In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Debbie Magyar, Regional Director of the SBDC at the University of North Florida, to discuss the launch of the AI Small Business Institute. Designed to help entrepreneurs cut through the noise around artificial intelligence, the institute provides a structured, hands-on approach to understanding and implementing AI in real-world business settings. Debbie shares how the program was created in response to growing demand and confusion around AI, and why a cohort-based model offers a more effective path than traditional one-on-one consulting.

The conversation explores how the institute is tailored for both startups and established businesses, addressing their unique challenges from building a tech stack from scratch to organizing years of existing data. Debbie emphasizes that the program is intentionally built for non-technical business owners, focusing on practical applications, ethical use, and helping participants determine whether AI is truly the right solution for their business needs. The episode also highlights a new AI-powered digital marketing clinic designed to simplify branding and content creation for small businesses.

In this forward-looking episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred interviews Ahmed Tawfik, CEO of EZ Automation Systems, to explore how robotics and AI are transforming the manufacturing landscape in Florida. Ahmed Tawfik shares his personal journey from engineer to entrepreneur and explains how his company goes beyond quality control creating smart feedback loops that help manufacturers improve their processes, reduce scrap, and boost efficiency. He also discusses the rapid growth of Florida’s manufacturing sector and the need to educate small businesses on automation’s potential. Wrapping up, Ahmed Tawfik offers key advice for business owners: don’t just work in your business—work on it.

This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: EZ Automation Systems

In this enlightening episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred speaks with Matthew Andress, founder of Mockingbird Public Adjusting, about a lesser-known but critical service for business owners: public adjusting. Matthew shares his unique journey from art and IT to entrepreneurship, eventually launching his own firm to advocate for policyholders navigating complex insurance claims after disasters. He explains how a public adjuster helps take the burden off homeowners and business owners during the stressful post-disaster recovery process by translating insurance policies, documenting damage, and negotiating fair settlements. The conversation is a must-listen for any entrepreneur seeking to better understand their insurance coverage, avoid costly mistakes, and prepare for the unexpected.

This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: Mockingbird Public Adjusting