Biz-eWerk

How does a math and applied science degree from UCLA lead to a career launching national products every five weeks at Taco Bell? In this episode, marketing strategist Lidija Davidson explains the "Analytical Marketer" mindset, showing how data can uncover deep consumer insights that drive real innovation. We also dive into the true heart of branding, how a company’s origin story and brand purpose are far more critical to success than just a logo or a tagline.

Lidija is a marketing consultant and the owner ofSift, Cipher, & Bloomadvertising and marketing agency.

How do you go from being a student in Charleston to a finance professional in Europe? In this episode of the Biz-eWerk Podcast, Andrew Bartholomey (CofC ’23 – International Business, Finance, German) shares his journey building a global career, discusses the impact of his internships, and tells us how those experiences prepared him for life after college. We also get into what it takes to thrive in a foreign workplace, like the challenge of teaching yourself to write Excel formulas in German and mastering SAP on the fly. Whether you’re a student wondering how to use your campus resources or a professional curious about the reality of working across time zones, Andrew’s story is a fantastic roadmap for building a global career while keeping your professional network strong.

Everyone needs a break every now and again, and Biz-eWerk is no exception. After a little unplanned hiatus (if you noticed, it’s nice to be missed; if you didn't notice, don't tell me), we’re back with new energy, new interviews, and some big ideas on deck, including a three-part series talking about AI and nuclear power. Hit play, and let’s get back to helping you mind your business. All engines are go, and we've cleared the tower! (Music Credit: Maarten Schellenkens, To the Moon)

Biz-eWerk is on the air! In this episode, Charleston native Adam Ferrara of Ferrara Buist Contractors visits our Liberty Street Studio to discuss the philosophy behind their Design-Assist-Build (DAB) model: "Measure twice, build once". Adam also explains how AI technology is being used for real estate development site planning, generating initial concepts in minutes rather than months, and the critical role of site selection and managing the unique challenges of Lowcountry construction.

Biz-eWerk is on the air! Join us for an interview withDolly Pelto, a graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy and theExecutive Director of the Advanced Technology International Foundation. Discover her journey from shipyard operations to managing thousands of national and international technology projects for the government, often focused on national security and strengthening the nation’s maritime programs. Learn how she transitioned to her new role as Executive Director of the ATI Foundation, where she's leveraging her project management skills to tackle critical issues in education and workforce development. Don't miss this insightful conversation on how the ATI Foundation is working to address maritime workforce and shipbuilding issues in South Carolina and across the nation.

Biz-eWerk is on the air! In this episode, we interview Darren Hartford, retired Air Force general and the owner of Oliver Pluff & Company! Discover the fascinating origin story of this company, how Oliver Pluff & Co. sources and recreates historic beverages such as Martha Washington's favorite cacao tea, and how they partner with iconic locations like Mount Vernon to help historic sites tell their stories through custom-labeled teas and coffees. Darren, a 28-year veteran of the Air Force and pilot, explains how his interest in history led to this business venture. He also discusses the creative process, from aging tea in whiskey barrels to tell the story of the Whiskey Rebellion, to the story behind "Jasmint" tea inspired by Charleston's spring florals. Plus, get the inside scoop on their storefront at 49 John Street in Charleston, designed to offer an immersive experience. Tune in now to hear how this unique business blends history, storytelling, and delicious beverages!

Episode 2 of 2: In the age of video conferencing and packages delivered by a drone, we ofttimes forget that at one time, the railroads were our link to the world and the business titans of their day.

Iron and steel rails crisscrossed the country, connecting communities and supercharging commerce and communication throughout the tectonic changes of the Industrial Revolution and beyond.

Join us for part 2 of Biz-eWerk's first video interview, a two-part series with Albert Churella, historian and author of a three-volume history of the storied Pennsylvania Railroad.

For more information about Al's PRR trilogy:

Episode 1 of 2: In the age of video conferencing and packages delivered by a drone, we ofttimes forget that at one time, the railroads were our link to the world and the business titans of their day.

Iron and steel rails crisscrossed the country, connecting communities and supercharging commerce and communication throughout the tectonic changes of the Industrial Revolution and beyond.

Join us for part 1 of Biz-eWerk's first video interview, a two-part series with Albert Churella, historian and author of a three-volume history of the storied Pennsylvania Railroad.

For more information about Al's PRR trilogy:

In the age of video conferencing and packages delivered by a drone, we ofttimes forget that at one time, the railroads were our link to the world and the business titans of their day.

Iron and steel rails crisscrossed the country, connecting communities and supercharging commerce and communication throughout the tectonic changes of the Industrial Revolution and beyond.

Join us for Biz-eWerk's first video interview, a two-part series with Albert Churella, historian and author of a three-volume history of the storied Pennsylvania Railroad.

Be sure to subscribe to Biz-eWerk so you don't miss any episodes of this special two-part video podcast premiering August 12th.

