Brunch with BBB: Recent Episodes
BBB serving Eastern NC
In this podcast, Luis and Nick tackle the marketplace topics that matter to business owners and consumers!
Brought to you by Ultra Roofing
In an industry where customer service can often be just a checkbox, our guest today stands out by making it the cornerstone of their business. As our most recent BBB Torch Award winner, they go beyond the typical service call, offering personalized, innovative solutions that ensure the utmost comfort for their clients. In today’s episode, we’ll dive into what makes their service so exceptional and their various community efforts, uncovering the principles and practices that make Air Experts Heating, Cooling, LLC a beacon of business excellence.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill.
Imagine tax season as a wild rollercoaster ride through a jungle of paperwork and regulations. Now, picture having an insightful guide by your side who knows all the twists, turns, and shortcuts. That's what working with a tax professional is like! They're your fearless navigator in the jungle of taxes, helping you avoid traps, discover hidden treasures (aka deductions), and ensuring you emerge unscathed and with the maximum refund possible.
In this episode, we speak with Nisla Love, IRS Enrolled Agent and CEO of Choose Love Solutions to hear about how businesses can make the most of their finances and avoid added stress this tax season.Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill.
We all know that a positive work culture is the heartbeat of any successful organization. It's the secret sauce that fuels creativity, boosts morale, and retains top talent. But how is this work environment cultivated? Enter Human Resources, the architects of workplace harmony and champions of a positive, vibrant atmosphere where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated.
In this episode we’re sitting down for part two of our conversation with esteemed HR professional, Erin Spencer, Founder and CEO of Edgebrook Lane Consulting, to learn more about employee retention, why businesses should care about it, and how HR can help employees and employers alike.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill.
We all know that a positive work culture is the heartbeat of any successful organization. It's the secret sauce that fuels creativity, boosts morale, and retains top talent. But how is this work environment cultivated? Enter Human Resources, the architects of workplace harmony and champions of a positive, vibrant atmosphere where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated. In this episode, we sit down with Erin Spencer, Founder and CEO of Edgebrook Lane Consulting to learn more about the influence HR can have on employee wellbeing.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill.
Effective communication is paramount for non-profits and mission-driven businesses. It underpins their ability to inspire action, garner support, and drive positive change. In the mission-driven sector, where passion and purpose drive initiatives, effective communication is the linchpin that propels these organizations toward achieving meaningful and sustainable outcomes. In this episode, we sit down with Mark Burlinson to learn how communication coaching can help propel businesses, non-profits, and individuals.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Access to technology can be the difference in a successful student or adult's life and career. And, an old laptop sitting unused in your home could become just what that person needs. Today, we’re talking to Ronald Taylor of HUBZone Technology Initiative in Henderson, NC, a nonprofit who works to provide laptops to areas in need.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
In today’s world it feels like we’re constantly being bombarded with advertisements for products on our feeds and everywhere else we look. So how do we know where it's safe to shop? How can we learn if a business aligns with our values? And what do we need to know to avoid scams in our day-to-day lives as consumers? In this episode, Nick and Meredith discuss all those questions and provide tips to hopefully help you walk away feeling more confident in spotting scams and shopping smart.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Supporting entrepreneurs is an investment in the future success of businesses and the economy as a whole. When businesses invest in and collaborate with entrepreneurs, they foster creativity, drive job creation, and stimulate economic development. Today, we’re talking to Alida Lee- Founder and CEO of Web Momster and Catherine Honeycutt- Founder and CEO of Honeycutt Media, who are launching their own workshop aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in North Carolina.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Use code PODCAST for 15% off registration at the PAUSE workshop
Tune in to part 2 of our 2 part series where we sit down with Rick Vines of Vines Restoration Plumbing HVAC to learn how his company is putting in extra effort to help members of their community.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
No matter how big your business is or what you do, anyone can make a positive impact in the community. For over a year now, we’ve been talking to organizations who are doing unique and impactful things to drive change around North Carolina. In this episode, we’re expanding our reach and talking with Rick Vines- CEO and Owner of Vines Restoration Plumbing HVAC based in Conway, SC to hear how his company is taking community involvement to the next level by putting people first
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
When thinking about sustainability and the environment, solar power is probably one of the first things that comes to your mind. But is it a realistic option for homeowners and businesses? Is it affordable? How does it work? In this episode, we speak with Gabe Amey from Cape Fear Solar Systems about how one Wilmington-based company is powering homes and businesses on the NC coast with solar energy.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Tune in to part 2 of our 2 part series as we sit down with JT and Sam from Boot Scrap to learn how their video production company is helping companies, artists, and nonprofits tell their stories all while putting sustainability first.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Special thanks to JT and Sam from Boot Scrap for providing footage and audio
