This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition

PODCAST · business

This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition

This Week in Jacksonville Business Edition is a weekly digital series with News4JAX anchor Kent Justice who talks with the experts about business, economic development, jobs, technology and more.

  1. 116

    Former Jags linebacker helps athletes translate sports skills into business moves

    Kent Justice talks with former Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Akin Ayodele, now Gallagher’s market leader for North Texas, about the Gallagher Partnership Internship Program with the Jaguars—designed to help pro athletes translate what they’ve built in sports (resilience, preparation, competition, leadership) into post-playing careers, especially in consultative sales and risk management. Ayodele explains how the program works (typically in the offseason), what interns experience day-to-day inside Gallagher, and why he believes employers should value an athlete’s mindset even if the résumé doesn’t look “traditional.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  2. 115

    Riverfront project key in $2.5B downtown developments

    In this episode, Colin Tarbert, the new CEO of Jacksonville’s Downtown Investment Authority (DIA), outlines the agency’s dual role as both a community redevelopment agency and the city’s economic development arm for downtown, using tax increment financing to drive growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  3. 114

    What’s there to know about B2B tech companies, AI advancements

    Clayton Pritchard, a Jacksonville-based product marketer with experience at Meta, LinkedIn and Twitter, joins This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition to explain his acquisition of a B2B product marketing agency (Olivine) and why he’s choosing to run it remote-first from Jacksonville Beach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  4. 113

    How social media and email drive small business success in 2026

    Small businesses are spending more on marketing in 2026, even with inflation worries—but many owners still aren’t confident they’re putting those dollars in the right places. In this episode, Constant Contact’s Dave Charest explains why the most effective “one-two punch” remains social media plus email, and why email delivers more control and more reliable engagement than algorithm-driven social feeds. We talk about the trap of chasing every new platform, how focusing on one channel and building an opt-in audience can drive real revenue, and why retaining existing customers may outperform constantly chasing new ones. Charest also shares practical ways small businesses can use AI to save time without losing authenticity, plus simple automation ideas that keep marketing working even when you’re busy running the business. Finally, he offers clear, actionable priorities for the rest of 2026—and what trends may surprise business owners in the months ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  5. 112

    Jacksonville Children’s Chorus leader marks 20 years, sets sights on the world

    Kent Justice visits the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus in downtown Jacksonville and talks with Artistic Director Darren Dailey about how a youth arts nonprofit became a world-class cultural institution - and why that matters to the region’s growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  6. 111

    How a new platform aims to cut weeks off Jacksonville's permitting process

    Kent Justice talks with Jacksonville contractor Fabian Videla about the least glamorous construction bottleneck: permitting. Videla says projects can stall for weeks or months at multiple points - figuring out the right forms for each city/county, collecting signatures and notarizations, waiting through plan review, and then stopping work for inspections. Those delays, he argues, ripple through Northeast Florida’s economy by raising costs for contractors, slowing business openings, and frustrating homeowners. Videla’s company, Permit Rockstar, aims to streamline the process end-to-end using AI-assisted form completion, remote online notarization, private plan review to speed approvals, and same-day virtual inspections. He says Florida law already allows private providers to help, and the next big improvement would be a uniform permit application across the state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  7. 110

    Bank of America leader shares 3 priorities for business owners

    As Northeast Florida heads into Q2 2026, Bank of America Jacksonville President & Southeast Regional Executive Mark Bennett says local business confidence has shifted toward growth - if owners have the right capital in place to seize opportunities. Bennett shares three priorities he’s hearing most from Jacksonville leaders and also points to continued strength in sectors like advanced manufacturing, fintech/financial services, healthcare, and technology as companies adopt more AI solutions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  8. 109

    AI-powered permitting aims to speed up city development

    Jacksonville’s rapid growth is putting new pressure on an old bottleneck: permitting. On this episode of This Week in Jacksonville Business Edition, Kent Justice talks with Sabrina Dugan, managing partner of SwiftBuild.ai, about how artificial intelligence is being used to speed up plan review—without removing human oversight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  9. 108

    VyStar pitches solutions to combat financial stress

    VyStar Credit Union says its new study pairing regional survey results with TransUnion data shows Jacksonville residents are under significant financial stress and carry more debt than the national average. The credit union is pitching community-wide solutions that go beyond traditional banking. “So we had really four big takeaways from this. The first thing is that finances is a top stressor for people in Jacksonville,” Dana Karzan, chief marketing officer of VyStar Credit Union, said during an interview on This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  10. 107

