designing your city

In this episode of Seated2Serve, host Jeff Bickerstaff interviews Mary Ann Olsen, Associate District Manager of Farmers Insurance in Dallas.  Jeff and Mary Ann give a shout out to Sachse Chamber of Commerce, which is where they met around seven years ago.

Farmers Insurance is set up differently than other insurance companies as they have district managers, which are independent business owners. Mary Ann in her position as Associate District Manager is responsible for bringing on new agency owners, getting them through the process, helping with licensing, and assisting them as they get started in their agencies.  She continues to help them throughout their careers. 

The Farmers Insurance agent is a business owner and the district manager is also a business owner. They have an invested interest in their business and their employees. As Mary Ann notes, there is no perfect background for starting your own insurance business and agents come from all different backgrounds.  Farmers Insurance looks for the right person who is self-motivated and wants to be a true business owner, which includes all aspects of running a business and who want a residual income.  You are a business owner first, an insurance agent second.

Relationship building is a huge component of the business.  Agents are compensated for renewals and as they take care of their customers and build their relationships, they have repeat customers for years. The common denominator for success is being a people person and a relationship builder. 

When considering getting into the business, Mary Ann says she would talk to the candidate to find out their goals for the next 15 years and about the different programs available such as retail, flex, protege, or going to work directly for an agent. Mary Ann clearly states that Farmers Insurance is not a franchise.  

If interested in finding out more, reach out to Mary Ann Olsen, Associate District Manager, Farmers District 20, at 214-708-2148, via email at mary.jiv1@farmersagency.com or on LinkedIn. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music.

Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

Audrey Wallace, Executive Director of Sachse's 5 Loaves Food Pantry explains the face of hunger today, and the growing needs of fixed income seniors, lower income wage earners, and others who are simply going through crisis. 

Seated2Serve Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with Audrey about the 16 local churches, rotaries, Lion's Clubs, and various organizations that volunteer for everything from supplies to shelving and logistics. 

Since September of 2015, 5 Loaves Food Pantry has been doling out weekly groceries, and additional monthly staples boxes, and personal care boxes for the people experiencing these needs. Now they offer a diaper bank, and Coffee With a Purpose - roasted, ground, bagged, and sold - on premise, to bring operating revenue into the mission. These days, Wylie Flower and Gift, Wylie Printing, and Massage Bliss in Sachse, among others, are selling Coffee With a Purpose. One $10 pound of coffee equals 28 lbs of food. 

Volunteer duties are dependent on the day you want to serve. Special needs students get to work at the pantry to learn life and occupational skills they will eventually use to live as independently as possible.

Area businesses are encouraged to participate through coffee sales, donations, or volunteers, to keep this great work going. Go to 5LoavesFoodPantry.org to get started, find 5 Loaves on Facebook, or call 469-767-8071 for more information.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

Meet Shane Hodge, owner of Wylie Nutrition and Sachse Nutrition, a new and smart way to bring health and nutrition to the community. Herbalife Nutrition Products have made a big comeback, and with 3 stores in Wylie and one in Sachse, Shane is enjoying the new direction. Seated2Serve Host Jeff Bickerstaff asks the hard questions about 'choosing healthy.'

Everyone has a nutritional need, Shane points out its just a matter of communicating the products that support a customer's goals - all through engaging in conversation. With a 'healthy smoothie bar', people can come in and sit down and try flavors while discussing different aspects of nutrition. It's real life coaching, not a strict environment. If it's pizza that you enjoy, set yourself up with a healthy lifestyle so you can enjoy pizza without the setbacks. When people enter the store, they get a new experience - like the 'Chubby Hubby', full of things that sound decadent - but in fact are sweetened with stevia and very good for you. 

So is it all about a smoothie shake? No. We all know there are things we SHOULD do, and things we should not do - it's hard! There's an aspect of Shane's business that's about personal development. Successful people think a certain way. Engaging in the process of personal development has changed the way he thinks, and he's been able to give that back. Eating is a very personal subject, and often the conversations he's able to have with people give them tools to want to make better decisions.

Go to Sachse Nutrition at 7340 Hwy 78, Ste 250, Sachse, Texas 75048 to check out the 'healthy smoothie bar', and engage with them on Facebook and Instagram. Call 214-552-4544 or text to get deliveries right to your door.  

