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Becoming Floridian - Podcast

This show is dedicated to help those moving to Florida. Hearing from others who made the journey and advice from those who call Florida home. Hear insider tips on how to assimilate into the Florida Culture and welcoming the rich diversity of people that make up this State.
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Becoming Floridian - Podcast
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Now displaying: June, 2016
Jun 27, 2016

Leah Forhnerath is a Director and Trainer for Horses for the Handicap located in Seminole FL. This is a recreational riding program for those with many types of handicaps and It’s offered free of charge. Horses for Handicapped was founded by the late Gene Harris in 1981 as a Kiwanis project when he approached Girl Scout/4-H leader Mary Urquhart with his idea. Mary who is 83, is found daily at the stables doing any work that is necessary. I asked Leah why there is no charge to the riders, she stated “Mary feels that the family with handicapped children have enough financial burden to deal with and wanted to offer this for free.”

The horses come from many different resources, from rescue facilities, donated from former owners and some are leased to the foundation. All these horses are well treated and properly cared for. The health and wellbeing for each of them is a top concern for Leah and her staff. “The horses have the right temperament” states Leah. “We take special care in matching each rider with the right horse for their particular need.” Leah, related a story about her sister who has seizures and the horse she rides can sense an episode before it happens.

One main sponsor of the foundation is Kiwanis of Seminole FL, but like all nonprofits they do solicit funds from others. If you have a need for this type of service or if you would like to get involved either by donating funds or time, please contact Leah, I know you’ll be glad you did.

Mentioned in this episode:

  1. Horses for Handicap
  2. Seminole FL
  3. Kiwanis of Seminole
  4. John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
Jun 9, 2016

Episode 7 we talk with Troy Hayes about the importance of Branding in today’s e-commerce. Troy has over thirty years of experience in marketing and branding and has influenced many of you with his advertisements.  You drank Bud Light because “Spuds Mackenzie” and ate Wheaties because Michael Jordan said “You Better Eat Your Wheaties” and cruised on Carnival because it became the “Fun Ship.” Troy was the creator of these iconic slogans and has helped many companies launch their new product or service.

Troy defines Branding as “A relationship between the product and the consumer” and further defines Branding in three steps; who are you, what do you do and why should I care? Troy also states “make sure you know why you are better than the competition.”  If you are having difficulty defining this, Troy can help you figure out what makes you better.  

I asked Troy who should call him? “Anyone who has a tough marketing issue.” states Troy. So if your company is small, mid-size or a larger company launching a new product or service, call Troy Hayes and his company to put you on the right path. Who knows, you could be the next Spuds!

Troy’s tip for those who live here or moving here is this. Explore the history of Florida, “get off the main drag and hit the back roads” says Troy.  Florida is steeped in history and many of these sites are fading fast.

Mentioned in this Episode:

 

Jun 3, 2016

Mike, a native Floridian, grew up in Ybor City, where his Grandfather worked as a Master Cigar Roller. Then he worked in Alaska for a couple of years before moving back to Florida settling down in Pinellas County. Mike loves the “kickback” lifestyle that’s associated with Florida. “It’s the only place you can go to work in a casual shirt and flip-flops and that’s considered normal” Mike says. He recently made a trip to Cuba where his wife was born. “It’s like stepping back in time” stated Mike, “It’s a wonderful place full of rich culture.” 

In lending for over 31 years he has seen many changes in the mortgage industry. Most recent is the new TRID regulations to help disclose fees to the borrower. “It has added about two weeks to all closings” stated Mike “But it’s not all bad.” Lending in Florida is much different than most states and Florida has different lending practices depending if you’re in the North, Central or Southern region. Mike is very knowledgeable about all aspects of Mortgage Financing from the simplest straight forward loan to the very complex, multiple income stream borrower. 

Tip from Mike for Becoming Floridian is “Become an Explorer.” “Florida has a lot to do down here, don’t limit your experience just to Orlando and Disney because there’s many more sights to see and enjoy.” 

If you need a lender in Florida, Mike Alea with FBC Mortgage is someone you need to contact. He can provide Pre-Approval Letters within 24 hours and the process is now online so no need to take time away from your vacation or make an extra trip down here, but now that I think about itthat’s not such a bad idea after all. 

Mentioned in this Episode: 

  1. FBC Mortgage 
  2. Ybor City 
  3. T.R.I.D. 
  4. Longboat Key
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