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Business
Dave Smith and Matt Snyder
Launching and growing a new business comes with its share of unpredictable challenges — but it doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. Get ready to ride the wave of entrepreneurship with the On The Cusp Podcast! We're here to educate Northwest Louisiana by shining a spotlight on the voices and untold stories of our vibrant community. From passionate activists to innovative entrepreneurs and dedicated small business owners, our podcast dives deep into the heart of NWLA. Tune in to discover the inspiration, challenges, and triumphs that define our local trailblazers. With On The Cusp, you're always just one episode away from the next big idea!
Season 8, Episode 10: Justin Sevier with Vintage Homes
Justin Sevier from Vintage Homes recently joined Matt and Dave, the hosts of "On The Cusp," to discuss the booming building industry in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. Justin’s team plays a key role in developing several large new neighborhoods and commercial projects that are shaping the future of Shreveport’s community. In this engaging conversation, Justin shares insights into the current housing market and how it remains affordable compared to larger cities across the United States. Tune in to hear more about the economic development driving growth in the region and how Shreveport is becoming an increasingly attractive place to live and work.
21:0720/11/2024
Season 8, Episode 9: Kalli Combs with Social Pal Kal
On The Cusp is back this week with social media strategist Kalli Combs, owner of Social Pal Kal! Kalli sat down with your hosts, Matt and Dave, to share how she caught the "entrepreneurial bug" that inspired her to build her personal brand. She opens up about her journey and how she now helps businesses leverage social media through effective strategies. In this episode, Kalli offers valuable tips and tricks for developing your brand voice, especially at the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your online presence, Kalli’s insights will help you take your social media game to the next level. Tune in now!
19:1513/11/2024
Season 8, Episode 8: Bart Alexander with Chem-Air
In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Bart Alexander from Chem-Air, a local helicopter business specializing in aerial application services. Operating across the nation, Bart explains why his company has chosen to keep its headquarters firmly planted in North Louisiana. Bart shares his perspective on the importance of developing strong ties to the community, fostering a positive work environment, and building both local culture and jobs simultaneously. Don't miss this discussion on how Chem-Air is staying true to its roots while flying high in the world of aerial application. Tune in now.
23:0306/11/2024
Season 8, Episode 7: DJ Roman & Keith Haley with Sweet Caroline's
Join us as DJ Roman and Keith Haley, the dynamic duo behind Bossier City’s latest entertainment hotspot, Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar, visit On The Cusps hosts, Matt and Dave. In this episode, DJ and Keith share the inspiration behind their exciting business venture, how they found their talented performers, and their plans for the future. Tune in now to catch the full conversation!
16:3130/10/2024
Season 8, Episode 6: Curtis Elkins with Pyromania Fireworks
In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Curtis Elkins, the owner of Pyromania Fireworks. What began as a small firework stand in North Bossier has blossomed into a powerhouse of pyrotechnics, with Curtis orchestrating everything from intimate wedding displays to some of the largest firework shows in the nation. Curtis shares his journey, detailing the challenges he faced in the industry and how he overcame them, while building a skilled team of local pyrotechnical specialists in North Louisiana. Join us for an enlightening conversation about creativity, community, and the magic of fireworks. Tune in now!
21:2823/10/2024
Season 8, Episode 5: Lauren Jones with Shreveport Green
Lauren Jones from Shreveport’s own environmental non-profit, Shreveport Green, recently stopped by to chat with your On The Cusp’s hosts, Matt and Dave. In this enlightening discussion, Lauren highlights the transformative changes and benefits that Shreveport Green brings to the community—far beyond just farming and landscaping. She emphasizes that the ultimate goal of Shreveport Green is to foster a deeper connection with our environment, reminding us that we are important to the ecosystem and that by caring for it, we ultimately care for ourselves. Don’t miss this insightful conversation—tune in now!
18:5316/10/2024
Season 8, Episode 4: Billy Weatherall with Christ Fit Gym
Join hosts Dave and Matt on On The Cusp as they sit down with Billy Weatherall, the visionary behind Bossier's first free Christian gym. In this episode, Billy shares the inspiring story of his entrepreneurial journey, starting with Christ Fit Resale Thrift Store and expanding to include Christ Fit Gym, Strongmen Movers, and Christ Fit Recycling. Billy emphasizes the vital role of community in driving growth in North Louisiana, highlighting that giving goes beyond monetary donations. He believes that contributions come in many forms, from donations to acts of community service, all of which can create meaningful change. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear how Billy and his initiatives are making a difference. Tune in now!