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with Express Employment Professionals local Dallas - Irving Penny Gilden-Yunker to find out how staffing improves business. Today's number one issue for most employers is finding and keeping talent. From entry level positions to more detailed job descriptions, finding the right help when you need it takes enormous amounts of research and screening. Keeping an employee who isn't a good fit or who lacks proficiency in skills you need is expensive, and taking them off payroll can be risky. Penny walks us through a well-thought out hiring process and shows us where we might be missing a step.

Express Employment Professionals has offices around the country, and several serving the DFW area. Talk to Penny to find out how outsourcing your hiring process will save you time and money - while limiting risk. Staffing your company with qualified people will help you grow your business wisely, but the trick is understanding how to create a job description that accurately portrays what you need accomplished. It's not as straight-forward as you might think! Listen in to this episode of Seated2Serve to learn some of the ways we accidentally draw from a pool of candidates that were never qualified for your needs in the first place. It happens all the time. 

Connect with Express Employment Professionals in North Texas on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. Call 469-658-9543 to work with Penny today. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

Seated2Serve Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with Brenda Wakefield about her proactive approach to health and wellness that has Rowlett, Sachse, and Dallas area residents experiencing relief. As a licensed massage therapist certified in therapeutic modalities, Brenda hears common complaints related to pain, discomfort, and anxiety that she's learned how to address successfully.

Can exposure to toxic environments provide a set up for poor health? Brenda says, "YES." Discover how to create personal spaces that do more to protect your body, mind, family, and workplace.  Most people understand they should consume more water, but how much and what type are questions we ask all the time. With so many waters available for purchase at the grocery store, and so many purifiers with different claims and widely variable price points available at our fingertips, the consumer market is more confused than ever.

Today's technological lifestyles are another arena where we are just learning the cost of exposure. We can't simply avoid our computers, laptops, cell phones, smart TVs, modems or electric meters. More and more we are connecting everything we own to make our lives easier. Brenda makes the case for smarter ways to live with our technology safely, without disconnecting or limiting our conveniences.

Go to BetterHealthBrenda.com to make an appointment today, or call 469-955-6530.  Follow her advice on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Check out her profile in the OffBeat Business Alliance Directory. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

Host Jeff Bickerstaff interviews OBBM Network's Susan Hamilton about the purpose of Seated2Serve and how we educate the marketplace through the OBBM Network Podcast. From topic-centric material to using a conversational and targeted approach, OBBM touches people differently. Jeff points out that he enjoys speaking to local CEOs to continue to bring dialog from the C-Suite to smaller businesses. He's dedicated to business growth from the community level.

Jeff works with volunteer boards as well, and discusses how vulnerabilities exist that are easy to solve. Conversations with nonprofit board members bring those issues front and center so  we can be prepared as we walk out a well-designed life. In the local sector, many nonprofits exist that have been grown at the same time as one's business.

Susan brings up the importance of cyber security and how today's companies should be looking at insurance policies holistically because it's possible to be exposed in various areas you thought were covered. Jeff details the difference between professional liability and business liability policies, and touches on how cyber security adds another level of necessary coverage. 

Download the OffBeat Business app to get all the OBBM Network Podcasts, promotions, and calendar events. OBBM Network can be found on podcast directories everywhere!

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Better Health Brenda 469-955-6530
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

In this episode of Seated2Serve, Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with Donna Merrill talk about home based businesses and the financial and structural challenges of getting set up right. Today home based businesses are an attractive way to get control of your income. Donna discusses some advantages that are IRS compliant, including ways to incorporate your lifestyle and child's on the job training - into your tax strategy. 

Donna is the founder of Business Untangled, Inc. and teaches people how to think about their structural entity in light of their potential tax burden. Her clients trust her to make complicated systems easy to understand, so you truly have a handle on where you are now and where you want to go. 

What should you expect from a tax professional? Does the difference between a tax preparer, CPA and an enrolled agent (EA) matter to your type of business? Find out the difference, and learn enough about it yourself to understand how to communicate with them to look out for your best interests. Most people have unrealistic expectations with their tax support, so it's important to improve how you communicate your business and lifestyle to take advantage of the best tax strategy for your scenario. 

Connect with Business Untangled on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Go to BusinessUntangled.com, or call  469-458-0447 to get started with Donna today.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Better Health Brenda 469-955-6530
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

Music Therapist John Chester talks with Host Jeff Bickerstaff about how music can be used for healing psychological and occupational therapies. Enjoy this timely discussion and share it with everyone you know. Music is the second most powerful memory trigger, are you paying attention to what you're listening to? It might be possible music you enjoy takes you back to a place you're glad you're not anymore! 