For more information about Al's PRR trilogy:

Episode 2 of 2: Running a business is a race, and when your business is running, walking, jogging, and exercising, it’s a race to ensure the best possible customer experience. In this episode, Biz-eWerk speaks with Amy and Chris Minkle, co-owners of ⁠Fleet Feet Charleston⁠, about changing career paths, launching a successful franchise, overcoming challenges, and utilizing complementary skills. They'll share how their collaboration, including Chris's financial acumen and Amy's marketing and HR expertise, drives their business and how they've built a thriving brick-and-mortar experience in an online world by focusing on unparalleled customer experience and community engagement.

Episode 1 of 2: Running a business is a race, and when your business is running, walking, jogging, and exercising, it’s a race to ensure the best possible customer experience. In this episode, Biz-eWerk speaks with Amy and Chris Minkle, co-owners of Fleet Feet Charleston, about changing career paths, launching a successful franchise, overcoming challenges, and utilizing complementary skills. They'll share how their collaboration, including Chris's financial acumen and Amy's marketing and HR expertise, drives their business and how they've built a thriving brick-and-mortar experience in an online world by focusing on unparalleled customer experience and community engagement.

Episode 2 of 2: Join us for an insightful conversation with ⁠Melissa Latham⁠, President and Managing Director of ⁠Global Recruiters of Lowcountry⁠, where she shares her incredible journey through the retail and fashion world beginning in Biz-eWerk’s fav decade, the Awesome Eighties. In this episode, Melissa recounts her rise through the ranks, holding positions from Fourth Key to corporate Vice President at well-known brands like The Limited, Lane Bryant, Vera Bradley, and Jockey International. She also shares fascinating details about her international work experience, including traveling to Saudi Arabia and across Europe. Recently, Melissa made the leap from corporate leadership to founding an executive recruitment firm with a passion for people and the power of networking, which she identifies as the true driver of her career success. Find out how her advice to “make two friends a day" can help you build your network for long-term professional development and career growth.

Episode 1 of 2: Join us for an insightful conversation with Melissa Latham, President and Managing Director of Global Recruiters of Lowcountry, where she shares her incredible journey through the retail and fashion world beginning in Biz-eWerk’s fav decade, the Awesome Eighties. In this episode, Melissa recounts her rise through the ranks, holding positions from Fourth Key to corporate Vice President at well-known brands like The Limited, Lane Bryant, Vera Bradley, and Jockey International. She also shares fascinating details about her international work experience, including traveling to Saudi Arabia and across Europe. Recently, Melissa made the leap from corporate leadership to founding an executive recruitment firm with a passion for people and the power of networking, which she identifies as the true driver of her career success. Find out how her advice to “make two friends a day" can help you build your network for long-term professional development and career growth.

Have you ever met someone at work and thought, I’d like to try that job! For Tony Horwath, that eureka moment meant changing his career path from engineering to sales. And then, moving into a founding role for a whole new business pioneering sales outsourcing. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, Tony tells us about his career shift ultimately leading to the establishment of his business, Sales Focus, in 1998. He explains the core mission of Sales Focus: helping clients grow through dedicated sales teams with a process and adaptability that works across various industries, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. Tony also shares insights on the evolution of sales and the impact of technology like AI and offers advice for entrepreneurs facing growth challenges.

What’s in a name? For the Queen Street Hospitality Group, the restaurant, 82 Queen, and the location, 82 Queen Street, are front and center. Plus, 82 Queen was founded in 1982 – an alignment that makes things easy to remember. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, Jonathan Kish, CEO, shares his journey in the finance and restaurant industries, discussing the history of Queen Street Hospitality Group and his careerprogression from server to managing multiple restaurants. Highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced during the pandemic, as well as the importance of adaptability, hard work, and staying informed about industry trends and political factors affecting the business, Jonathan emphasizes the significance of staffing, employee benefits, and balancing expansion plans with economic factors in the restaurant industry.

When’s the best time to start a business? Jake Kozmor, founder of the Charleston-based video production company Koz Films, began his entrepreneurial journey in 7th grade with a GoPro camera and has continued developing his creative and business skills ever since. In this episode, Biz-eWerk speaks with Jake about his video production process emphasizing storytelling and client collaboration. He also describes his involvement with the American Marketing Association and his upcoming projects, including a new web series. Check out Instagram @kozfilms for more info.

Happy 100th (episode) Biz-eWerk! Join us as we celebrate our podcast journey and reflect on the challenges of being "busy." Listen in as Biz-eWerk shares the difficulties and learning experiences encountered along the way and gives thanks at Thanksgiving to all the people who have taken the time to support the show – guests and listeners alike.

What comes to mind when you hear, "Nuclear Energy"? Maybe something scary like atomic bombs or Three Mile Island? But what about radiation treatment for cancer? Or irradiated food to extend shelf life? In this episode of Biz-eWerk, we use nuclear energy as the technological thread between the Six Laws of Technology.