Storytelling can be a powerful tool for promoting sustainability by creating a connection between people and the environment. By telling stories, we can raise awareness of the impacts of our actions on the planet, inspire people to take action, and help shift attitudes and behaviors towards more sustainable practices. In this episode, we sit down with JT and Sam from Boot Scrap to learn how their video production company is helping companies, artists, and nonprofits tell their stories all while putting sustainability first.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Special thanks to JT and Sam from Boot Scrap for providing footage and audio
Volunteering is a powerful force that transcends boundaries, bringing people from all walks of life together for a common purpose. Whether it's fighting poverty, protecting the environment, or supporting vulnerable populations, volunteers selflessly dedicate their time, skills, and energy to uplift those in need. If you’ve been listening to our podcast, it should be no surprise that the Triangle is full of businesses and organizations committed to doing good. And if you’ve been listening to our podcast for a long time, you might remember our conversation with Activate Good- a local non-profit that helps recruit and connect individuals, groups, and companies with volunteer opportunities. In this episode, we’re checking with Jenn Von Egidy of Activate Good to hear about some of their exciting new projects like the Civic 50 Survey.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
For many people, social media is the place to be for entertainment, education or just to pass the time. And for businesses, social media is only becoming more and more important to promoting their company and selling their products or services. In this episode, Meredith talks to BBB's own Nick Hill about some of the best social media practices and tips that can help businesses and organizations to spread their message.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Join Meredith and Nick as they continue their conversation with Andrew Kiley and Megan Rowe of Yaupon. Find out what other innovations this Wilmington small business is developing that are changing the ways we think about sustainability
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
It’s difficult to understate just how much of an impact food production has on the environment. With the earth’s growing population likely to accelerate this problem, companies big and small are searching for practical solution. Hear from Nick and Meredith as they speak with Andrew R. Kiley and Megan A. Rowe, founders of Yaupon Tea Co., about how their Wilmington business provides a healthy product, all while reducing waste and restoring local ecosystems.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Often, the building of infrastructure is seen as being at odds with nature or as a disruption of the natural environment. But, what happens when parts of the buildings themselves are used to bring nature back into the fold? Hear from Nick and Meredith as they speak with Kate Blatt Ancaya of Living Roofs about how her NC-based company is paving the path toward a brighter future by installing green roofs onto public and residential structures.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Great leaders often have individuals and teams advocating them, teaching them, and advising them. Hear from Nick and Meredith as they speak with Linda Sanders of Transition360 Partners about the different ways leaders and teams can grow and improve through coaching.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
We often think about being environmentally conscious in our daily lives concerning things like transportation, littering or the food we consume. But as online shopping and home delivery only becomes more common, how much thought are we putting into the packaging our goods arrive in? Hear from Nick and Meredith as they speak with Wes Carter of Atlantic Packaging about how his Wilmington-based company works to reduce waste and improve efficiency in the packaging that protects the products you order and ship every day.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Tax season is upon us. Whether you're a first-time filer or an experienced taxpayer, this episode of the Good Guide to Business podcast is designed to help you navigate the complex world of tax filing with confidence and ease. So, tune in and join us as we provide you with practical and actionable tips that can help you save time and avoid scams when filing your taxes.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
The Good Guide is back with more episodes in 2023. A lot has changed since out last episode, and our BBB has grown. At the beginning of the year, BBB of Eastern NC and BBB of Coastal Carolina merged to become BBB serving Eastern Carolinas. Hear from CEO Mallory Wojciechowski and Regional Manager Quantrell Quick about what the merger means for businesses and consumers.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 48-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
When you think marketing, products like clothing, toys or other everyday items may come to mind. But how does it work in the medical world? How do researchers and clinicians make their newest data or updated procedures appeal to the public? Join Nick and Meredith as they speak with Jeff Morrison from Medical Leverage, a communications company that focuses on the marketing aspect of the medical field.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
For school children, a lack of proper clothing can inhibit proper social and educational development. Hear from Nick and Meredith as they speak with Sarah Caldwell from Note In The Pocket about how this Raleigh nonprofit works to make sure students in their area are able to thrive in school and life through providing them with appropriate clothing.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
While marketing may seem daunting to some, for one local marketing agency- it’s the environment they thrive in. Hear from Nick and Meredith as they speak with Melissa St. John from The Department of Marketing about how smaller organizations can successfully market themselves and their social responsibility efforts.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Positive change can come from organizations of all sizes and people from all different walks of life. In this episode, Nick and Meredith speak with Isiah Davis- CEO of Transition about how his organization is making an impact. Listen in to find out how Transition is helping underserved communities across NC and how a young entrepreneur like Isiah aims to inspire others.
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
In this episode, Nick and Meredith welcome local artist Leatha Koefler into their studio to talk about her sustainable art pieces. Leatha takes a unique approach to recycling by repurposing old media into works of art. While her works are certainly stunning in appearance, Leatha uses her art to tell stories that transcend space and time.