Do you believe music has the power to affect your emotions? John says the answer is always YES. We need a ladder up, not a shovel down, so John suggests we start exposing ourselves to other types of music to become more aware of our emotional response. 

What to do? Listen in to discover how to create a positive playlist that helps you navigate your life in a proactive way. You get to make the choice, and choice doesn't necessarily mean choosing something according to your 'taste'. John walks you through labeling your playlist according to how you want to feel or when you need to hear it. 

Addiction, depression, psychosis, trauma, and even dexterity after injury - and more - are responsive to music therapy. This is such an important podcast, who do you know who needs to talk to John? Employers will enjoy understanding how music helps keep the mental health of staff. We should respect the power behind what we're piping in to lobbies, phone trees, and even administrative areas. 

Reach him at IvorChester.com, @IvorChester3 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Become aware of what you're listening to! Email him today jivor3@gmail.com.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Better Health Brenda 469-955-6530
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

Voice Over Talent Melanie Murphy sits down with Jeff Bickerstaff to help us understand how voice image plays a significant role in business relationships, from marketing to management. Funny enough, her first occupational interest was being a great LISTENER as a counselor. For those of us who know Melanie, that's no surprise! She has a keen sense of what people need to hear so we can more effectively convey information. 

Like many local business owners, Jeff was unsure what it meant to use voice talent for business. Melanie breaks down what the brand voice sounds like to the marketplace to help us understand where we can be more clear, more direct, more friendly, and eliminate marketplace confusion. 

If you're experiencing delays in the sales cycles or answering the same questions over and over again, you should probably talk to Melanie. She can help you see from an objective perspective how clarification of voice systems and messaging can solve problems you may not know exist. Working with a voice image specialist may be the smartest move you make to grow your business. 

Reach out to Melanie at MelanieMurphyVO.com or learn more about her speaking programs at MelanieMurphySpeaks.com. Find her on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, and check out her OffBeat Business Alliance Advisory Council Membership here. Easily share her with your network connections right from her profile. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Better Health Brenda 469-955-6530
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

When you're facing a tough challenge, how do you overcome it? Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with Scott Schilling, executive coach, author and speaker, president and CEO of Schilling Sales and Marketing. His new book, That Sucks ... What Now? Real World Solutions to Get You Through What You're Going Through, addresses this question from the perspective of the reader - not the coach. We all face numerous challenges on a daily basis. Scott points out that how we meet them will either enhance or detract from our lives. 

Attitude, income, and strategy are closely related to the 5 people we spend the most time with. We've heard 'guilty by association', but success can also come through association. Scott and Jeff discuss how leading by faith is a core element of their lives and has made a tremendous difference in the way they view both challenges and choices. 

Scott realized he wasn't using his gifts and talents to their greatest potential in the corporate world, and that spurred his journey into speaking. Not long after, he suffered a cerebellum stroke. He had to turn those scenarios, and others in the book, into a positive and learn to walk out his life again. 

Go to ScottSchilling.com to order your copy, and grab another for a friend! Find his social media and contact information in his OffBeat Business Alliance Membership Profile. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Better Health Brenda 469-955-6530
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

In this episode of Seated2Serve, Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with business expert Leigh Barnes about her experiences with alternative health solutions after breast cancer, and what she's come to understand about the CBD frenzy.

As a successful serial entrepreneur in several different industries, Leigh was exposed to chemicals and made lifestyle choices that depleted her health on a massive scale. Jeff recounts his experiences growing up in a high-powered, hard working family, and how similar illness and disease impacted his father and wife. This audio hits close to home for so many people, listen in to discover how these scenarios took their toll even after remission. 

Leigh brings the history of CBD to this lively discussion, and how the low barrier to entry has presented a wide range of quality to the marketplace. People want solutions, and it's important to understand the good, the bad, and the ugly behind CBD products you may encounter today. 

Stress collects in our bodies and eventually does damage. Leigh describes why and how she decided to go into the CBD business, and how she's learned to avoid snake oil. Want to learn more?

Share this podcast with your friends, and connect with Leigh at BarnesCBD.biz or through her OffBeat Business Alliance Membership Profile. Find Leigh Barnes, The Edge on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

The Kortkamp Group's Larry Kortkamp joins Host Jeff Bickerstaff on Seated2Serve for an insightful discussion on business improvement. The same things that helped you start your business are often the same things that hold a business back when it's time to grow.