(For more information about the Six Laws, check out the article referenced in this episode, The Six Laws of Technology Everyone Should Know by Christopher Mims in The Wall Street Journal)

In the age of AI, we’re more aware than ever of how technology influences history and vice versa. In 1985, Dr. Melvin Kranzberg, a professor of the History of Technology at Georgia Institute of Technology, presented his Six Laws of Technology offering a nuanced take on technology's role in history. Kranzberg challenged the simplistic view of technology as either a purely positive or negative force. He argued that it’s a "very human activity" intricately intertwined with our values, beliefs, and choices. In this two-part Biz-eWerk podcast, we’ll discuss relatable examples of everyday tech to illustrate the impact of advancements from the perspective of Kranzberg’s Six Laws. From adjusting rabbit ears on TVs to relying on GPS navigation we’ll review the rapid evolution of technology within a single lifetime.

(For more information about the Six Laws, check out the article referenced in this episode,The Six Laws of Technology Everyone Should Knowby Christopher Mims in The Wall Street Journal)

Real estate development is all around us and involves many moving pieces from pre-development to construction to operation and beyond. In this episode, College of Charleston School of Business alum Joseph Velazquez discusses his role at one of the world's premier commercial real estate firms and tells us more about the skills and abilities needed for success in this industry.

“Unless we come together and get to know somebody, you won’t know how much you have in common.” – Benjamin Klutsey

In this episode, Benjamin Klutsey, Executive Director of the Mercatus Center at George Mason University discusses the film UNDIVIDE US. The film reminds us that while polarization is a genuine concern, fostering civil exchange is a crucial step toward building a more cohesive and understanding society. Along with our guests, Pete Calcagno, and Mike Lee, we discuss how individuals can engage in respectful dialogue by recognizing that common ground and shared values often outweigh perceived differences.

(The screening of UNDIVIDE US is sponsored by the College of Charleston Center for Public Choice and Marketing Process, the College of Charleston Civility Initiative, and the American Institute for Economic Research – Charleston Bastiat Society)

“Retail is Detail.” Gary Flynn, CEO and co-owner of distinguished menswear retailer M. Dumas and Sons. With a 107-year history, Dumas continues to grow throughout the Charleston area. What began in 1917 as a small shop selling Navy uniforms and hunting and outdoor apparel has grown to become an iconic fixture on King Street with a national and international reach. Flynn has been leading Dumas for over eight years and has played an instrumental role in the company’s expansion, including successfully opening two brand partner stores.

Is your work worth it? What is meaningful work? Do I have a job, career, or calling? In this episode of the Biz-eWerk Podcast, I interview ⁠Christopher Wong Michaelson⁠, co-author with ⁠Jennifer Tosti-Kharas⁠, of the book, ⁠Is Your Work Worth It? How to Think About Meaningful Work⁠. "This essential book combines inspiring and harrowing stories of real people with recent scholarship, ancient wisdom, arts, and literature to help us clarify what worthy work looks like, what tradeoffs are acceptable to pursue it, and what our work can contribute to society.”

Genevieve (Genny) McCutcheon from our College of Charleston School of Business Center for Public Choice and Market Process stopped by the studio for a wide-ranging convo about marketing, writing, lifelong learning, and more.

For more information about CPCMP, check out Biz-eWerk episode 54, "Peter Calcagno and Adam Smith Week."

⁠Ingenics⁠ covers everything from consulting for strategy, processes, and organizational structures, AND digital transformation, software solutions, and planning and implementation. In this episode, we discuss continuous improvement processes for manufacturing with ⁠Marc Shotters⁠, Senior Project Manager, and ⁠Hunter Price⁠, Key Account Assistant Manager.

Check out our previous Biz-eWerk Ingenics interview with Hunter Price and Joshua Black in episode 71.

In this final episode of our 3-part interview with Zach Giglio, we discuss the near-future of AI applications for business, including agentic AI systems that will improve and enhance interactions and decision-making processes in AI technology.

Part II of a three-part series with Zach Giglio from GCM. In this episode, we discuss how new AI tools, like ChatGPT, are changing business.

In the first episode of this special 3-part series featuring Zach Giglio from GCM, Zach explains how small to mid-sized businesses can incorporate Artificial Intelligence into workflows to save time and money. In this limited series, I’ll be speaking with Zach about AI, what it is, what it isn’t, how it’s influencing business now, and how it will influence the future of work.

Get ready for a special, three-part series from Biz-eWerk, "AI in Business Applications with Zach Giglio." Few topics today elicit more questions and debate than how we will use the real technology of Artificial Intelligence. To get some expert insights into AI business applications, Biz-eWerk is excited to introduce a three-part series featuring Zach Giglio.

Zach and Emma Giglio’s consulting firm, GCM, shows businesses how to leverage off-the-shelf AI applications to streamline and improve business processes. And Zach will be speaking more about this topic at TEDx Hilton Head later this year.

Be sure to subscribe to Biz-eWerk so you don't miss any episodes of this special three-part series. premiering July 9th.

