Yinz Biz

Emmanuel Panagiotakis was not born in Western PA or the USA, but he is an American in the truest sense of the word.  In this episode, Emmanuel takes us on his journey from Greece to the US, and how he went from painting houses to capturing beautiful landscapes that he now sells in his gallery in Beaver. 

Topics discussed include: 

- His journey from Greece to America 
- How photography helped him to learn to read and write in English 
- A typical day in the life of a professional photographer 
- What is the golden hour in photography? 
- What are the differences between the camera on your phone and a DSLR/Mirrorless?
- What are ISO/Shutter Speed/Aperture and how are they used in photography 
- Emmanuel's philosophy on photography 

In this episode, you will hear how Jessica Shoemaker filled a bagel-shaped hole in Beaver County when she opened Beaver Bagel Company. Her boiled and baked bagels get rave reviews. Her shop is quaint and the unique configuration of the building creates a unique outdoor dining experience. But what makes Beaver Bagel successful is the tight-knit and friendly team she has surrounded herself with. 

Topics discussed include: 

- How Jessica left her desk job to pursue a career in culinary arts  
- How Jessica turned her hobby of making bagels into a business 
- Why she chose a location that is a little off the beaten path 
- How her bagels are made 
- What her team means to her and the business 
- Advice for aspiring business owners 

Food delivery apps have grown immensely during the pandemic. Many people feel like ordering takeout through the apps is a great way to support struggling restaurants. But what if I told you there is a downside to these apps for the restaurants? Tune in to find out why! 

Dan Harper and his Dad Jim run Harper's Styling Barber Shop in Monaca, PA. 

In this episode Dan and I discuss: 

• How Dan went from art student to industrial designer to barber
• The process of becoming a certified barber 
• What inspired Dan's colorful and creative design of his barber shop 
• What fulfills Dan most about being a barber 
• The relationships he forms with clients 
• How has Covid impacted his business, and what safety measures he is taking to keep people safe. 

Hear what inspired Beth Warren to open a coffee house in a 1905 home across the street from her alma mater.  

In this episode we also discuss: 

• The challenges of converting an old home into a coffee shop 
• What makes a coffee shop atmosphere a great place to gather 
• What does Beth look for in potential employees? How do they contribute to the atmosphere of the coffee shop? 
•  The best sellers at BFCAT 
•  How Beth partners with global coffee farmers to ensure they get paid a just wage 
•  How Covid-19 has impacted BFCAT and the role of delivery. 
•  Should you quit your job and open a coffee shop?