Enable employees to prosper and grow. It's important to be able to release control and empower managers to take leadership roles. How does a business owner maintain quality control standards when we bring on help?

Larry suggests that instead of looking at what it 'costs' to bring in help, focus on the investment and what it helps you expand in your business. This mindset will help you release this person into a role with patience and proper direction. Listen in for more gold nuggets!

To work with The Kortkamp Group, go to KortkampGroup.com, and connect with them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Find Larry's OBA business directory profile here.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

Meet Celso Martinez, President of Municipal Voice, working with communities to present the best of their messages to enhance their reputation in the public eye. Public relations is an important field, but Celso says it's no secret - getting the word out about your business is as easy as taking the time to get to know a reporter interested in your topic. Look for the larger purpose when pitching your ideas, take a great story and give it context.

Celso talks about Jeff Crilley's book, Real News PR, and offers advice that has helped him get the word out for his clients.  

To work with Celso, contact him at Celso@MunicipalVoice.com, find him on at MunicipalVoice.com  Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

In this episode of Seated2Serve Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with Grace Smart, President of The Grace Center, about her efforts to take dentistry to underserved populations. The Grace Center in Garland, Texas is set to open on October 14th, and focuses care where people need it the most. As a pediatric dentist for 26 years in private practice, Grace new her services needed to reach into the community deeper.

Her new mobile dental units will be able to handle everything an office location would, on the spot. Listen to how these trucks are decked out and what they will allow her team to accomplish.

Do you know someone who needs dental services and is struggling with the expense? Find out how to qualify at GraceCenter.org. Find them on Twitter, Facebook.

Reach out to The Grace Center directly at 214-477-7346 or grace@gracecentertexas.org.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

Meet Jan Murfield, President of Greater Dallas Junior Achievement, talking about this valuable youth program with Seated2Serve Host Jeff Bickerstaff. Founded 65 years ago, Junior Achievement has always been focused on work careers and entrepreneurs. Today the mission to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in the global economy is still core, teaching age appropriate hands-on financial literacy and business concepts as early as first grade. 

This is a HUGE undertaking, and one that has captured Jan's heart. Business owners need to know they will serve 55,000 students between Tyler and Dallas this year, and JA needs the support of the local business sector to do it well. In order to break the cycle of poverty, students need to understand what careers can do for them. 

Jan shares that recruiting volunteers this year couldn't be more important. Listen in to learn what it looks like to volunteer on any level. Without you, they'll only have enough volunteers to serve half! Go to JADallas.org to get involved right away. With such a large area to cover, you're sure to find a location that gives you the opportunity to work for an hour a week, to a full day at JA Biztown. 

Connect with JA on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

In this episode of Seated2Serve, Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with Wendy Stewart, VP of Account Management with Databank Ltd. in Dallas, TX. Most companies don't have IT staff, so it's important to know and meet governance and compliance issues in a responsible way. Databank has people in place to support and guide local businesses across Dallas and nationally from compliance, to protections, to data center back up, to recovery. 

Wendy has a passion for teaching and mentoring young ladies in the technology industry. No matter what avenue they pursue, young females have a wide open market to navigate, and there's a huge need for mentorship in such a fast-paced field. Women tend to be missing from IT groups, and Wendy is dedicated to bringing them into the conversation. 

Find Wendy on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, and go to Databank.com for more. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

In this episode of Seated2Serve, Regional Director Mindy Willis with Civitas Senior Living talks with Host Jeff Bickerstaff about how senior and assisted living has improved over the years. While adult children of seniors are most likely to be searching for assisted living options, senior living is quite different. Seniors ready to enjoy the benefits of socialization, exercise, and entertainment can do so without the burdens of home repair and maintenance. 

Mindy describes the Civitas environment and how the services and benefits often outweigh the cost and responsibilities associated with living in the home. Meeting the needs of the resident at whatever level they require is a comfort to both the senior and their families. Memory care is yet another sensitive discussion, and Mindy describes how Civitas supports residents to enjoy a full life, celebrating their journey and keeping them happy and safe. 

Laundry, groceries, transportation, medications, phone - when everything is provided or made easily available depending on the resident needs, an independent lifestyle is enjoyable for as long as possible for the journey ahead. 

When it comes to payment for senior living and assisted living clients, there are numerous ways to ensure loved ones are cared for. Income-based assistance can run as low as $800/mo, and active senior living can be accommodated for as low as $2600/mo, and often costs less than living in the home. Jeff learns 'Cruise Ship' rates and more intensive care can be quite costly and run $4-6K+ so it's important to be aware of options while they are most affordable and can be arranged. 