Learn more about Leatha here: https://www.leathakoefler.com/
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Theme music: Orange Sunset by One Wave from PremiumBeat
Welcome to The Good Guide to Business! In this episode, we're in Apex, NC talking with Jenn and Jack Otepka, the owners of 621 Productions, an innovative media production and transfer service that is taking a new and unique approach to electronic recycling. Listen to learn more!
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Theme music: Orange Sunset by One Wave from PremiumBeat
Welcome to The Good Guide to Business! In this episode, we're in Durham, NC talking with Alyssa Cherry, the founder of Fillaree, an innovative small batch liquid soap company with refillable products. Fillaree is woman owned and focuses on offering a closed-loop economy to consumers. Listen to learn more!
The Good Guide to Business focuses on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Theme music: Orange Sunset by One Wave from PremiumBeat
Let us reintroduce ourselves… This is The Good Guide to Business! We’ve got a new name and a new host. Meredith Radford will be working alongside Nick Hill from now on. Better Business Bureau of Eastern North Carolina is beyond excited about this rebrand. The Good Guide to Business will be focused on featuring conversations with local businesses, organizations and leaders spearheading social and environmental change across our 33-county service area.
Production and Editing: Meredith Radford and Nick Hill
Theme music: Orange Sunset by One Wave from PremiumBeat
In this episode, Nick and Luis speak with the Founder and CEO of Green Places, Alex Lassiter, about the importance of being a sustainable business. Find out why going green is so essential for the business of the future and what Green Places is doing to help organizations reach those goals.
In Luis's final episode of the Brunch with BBB Podcast, our hosts reminisce about their favorite podcast moments and Luis's time with BBB. Stay tuned for more episodes (and a new co-host) coming soon!
Thank you Luis for two amazing years of podcasting and four years at BBB of Eastern NC. You will be missed.
Women and minorities in STEM fields often face challenges like discrimination and lower pay. We sat down with NC State's Director of Engineering- Dr. Laura Bottomley- to hear about what the university is doing to help foster the next generation of diverse engineers and change the landscape for the future.
In this episode of the Brunch With BBB Podcast, Nick and Luis speak with Jonathan Collins from the Durham Tech. Small Business enter about the current and future culture surrounding Durham's entrepreneurs and how the community is helping them grow.
In this episode of the Brunch with BBB Podcast presented by Ultra Roofing, Nick and Luis take a journey to the past as they sit down with University of Tennessee's Dr. Brandon K. Winford to learn about the rich history and lasting impact of Durham's Black Wall Street.
New year, new finances... and new scams! Saving money and improving credit are both common resolutions people make, however it's important not to let your personal information fall into the hands of fraudsters. In their first episode of 2022, Nick and Luis discuss some of the signs you need to look out for in order to avoid financial scams.
Find a cozy place and get some warm coffee ready for this special MEGA-Episode of the Brunch with BBB Podcast! Join Nick and Luis as they speak with the brother-sister duo of Mike and Maria Satira about the importance of good branding. You aren't going to want to miss out on these key branding tips that will take your business to the next level in 2022!
As 2021 comes to a close, Nick and Luis reflect on a phenomenal year full of amazing guests, iconic moments, touching lessons, and great food. Tune-in for a fun recap of 2021, and stick around for some exciting news about next year!
Did you know that around 40% of all charitable donations are collected during the last few weeks of the year? And while the Holidays might a popular time for giving back, they're also a popular time for charity scams. Listen in as Nick and Luis explore the thought process of these fraudsters and provide tips to help you ensure that your donations go to an actual cause, and not a scammer's pocket.
In this exciting episode of Brunch with BBB, Nick and Luis are taking the show to a new frontier. For the first time ever, our hosts are at a local restaurant having brunch on the show! Join Nuck and Luis as they venture out to Raleigh's first pay-what-you-can cafe and have an insightful conversation with the Founder and Executive Director of A Place at the Table- Maggie Kane. Tune-in to find out more about A Place at the Table and how Maggie and her team are striving to make a difference in Raleigh through great food and community.
As holiday shopping ramps up this year- so do scams targeting online shoppers. In fact, online shopping scams are the single riskiest scam affecting consumers. Nick and Luis want you to shop safe and shop smart this holiday season, so tune-in for helpful tips on how to avoid online shopping scams.
How to I safely buy cryptocurrency? And what in the world is a NFT? Find out these answers and more in this episode where Nick and Luis provide valuable insights into these online trends, as well as how to avoid scams associated with them.
As Nick and Luis continue their discussions on leadership, they welcome in Amber Smith- Founder and Executive Director of Activate Good to speak on the important link between volunteering and leadership. Tune-in to hear why more and more businesses are getting connected with volunteering opportunities, and how volunteering is an important avenue to inspire change as a leader. Also be sure to come see Amber at the 2021 Better Business Summit on October 20 and 21!