13:5609/10/2024
Season 8, Episode 3: Kyle and Laura Baudoin with M. and L.E. & Chalk
In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave welcomed Shreveport's high fashion boutique owners, Kyle and Lauren Baudoin. The duo shared insights into their stores, M. and L.E. & Chalk, discussing the importance of authenticity in marketing—whether through billboards or social media. Join us to hear the inspiring stories behind the creation of both boutiques and how they’ve carved out a unique space in both the men’s and women’s fashion scenes in North Louisiana.
20:3502/10/2024
Season 8, Episode 2: Justin Wilkinson with Multipack
In this week’s episode of On The Cusp, your hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Shreveport’s newest resident and manufacturing expert, Justin Wilkinson. As the Vice President of Operations for Multipack, a leading beverage manufacturing, packaging, and distribution company, Justin shares insights on his vision for the industry and the exciting impact he’s making in Northwest Louisiana. With plans to bring over 150 jobs to the area, Justin discusses the importance of community engagement and innovation in manufacturing. Don’t miss this conversation about growth, opportunity, and the future of local industry!
16:3825/09/2024
Season 8, Episode 1: Chef Blake Jackson with Mae & Co. and Heron
On the Cusp hosts Matt and Dave are back with previous podcast guest, Chef Blake Jackson, to kick off Season 8. Chef Blake Jackson's new ventures, Mae & Co and Heron, will set the stage for some exciting dining experiences in Shreveport. Tune in now to hear all about how Blake is channeling his creativity and expertise into these two projects, and how they might bring something unique to the local food scene.
14:5718/09/2024
Season 7, Episode 11: Harrison Lilly with The Harrison Lilly Team
On the Cusp’s last guest of season 7 is Harrison Lilly, Bastrop native, real estate agent, and the owner of The Harrison Lilly Team. Harrison talks with Matt and Dave about how putting in the hours and surrounding yourself with the right people can have a positive impact in any company. Tune in now to hear from one of the top real estate agents in Louisiana.
24:2821/08/2024
Season 7, Episode 10: Landon Durr with High Tide Rise
Landon Durr, social media content creator and owner of High Tide Rise, spoke with On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave about her start in the social media world. Let’s take a peek behind the scenes with Landon as she discusses what it takes for her and her team to ensure they generate the best content for her clientele to grow their businesses. Tune in now!
16:4814/08/2024
Season 7, Episode 9: Ricky Murov with Mattress Plus
In this week’s episode of On The Cusp, hosts Dave and Matt sit down with Ricky Murov, owner of Mattress Plus, a family-owned furniture store in Shreveport. Ricky talks about the changes he’s made to continue to see growth both locally and regionally. Tune in now!
21:0707/08/2024
Season 7, Episode 8: Myron Griffing with Space:Interiors
Have you ever wondered if you are in the right job or possibly too old to be an entrepreneur? Myron Griffing, owner of Space: Interiors, sits down with On The Cusp’s hosts Dave and Matt in this week’s episode to address those same concerns he faced 12 years ago. Listen in as Myron discusses how his previous employments led him to take a chance on himself, which ultimately led to him being a nationally known interior designer.
19:2331/07/2024
Season 7, Episode 7: Joey Guin with Joseph Guin Barbershop
When Joey, owner of Joseph Guin Barber, took a chance on an old building in downtown Shreveport, he had no idea the positive effect it would have for the community. Joey recaps the challenges, risks, and support he received when starting his barbershop in downtown Shreveport. Tune in now to hear about his entrepreneurial journey.
18:5124/07/2024
Season 7, Episode 6: Sara Balch & Amy England with Peach Therapies
New business owners, Sara Balch and Amy England, sit down with On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave to share how they started Peach Therapies. Sara and Amy hope to make things easier for kids and parents by bringing a new type of direct access for both physical and speech therapy to Shreveport. Tune in today to hear how Peach Therapies is breaking barriers!
15:2017/07/2024
Season 7, Episode 5: Dany Martin with Williams Financial Advisors
Dany Martin, partner at Williams Financial Advisors (WFA), shares his story on this week’s episode of On The Cusp. Hosts Matt and Dave learn about Dany’s passion to help people strive for both financial and personal health, whether it’s a local high school student in Junior Achievement or a safety in the NFL. Tune in now!
24:3610/07/2024
Season 7, Episode 4: David McCandless with McCandless Consulting LLC
Wishing you could take your side-hustle and make it your full-time job? David McCandless made this dream a reality in 2023 when he started McCandless Consulting LLC. David talks with Dave and Matt about how the use of data, forecasting, and automation tools can help drive and transform a business. Tune in now.