What is the best way to prepare for supporting your parent through this scenario? Understand their financial situation, and talk with your insurance agent for guidance well before its needed - because that's when it's less expensive. Education is power, and today it's not necessary to leave your loved ones to less than optimal care. 

CivitasSeniorLiving.com Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Talk with Amber McKinney with Ariel Pointe Senior Living in Sachse, TX to learn more. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Jeanie Marten Real Estate (972) 414-0719
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Po

In this episode of Seated2Serve, Dr. Bryan McElderry  talks with Host Jeff Bickerstaff about the easy setbacks we face when we decide on a health journey.  Change is difficult, but shifting IS possible when we change the way we think about our health.

Are we stressed out? Are paying attention to the way we think? Bryan helps us look at how digestive issues that impact our health are connected to our thought life. Discover some of the ways you can get control of your situation with a few simple tactics.

Make a conscious effort to follow through with personal commitments. Enjoy a healthy lifestyle that includes a peaceful state of mind. It's so much easier to improve when we are aware of the pitfalls and taking small steps versus gigantic leaps.

Reach out to Dr. Bryan McElderry at EnvisionHealth.com, Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, or Twitter. 

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Randy Watkins, Academy Mortgage (214) 684-1164
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For TV, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

In this episode of Seated2Serve, host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with John Bacon, owner of local DFW Bacon Roofing, about the roofer-insurance relationship on behalf of homeowners.  In the roofing business there are widely held misunderstandings about how to get a great deal on a roof repair or replacement.  Most homeowners have a difficult time telling the real thing from a fraud, especially when it looks like they can whittle the price or deductible down.

Who doesn't want a great deal on an expensive replacement? Every roofer knows their customer wants to come out ahead. A trustworthy roofing company will take the time to outline the situation for the homeowner, and work with their insurance agent to make sure every necessary structural, functional, and cosmetic need is met.

Have trouble trusting that roofer-insurance relationship? Listen in, this was eye-opening for the entire studio audience. What you think is a great deal could very well be an overpriced hunk of junk, coming in at a price they'll have to cut serious corners to perform.

To connect with Bacon Roofing, go to BaconRoofing.com, and find them on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Call 972-772-1999 to talk with them today!

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• Bacon Roofing (972) 772-1999
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Randy Watkins, Academy Mortgage (214) 684-1164
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on 24/7 OBBM Radio, or subscribe to the OBBM Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music. Download the Offbeat Business app for iOS and Android to get it all in the palm of your hand, and get OBBM Network TV programs on Roku and Fire TV! Call 214-714-0495 to learn more. Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For tv, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.

In this episode of Seated2Serve, Host Jeff Bickerstaff talks with the unstoppable Keri Huth, Host of the Ladies Out Loud Podcast. Discover what prompted her to start a podcast, and how she uses her platform to encourage women to be stronger through vulnerability, through sharing the sensitive details that most would prefer not to share! Ladies Out Loud, or LOL, is all about adding laughter to experienced hardships, and to empower women to find their voice. 

Get the support and encouragement you need, talk to Keri about Younique Cosmetics, and connect with her on Facebook, Instagram.

Seated2Serve is sponsored by:

• Jeanie Marten Realty, MartenTeam.com (972) 588-8363
• The Trade Group (800) 343-2005
• LCS Travel (214) 432-2909
• Confection Perfection by Melissa, (972) 333-5189
• Randy Watkins, Academy Mortgage (214) 684-1164
• Bickerstaff Insurance and Financial Services, (972) 771-4992

Jeff Bickerstaff has worked with the city councils of Richardson, Murphy, Forney, and Garland, and currently holds place 6 in Sachse, Texas. Jeff knows firsthand the importance of small family business relationships and how communities work. To be a guest or advertise on Seated2Serve, call 972-771-4992.

Seated2Serve is produced by OffBeat Business Media for the OBBM Network and affiliates, and is available at OffBeatBusiness.com. Listen to Seated2Serve each Tuesday at 7 AM and 7 PM on OBBM Radio and the OBBM Network podcast, also available on Google Play, iTunes, and your OffBeat Business app! Contact 972-771-4992 for guest and sponsor information today.

For tv, podcast, and radio business media production, programming, and promotional information, contact OffBeat Business Media at 214-714-0495.