    Players Championship 2026 preview at TPC Sawgrass

    Lee Smith, executive director of the Players Championship, is the next guest to join Kent Justice on “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition.” Smith said the tournament is a year-round effort as TPC Sawgrass prepares for tournament week. “Kent, you’re right. This is an exciting time for us. This is a 52-week-a-year job.” Smith said the event team constantly refines the tournament and aims to reinvent the experience every three to five years to match how fans consume the event on site and at home. “We take a look at how all of our fans really consume the product and they consume the products on site, they consume product in and around the tournament. And then they consume the product at home, and so the opportunity to continue to add new technologies and four drones are going to be flying around here, capturing footage for those watching on TV at the local level or on site...” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  11. 106

    Florida makes strides to reduce childhood poverty

    Florida is making meaningful progress in reducing childhood poverty, a key indicator of the state’s long-term economic health. According to new data highlighted by Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, the number of children living in poverty statewide has dropped by hundreds of thousands over the past six years. Wilson shared, “There’s about 711,000 kids in Florida in poverty. And while that’s a high number, it’s down a couple hundred thousand from about six years ago.” In Duval County alone, approximately 3,000 fewer children are living in poverty compared to previous reports, a positive sign that targeted efforts are working. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  12. 105

    Northeast Florida housing faces ‘normal’ year amid marketing shifts

    Northeast Florida’s housing market is shifting into what builders call a “more normal” year — still strong, but shaped by higher interest rates, local fees, and the push-and-pull over growth. NEFBA President Scott Brannock (Tidewater Homes) joins “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition” to explain what the Northeast Florida Builders Association does, why workforce development is his biggest 2026 priority, and how local policies can either expand attainable housing—or make it harder to build. Brannock discusses the region’s permit trends, the real cost drivers behind “affordability,” why impact fees are a top legislative issue in Tallahassee, and why “missing middle” options like duplexes and triplexes may be key to keeping Northeast Florida livable as it grows. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  13. 104

    Gateway Jax CEO shares vision for downtown’s transformation

    Gateway Jax is leading a major redevelopment effort in downtown Jacksonville, aiming to reshape nearly 30 acres with a mix of residential, retail, and public spaces. Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax, spoke with This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition about the project’s progress and its potential impact on the region’s economic growth. Moll brings experience from overseeing more than $6 billion in real estate projects across major markets including Tampa and Washington, D.C. He explained how lessons learned from those cities are influencing Gateway Jax’s approach in Jacksonville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  14. 103

    Revival 250 comes to town in May

    In this episode of “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition,” host Kent Justice talks with Revival 250 organizer Chris Widener and Bold City Church pastor Jason Masters about Revival 250—an upcoming faith-focused event scheduled for May 3 at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville. Widener explains that Revival 250 is timed to align with the United States’ 250th anniversary and is designed as a call for churches and believers to live out their faith beyond Sunday services. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  15. 102

    How the city’s growth hinges on street design

    As Jacksonville grows, the big question isn’t simply how many people move here—it’s what kind of city they arrive to. Victor Dover, a nationally known town planner and urban designer and the keynote speaker at Scenic Jacksonville’s Sixth Annual Great Cities Symposium on Feb. 5, says the communities that win the next era of economic competition will be the ones that deliver a great day-to-day experience. Dover’s message is straightforward: when a city recruits a company, it’s also recruiting that company’s employees and leaders. Places that feel good to live in—walkable streets, inviting public spaces, and mixed-use neighborhoods—gain a real edge in attracting talent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  16. 101

    Veteran doctors bring military leadership to healthcare innovation

    Dr. Kyle Mikals and Dr. Samantha Mikals, both military veterans and board-certified physicians, have launched Jacksonville Concierge Medicine, a boutique healthcare practice focused on personalized care. Dr. Samantha Mikals credits her military experience for developing creativity and quick decision-making. “In the military, you have to be creative to get projects done, especially overseas,” she said. Dr. Kyle Mikals brings expertise in creating standardized policies from his time managing military clinics, which helps them scale their practice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  17. 100