22:5126/06/2024
Season 7, Episode 3: Caleb Etheridge Pipeline & Conduit (EPC)
West Monroe native, Caleb Etheridge, sat down with Dave and Matt for this week’s On the Cusp episode to talk about the company he started with his brother, Etheridge Pipeline & Conduit. Listen in as the guys chat about taking the leap to start a business and training programs EPC helped develop to educate North Louisiana’s workforce in the pipeline industry.
22:4119/06/2024
Season 7, Episode 2: Matt Dickerson with Mid South Extrusion
This episode of On The Cusp takes us east on I-20 to Monroe, Louisiana. Tune in as hosts Matt and Dave speak with Matt Dickerson, Business Development & Strategy Officer of Mid South Extrusion. Get ready to take a deep dive into how Matt and his team hope to develop and grow the workforce in North Louisiana.
18:4112/06/2024
Season 7, Episode 1: Julie Gilley Milam - What We've Learned
What better way to kick off Season 7 of On The Cusp than with the return of Season 1 guest, Julie Gilley Milam. Join Matt, Dave, and Julie on a trip down memory lane as they discuss the lessons they’ve learned from 6 seasons of entrepreneurs and small business owners who are making an impact in our community.
16:5306/06/2024
Season 6, Episode 10: Bob Thames with Single Source Business Solutions
C.E. Byrd High School graduate, Bob Thames, saw an opportunity to mix the fields of accounting and customer service in Shreveport, Louisiana. He co-created @Single Source Business Solutions in 2022. Bob is the hospitality frontman who creates strong customer relationships while his partner concentrates on bookkeeping. Tune in to hear some intriguing stories that lead Bob on his entrepreneurial journey.
22:0415/05/2024
Season 6, Episode 9: Quentin Durr with Louisiana Catalyst
Quentin Durr, founder of Louisiana Catalyst, joins us for this week’s episode of On the Cusp. Quentin founded Louisiana Catalyst in 2019 to support local entrepreneurs by providing access to workspaces, resources, and mentorship. You might even say Dave Smith is his role model. Tune in to hear how Quentin is making an impact in Monroe, Louisiana.
16:0908/05/2024
Season 6, Episode 8: Randolph Smith with Pinnacle Realty Advisors
Ever wondered if a realtor could find success as an independent contractor? Randolph Smith co-created Pinnacle Realty Advisors for this specific purpose. The long-time Shreveport native is president of a cloud-based real estate brokerage company that offers a "Brokerage-as-a-Service" model for agents. Listen in now to hear about his entrepreneurial start!
24:2501/05/2024
Season 6, Episode 7: Jarrett Lofton with Legal Weapon, LLC
We’re talking to Jarrett Lofton in this episode of On the Cusp. Jarrett is a Shreveport native and the founder of Legal Weapon, LLC. After law school, Jarrett found his niche offering legal consulting for entrepreneurial startups. Tune in!
23:1624/04/2024
Season 6, Episode 6: Ryan Williams with Seedlinks Behavior Management
Meet Ryan Williams, CEO of Seedlinks Behavior Management. Ryan serves the community by helping families access recovery support and mental health care. Listen in to hear how Ryan is making a difference in North Louisiana.
24:1117/04/2024
Season 6, Episode 5: Brandon Wakefield with Precision Waste Solutions
What a "waste" it would be to miss this episode of On The Cusp! Brandon Wakefield, owner of Precision Waste Solutions, educates hosts Dave and Matt about his nationwide waste management company. Tune in to learn more about how Brandon and his company developed innovative recycling programs right here in Shreveport, Louisiana.
25:1010/04/2024
Season 6, Episode 4: Tom Arceneaux
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux and our hosts have an in-depth discussion about the bond issue which will be on the April 27, 2024, ballot. Listen in to get your questions answered about upcoming infrastructure projects proposed in Shreveport.
23:2503/04/2024
Season 6, Episode 3: Ben Whalen with Clean Slate Botanical
Why not Shreveport? Clean Slate Botanical’s owner Ben Whalen discusses the benefits of opening a business in Shreveport during this week’s episode of On the Cusp. Listen in to find out more about Ben’s entrepreneurial journey and why he pivoted his business model after the pandemic.
