Florida Business Minds

A former Naval officer with an MBA, Pete Wilking was first intrigued by solar power when his engineer father worked on projects in the 1980's. Today, Wilking is an industry expert leading A1A Solar & Air, a company he founded in 2010. JBJ Editor-in-Chief James Cannon connects with Wilking for a download on the industry.

A perennial winner of the OBJ's "Best Places to Work" award, Atrium stands out in commercial real estate, and the greater Orlando business community, for its unique approach to people. OBJ Editor-in-Chief Richard Bilbao invites Atrium Partner Adam Wonus to share his formula for success, and why he may be on the hook for a future Bruno Mars concert.

There are many misconceptions about "affordable housing", especially across South Florida. In this episode, SFBJ Editor-in-Chief Mel Melendez tackles the issue head-on with Nancy Robin, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Broward.

Whether it's your favorite morning coffee drink or a dirty soda, Clearwater is the American epicenter for a global empire of flavor. TBBJ Editor Alexis Muellner invites Bill Lombardo, CEO of Monin Gourmet Flavorings, to share the role his team plays in delivering tasty beverages to millions each day.

As the rising technology tide lifts all Florida markets, Jacksonville looks to capitalize. In this episode, JBJ Reporter Carter Mudgett invites Silicon Beach Founding Partner Jason Engelhardt to share his multi-faceted marketing approach to lure tech entrepreneurs to the First Coast.

The pace of growth has slowed across the state, but the outlook remains positive, particularly in the construction industry. In this download, OBJ Editor-in-Chief Richard Bilbao chats with Richard McCree, Jr., CEO and President of his namesake, fourth generation family business.

As the Sunshine State transitions from a period of exponential growth, new challenges arise. In this episode, SFBJ Editor-in-Chief Mel Melendez calls on Calixto Garcia-Velez, President and CEO of Banesco USA, for his insight and guidance for business owners and executives across the region.

Inflation remains a concern as rates edge higher, prompting Florida business owners to proceed with caution. In this episode, TBBJ Editor Alexis Muellner invites J.P. Morgan Private Bank Managing Director and Southeast Region Head Chris Brandriff to share what he's seeing and offer guidance as we grind through the second half of the year.

The generation of Baby Boomer business owners is heading for the exits, and Michael & Annie Murphy are ready for their next chapter. In this episode, they reminisce with Jacksonville Business Journal Reporter Matt Denis, and share why now is the time to move on from their beloved architectural salvage firm, one of the largest in the southeast.

Economic uncertainty, inflation and a real estate are dark clouds on Florida's business climate. In this timely download, OBJ Editor-in-Chief Richard Bilbao invites respected UCF economist, Dr. Sean Snaith, to deliver his outlook as we grind through Q3 and begin preparing for the home stretch in 2026.