    Innovation Hub aims to be the go-to place for entrepreneurs

    In this episode of "This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition," host Kent Justice talks with Ryan Smith, founder of First Coast Metalworks and the Jacksonville Innovation Hub. Smith, a Jacksonville entrepreneur with a background in FinTech and manufacturing, saw a gap in the local innovation ecosystem: “There’s no one place in Jacksonville you can go to get the space to work, to build, to create, to network.” That insight led to the creation of the Jacksonville Innovation Hub, a new facility designed to provide entrepreneurs with access to workspace, cutting-edge equipment, and a network of resources and investors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  18. 99

    Downtown’s growth, development and future plans for 2026

    Downtown Jacksonville continues strong growth as 2025 ends, says Jake Gordon, CEO of Downtown Vision, Inc., who has been leading the organization for nearly 11 years and joined the next episode of “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition.” “It’s wonderful. My kids have grown up here. The Jaguars are having an amazing year. Finally. And it’s gorgeous out, so what more could you ask?” Gordon said. Downtown Vision releases an annual State of Downtown Report measuring progress. Gordon says most metrics are up, showing continued momentum, but also highlighting how much more growth is possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  19. 98

    Franchise opportunities grow in River City

    Franchising is emerging as a powerful option for entrepreneurs in Jacksonville and the surrounding region, providing a proven business model that helps reduce risk and accelerate success. David Montanez, vice president of franchise development for Authority Brands, shared insights on the current franchise landscape in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia during a recent episode of ⁠This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition⁠. Authority Brands represents 15 home service franchises, including well-known names like Ben Franklin Plumbing, One Hour Heating and Air, Mr. Sparky Electric, and Junkluggers. These brands focus on essential services that homeowners rely on year-round, from plumbing and HVAC to pet waste removal and pool maintenance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  20. 97

    Chang Robotics uses faith to shape leadership approach

    Jacksonville entrepreneur Matthew Chang is making waves both as CEO of Chang Robotics and as the author of the Amazon bestseller “Risk Taking is Biblical.” In a recent interview on “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition”, Chang shared how his faith shapes his approach to business and leadership, and how Jacksonville is emerging as a center for robotics and automation innovation. Chang explained that his faith-based company not only tithes profits but also encourages employees to give of themselves to other causes. “Everybody in the company is expected to serve in their community. Does it have to be a Christian service? No. You can serve soup to homeless people or build a house. But whatever it is, you need to get out there and do something,” he said. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  21. 96

    Jax Hub drives fintech innovation, global partnerships

    Jacksonville is emerging as a key player in the global fintech landscape with the launch of Jax Hub, a new corporate innovation initiative led by L Marks, a UK-based firm specializing in accelerating innovation for large organizations. Daniel Saunders, CEO of L Marks, shared in a recent interview that Jax Hub aims to bring cutting-edge financial technology solutions from around the world to Northeast Florida. The program fosters collaboration among local businesses, academic institutions, and international innovators to solve real-world challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  22. 95

    Planet Skate revival brings family fun, jobs, hope to Northside

    Jacksonville’s Northside community is experiencing a revival of roller skating and family entertainment thanks to retired Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Terry Harris. Harris, a lifelong skater and serial entrepreneur, ⁠recently opened Planet Skate in the former K-Mart Plaza on Lem Turner Road⁠, bringing back a beloved pastime and creating a safe, welcoming space for families. Harris grew up skating at the original Sk8 City rink on the Northside, a staple of the community for decades. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  23. 94

    Able Medical Group brings jobs, expanded service

    A new primary care model launched this summer in Ponte Vedra is positioning itself as both a health-care alternative for patients and a source of jobs and services for Northeast Florida. Able Medical Group, a direct-pay primary care practice led by CEO Peter Jensen, charges a membership fee (plans begin around $300 per month) for unlimited physician access and a deeper, prevention-focused approach to care. The practice offers in‑home lab draws, advanced biomarker testing, functional movement assessments — including VO2 max testing — and pediatric house calls, services Jensen says keep more health spending and care local. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  24. 93

    Paradigm Roofing expands to city with veteran-focused initiatives

    Paradigm Roof and Shield expands roofing with a veteran focus in Jacksonville. Paradigm, an award-winning roofing company based in Dallas, has expanded to Jacksonville, Florida, launching its new office in March 2025. Greg Hiltz, CEO since 2023, leads the expansion with a focus on roofing excellence and exceptional customer service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  25. 92

    Carry Forward 5K boosts veteran employment initiatives

    As the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) prepares for its signature Carry Forward 5K event on Nov. 8, the organization’s economic footprint in Jacksonville continues to expand, reflecting its evolution from a grassroots veterans’ support group to a major force in veteran employment and community development. In this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, CEO Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Walt Piatt discusses how WWP has evolved from its founding mission to become a significant force in veteran career transition and economic stability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  26. 91