Next time you walk through your favorite retail location, contemplate how the merchandise gets to the shelves. It’s easy to forget that the products we take for granted, especially everyday items like groceries and clothing, have to be shipped to a store for us to purchase. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, Patrick Buttarazzi, Regional Director of Sales, and Matthew Logue (College of Charleston '19), Director of Sales and Business Development for Fusion Transport Charleston, explain more about the essential role of the freight broker in this process.

Logistics and supply chain issues are recurring themes in this show because they are critical to our lives today. It’s a multi-faceted industry involving many moving pieces to ensure that something gets to where it needs to be when it needs to be there. In this episode, Taylor Jackson, President and CEO of the Maritime Association of South Carolina, discusses how MASC, a member-based trade association with over 200 member organizations across 22 sectors, supports this vital industry.

If you’ve ever seen a live performance, you're getting the benefit of months of preparation by many people with unique skills, like Marybeth Clark, Artistic Director for Charleston Stage. With over 25 years of experience working with this professional theater company, Marybeth knows what it takes to bring a performance to life for the audience.

It's not easy to turn an interest or a passion into a business, but that's what Eric Waldrop has done with Top Shape Fitness. Starting with sports in school, and continuing to the present day as a full-time personal trainer, Eric talks to Biz-eWerk about how he turned a passion for sports and fitness into a unique gym experience focused on personalized and customized personal training.

“It's one thing to look at a 1,200-pound polar bear from across the snowy tundra. It’s another to get close enough to see the snowflakes on its nose. In Churchill, Manitoba, both kinds of encounters are part of everyday life.” So begins an article in Travel and Leisure magazine by Heather Greenwood Davis (linkedin.com/in/greenwooddavis/) about her journey to the Polar Bear Capital of the World. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, Heather tells us about her career as a travel writer, including writing about a family trip around the world. You can follow Heather’s adventures on

Choosing a major. Choosing a career. How do you help students with choices in higher education leading to completing a program of study focused on a long-term career goal? The National Institute for Student Success (NISS) works with higher education institutions (including the College of Charleston) to provide coaching and support for more equitable enrollment, retention, and graduation outcomes. In this episode, Dr. Timothy Renick, NISS Founding Executive Director, discusses the importance of data-driven processes, including meta-majors for first-year students.

Have you ever thought about how commercial real estate and supply chains overlap? In this episode of Biz-eWerk, we hear from two 2021 College of Charleston School of Business graduates who are exceptional professionals in their fields: Chloe Heiligenstein, Business Development Representative from InLight Real Estate Partners, and Lauren Duffy, Consultant from P3. Chloe was the 2021 Top Commercial Real Estate Finance Student and Lauren was the 2021 Top Supply Chain Student.

Alumni events aren’t just for reminiscing – It’s also a great opportunity to get career updates. A few School of Business alumni gathered in May 2024 and recorded their best advice for the class of 2024. A special thank you to

Check out this episode of Biz-eWerk dedicated to the Class of 2024, College of Charleston School of Business.

Have you ever had an argument or disagreement? Short answer - if you're older than born last year - yes. From the time we start talking, disagreements are part of being human. But how to have a "healthy disagreement" with someone? That's the focus of Dr. Michael Lee's work with the Civility Initiativeat the College of Charleston, and his new podcast, When We Disagree.

Being a leader in the field of hospitality, particularly restaurants is a continuing journey - There are always new trends and new opportunities. For Patrick Whalen, CEO of 5th Street Group, the journey includes management roles during some of the most difficult years for the hospitality industry thus far this Century. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, Patrick tells us what it takes to be a leader in the competitive world of restaurants, especially when the whole world collectively decides to close doors for weeks and months in 2020.

Starting a marketing agency requires "a lot of hard work, long days, and a vision." Peter Stern, Founder and President of Strategic, started with a vision and a "rickety" family computer in the mid-90s that grew into a sports, lifestyle, and entertainment marketing agency. In this episode, Biz-eWerk speaks with Peter about the tremendous growth in the field, and especially the new ways to create interactions between teams, players, and fans.

Providing financial advice is a personalized experience, unique to each person. Steven Huskey from Huskey Financial Consulting works specifically with healthcare professionals to build a custom, profession-based financial strategy. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, we discuss Steven's career journey, what it means to be a CExP Certified Exit Planner, and his podcast, Portfolio Pulse.

Lead across borders. With extensive leadership experience including VP and president roles, Nathan King has recently launched a new venture consulting leaders and teams to help align around a clear direction and purpose. In this episode, Nathan tells us how "lead across borders" is more than a slogan, it's a way to listen, discuss, and find solutions. Check out the Biz-eWerk interview, and Nathan's newsletter at https://leadacrossborders.com/

A long-term career perspective is highly beneficial to learn how changes have helped an industry evolve, and hopefully improve, the customer experience. Tom Garzilli, Principal with Tourism Growth Innovations, consults with stakeholders across government and industry to provide insights into the importance of tourism for economic development. With years of experience in marketing leadership roles, including Vice President of Marketing for American Express Vacations and Chief Marketing Officer for Brand USA, Tom talks to Biz-eWerk on a wide range of topics related to tourism from online reviews, to smartphone tech and AI applications.