In this episode of Brunch with BBB, Nick and Luis have an insightful conversation with Dr. Holly Sullenger about leadership and negotiating partnerships. Dr. Holly is an award-winning speaker, corporate trainer, and consultant anchored in the Triangle area. She is also a presenter at the 2021 Better Business Summit taking place on the mornings of October 20 & 21.
Register now to hear Dr. Holly and others speak on essential topics for today's leaders: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-better-business-summit-elevating-your-leadership-tickets-164504855451
In Part 2 of our special 2-part Hispanic Heritage Podcast series, hosts Nick and Luis sit down with the founder of Fortify Media, Ellizon Torres, to talk about the significance of Hispanic businesses in the community, as well as the affordances of video.
In Part 1 of our special 2-part Hispanic Heritage Podcast series, our hosts Nick and Luis sit down with BBB of Eastern NC's very own Alyssa Parker to discuss their Hispanic heritages and experiences.
To commemorate National Black Business Month, Nick and Luis sit down with Wade Harris- owner of the Raleigh Firebirds Professional Men's Basketball team. Learn about how Wade and the Firebirds brought professional basketball to the Triangle, and how the Firebirds are involved with so much more than just basketball through their community initiatives.
The Brunch with BBB Podcast returns for a second season with some new surprises! Join Luis as he gives a warm welcome to his new co-host: Nick Hill. This season is going to be packed with amazing guests, insightful tips, and more of the content you love— so stay tuned!
Matt Sutor, of the Carolina Hurricanes, joins the Brunch with BBB podcast to share his passion for social media and how he has helped their team stand out online among the other NHL teams.
Janice Williams, owner of Williams Payment Solutions and Women in Networking, shares top networking tips to help you build meaningful relationships whether in person or virtual! Listen in to learn networking best practices, how to get connected with a networking group, and how to maintain network relationships.
Who wouldn't love getting paid to do everyday tasks like visiting a resturant or going shopping?
In this episode, Elaine Buxton of Confero shares how their business model is often mimicked by scammers, commonly known as mystery shopper scams. Listen in to learn how, as a business owner, you can successfully collect customer feedback and how, as a consumer, you can identify legitimate mystery shopping opportunities.
Are you ready to celebrate the end of quarantine with a summer vacation?! Before booking your dream trip, Luis and Catherine have tips and resources to help you travel safely and avoid risking your time and money to con artists.
Listen in to learn about common scenarious and red flags related to vacation and travel scams!
In this final episode of Small Business Month, Luis and Catherine chat with Neal Isaacs of VR Business Brokers about the benefits of having your business ready to sell at any time.
Are you a new business owner or looking to start your own business?
Holly Yanker of Small Business Advisors, previously known as Business Link NC, shares steps to starting a business, programs and resources available to local business owners, and how to successfully navigate being a business owner during the pandemic.
Did you know downtown Raleigh is 93% locally-owned on the storefront level?
To celebrate Small Business Month, Luis and Catherine chat with Bill King, CEO of the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, to see what the small business community looks like downtown and how it has pivoted during the pandemic.
In this episode, Luis and Catherine share how small businesses have grown during the pandemic and become more vulnerable than ever due to new financial tensions. Listen in to learn the most common scams targeting small businesses and how to guard against them.
Do you know how to communicate with your cleints online? Which platforms to use? Or how often? In this episode, Hank Hoffmeier, senior manager of client solutions at J2 Global, shares the importance of digital marketing and tips to effectively connect with your target audience online.
Did you enjoy this episode? Hank is an upcoming speaker at BBB's 2021 Better Your Business Academy where he will dive deeper into digital marketing and client relations. Program details and application instructions are available here.
The sports industry has has its fair share of challenges during the pandemic, but a local league has grown amidst the adversity. In this episode, Luis and Catherine chat with Santiago Lucio, Director of Corporate Partnerships at North Carolina Football Club (NCFC). Lucio shares what their industry has looked like during the pandemic and how they are gearing up for the 2021 season.
Luis and Catherine celebrate one whole year of the Brunch with BBB podcast by sharing some of their favorite episodes and moments from the past year.
*Be one of the first five people to screenshot this episode and share it on social by tagging @bbbeasternnc to share your topic idea for the chance to win a Brunch with BBB gift bag!*
In this Scam of the Month episode, Luis and Catherine share how to guard against identity thieves attempting to steal your personal information. Listen in to learn how to identify and prevent identity theft, as well as what to do if your identity is stolen.
In this final episode of Women’s History Month, Luis and Catherine interview Better Business Bureau serving Eastern North Carolina’s president and CEO, Mallory Wojciechowski, to share her journey to becoming a woman in leadership at a young age!
In alignment with Women's History Month, Luis and Catherine share the top three scams targeting women in 2020 and 10 tips for guarding against them!
If you think you've been the victim of a scam, you can report it to BBB's Scam Tracker at bbb.org/scamtracker.
