PB + Jax

JTA - Part Two - A behind the scenes conversation with NAVI Program Manager Javier Coba.

Our discussion takes place at the JTA Innovation Center, focusing on the innovative transportation solutions being developed, particularly the autonomous vehicles and the command center that monitors their operations. The speakers discuss the strategic location of the center, the technology behind the vehicles, and future operational plans.

Last week, The PB & Jax Podcast sat down with Nat Ford, CEO of Jacksonville Transportation Authority.

We were eager to understand the strategy and vision for autonomous vehicles in and around the city of Jax.

As of June 30, Jacksonville can lay claim to being the first, and only city to posses a fully autonomous public transportation service the U.S.

We’re right against the 90-day mark since NAVI’s rollout and HOLON is on the way.

Not too bad for a boring city 😏

In this conversation, Dr. Tim Conway discusses the mission and services of the Morris Center in Jacksonville, which specializes in treating neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly dyslexia.

He emphasizes the importance of early intervention and literacy, introducing the LipLetterLand app designed to help children develop reading skills.

Dr. Conway also addresses the prevalence of reading difficulties among children, the role of EdTech in improving literacy, and insights from recent research, including a Harvard study on reading struggles.

He concludes by encouraging families to seek scientifically-backed resources for literacy improvement.

In this episode of PB & Jax, Randall interviews Della Sellers, the founder of Girls of Virtue, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young women through vocational training and mentorship.

Della shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced in establishing the organization, and the four pillars that guide her mission: spiritual, mental, physical, and financial empowerment.

She discusses the growth of Girls of Virtue over the past five years, the importance of community partnerships, and her faith-driven approach to leadership.

Della emphasizes the need for community involvement and support to continue making a positive impact on the lives of young women in Jacksonville.

In this engaging conversation, Tony Draper, owner of the Pour Tap Room in downtown Jacksonville, shares his journey of creating a community-focused craft beer establishment.

He discusses the importance of local representation, the innovative self-pour experience, and the vision for revitalizing downtown Jacksonville.

Draper emphasizes the significance of community, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the excitement surrounding the city's growth and opportunities.

Randall sits down with Raj Gupta, Jacksonville City Council hopeful, to discuss an array of items.

Raj tells us why it was important for him to run, the values he holds, his entrepreneurial journey, and his plans for a better Jacksonville.

Please enjoy the conversation.

In this episode of PB and Jax, Randall Thomas interviews Annie DeStefano, who shares her journey from a successful career in finance to launching her own advisory firm.

They discuss the importance of mentorship, the vibrant FinTech ecosystem in Jacksonville, and the upcoming entrepreneurship awards aimed at celebrating local innovators.

Annie emphasizes the need for community collaboration and the realities of entrepreneurship, including the challenges and rewards of building a business.

The conversation highlights the potential for growth in Jacksonville and the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs.

In a meaningful partnership with 100 Men Who Care Jacksonville, PB & JAX is interviewing and spotlighting the nonprofits who will be pitching in the upcoming 100M event on July 9, 2025. This episode is in conjunction with that partnership and we are excited to shine light on amazing people doing amazing things. Please enjoy.

In this conversation, Randall Thomas interviews Rick Cartlidge, the Executive Director of Sanctuary on 8th, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth through after school and summer camp programs. Rick shares his journey to the organization, its history, mission, and the impact it has on the community. The discussion covers the importance of building relationships with children, the challenges they face, funding sources, community partnerships, and success stories that highlight the organization's positive influence on the lives of young people.

In a meaningful partnership with 100 Men Who Care Jacksonville, PB & JAX is interviewing and spotlighting the nonprofits who will be pitching in the upcoming 100M event on July 9, 2025. This episode is in conjunction with that partnership and we are excited to shine light on amazing people doing amazing things. Please enjoy.

In this special episode, Randall Thomas interviews Tommy Ferretti, founder of Foundations of Freedom, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals struggling with addiction. Tommy shares his personal journey through addiction, his path to recovery, and the establishment of his nonprofit, which combines secular and faith-based approaches to support those in need.

The conversation highlights the success of the program, the importance of community support, and the impact on families and individuals. Tommy also discusses the funding and growth of the organization, emphasizing the positive changes in the lives of those they serve.

In a meaningful partnership with 100 Men Who Care Jacksonville, PB & JAX is interviewing and spotlighting the nonprofits who will be pitching in the upcoming 100M event on July 9, 2025. This episode is in conjunction with that partnership and we are excited to shine light on amazing people doing amazing things. Please enjoy.In this special episode, Randall Thomas interviews Kim Bogart, who shares her journey of founding Kim's Open Door, a nonprofit dedicated to serving underserved children in Jacksonville. With over 40 years of experience in education and community service, Kim discusses the organization's evolution, its four pillars of support, and the importance of community partnerships and funding. She emphasizes the transformative impact of their programs on children's lives and invites the community to get involved.