Looking for reliable info on planning your college experience? Amelia Parnell, Vice President for Research and Policy at the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, talks to Biz-eWerk about her podcast, "Speaking of College" - Be sure to check out the show wherever you stream podcasts for episodes covering topics including online learning programs, tips for staying organized, and how to make the most of the resources available on campus.

Biz-eWerk is on the air for Season 4! 2024 is a Leap Year, and it's just possible that Biz-eWerk will leap into the 100th episode before the end of the year. Possible, so stay tuned, because you won't want to miss any content this season. We're here to help you Mind Your Business.

Telling the story of a place is vital to understanding the past and the present, and hope for the future. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, Catherine Woods, Director of Communications and Special Programming for The Charleston Place Hotel, tells us about her unique role with The Charleston Place, the unique role of The Charleston Place centrally located in the King Street area, and especially the new chapter that has started very recently of new, local ownership building on the 30+ year history of this storied hotel. And if you're spending December in Charleston, be sure to see the snow. https://charlestonplace.com/holiday/

Trick or treat Biz-eWerk Listeners! It’s true that an interview can be a frightening experience, especially when you are shocked and surprised by scary interview questions. For this special Halloween episode, Biz-eWerk uncovers 5 truly diabolical questions and offers suggestions to save you from running out of an interview haunted by a wrong answer.

Finding solutions is a critical skill. Being able to work with employers of any size to identify, troubleshoot, strategize, and solve issues from supply chain to staffing to construction and beyond is vital for business success.

Check out this episode of Biz-eWerk where we hear from people directly working with Ingenics Corporation USA to provide solutions for clients. Hunter Price (Project Engineer) and Joshua Black (Junior Project Engineer) along with Emily Beckman (Marketing Specialist)stopped by the studio to tell us about their work in the field of consulting.

I’ve said it before, and it still holds. One of the great things about this podcast is the chance to speak with unique people, especially people teaching classes here at the Charleston School of Business. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, we welcome Brittany Allgood, Senior Director of Sales Marketing for CNN Newsource at Warner Brothers Discovery, to discuss company culture, mentorship, and how to build and maintain a professional network. And if you’re looking for someone to help you with support or connections, I highly recommend Brittany as someone who truly cares about helping people be their best.

Hiring takes place constantly, from entry-level all the way to the C-Suite, so the work of recruiters and talent acquisition specialists is never-ending. It takes special people with the patience and organization to manage not only applicants but also sourcing candidates across many different platforms, to find the person who fits the skills and experience for a role, especially when finding the right leaders for the C-Suite. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, we speak with Melanie Strauss, Partner, Executive Search, with TurningPoint Executive Search, as she explains the process for recruiting at the highest levels of business leadership.

It's the circle of life that if you're around long enough, you'll see things like fashion trends circle back. That's certainly true for music. Just ask the millions of people who have re-disc-overed (yep - I spelled it that way on purpose) records. Streaming is still fast and simple, but nothing quite compares to the sound, and nostalgia, of vinyl record albums.

The Wall Street Journal: Vinyl Records Outsell CDs for the First Time Since 1987 (apologies if you hit the paywall)

Storytelling is an art. Weaving narrative and style, adding in the right timing and inflection, and building the anticipation of the audience, takes practice and skill. George Stone tells stories, including work for the former National Geographic Traveler magazine, and now as a writer exploring destinations in the world of travel and tourism. Listen in as George discusses the “layer cake” of the travel experience at the intersection of commerce and culture.

Living the tech life? That’s Rich Conte. With a career in tech working for one of our area’s best-known employers, Blackbaud, Rich also works with the Charleston Digital Corridor to profile the area’s technology economy through the Tech Life Podcast. Rich stopped by our studio on Liberty Street to discuss how he promotes regional tech by telling the stories of innovative leaders throughout the region.

You've heard "M&A" but maybe never realized what it means. In this episode, David Moore of David Moore & Partners spoke with Biz-eWerk about the process of Mergers and Acquisitions, about building a business from the ground up, and about the benefits of a floating office space.

How do you spell 'mistake'? That should be an easy question, right? I spell it nish-nish-ner. And no, that's not a typo mistake, it's the point of this episode: mistakes will happen. How you deal with the mistake(s) is what matters.

You never know where a career path will lead. For Matt Lynch, it includes stops at Disney, the Lion King in London, the Atlanta Braves, and Wembley Stadium. Along with the team at MoonShot, he's focused on building the ideal staff and fan engagement experience to make the most of any event, and any venue, including MLB and the NFL. Listen in on the latest Biz-eWerk interview as Matt explains his journey from the College of Charleston to London, England, and beyond.