17:3327/03/2024
Season 6, Episode 2: Dave Bushnell with Sound Minds
Dave Bushnell with Sound Minds stopped by the studio to discuss his audio and video systems business with On The Cusp’s co-hosts Dave and Matt. Bushnell has been in business in Shreveport, Louisiana for over 20 years. He has grown Sound Minds into one the largest audio/video companies in the Ark-La-Tex. Tune In!
15:1320/03/2024
Season 6, Episode 1: Sara McDaniel with Simply Southern Cottage
On the Cusp is kicking off season 6 with the “social media goddess” from Minden, Louisiana, Sara McDaniel. Sara is the founder of Simply Southern Cottage and has made a name for herself in the world of social media interior decorating. Listen to the episode to hear about Sara’s journey through renovations, real estate, and social media stardom.
17:0913/03/2024
Season 5, Episode 10: Don Rucker with Outerlink Global Solution
Our last episode of Season 5 of On The Cusp features Don Rucker with Outerlink Global Solution. Don joined Metro Aviation as the Director of Metro's Technical Service Group in 2016. In this role, Don oversees some of the most technologically advanced safety initiatives in aviation, including Outerlink Global Solution's IRIS System, the MetroAlert smartphone app and more.
15:5422/02/2024
Season 5, Episode 9: Megan Chavez with Prepped Up Meals
This episode of On the Cusp features Megan Chavez with Prepped Up Meals. Prepped Up Meals is a meal prep business located in Shreveport, Louisiana. Listen to Megan explain how convenient doesn’t have to mean unhealthy.
25:0414/02/2024
Season 5, Episode 8: Ashley Rockett with Sheer Technology
This episode of On The Cusp features Ashley Rockett, the CEO and Executive Consultant of Sheer Technology. As an established leader in the IT industry, Ashley Glassell Rockett brings the concept of Information Technology Consulting to her hometown of Shreveport, LA by launching Sheer Technology, LLC. Ashley has served in both IT and Accounting capacities for start-up companies and Big 4 Public Accounting offices in both Washington, DC, and Dallas, TX.Ashley has coupled her experience as an award-winning IT professional with her CFO experience to grow the IT Consulting concept and profession in Northwest Louisiana. She holds the Excel Communications Circle of Stars Award, given only to 1% of its worldwide associates. Ashley has been an integral part of teams streamlining Fortune 500 companies’ sales and internal documenting and has served as a partner in a start-up IT Consulting firm generating nearly $10 million in sales in a Top 5 community. Ashley is accredited by the Project Management Institute and has worked in the financial services, retail, real estate, and telecommunications industries.
18:3508/02/2024
Season 5, Episode 7: Newt Dorsett
Today's guest is owner of the Remington Suite Hotel, Newton Dorsett. Dorsett draws upon more than 35 years of leadership experience while managing and transforming the Shreveport, Louisiana-based hotel into a premier destination. Moreover, he regularly provides event space at the Remington for local nonprofits to use.Prior to purchasing the Remington in 2006, Mr. Dorsett was heavily involved in oil and gas business pursuits. He founded Diamond Drilling, Trinity Disposal and Trucking, and Trinity Service Company, the latter of which completed oil field construction projects and performed workovers on oil and gas wells. He is also the former president of Loutex Production Company, which developed and operated wells in Northwest Louisiana and East Texas. Furthermore, he served as president of Marshall Properties, through which he owned more than 100 commercial and residential properties.
18:0701/02/2024
Season 5, Episode 6: Jennifer LaPierre
Our special guest this week is Jennifer Skinner LaPierre, owner of RUSHGreek boutique, and Cayenne Marketing.Tune in!
18:2831/01/2024
Season 5, Episode 6: Jennifer LaPierre with RUSH
This week's guest is Jennifer Skinner LaPierre - the owner of RUSH Greek Boutique Cayenne Marketing.Tune In!
18:2825/01/2024
Season 5, Episode 5: Marci Rossell
EAP’s On the Cusp hosts interview BRF’s 2024 Annual Event speaker Dr. Marci Rossell. Dr. Rossell is a world renowned economic and financial expert, and former CNBC Chief Economist and host of morning news talk show Squawk Box.
11:1317/01/2024
Season 5 Episode 4; Brent Latin
Brent Latin joins us on this week's episode of On The Cusp.Tune in!
16:5503/01/2024
Season 5 Ep 3 - Erica Gilliam: From Health & Wellness to Sugar
'Tis the season for SUGAR! Our guest today knows a lot about the sweet and sticky goodness - Owner and Operator of Shreveport's Streetcar Snoballs, Erica Gilliam walks us through the secret behind a perfect Snoball, how she has grown her business from a trailer to a storefront, and the advice she'd give to all aspiring entrepreneurs.Tune in!