10 Tips to guarding against scams:
- Never send money via gift card or wire transfer to someone you have never met face-to-face.
- Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails.
- Don’t believe everything you see.
- Double check your online purchase is secure before checking out.
- Use extreme caution when dealing with anyone you’ve met online.
- Never share personally identifiable information with someone who has contacted you unsolicited, whether it’s over the phone, by email, on social media, even at your front door.
- Resist the pressure to act immediately.
- Use secure and traceable transactions.
- Whenever possible, work with local businesses.
- Be cautious about what you share on social media.
Are you maximizing the benefits of social media to grow your business? In this episode, Luis and Catherine share the facts about social media usage and how you are likely missing out on a large pool of potential clients/customers by not being connected online. They also share tangible tips for establishing and maintaining your social media presence - including content creation, analytics, and crisis communication!
Ready to Elevate Your Social Media? Gain access to session recordings and downloadable resources from BBB of Eastern NC's recent Social Media Semi-Summit by clicking HERE.
In this episode of the Black History Month Series, Luis and Catherine chat with fellow BBB colleagues in Kansas City and Atlanta to unpack the history of African-American owned businesses, the impact they have on the marketplace, and how consumers can support Black-owned businesses year-round.
In this episode of the Black History Month Series, Luis and Catherine chat with a representative of the oldest African American owned bank in North Carolina. James Sillis, CEO of M&F Bank, located in Durham, NC, shares the history of this iconic business and how it has shaped our local marketplace for both business owners and consumers.
Looking for a Valentine? Beware of scammers seeking to steal more than your heart online! In this episode Luis and Catherine share consumer resources to avoid romance scams that attempt to break the bank in addition to your heart.
For additonal information, visit bbb.org.
In this final episode of the Consumer Conscious Series, Luis and Catherine chat with Steve Weathers, President and CEO of the Greenville-ENC Alliance, about the importance of supporting local businesses.
Listen in to find out why North Carolina was ranked the third best region to do business nationwide and how you can contribute to our local economy as both a business owner and consumer.
Did you know only 10% of recyclables actually end up being recycled?
This shows how unreliable our recycling efforts are, and with over 50 billion pounds of plastics dumped into our waterways and ecosystems each year, this is creating a major environmental impact.
In this episode, Luis and Catherine chat with Alan Riggs (CFO), Alex Henson(COO), and Jonathan Aguilar (CEO) from R.A.W. Plastics (Restoring Another Waterway) located in Greenville, NC.
"We’re going to pay for plastic pollution no matter what - so we either pay now with time and money, or we’re going to pay for it later with our health and livelihood."
Listen in to learn how you can be a more conscious consumer when it comes to our local ecosystem, including:
- How to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
- Practical steps you can take daily to make a real difference.
- How consumers and businesses can be more mindful of their waste.
Do you know where your food comes from?
Each day we become less and less connected with our food source, which is dangerous territory. In this epsiode, Luis and Catherine interview Will Kornegay of Ripe Revival Market, a Greenville-based business that specializes in locally sourced fresh food boxes for their customers. They even donate excess food to those in need around them.
Listen in to learn:
- the physical, mental, and economic benefits of knowing where your food comes from,
- tips to identifying and becoming closer to your food source, and
- the impacts COVID has had on the food supply chain.
Interested in learning more about Ripe Revival Market? Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Being a conscious consumer includes being mindful of your mental and physical health, which is what Pantea Dougani of Excel Body Fitness and Stephanie Phillips of The Mindly Group help unpack in this episode. Listen in to learn easy tips for prioritizing your mental and physical health.
THIS IS YOUR YEAR!
Luis and Catherine are challenging their listeners to take the reins and become more intentional in the marketplace this year. That’s why they’re dedicating the next few weeks to a Consumer Conscience Series.
**Do you know where your food/ products come from?
Do you know the impact your choices have on the environment?
When was the last time you purposefully supported a local business?**
Take the reins and become more intentional in the marketplace. Be on the lookout for future episodes in this series, including:
- Owning Your Mental & Physical Health In 2021 (ft. Pantea Dougani + Stephanie Phillips)
- Connecting Consumers To Their Food (ft. Ripe Revival Market)
- Limiting Human Environmental Impacts (ft. R.A.W. Plastics)
- Intentionally Shopping Local (ft. Steve Weathers)
In this final episode of 2020, Luis and Catherine round out their Thankfulf for series by sharing traditions, both old and new, that they’re thankful for. Of course, their favorite new tradition from 2020 is the Brunch with BBB podcast.
Since launching in March 2020, the podcast has grown to include local and international listeners. Enjoy the final weeks of 2020, and be on the lookout for Luis and Catherine to make their return after the new year.
What’s your definition of integrity?
In this episode, Luis and Catherine chat with Charlie Bradley of The Brian Hamilton Foundation and April Bond, a graduate of their Inmates to Entrepreneurs program.