It took a pandemic to raise awareness of the Supply Chain into everyday conversation, especially when it came to critical products people generally take for granted. In this episode, Biz-eWerk discusses logistics, and especially how data and AI are enhancing the industry, with Keith Connolly, retired Vice President of Global Supply Chain, for AT&T.

How do you address and solve big challenges? In this episode, O’Shannon Burns offers some excellent advice from her years of experience working in sustainability and conservation: Be Interdisciplinary. Make connections with many different people across many different areas of expertise, coordinate and collaborate, and find solutions that work. This is especially true in the tourism industry. Listen as O’Shannon talks about issues in the field today, especially the emerging role of regenerative tourism.

If you're not familiar with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, you will be after this episode of Biz-eWerk. Scotty Duncan, Assistant Deputy Comptroller, tells us more about his role and especially how the OCC works with United States banking institutions.

How would you describe your sense of style? If you’re still using Times New Roman, might I suggest these descriptors: unremarkable and unimaginative. Ok, maybe those are too harsh... But when you use Times New Roman, you are using a design from 1932. And not the timeless and classic 1930s Art Deco style, no, this is like using an antique printing press to crank out copies of your resume. You wouldn’t do that, so why not take this opportunity to find out why it’s time to upgrade your typeface to the 21st Century? (Is it a Typeface or a Font? I recommend this Shaping Design article by Rebecca Strehlow)

Pick any city in the United States and you'll find a story stretching across generations that includes all the elements you can imagine from something founded and sustained by people: tragedy and triumph, failure and success, hardship and prosperity. Detroit, like every major city, has had its share of ups and downs. But like every uniquely American story, there is always the element of hope and perseverance, and today, Detroit is rising again. Listen in as Christopher Moyer, Senior Director of Communications for VisitDetroit.com tells us how new opportunities and development are changing the narrative and the culture in Detroit for the better.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to work in consulting? In this episode, Anna VanDuzer, Campus Recruiter for Capgemini, speaks with Biz-eWerk about the field of consulting, and also one of Capgemini's signature events - the summer RISE program.

How many times have you picked up a book and thought, "It must have taken a lot of work to produce this." My guess is... never. Books are ubiquitous and, honestly, essentially taken for granted. But every book is the result of an extensive creative process, from idea to finished product, that brings together many skilled individuals. Our guest today, Elisa Gibson, is the Creative Director for National Geographic Books, and she explains how this process results in the detailed, informative, and visually stunning books we've come to know and appreciate from NatGeo.

Looking to start your Biz-eWerk experience? Check out our new trailer and Mind Your Business.

No matter how much we plan, things rarely turn out as we expected. Being able to pivot and continue moving forward is a critical skill for survival and success in business. Check out this interview with Christian Jablonski(CofC '17, Men's Soccer Team), Business Development Manager with Texans Luxe, as he describes his journey from a team member on the field, to a team member supporting the team on the field, and the critical role of business leaders in sports management. 

When you think about "Economics" you should immediately think about "Adam Smith." March 20-24 is Adam Smith Week at the College of Charleston School of Business, sponsored by the Center for Public Choice and Market Process. In this episode, Pete Calcagno discusses the week's purpose and events, and why you should consider attending. More info here https://go.cofc.edu/asw

Check out Pete's list of suggested sites, including videos of previous Adam Smith Week speakers.

https://www.adamsmithworks.org

https://www.adamsmithworks.org/documents/otteson-brief-smith-bio

https://sb.cofc.edu/centers/publicchoice/video-library/index.php

Have you ever had this thought while staring out of your window at home or at work? “Maybe I should just pack a bag, hop a flight, and see where I land.” Ok, maybe that’s just Biz-eWerk, and sure, simply hopping a flight would trigger a few TSA alarms, but have you ever considered that some people get to do that very thing – pack a bag and hop a flight to destinations afar – for a living?

In this episode, Paul Jebara, a New York-based travel and design writer, copywriter, and brand consultant (currently the Design and Culture Editor for Hotels Above Par) tells us how he took a love of travel and writing, food and culture, and packed them all into a career journey, that also involves journeys around the globe.

Post-Podcast Reading List: Check out a few of Paul’s favorite articles

Financial wellness is a journey, and like all journeys, it requires planning. For many people, getting started on that journey is the hardest part. Listen in on this interview with Campbell Sullivan as she explains how her financial journey has covered some unusual territory, including time spent on an alpaca farm.

Have you ever wondered how projects get completed? Who manages the time, talent, and budget? Who keeps the whole thing on task so the project can be successful? These critical tasks are completed by Project Managers. Check out this interview with Taylr Sharp, a College of Charleston 2019 graduate, and Digital Project Manager with Target.

50th Episode - NewSpace Age! That's not a typo. We've been living in the Space Age for nigh on 70 years. Why does it still crop up in advertising? From the "Old" Space Age of Apollo and the Space Shuttle to the NewSpace Age of SpaceX, Blue Origin, and more, it's time to think about how the NewSpace Age will usher in changes to technology that science fiction could only dream of.