16:4322/12/2023
The Art Of What's Possible
With the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl taking place in Shreveport this weekend, there's no better guest to have on this week than Bill Bailey, CEO of Radiance Technologies.Bailey's journey from young airman at Barksdale Air Force Base to chief executive officer of a $200 million company is one you'll want to tune in for!
16:0314/12/2023
The Right Destination
Is Shreveport really that great of a place to live? From cost of living, and lifestyle, to our food scene and activities, there's so much more to Northwest Louisiana than meets the eye, and today's guest will tell us why.Meet Lisa Hargrove, a realtor in and from Northwest Louisiana with over 40 years of experience. We dive into the real estate market, who is moving here and why, and if people are really leaving as quickly as they come (spoiler alert, they aren't)!Tune in!
17:5706/12/2023
The Edge
Trent Wierick of Edge Physical Therapy graduated from LSU Health Science Center-Shreveport with a Masters degree in Physical Therapy in 2005 and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2008. He began his physical therapy career as an out-patient physical therapist at LSU Health Science Center-Shreveport (now Oschner Health) and practiced in hospital-based as well as private clinics. Trent then joined his classmate, Anna Moore, at the Edge Physical Therapy in 2013.Tune in!
17:1815/11/2023
Keep Taking Risks
From slinging oysters to stirring up cocktails, Chase Boytim is a Shreveport OG when it comes to entrepreneurship. Boytim has spent years working with other visionaries in the city to create events and experiences to attract the public, other businesses, and investors into parts of downtown Shreveport that wouldn't normally see much foot traffic - bringing life to the area.Tune in!
18:4215/11/2023
Peace to the World
We're kicking off Veteran's Day week with a 30-year Air Force Veteran who, in his last active duty military job, served as the Director of Strategic Plans, Programs and Requirements at Air Force Global Strike Command located at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana.Meet Gerald Goodfellow, a retired United States Air Force brigadier general, and the current CEO and Founder of the Small Business Consulting Corporation (SBCC), Through Strategic Partnerships with the US Air Force, he helps the Air Force find and connect with innovative companies to help transition their best technologies for the nation’s most critical defense missions.Fun fact about Goodfellow: He holds the World-Record for the “Fastest Non-stop Flight Around-the-World,” which he flew in a B-1 Bomber. For this World-Record flight, he was awarded the Air Force’s top aerial achievement award, the Mackay Trophy, which is on permanent display at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C., for the “Most Meritorious Aerial Flight of the Year.”Tune in!
21:1106/11/2023
It's About The People
Meet Dr. John George, this week's podcast guest and president and CEO of BRF (for Building our Region’s Future), an innovative economic development organization establishing North Louisiana as a preferred destination for high-growth businesses through its programs and initiatives.With a diverse background in geology, medicine, and business, Dr. George possesses a unique combination of business development, investment management, and clinical management expertise.Tune in!
19:1419/10/2023
Just Go and Do
Chef, Creator, Hospitality & Culinary Consultant - Meet Blake Jackson. You may know him as pastry chef behind Whisk Desserts, or as a culinary expert behind Drake Catering. Matt & Dave are sitting down and chatting with Blake about the culinary scene in North Louisiana, and the importance of relevance in the community directly results in your relevance in the food scene.Tune in!
16:0011/10/2023
Do You Know Who's On Your Roof?
In early 2017, Billy Hargrove and his sister, Mae Hargrove O’Brien had a vision to start their own roofing & construction company. After being employed in the different industries of Architecture + Construction + Academia for numerous years, the siblings knew if they could join forces, they could create something needed and genuine for clients all over. Matt and Dave sit down and chat with Billy about how Hargrove is changing the reputation of the roofing industry, their quick expansion, and what's next for the family-owned business. Tune in!
18:0804/10/2023
Call Pat Booras
Meet Pat Booras, a local entertainment maverick, as well as the owner of the Shreveport Mavericks. We're diving into the details behind the Shreveport Mavericks, how he got his start in Shreveport, and what he believes the keys to success are.Tune in!
23:0628/09/2023
Keep Swingin'
Meet Curbtek: A Shreveport Business revolutionizing vehicle maintenance services. Shreveport native, Dalton Dean has created a better way to take care of general maintenance needs of your vehicle. However, he's not new to the entrepreneurial scene. Dean sits down and chats about his successes and failures and why he believes that no matter how big the sting of failure is, you've got to keep swingin'.Tune in!
17:2220/09/2023