    Jaxport is growing as a Gateway for auto logistics

    Jacksonville’s port is sharpening its Southeast advantage by combining deepwater access, abundant land for vehicle staging, and strong multimodal links to move cargo inland efficiently. This episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition explores JAXPORT’s growing role in auto logistics and the Southeast supply chain. Kent Justice speaks with John Murray of Enstructure and Alberto Cabrera, JAXPORT’s Cargo Sales Director, about why Jacksonville is strategically positioned for vehicle imports, how on‑dock rail and the Talleyrand facility boost efficiency and reduce carbon footprint, and what infrastructure and workforce investments are needed to support growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  27. 90

    UNF’s Free AI Certificate Program draws over 20,000 global registrants

    The University of North Florida (UNF) has launched a groundbreaking free AI certificate program that has already attracted more than 20,000 registrants worldwide, demonstrating the growing global interest in artificial intelligence education. The “AI for Work and Life” certificate program, which began in September 2025, offers a comprehensive eight-module curriculum designed to help individuals understand and apply AI in both personal and professional contexts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  28. 89

    WJCT’s community-powered evolution

    When WJCT Public Media faced state and federal funding cuts, the organization didn’t just survive—it thrived. In this revealing conversation on This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, President & CEO David McGowan discusses how more than 1,000 donors contributed over $1 million to support independent local media, making WJCT 100% community-funded. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  29. 88

    Spotlight on Jax Tech Fest and regional innovation

    Jacksonville is rapidly consolidating its position as a nexus for technological innovation, evidenced by the forthcoming Jax Tech Fest — an intensive, week-long symposium designed to aggregate and showcase the region’s most advanced technological enterprises and thought leaders. Industry pioneers Summer Vyne and Matthew Chang are orchestrating this initiative with the objective of amplifying regional visibility and cultivating synergistic linkages across disparate technological domains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  30. 87

    Florida’s booming growth presents unique fiscal challenges

    In a recent episode of “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition,” Dominic Calabro offered an in-depth look into the complexities and challenges surrounding Florida’s budget process and taxation landscape. Calabro described the budget-making process candidly, stating, “The budget actually came together with a good product. It just was a very, very messy process by which it occurred. A little bit messier than usual.” He emphasized the sometimes troubling transparency of legislative processes remarking, “They’re not always perfect, as I say, two things you don’t want to see. In public, and that is sausage being made and laws being made. Well, this was probably more true than most years.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  31. 86

    Funding cuts threaten WJCT’s pivotal role in Northeast Florida

    Jacksonville’s beloved public media station, WJCT, finds itself at a critical juncture following substantial funding vetoes in the Florida state budget. On the latest episode of “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition,” host Kent Justice spoke with David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT Public Media, to discuss the impact of these cuts and the organization’s path forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  32. 85

    Florida Real Estate 2025: Market Insights

    Kent Justice and Florida Realtors President Tim Weisheyer as they break down the current real estate market. Learn about buying opportunities, market trends, and expert strategies for homeowners in Florida. Discover insider perspectives on the state's evolving real estate landscape, from single-family homes to condominiums. Weisheyer shares critical insights on market stability, legislative changes, and smart investment strategies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  33. 84

    Gold as legal tender? What it means for Florida investors

    With Florida officially recognizing gold and silver as legal tender, many are left wondering—what does this mean for investors? On this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, Luciano Duque of C3 Bullion helps us unpack that question. Duque, a financial expert with deep experience in international portfolio construction, offers unique insight into gold’s evolving role in the financial system — and a new model for investing in it. “My background is in finance. I’ve been in finance for several years, building portfolios for clients, mostly international clients,” Duque explains. “As time passed by, I always put, like, gold in a portfolio. You know, gold is always a part of it.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  34. 83

    Bluebird Kids Health expands to River City, targets pediatric care deserts

    Jacksonville families will soon have new options for children’s health care. Bluebird Kids Health — a fast-growing pediatric primary care provider — is opening two locations this summer: one on Wilson Boulevard and another at Gateway Plaza in North Jacksonville. “We build pediatric practices in areas that we consider pediatric care deserts,” said CEO Chris Johnson. “Communities that traditionally don’t have enough pediatricians to support the number of kids that live in that.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  35. 82

