Sometimes the business is already prepared and it just needs to be brought to a new location. James Barfield discusses being a franchisee for a larger brand and how he focuses on being a resource partner locally in Wichita. Joining hosts Don and Ebony, they dive into the opportunities he has found, while also the challenges and struggles he faces being a black business owner. On this episode we discuss:

• How he engages in digital and print marketing
• Radio advertising on KMUW during Black History Month
• Being a resource partner instead of a service provider
• Using Squeegee Squad as an introduction to the whole business
• The value of word of mouth and relationship building
• How the support of a corporate team helps him locally
• Being safety-conscious with high-rise buildings
• Thinking about how a franchise can be expanded
• How a lack of competition creates opportunities to grow in Wichita
• Barriers that minorities have to overcome
• The stress and intimacy that comes with a small business
• The support gap needed for black-owned businesses
• Staying healthy through regular meditation, prayer and exercise

Learn more about Squeegee Squad:

squeegeesquad.com/franchise/wichita-ks/

316-202-6020

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LinkedIn Profile
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James is a Wichita native who was once a student of the YEK (Youth Entrepreneurs Kansas) program. He now lends his time and expertise by volunteering for this program. He holds an associate degree in Business, Marketing, Six Sigma and Project Management from Wichita Area Technical College. James and his team have done some major commercial work in Kansas City at Garmin International and at Dallas City Hall in Texas.

Other Resources:
James Barfield Brings Squeegee Squad to Wichita (article)
Getting to Know James Barfield (article)

Youth Entrepreneurs (website)
BOMA (website)
WIBA (website)

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