Thinking of being a Digital Nomad for work? A recent Wall Street Journal article by Callum Borchers offers some cautionary advice. "Work From Anywhere! (Well, Not Really) Tax snafus, legal headaches—and now, killjoy bosses. The digital-nomad lifestyle is full of complications for workers and their employers."

During the pandemic, when some jobs were moving online, there was some discussion that it would be permanent. You had people moving to other parts of the country, maybe for a less expensive cost of living, and working remotely. And not surprisingly, they liked it. The freedom, the ability to be almost anywhere you wanted to be as long as there was a laptop and internet connection. But like anything else that sounds great initially, there can be a downside. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, we'll cover the possible complications of nomadic work life.

“Thank you!” to all subscribers and listeners – 2022 has been a big year for Biz-eWerk. My 2022 Spotify Wrapped showed me it’s been worth all the effort, with special appreciation for our Season 2 guests: Justin, Taylor, Leander, Michelle, Kristina, Randy, Erin, AC, and Scott. 21 episodes with 278 minutes of content (that’s more than 73% of other creators in the Business category). Looking forward to 2023!

How can a sailing trip to Cuba, a rumored Rolling Stones concert, the US State Department, a major supermarket chain, and an interest in brewing great beer converge to help form one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States? Scott Hansen, CEO of Charleston-based Island Brands USA, stops by Biz-eWerk to tell the story of how business success can be launched from 350,000 empty cans. (Someone needs to get the movie rights to this…)

Thinking about working for a start-up? In this episode, AC Pandos, Growth and Operations at Debbie, tells us what it's like to be a full-time student and full-time employee working with a company helping people break out of debt and into financial wellness. Advice from AC? Expect to work hard, celebrate your wins, wear a lot of hats, have diverse thinking, and be innovative. Find something you're passionate about, find a problem that keeps you up at night, and look for a start-up that's solving it. 

Wanna strike fear into the hearts of every undergrad on the planet? GMAT. GRE. LSAT. MCAT. Graduate school admissions tests. Separately, or together, these letters are guaranteed to frighten even the stoutest of hearts. Fear not, Biz-eWerk has some solid FastCast suggestions for planning and preparing for these exams. (And look for even more insights in later episodes, especially those ever-important prep courses)

850 million + people use LinkedIn, and they are not all relevant to your network. With LinkedIn Groups, you’re meeting like-minded individuals with the ability to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and more. Why aren't you using this feature?

References are relevant - But who should you ask? How do you choose someone to speak for you who ensures the most effective description regarding your abilities and suitability for a role? In part II of our series, we'll discuss why thinking strategically about your references, prepping your references, and ensuring the confidentiality of your references is vital.
 

"References Provided Upon Request." A waste of resume real estate, so you can drop that from your resume. BUT you'll still need references from time to time, and being prepared with references now, will help you in the future. How to choose the best ones and prepare the person to provide the best reference is the topic of this episode.

It's an age-old dilemma when graduation is right around the corner - "When Do I Start Looking for a Job?" In this episode, we'll talk about two critical aspects of the job search - Research and Networking.

"Tell me about a time you failed." It's a question I flubbed in an interview a few years back, and there's no reason for you to make the same mistake. Consider this question an opportunity to admit that sometimes you're not as successful as you'd like to be, and you can recognize the failure, learn from the failure, and improve as a result. But there's a catch - don't get caught up in the storyline - Get to the "what I learned from this" part ASAP. Check out this episode of Biz-eWerk for suggestions on how to master this standard (and scary) interview question.

"How do I stand out to a recruiter?" is a common question in most candidates' minds. To help us answer that question are two special guests from the HR and talent acquisition fields - Leander Gaymon (CofC '06) and Taylor Whitescarver from Piedmont Plastics. Quick tip? Make sure that Elevator Pitch is ready!

Networking. Most people picture this as a large group event, with lots of noise, and a whole lot of people you don't know. In that context, it's understandable why "networking" is viewed with trepidation. But networking works - And understanding strategies for successfully networking can be truly valuable for your career and professional development. Listen in on this convo with Erin Halford, CofC MBA Director of Employer Relations and Professional Development, for her point that, at the end of the day, networking is simply "Creating Connections."

Final questions in an interview are very much a part of the interview – a crucial part. I dare say interviews are made, and broken, at this point. In my interview experience, one opportunity was supported by my end-of-interview questions, and another opportunity was lost. In this episode, I'll tell you one question to absolutely avoid, but more importantly, how to craft questions that will demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Questions at the end of the interview - It's a critical element in any successful interview. I always recommend 3 to 5 prepared questions that I can use at the end of the interview when they ask, “Do you have any questions for us?” Prepared questions are important, but the best questions are questions you’ve created from the interview. Sometimes it’s something you want to be clarified, sometimes it’s a follow-up to a specific question they asked. In this episode, Biz-eWerk talks about how you can craft questions during the interview that will dazzle and amaze the interviewer (or interview panel) with how well you were paying attention and, more importantly, thinking ahead.