Listen in to find out what integrity means to them, how it has impacted their lives, and influenced the work they’re doing.
In this special Thanksgiving Episode, Luis and Catherine share how they're keep gratitude front and center this season. In a year filled with uncertainty and change, one thing that can make a difference is being thankful.
Listen in as they share how their holidays will look this year, what they're thankful for, and some of their unique traditions - both old and new!
In this episode, Luis and Catherine interview Todd Lesley of Bedford Financial on the topic of generosity to find out why giving back is impactful for the giver just as much, if not more so, as the receiver.
Gen·er·os·i·ty [noun] The quality of being kind and generous, showing a readiness to give more of something, as money or time, than is strictly necessary or expected.
fam·i·ly [fam(ə)lē] noun: all the descendants of a common ancestor; commonly known as life’s greatest blessing - a group of those whom you can always count on in good good times and bad.
In this episode, Luis and Catherine chat with Cara-beth Yancey of Carolina Printing Company, a family owned/run business, about being Thankful for Family this holiday season.
Listen in to find out what it's like to graduate college in the midst of a pandemic and how it may have changed the trajectory of Cara-beth's career to include more family time.
thank·ful [adjective] feeling or expression of gratitude; appreciative
In a year full of unexpected turns, Luis and Catherine reset before the holidays to remember the important things, such as being thankful. Listen in as Luis and Catherine introduce the “Thankful for…” series. They announce some of the special guests who will help explore the topics of family, generosity, integrity, and tradition.
Be on the lookout for additional episodes in this series, being released every Thursday through December 10th.
Thankful for... Series Schedule:*(11/12) Thankful for Family
(11/9) Thankful for Generosity
(11/26) Thanksgiving Special
(12/3) Thankful for Integrity
(12/10) Thankful for Tradition*
Are you wondering what the last few months of 2020 will look like? From elections to holidays and everything in between, it can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Luis and Catherine share resources to help you navigate this season that is bound to be different.
Listen in to learn:
- 3 tips for online shopping this holiday season,
- Best practices for holiday travel during a pandemic, and
- How to avoid scams this election season.
For additional information and resources, visit bbb.org.
Do you struggle to find enough time in the day for work, let alone time for yourself?
In this episode of Brunch with BBB, Luis and Catherine chat with Tiffany Williams, CEO and principal consultant at Organized Energy Coaching & Consulting.
Tune in to learn:
- About the major obstacles currently paralyzing business owners and professionals.
- Practical steps to improve your time management.
- Small, simple ways to integrate self care into your everyday activities.
To learn more about Tiffany, check out her podcast and follow her on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter).
Do you ever think about your mental health? And nd how it might be impacting your relationships, work life, or physical health?
In this episode of Brunch with BBB, Luis and Catherine invite former guest, Stephanie Phillips, to dive into the world of mental health. Stephanie is a licensed and clinical mental health counselor and owner of The Mindly Group.
Tune in to learn:
- The sigmas around mental health, and how the pandemic has shifted them
- Steps for assessing your own mental health
- Tips to deal with the longer-term pandemic, and the impacts it may have on your mental health
To learn more about Stephanie, connect with The Mindly Group on Facebook and Twitter.
In this final episode of the Hispanic Heritage Month Series, Luis and Catherine chat with Rebecca Tippett of Carolina Demography, a unit of the Carolina Population Center.
Listen in to learn about Hispanic population in North Carolina and across the country to gain a better understanding of the trends within this demographic, and how that might impact current and future Hispanic-owned businesses.
This Spark Spotlight features the Executive Director of Emerge Pediatric Therapy and the 2020 BBB Spark Award (provided by Matthews Motors) Winner, Brittni Winslow!
Luis and Catherine chat with Brittni about how she has grown her business, navigated telehealth throughout the pandemic, and continues to provide her clients and their families the support they need during this time. As a business owner and mom of three young children, Brittni also shares the secret to her perserverance and positive attitude!
In this episode of the Hispanic Heritage Series, Luis and Catherine are joined by their BBB colleagues from across the country: Alma Galvan, BBB of Northeast California's Communications & Marketing Manager; Keylen Villagrana, BBB of Greater Denver and Central Colorado's Marketing and Media Coordinator; and Daniel Bright, BBB of Greater Iowa, Quad Cities, and Siouxland Region Operations Specialist.
First, the Director of Operations for Agape Roofing kicks off the episode to share what it's like to be a Hispanic business owner of a BBB Accredited business. Then Catherine moderates a panel discussion with her fellow BBB colleagues on what the Hispanic-owned business communtiy looks like thoughout the country.