    Veteran astronaut Winston Scott discusses Kennedy Space Center, space exploration

    In this episode of "This Week in Jacksonville Business," veteran astronaut Winston Scott shares his remarkable journey from Navy pilot to NASA astronaut. He discusses the exciting developments at Kennedy Space Center, including immersive visitor experiences and the importance of space exploration for solving problems on Earth. Join us as we explore the intersection of innovation, community, and the future of space travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  36. 81

    Local experts share insights on hurricane preparedness as season approaches

    As hurricane season approaches, Jacksonville residents are reminded of the importance of preparedness to mitigate potential storm impacts. In a recent episode of "This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition," local experts Lauren Braddock, Florida sales director and partner for Servpro Team TMC, and Brandon Cornellier, co-founder and COO of NexGen Roofing, discussed essential strategies for safeguarding homes and businesses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  37. 80

    Money Pages CEO talks economic growth

    In this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, we spotlight economic growth through the lens of a thriving Jacksonville-based company: Money Pages. Host Kent Justice sits down with CEO Alan Worley, who shares the story behind launching the company in 2001, adapting to industry shifts, and expanding nationwide through a smart franchising model. Then, newly appointed VP of Sales Sara Pomposo discusses her innovative approach to leadership and sales strategy, drawing from her impactful years as Market President and Publisher of the Jacksonville Business Journal. It’s a conversation full of insight for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, regional business development, and smart growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  38. 79

    JEA CEO reflects on journey to leadership

    In this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, Vickie Cavey, CEO of JEA, shares her journey from growing up in Jacksonville to leading the utility that serves over a million residents. She discusses the importance of public service, the challenges of preparing for hurricane season, and the need for infrastructure improvements amid the city’s growth. Vickie’s passion for JEA and the Jacksonville community shines through as she emphasizes the utility’s commitment to providing reliable and affordable services. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  39. 78

    A cigar passion turned into a successful business

    In this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, Darian “Jack” Jackson shares his inspiring journey of transforming his passion for cigars into a successful business with Dapper D’s, a veteran-owned cigar lounge that has expanded to three locations since 2020. After serving ten years in the Navy, Jack faced challenges transitioning to civilian life but found his calling in entrepreneurship. He discusses the strategic importance of his new downtown Jacksonville location, which aims to enhance the area’s development and provide an elevated customer experience with a full cocktail bar and restaurant. Jack emphasizes the resilience and grit required for entrepreneurship, encouraging aspiring business owners to pursue their dreams while being prepared for hard work. His story exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and the potential for success, even in challenging times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  40. 77

    Navigating the aviation industry post-pandemic

    In this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, Mark Van Loh, CEO of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority, dives into the dynamic landscape of aviation post-pandemic. He candidly discusses the challenges posed by tariffs, the ambitious expansion plans at Jacksonville International Airport, and the shifting perceptions of the U.S. as a travel destination. With a focus on growth and resilience, Van Loh offers a compelling look at how the JAA is navigating these turbulent times to enhance the travel experience for all. Tune in for insights that matter to industry stakeholders and travelers alike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  41. 76

    Jack Hanania on navigating the automotive industry’s challenges

    In the latest episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, host Kent Justice sits down with Jack Hanania, a legendary entrepreneur and 2024 First Coast Business Hall of Fame honoree. Their conversation dives into Hanania’s journey in the automotive industry and the current market landscape. Hanania, who initially pursued a career as a CPA, shifted to the car business in 1983. “I decided to take some time. I’ll get in the car business, sell cars,” he said. Starting with Luther Coggin, he eventually became a partner in the Orange Park dealership, expanding his operations and investing in downtown Jacksonville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  42. 75

    What’s the latest with downtown’s developments?

    In this podcast episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, Lori Boyer, CEO of the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA), discusses the significant construction progress in downtown Jacksonville as 2025 unfolds. She highlights the ongoing development of over 1,000 residential units, including the Pearl Street District, and emphasizes the importance of affordable housing initiatives in addressing the city’s housing crisis. Boyer also shares insights on the upcoming University of Florida graduate campus in La Villa and the economic impact of over $3 billion in private investments. Additionally, she addresses infrastructure improvements, including the long-awaited transition to two-way traffic in downtown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  43. 74

    Commissioner of Atlantic Sun Conference talks move to town, challenges in college sports

