at the FAA, CDC, and further contracts with the U.S. military.Ripple (donated $4.9 million to Trump's 2025 inauguration fund)In March, the company's CEO announced that the SEC would drop its long-running litigation over whether its cryptocurrency is a security.Reynolds American, tobacco company.T-MobileTether AmericaThe company, which has ties to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, is the issuer of the world's largest stablecoin, a type of cryptocurrency designed to hold a steady value.Union Pacific RailroadIndividualsStefan E. Brodie: an American businessman, convicted felon, and political donor known for co-founding The Bro-Tech Corporation (Purolite Company), a chemical manufacturing firmHarold Hamm: the billionaire oil executive played a key role in helping Trump raise funds from oil industry donors during the 2024 electionBenjamin Leon Jr., the health-care company founder was nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Spain in March.The Lutnick Family: Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is a billionaire and former Wall Street executive.Isaac “Ike” Perlmutter: former Marvel NEO who donated over $25 million towards the 2024 Republican campaign.Stephen A. Schwarzman: Blackstone CEO who donated $40 million to Republican organizations for last year's election.Konstantin Sokolov: private equity investor.Kelly Loeffler and Jeff Sprecher: Loeffler is head of the Small Business Administration; Sprecher is CEO/CHair/founder of Intercontinental ExchangePaolo Tiramani: founder of prefabricated homes company BOXABL Cameron Winklevoss and Tyler Winklevoss: co-founders of crypto platform Gemini.Activist investor group that includes Travis Kelce aims to revive struggling Six FlagsTravis Kelce is part of an activist investor group (with JANA Partners and others) that has acquired roughly a 9 % economic interest in Six Flags. The group's stated intention is to engage with Six Flags' management and board to improve performance, guest experience, marketing, etc. In the reporting by Reuters, it explicitly says that “Consumer executive Glenn Murphy and technology executive Dave Habiger … could, along with Kelce, serve as potential board nominees.”Goodliest of the Week (MM/DR):DR: Hundreds of Power Players, From Steve Wozniak to Steve Bannon to Richard Branson, Just Signed a Letter Calling for Prohibition on Development of AI Superintelligence"Nobody developing these AI systems has been asking humanity if this is OK."The letter cites recent polling from FLI, which was cofounded by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor Max Tegmark, showing that only five percent of Americans are in favor of the rapid and unregulated development of advanced AI toolsMM: Linda McMahon mixed up AI and A.1. — so of course now the steak sauce is all over itAssholiest of the Week (MM):Robot armies DRSecret Plans Reveal Amazon Plot to Replace 600,000 Workers With Robot ArmyElon Musk defends $1 trillion pay package: ‘I just don't feel comfortable building a robot army here and then being oustedMeta tells some employees their jobs are being replaced by tech: read the memoAWS Outage That Took Down Internet Came After Amazon Fired Tons of Workers in Favor of AIUS firm's Star Wars-style humanoid robot soldier brings sci-fi to battlefield2024: What Is a ‘Clanker'? New Slur for Robots Catches On (it's also from Star Wars)Fake retirementJeff Bezos Says He's the 'Least Retired Person in the World'...And He'll 'Never Retire Because Work Is Too Much Fun'In our data, there are 251 US board chairs that are executives at the company, WERE the CEO, but are NOT the CEO now - that's 251 Jeff Bezos' who get paid like a CEO to work how they want without any accountabilityThey don't give press conferences or earnings callsThey don't answer to the CEO, they answer to themselvesThey control the board without having to answer to it122 of them are NOT family or founder firms - meaning they were just the CEO and they're sticking aroundThat includes Donald Umpleby at CaterpillarAt Schwab, Charles Schwab is a CO-chair with ex-CEO Walter Bettinger II, and the board has a THIRD CEO on it in Richard WursterThe average TSR performance of these people is .477 - below averageIn zero situations is it worth having any of these people on the boardBoysTrump says Jensen Huang and Mark Benioff helped convince him not to send troops to San FranciscoCiti CEO's $25 Million Bonus Is Excessive, Top Bank Analyst Mike Mayo SaysElon Musk got feisty about his $1 trillion pay package in the final minutes of Tesla's earnings callMicrosoft CEO Satya Nadella's annual pay jumps to $96.5 millionPalmer Luckey says he told Anduril investors they can't complain if he takes time off to be on 'Survivor'Elon Musk Accuses Head of NASA of Being “Gay”Bill Ackman calls Trump the 'most pro-business president we've ever had'Integrity for sportsWhile the Trump Administration inserts itself in every crypto venture with no oversight, openly insider trades, and Congress does the same, heaven forbid it happen in sports… Chauncey Billups, others arrested in FBI probe linking NBA to Mafia gambling ringHeadliniest of the WeekDR: Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky has one question he likes to ask every entrepreneur: ‘Why does your company deserve to exist?'MM: SPEED ROUNDTesla recalls over 63,000 Cybertrucks due to the front lights being too brightMosquitoes found in Iceland for first timeCracker Barrel CEO Says Logo Update Wasn't 'Woke' — Just Easier to ReadReading IS woke!McDonald's CEO says he eats at the chain '3 or 4 times a week'Who Won the Week?DR: obviously JaneMM: MosquitosPredictionsDR: In 2070, future MetaSoul (née Facebook/Meta Platforms) CEO August Zuckerberg has one question she likes to ask every non-AI human: ‘Why do you deserve to exist?'MM: McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski goes from his reported weight of 158lbs to 220lbs inside a year