To learn more about the other Better Business Bureau's represented on this episode, connect with them on social media: @SacramentoBBB @bbb_iowa and @denverbbb
In this episode of the Hispanic Heritage Month Series, Luis and Catherine tackle the topic of what it's like to be a Hispanic business owner in North Carolina with the help of members from the Mexican Consulate of North Carolina (Consulado de Mexico) and the North Carolina Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
First, you'll hear a first-hand account of what it's like to be a local Hispanic business owner with Victor Sandoval of VS Insurance. Then Patricia Perez, Deputy Consul General (Cónsul Adscrita) for the Mexican Consulate of North Carolina (Consulado de Mexico) shares the resources they provide to the local Mexican and Hispanic communtiy. Later, Suling Waler, Director of the North Carolina Hispanic Chamber of Commerce shares some statistics on the local Hispanic business community and the resources they have available as well.
Be sure to follow BBB of Eastern NC's Spanish Facebook page (BBB del Este de NC - Español) and be on the lookout for Hispanic-owned business spotlights all month long!
To celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), Luis and Catherine will be exploring the Hispanic business community in a four-part series. In this first episode, the two will share the history of Hispanic Heritage Month, the purpose behind this Brunch with BBB series, and what you can expect in future episodes.
This Spark Spotlight features the mother-daughter duo of Gabi's Grounds Coffee Shop, Gabi and Mary Angelini.
Gabi's Grounds ships coffee, sells merchandise, and hosts pop-up events. In addition to being members of the 2020 BBB Spark Class and graduates of the 2020 Better Business Academy, this local duo has even more brewing for the future!
Gabi is excited to employ people like her with special needs, who struggle finding employment elsewhere, and this dream is quickly becoming a reality as they move into a space at The Loading Dock.
Interested in learning more about Gabi's Grounds? Connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and more!
Philip Triplett, State of North Carolina Voluntary Agency Liaison for the NC Department of Public Safety's (NCDPS) Division of Emergency Management, joins us to share everything you need to know about being prepared. Navigating hurricane season in the midst of a pandemic can be challenging, so listen to our conversation with Philip to find out what resources are available to help keep you and your family safe during any emergency situation!
Additional Resources:
NCDPS Social Media Links: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
NCDPS Contact Information: 919-733-2126
Larry Long, motivational speaker and Sales Leader at TeamWorks, joins the Brunch with BBB podcast to share how the TeamWorks technology empowers college and professional athletes to perfect their talent by eliminating the stress of communication and schedules. In a year that can feel defeating at times, Larry offers advice for making the most of the pandemic, starting with professional development.
In a year where working remotely is not just attractive, but required, the pandemic is making business especially hard for co-working spaces. In this episode, Michael Hobgood joins to share how he created Nest Raleigh, or "The Nest" as locals call it, to stand out among traditional co-working spaces. Unique from it's inception, Nest Raleigh continues to stand apart in their response to the pandemic. Listen in to learn more about the phenomenon of co-working spaces: how the trend began, what it looks like during COVID, and what the future of co-working may look like.
Jonathan Williamson, general manager of The Islander Inn located on Ocean Isle Beach, shares what the hospitality industry has been like the past few months. As if hurricanes weren't enough of a threat to those who rely on the hospitality and tourism industry along the coast of North Carolina, this year businesses have been hit especially hard by the coronavirus pandemic.
Jonathan shares his long-time ties to the sandy soil of Ocean Isle Beach and how he has navigated the Islander Inn through this difficult summer season.
To learn more about The Islander Inn, visit their website: www.islanderinn.com or follow them on Facebook and Twitter (@TheIslanderInn).
BBB has teamed up with Indeed to offer companies a free $200 credit for sponsored job postings! Learn more at indeed.com/partner/bbb
Mike Vaggalis, founder of Keepsake Tales and a 2020 BBB Spark Class Member, joins us to share how his business is bringing diversity to children's literature... one personalized book at a time.
Ever wonder what it would be like to star in your own book? Equipped with a unique business model, unlike traditional publishing companies, Keepsake Tales creates personalized children's books designed so that every child will understand that they matter.
Listen in to our conversation with Mike as he shares the importance of diverse literature, how Keepsake Tales works, and the upcoming release of their newest book!
Interested in learning more about Keepsake Tales?Check out their website, www.mykeepsaketales.com, and follow them on Facebook (@KeepsakeTalesUSA).
Just like everyone else around the world, Luis and Catherine have navigated working from home and discovering innovative ways to pass the quaran-time. In addition to quarantine tips, they'll share their personal consumer stories including car shopping and vacationing during COVID-19!
So grab a cup of coffee, sit back and relax as they share a taste of their lives...
Joe Mecca, VP of Communications for Coastal Credit Union, joins us to talk about COVID-related scams putting consumers personal information at risk. We also cover tips for keeping your personal information - from documents to social media - safe and out of scammers hands.
10 tactics scammers use to trick victims article.
BBB SCAMBUSTERS®, a game designed to help players of all ages identify and avoid scams to which they will likely be exposed.