    In this episode of "This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition," host Kent Justice sits down with Jeff Bacon, the commissioner of the Atlantic Sun Conference, to discuss the bold move of relocating the conference headquarters from Atlanta to Jacksonville. With nearly two years under his belt in Northeast Florida, Bacon shares his insights on the vibrant sports culture of the city and the strategic decision to host the men's and women's basketball championships in 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  44. 73

    Jumbo Shrimp owner talks game-changing season, affordable fun

    This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition host Kent Justice caught up with Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp owner Ken Babby. With a jaw-dropping $31.5 million renovation of the Vystar Ballpark under their belts, Babby couldn’t contain his enthusiasm for opening day. He highlighted the standout feature of the revamped park: the shrimp boats, which he boldly claimed are “the best seats in the house.” Babby’s mission? To create a space that screams Jacksonville and elevates the fan experience to a whole new level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  45. 72

    Ron Autrey’s journey from Miller Electric’s CEO to philanthropist

    In this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, host Kent Justice welcomes Ron Autrey, former CEO and chairman of Miller Electric. Autry shares insights from his remarkable 49-year career with the company. Autry is a Jacksonville native, who reflects on the technological transformations he witnessed in the electrical contracting industry since joining Miller in 1975. He emphasizes the importance of businesses taking responsibility for their own growth and stability, rather than relying solely on the local or national economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  46. 71

    Federal employees eye entrepreneurship amid government shakeup

    Host Kent Justice dove into the federal government’s buyout offers and looming layoffs with guests Marshall Reddy and Kevin Monahan. The spotlight was on federal employees considering a pivot to business ownership as their “Plan B.” Monahan, an expert in small businesses and nonprofits, didn’t mince words about the ripple effects of government layoffs. “Government is a big part of our lives,” he said, highlighting the trickle-down impact on contracts and the nonprofit sector. With four million graduates soon entering the job market, Monahan emphasized, “This is a big thing going on.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  47. 70

    JAXPORT’s unstoppable growth: A deep dive into the port’s future

    In this special episode of “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition,” host Kent Justice takes listeners on a riveting journey through the bustling world of JAXPORT, the Port of Jacksonville. With Robert Peek, the chief commercial officer of JAXPORT, as his guide, we explore the port’s explosive growth and its role as an economic powerhouse in Northeast Florida. Peek reveals that JAXPORT is riding high on its most successful fiscal year yet, with shipping containers leading the charge. Despite the chaos of the early 2020s, marked by the pandemic and global supply chain disruptions, JAXPORT has emerged stronger than ever. The completion of the harbor deepening project has been a game-changer, allowing the port to retain and attract international business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  48. 69

    A preview of the 51st Players Championship

    Get ready for an inside look at the 51st Players Championship. In this episode of “This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition,” Kent Justice sits down with Lee Smith from the Players to preview the tournament’s biggest highlights. Discover the incredible economic impact of the tournament — a staggering $234 million for our local community — and learn about exciting new features for 2025, including: A cutting-edge AI course setup tool An innovative app that lets fans predict golf shots Expanded fan experiences and local food partnerships Special events like the Creator Classic and Military Appreciation Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  49. 68

    Passion for supporting military families has turned into thriving real estate business

    In a recent episode of This Week in Jacksonville Business Edition, host Kent Justice sat down with Dave and Lesley Butts of the D&L Butts team to dive into the vibrant real estate scene in Jacksonville. Dave, a Navy veteran, and Lesley have turned their passion for supporting military families into a thriving real estate business. They shared their firsthand insights into the unique challenges military families face during relocations, like navigating school systems and neighborhoods, and how their personal experiences have made them experts in this niche. Wrapping up the episode, the Butts team emphasized that the current real estate market is a buyer's paradise, with more inventory and room for negotiation. They urged potential buyers to jump on the favorable conditions, positioning themselves as ambassadors for the Jacksonville area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  50. 67

    VyStar’s latest campaign boosts community engagement

    Join Kent Justice as he sits down with Dana Karzan, Chief Marketing Officer of VyStar Credit Union, to explore their latest initiatives and their impact on economic growth and development. On this episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, discover how VyStar’s “Through Your Life” campaign, which aired during the Super Bowl, aims to support members through various life stages while boosting community engagement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

This Week in Jacksonville Business Edition is a weekly digital series with News4JAX anchor Kent Justice who talks with the experts about business, economic development, jobs, technology and more.

HOSTED BY

News4Jax and Graham Media Group

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