"Do you have any questions for us?" This is a critical point in the interview. The interview is NOT over. Always ask questions because not asking questions is a red flag. Take this opportunity to leave the interviewers with a great impression of your thoughtfulness, preparation, and how you match the position. In this episode, “Could you please describe the performance review process?”

The cover letteris important – we’ve established that in previous episodes. To maximize its value, it needs to be addressed to someone specific. In a pinch, I’ve used “Dear Hiring Manager” in the greeting, but that’s not optimal. In this FastCast, Biz-eWerk urges you to STOP USING “TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN” for cover letters. The “whom” you are hoping “may be concerned” isn’t a real person. Unless you want your letter to be seen, read, and evaluated by No One, start addressing the letter to a Real Person. Most of the time, a simple internet search will yield all kinds of relevant contacts both for your letter and also for building your network.

What does it take to start with a new venture and build it from an idea into an enduring business? Biz-eWerk sat down with Randy Bitting (College of Charleston '03), Head and Co-Founder of Career Readiness at SkillSurveyto find out. From the first video interview platform (InterviewStream) to analyzing career readiness using Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SkillSurvey), Randy is a serial entrepreneur who consistently works to build online resources at the point where technology, career development, and education meet.

Technology has limits. One day you're holding the latest greatest cultural technological revolution in your hand, and seemingly the very next day, it's techno-trash. This week, NYC retired the last of its street payphones. What was once a communication army of over 8000 phones, is now a museum relic. Why should you care? Check out this episode for Biz-eWerk's homage "To the Last Pay Phone."

How do you start a business? It’s an age-old question we include in the catch-all “entrepreneurship.” But entrepreneurship has so many moving parts, that it’s too daunting for most people to even get started. In this episode, Kristina Wright (CofC ’18)talks about how she went from employee to entrepreneur very quickly after graduation, and her journey thus far as CEO of SimplyWright, LLC. Key advice for starting a company? Listen to people, be humble, and look for ways to help people solve problems. Also, please take some time to check out Kristina’s podcast at Flamingo in the Desert.

Going back to the days when the newspaper was king, long before TVs were common, and radio could only cover so much in a limited time, the news via print was critical for getting information out in a detailed format. But how to maximize the newspaper’s impact? A visual trick, by virtue of how the newspaper was bundled, came to the fore: Above the Fold. Here's how you can use Above the Fold to showcase your skills and experience on your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile.

Lately I’ve been hearing people worry about “bragging” in an interview. You might get an interview question like, “What makes you a great match for this role?” Even though you KNOW you’re the best candidate, it’s up to you to explain why. In short, the job interview is NOT A PLACE to hide your talents and skills, and Biz-eWerk breaks down how to successfully answer this common, critical question.

One of the things I really enjoy about podcasting is meeting unique people in the business world who are also podcasters. In the midst of the Great Resignation, or The Big Quit, or even lately The Great Renegotiation, what is the Future of Work? In this episode, I interview Michelle Smith, CofC Alum, Program Manager with Amazon, Entrepreneur, Podcaster for Let's Talk About Skills, Baby, and a leader in the field of analyzing the future of work in the business world.

"How do I stand out as a candidate?" How many times have I heard that? Let's just say, a lot. Turns out, it's not difficult, but it requires taking the initiative to get your info out there. In this episode of Biz-eWerk, Taylor Whitescarver, HR Specialist and Campus Recruiter at Piedmont Plastics, offers suggestions on how you can be successful in your career search and beyond.

SPECIAL GUEST INTERVIEW! Featuring Justin McLain, Managing Partner at Duart Mull Capital Partners in ATL. Justin is a proud alumnus of the College of Charleston and a tireless and enthusiastic supporter of what we do here. He's been recognized as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist, and one of Atlanta’s Top 25 Entrepreneurs by Business to Business Magazine.

Rules, rules, everywhere rules. And it's part of the job search too. So how can you successfully negotiate the remade (and still changing) landscape of rules for finding your next job? Check out this week's discussion of remote work, balancing job duties with family, negotiating, and avoiding burnout with insights from Rachel Feintzeig's article in The Wall Street Journal - The New Rules for Finding Your Next Job in 2022.

Feintzeig, R. (2022, January 31). The new rules for finding your next job in 2022. The Wall Street Journal.

Welcome to the Second Season of Biz-eWerk!In this episode, we'll start off the new year with some best practices for starting and sustaining conversation. I'll discuss an article by Dominique Michelle Astorino from wellandgood.com to help you Start a Conversation, especially since, well, it's probably been a while since you had to do that face to face, without looking at thumbnail people in a Zoom window.

Before we say goodbye to 2021, let's talk about 2022 and the second season of Biz-eWerk. We'll have a new theme song, new guests, and new topics, but we'll still be helping you Mind Your Business. Some things never change.