Cole Watts, the Digital Lead at GFL, joins us to share how the business began as a local company, Waste Industries, and has now grown to a large corporation. Cole shares an inside look at the waste industry, including stats on consumer waste and how to effectively recycle.
In this Small Business Spotlight, Leslie Manning, Owner and Broker in Charge of TriCap Properties & TriCap Property Management, joins us to share a little bit about what makes their business unique. She also shares how their business has adapted during COVID-19 to meet the needs of tenants and leasing agents during these difficult times.
Jerry Jackson, chief meteorologist at WNCT, joins us to discuss how this year's hurricane season could be different. With having hurricane-like storms before the season began and still learning to navigate the new norm of COVID-19, this year is bound to be unique. Listen in for tips on keeping you and/or your business safe this year!
This Small Business Spotlight features Tara Powell from Carolina Yard Barns. Tara shares what it's like to run a family-owned business that specializes in customized barns for your yard. Listen in to hear about their unique business and learn how you can support them!
Michael Walden, a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University, joins us on this episode to discuss how COVID-19 is impacting current and graduating students, the agriculture industry, and the overall economy in North Carolina.
Dr. Sandy Stewart, Assistant Commissioner of Agriculture Services for the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, joins us to share how the recent COVID-19 pandemic has impacted North Carolina's agriculture industry, including food supply/ demand. He also squashes concern over murder hornets coming to our area and the impact of cicadas surfacing in our state.
This Small Business Spotlight features Megan Anderson, of Anderson Painting, who joins us to share what it's like to run a family-owned business that employs refugees. Listen in to learn how they've established trust with their consumers, making it possible to continue supporting the community and keep their workers employed throughout COVID-19!
This Small Business Spotlight features Carolyn Byrd, owner of Cary Integrative Health, who shares what it's like to be a small business owner, how COVID-19 has impacted her business, and to provide tips for coping with our "new normal."
As businesses begin to reopen, cleaning is top of mind for consumers and business owners. Sean Hassan, of Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems of Raleigh, joins us to share best cleaning practices during COVID-19 (for home and the workplace) and provides tips for consumers to identify whether a business has been properly cleaned.
In honor of Small Business Month, we're sharing the stories of local small businesses and ways consumers can support them during COVID-19. This Small Business Spotlight features Mariel Lee, owner of Purple Ivy Solutions.
President and CEO of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association, Lynn Minges, joins us to discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on the industry and share information business owners and consumers need to know as the state begins the reopening process.
In this bonus episode, Luis and Catherine talk with two small business owners from the local community. They'll find out what makes their business unique, how COVID-19 has impacted them over the past few weeks, and find out how consumers can support them during these difficult times.
This episode features Natasha Ford, of Fords Fluent N’ Food Catering & Chandelier Event Venue, and Dave Clough, of Your Hospitality Resource Group.
North Carolina Attorney General, Josh Stein, joins us to share information residents need to know as the state begins to reopen from COVID-19 and provide advice for supporting the local economy at a safe distance.
In this BONUS episode of the Brunch with BBB podcast, Luis and Catherine discuss current COVID-19 scams and resources BBB has available to help both businesses and consumers.
For additional information on topics covered in this episode, check out the links below!
- BBBshoplocal.org - A state-wide website that informs consumers on how they can still purchase products, goods, and/or services from Accredited Businesses in a safe manner throughout COVID-19.
- BBB Business Builders Webinar - Regularly scheduled webinar series that provides pertinent information on topics such as the SBA loans, CARES Act funds, crisis communications, and proper cleaning methods. All upcoming webinars and recordings can be found at bbbevents.org.
Dave Fussell, President of Duplin Wine Cellars, joins us to share what it's like to be part of a family-owned business and how Duplin Winery is giving back to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Curious what wine has to do with hand sanitizer? Take a listen to find out!
Maria Satira, morning anchor at WCNT 9, joins us to weigh in on the trends she’s seeing as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. With Maria's perspective, we discuss the impact of COVID-19 on small businesses, the housing sector, and the Humane Society of Eastern Carolina.
For additional resources on how you can support the local economy during this time, visit bbbshoplocal.org.
Pantea Dougani, co-owner of Excel Body Fitness, joins us to discuss the important role physical fitness plays in our mental health, especially while sheltering in place. Pantea discusses how they've pivoted their business to be accessible during the COVID-19 pandemic and provides some tips for staying motivated while working from home!
For more information on Excel Body Fitness, visit https://excelbodyfitness.com/ or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Visit their YouTube channel for current workout videos!
Stephanie Phillips, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP, owner of The Mindly Group, joins us to discuss tips for navigating the new norm of social distancing - including how to successfully work from home, manage relationships, and keep up your mental health.
For additional information on The Mindly Group, visit themindlygroup.com or follow them on Facebook: The Mindly Group, PLLC.
Get to know co-hosts Luis and Catherine, and find out what you can expect in future episodes of the Brunch with BBB podcast.