Sherré DeMao is founder and CEO of BizGrowth Inc, an award-winning strategy, intellectual property, and training firm focused on providing next-level, next-idea solutions for entrepreneurial enterprises. She is an expert in helping entrepreneurs and their teams realize success through empowering exponential growth, building preferential value, and embracing industry leadership. Her firm has earned more than 50 awards locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Her business acumen, advocacy and innovative approach to advising and working with entrepreneurs has resulted in national recognition including being honored with a Small Business Woman Champion Award (2006) by the Small Business Administration, named among North America's 50 Most Enterprising Women (2007), and being inducted as an expert in Forbes Council in 2022 as a result of her business growth track record. A Certified Growth Strategist, Sherré is a nationally acclaimed speaker, author, and thought leader. Her book, Me, Myself & Inc. resulted in her being the subject matter expert for Chapter 2, also called Me, Myself & Inc. in the university textbook, Smart Start-up Business Management. Her book Dream Wide Awake was released in February 2020 and selected as a Leadership Book Club choice by NAWIC National. Her next books, The Profitability Quotient: What COVID Business Successes Confirmed, and THIRVE! Too Agile to Fail, will be released in 2026.Contact Sherre De Mao:Since my books are not going to be released until 2026, the one book that could be promoted is Dream Wide Awake which is an empowerment guide for dream doing instead of daydreaming. It can be purchased on amazon and any other book retailer websites.My blogs, Dream Wide Awake & BizGrowth 5.0 and Forbes thought leader insights. May be the easiest to promote.https://www.sherredemao.com/dream-wide-awake/ (weekly)https://www.bizgrowthinc.com/bizgrowth-5-0/ (bi-monthly)https://councils.forbes.com/profile/Sherre-DeMao-CEO-BizGrowth-Maestro-BizGrowth-Inc/917cdcd3-f596-4c5f-8d0f-06596dca6053https://www.facebook.com/sherre.demao/https://www.instagram.com/bizgrowthmaestro/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherre-demao-02248a1/Dr. Kimberley LinertSpeaker, Author, Broadcaster, Mentor, Trainer, Behavioral OptometristEvent Planners- I am available to speak at your event. Here is my media kit: https://brucemerrinscelebrityspeakers.com/portfolio/dr-kimberley-linert/To book Dr. Linert on your podcast, television show, conference, corporate training or as an expert guest please email her at incrediblelifepodcast@gmail.com or Contact Bruce Merrin at Bruce Merrin's Celebrity Speakers at merrinpr@gmail.com702.256.9199

On today's show we are talking about the impact of recent US Federal Government policy changes and then the government shutdown on real estate.There are several government agencies involved in commercial financing. These include the US Department of Agriculture, the department of housing and urban development, the department of Veterans Affairs, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and the Small Business Administration. Loan applications involving Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac also rely on reports generated by government agencies that are currently closed. All of these sources of financing are either delayed or are at a standstill. There have also been numerous policy changes that have affected loan approvals since the most recent federal election. How could this be a problem? -------------**Real Estate Espresso Podcast:** Spotify: [The Real Estate Espresso Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/3GvtwRmTq4r3es8cbw8jW0?si=c75ea506a6694ef1)   iTunes: [The Real Estate Espresso Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-real-estate-espresso-podcast/id1340482613)   Website: [www.victorjm.com](http://www.victorjm.com)   LinkedIn: [Victor Menasce](http://www.linkedin.com/in/vmenasce)   YouTube: [The Real Estate Espresso Podcast](http://www.youtube.com/@victorjmenasce6734)   Facebook: [www.facebook.com/realestateespresso](http://www.facebook.com/realestateespresso)   Email: [podcast@victorjm.com](mailto:podcast@victorjm.com)  **Y Street Capital:** Website: [www.ystreetcapital.com](http://www.ystreetcapital.com)   Facebook: [www.facebook.com/YStreetCapital](https://www.facebook.com/YStreetCapital)   Instagram: [@ystreetcapital](http://www.instagram.com/ystreetcapital)  

In part one of Red Eye Radio with Gary McNamara and Eric Harley, "Sorry folks..the park's closed..the moose out front shoulda told ya" .. Vacation. Feels kinda weird but yeah..for the first time in five years, the Government is officially closed for at least two weeks as of midnight this morning. The big question on everyone's mind is "will this affect my social security and healthcare?" The short answer is .. no. Roughly 30% of federal employees are on furlough and some may not be returning to work when the Government opens. Basically a government shutdown happens when Congress can neither pass all 12 appropriations bills needed to fund the government, nor pass a continuing resolution which typically keeps funding levels static while lawmakers hustle to finish their work on spending bills. Programs like Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid will continue, along with the Postal Service, Veterans' Affairs hospitals and clinics, and Immigration and Border Patrol security activities, among others. Federal employees will likely go without pay, however, and a string of agencies will see their services hampered by furloughs, like the IRS and Small Business Administration. Housing programs may also see a delay in rental assistance and loans. Also on today's show, a yelling match between Sen. Josh Hawley and a former Biden administration official broke out in a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing over the need for "two spirit" safe spaces to combat gun violence and Pete Hegseth's ambitious 10-point plan to transform the military. For more talk on the issues that matter to you, listen on radio stations across America Monday-Friday 12am-5am CT (1am-6am ET and 10pm-3am PT), download the RED EYE RADIO SHOW app, asking your smart speaker, or listening at RedEyeRadioShow.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices