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Fried on Business: Silver Knight Award & Living Laudy

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Episode 570: 6-24-20

Silver Knight Award & Living Laudy

Jim Fried welcomes students that deserve special recognition on this feel good episode! The Silver Knight Awards is the most prestigious community service scholarship offered in South Florida. Competitors must initiate and execute a project benefitting the community, their GPA must be stellar, and after graduating, underclassmen typically continue the work that they have initiated.

Jim will hear stories of three Silver Knight students, Owen Reynolds, Nina Paneque, and Kevin Amézaga, dedicated to serving the community while maintaining academic excellence.
Then, FREEBIRD Real Estate lands in the studio to give a bird’s eye view of the momentum the Fort Lauderdale market is seeing. Join us to hear from FREEBIRD founders Don & Jennifer Ginsburg on how their lifestyle approach to real estate has helped them close countless deals in the Fort Lauderdale area- in other words, “HOW you live should lead to WHERE you live!”

About our Guests

 

During our first segment, we honor those students that deserve special recognition on this feel good episode! The Silver Knight Awards is the most prestigious community service scholarship offered in South Florida. Competitors must initiate and execute a project benefitting the community, their GPA must be stellar, and after graduating, underclassmen typically continue the work that they have initiated.

Jim hears stories of three Silver Knight students, Owen ReynoldsNina Paneque, and Kevin Amézaga, dedicated to serving the community while maintaining academic excellence.

Owen Reynolds

Palmer Trinity School

Owen Reynolds is passionate about sustainable energy. In fact, he designed a full-sized solar-powered race car, The Chariot, as part of his Apollo Project, which promotes sustainable energy. In the past year alone, approximately 30,000 people have learned about sustainable energy at the project’s live events, festivals and school lectures. Owen also helped organize the first Miami March for Science, which has since evolved into a nonprofit for science literacy. After learning other cities had implemented laws requiring solar panels to be installed on new homes, he worked with South Miami officials to pass a similar law in his hometown in 2017, the first of its kind in Florida. Said South Miami Mayor Philip Stoddard: “Owen stepped up to the podium and blew the lobbyists out of the room. He had poise, articulation, timing and data – lots of data.”

 

Nina Paneque

Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart

Driven by her personal experience with discrimination in basketball, Nina Paneque’s “Because She Can” blog about gender inequalities in sports grew into a digital magazine with thousands of followers. As editor in chief, she has interviewed everyone from middle school athletes to WNBA All-Stars and Olympians. The magazine has 6,000 followers on social media and it has inspired Johnson & Johnson to create a “Because She Can” retail campaign for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. In addition to running the magazine and overseeing eight interns, Nina mentors younger athletes and tutors her peers in calculus, chemistry, physics, literature and history. She is a National Merit Semifinalist, AP Scholar and National Hispanic Scholar.

 

Kevin Amezaga

Miami Arts Studio 6-12 at Zelda Glazer

Kevin Amezaga became interested in transit in his freshman year, after experiencing the struggles of taking public transportation from the Pérez Art Museum Miami to Bayside. He created the nonprofit Miami Riders Alliance, which serves as an information hub for all transit-related projects and works with leaders to improve transit options. The group has been working with Miami-Dade Transit to address additional benches and bus shelters at bus stops. Says Kevin: “I believe you shouldn’t have to own a car to have a healthy, comfortable or quality lifestyle in Miami.” He also is a member of Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, and his newspaper work has been recognized by the Florida Scholastic Press Association.

 

FORT LAUDERDALE’S EXCITING EVOLUTION

Don & Jennifer Ginsburg – Founders FREEBIRD Real Estate

 

FREEBIRD Real Estate lands in the studio to give a bird’s eye view of the momentum the Fort Lauderdale market is seeing. Join us to hear from FREEBIRD founders Don & Jennifer Ginsburg on how their lifestyle approach to real estate has helped them close countless deals in the Fort Lauderdale area- in other words, “HOW you live should lead to WHERE you live!”

“I’ve focused my entire career in South Florida and have always had an affinity for city living and a love for the opportunities that exist in our urban locales. Prior to marriage and kids, I lived in metropolitan areas like Delray Beach, Coconut Grove, and, best of all, East Fort Lauderdale.

When my wife, Jennifer, and I became parents, we moved to the suburbs to raise our family. It was a healthy experience. We embraced the suburban lifestyle. We taught our kids practical skills, like how to throw a football, ride a bike, and swim. However, we often ventured to East Fort Lauderdale to eat, drink, and socialize. We knew that, in time, we would be living there again. We just didn’t know when.

We grew impatient waiting for that ‘perfect moment’ — when the kids would be grown up and out of the house. So, we made the move back east earlier than what is considered typical. We were obviously incredibly thrilled. It was the homecoming we had always imagined, only a decade sooner.

We planned the move by ourselves. Jennifer and I were comfortable analyzing the housing options in East Fort Lauderdale. We know the neighborhoods professionally and personally, so we knew what areas would best suit our way of living. Ultimately, we wanted our new home to be an extension of our lifestyle. This idea motivated our home buying journey and turned our house-hunt into a sociable, outgoing experience.

The most shocking part of our move was how many friends, colleagues, and strangers were envious of our decision and how we went about it. We didn’t realize how many people wanted to make a similar move but didn’t know where to start. In truth, all they needed was a trusted advisor — someone who had already done it to show them the way. This realization, combined with the desire to guide people through an equally fulfilling journey, was the impetus for FREEBIRD.”

 

 

Episode 570: 6-24-20

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Neilah Explained: The 'Locking' Moment at Yom Kippur's End

#YoumKippur
#Spirituality

Jim Fried 70 views September 17, 2026 2:35 pm

What exactly is Yom Kippur, why do Jews fast, and what makes it the holiest day on the Jewish calendar?

In Episode 889 of Fried On Business, Rabbi Mendel Potash returns for the second of two special High Holiday conversations with Jim Fried. After explaining Rosh Hashanah in Episode 888, Rabbi Potash now walks listeners through the history, meaning, prayers, and traditions of Yom Kippur—the Day of Atonement.

The conversation begins with the biblical origins of the holiday. Rabbi Potash explains the story of Moses, the Golden Calf, the second set of tablets, and how Yom Kippur became associated with forgiveness and the restoration of a relationship with God.

Jim and Rabbi Potash then explore the major moments of the holiday. They discuss Kol Nidrei and its emphasis on approaching the day together as one people, regardless of background or level of observance.

They also address the question nearly everyone asks: Why fast?

Rabbi Potash explains that the approximately 26-hour fast is intended to temporarily move attention away from physical needs so that people can focus on the spiritual side of themselves and reconnect with what matters most.

The conversation also examines Neilah, the final prayer service, which Jim describes through his own powerful image of passing through the closing gates at the end of Yom Kippur.

For those who have lost parents or close family members, they discuss Yizkor—the memorial prayer and the importance of remembering and elevating the souls of those who came before us.

Finally, they talk about breaking the fast and the joy that follows a day devoted to reflection, forgiveness, and renewal.

The goal of the episode is simple: to help Jewish and non-Jewish listeners alike better understand Yom Kippur—and, in doing so, help bring the community closer together.

Fried On Business is proudly presented by Warren Henry Automotive.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480 Yom Kippur Judaism's Holiest Day Explained with Rabbi Mendel Potash

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Jim Fried 23 views September 16, 2026 4:34 pm

Rosh Hashanah is one of the most important dates on the Jewish calendar, but many people who work alongside Jewish colleagues, clients, friends, and business partners may not fully understand what the holiday means—or what is appropriate to say or do. In Episode 888 of Fried On Business, Jim Fried sits down with Rabbi Mendel Potash for an accessible conversation: “Everything You Need to Know About Rosh Hashanah (But Were Afraid to Ask).”

Rosh Hashanah, literally “head of the year,” marks the Jewish New Year. In 2026, it begins at sundown on Friday, September 11, and ends after nightfall on Sunday, September 13. But Rabbi Potash explains why it is much more than a Jewish version of New Year’s Eve. It combines celebration with judgment, reflection, accountability, prayer, and renewal.

Jim and Rabbi Potash unpack familiar traditions including the sounding of the shofar, apples and honey, and round challah, while exploring the deeper meaning behind them. They discuss Rosh Hashanah as the beginning of the Days of Awe leading toward Yom Kippur, along with teshuvah—the idea of repentance, return, and course correction.

The conversation then moves into the business world. What can leaders learn from setting aside a dedicated time each year to examine their decisions, relationships, priorities, and conduct? Jim and Rabbi Potash discuss ethical leadership, personal accountability, and the value of giving yourself an annual reset.

They also offer practical guidance for anyone who wants to be respectful of Jewish employees, colleagues, partners, and clients: how to acknowledge the holiday, what “Shanah Tovah” means, how scheduling considerations matter, and why thoughtful inclusion can strengthen relationships.

Whether you are Jewish, work with Jewish colleagues, or simply want to understand one of Judaism’s most significant holidays, this episode offers an approachable introduction to the traditions, meaning, and universal lessons of Rosh Hashanah. It is timely, practical, welcoming, and designed for everyone.

Fried On Business is proudly presented by Warren Henry Auto Group.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480 Everything You Need to Know About Rosh Hashanah (But Were Afraid to Ask)" with Rabbi Mendel Potash

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Jim Fried 219 views September 9, 2026 4:30 pm

Miami is transforming before our eyes, and few people have had a closer view of that transformation than architect Kobi Karp. In Episode 887 of Fried On Business, Jim Fried sits down with his longtime friend to discuss the evolution of South Florida, the future of development, and what makes Miami’s rapidly changing neighborhoods unique.

Karp sees Florida as exceptionally well positioned to continue attracting people from across the United States and around the world—not simply for sea, sun, and sand, but for living, education, research, business, and opportunity.

Jim and Kobi explore how South Florida is increasingly becoming a collection of what Jim calls “vertically integrated city states.” Coconut Grove, Miami Beach, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and other communities are developing increasingly distinct identities and amenities. At the same time, transportation infrastructure such as Brightline is creating new connections between them.

Kobi explains how architecture must respond to those individual communities. A mixed-use project in West Palm Beach’s Northwood District demands a completely different approach from an ultra-luxury oceanfront development in Surfside. Successful design considers not only what a developer or buyer wants, but what the surrounding community needs—from retail and public spaces to beach access and municipal infrastructure.

The conversation also turns toward Miami’s growing skyline. Kobi discusses the realities of designing taller buildings, FAA height restrictions, and why modern projects need connectivity on every side rather than traditional “front” and “back” orientations.

They also reflect on the extraordinary evolution of Downtown Miami, Brickell, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, and other neighborhoods that have fundamentally changed during their careers.

And when Jim finally asks Kobi to name his favorite projects, the architect gives an unexpected answer: his two sons.

It’s a conversation about architecture, family, community—and building the future of South Florida.

Fried On Business is proudly presented by Warren Henry Automotive. Starchitect Kobi Karp predicts Miami's future as a metropolis

Starchitect Kobi Karp predicts Miami's future as a metropolis

Jim Fried 12 views September 2, 2026 4:47 pm

“The only constant in business is change” sounds great on an office wall. But how many businesses actually operate that way? In Episode 886 of Fried On Business, Jim Fried explains why accepting change is one of the most important skills in business—and why waiting until change has already happened can leave you permanently behind.

Jim starts with Rabbi Gopin and the remarkable evolution of Chabad in Midtown Miami. What began with a rabbi walking through Wynwood knocking on warehouse doors has grown into a major organization requiring not only spiritual leadership, but executive leadership, delegation, education, outreach, and an expanding team. For Jim, it is a powerful example of embracing change rather than resisting it.

The same principle applies throughout business. AI suddenly dominates conversations. Interest rates shift. Legislation changes. Capital moves. Retail real estate went from a distressed sector to one of the hottest areas in the market, while equity capital that once seemed plentiful has become difficult to raise.

Jim argues that businesses need “slack resources” to survive these transitions: cash reserves, strong relationships, flexible team members, and enough breathing room to respond when circumstances change. In real estate, cash can allow a developer to wait out a market cycle rather than make a desperate decision.

But resources alone are not enough. Change requires leadership.

Jim explains how his own competitive advantage has evolved. Information once came from reading more newspapers and magazines than everyone else. Today, information moves instantly. The new edge comes from face-to-face relationships, problem solving, natural intelligence, and using AI as a tool rather than a substitute for judgment.

Even Fried On Business has continually evolved—from terrestrial radio to Zoom during COVID and ultimately into today's shorter, digital podcast format.

Jim's bottom line: know who you are, recognize change early, build flexibility into your business, and begin evolving before circumstances force you to.

Fried On Business is proudly presented by Warren Henry Automotive.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480 Embrace Change or Get Left Behind: Jim Fried’s Business Survival Strategy

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Jim Fried 6 views August 26, 2026 8:17 pm

"The Secret to Staying Inspired in Miami Real Estate"

#Mentorship #Inspiration #MiamiRealEstate

Jim Fried 0 views August 21, 2026 2:27 pm

Inspiration rarely arrives on command. When work becomes repetitive, markets slow down, or the summer heat drains your energy, waiting for motivation can leave you stuck. In Episode 885 of Fried On Business, Jim Fried explains why professionals and entrepreneurs need to build their own “inspiration infrastructure”—a repeatable system that generates positive energy, focus, and forward momentum.

Jim begins by asking whether inspiration is merely nice to have or essential to long-term business success. His answer is clear: inspiration is a practical defense against burnout. It fuels the personal engine that helps people take action, connect with others, and continue moving when circumstances feel discouraging.

For Jim, inspiration often comes from helping other people advance. Mentoring younger professionals, introducing people to opportunities, participating in the community, and encouraging others all create energy that returns to him. He also emphasizes surrounding yourself with positive, interesting people who challenge, support, and reinvigorate you.

But inspiration should not depend entirely on chance encounters. Jim recommends creating concrete practices that work when your energy is low. Stay curious. Keep learning. Start somewhere when the task list feels overwhelming. Put one foot in front of the other. Reflect through journaling, recording, or another personal outlet. Maintain a record of your accomplishments so you can remember how many opportunities appeared before you even knew they existed.

Jim shares his own “positive energy file,” filled with letters, communications, awards, and reminders of meaningful accomplishments. When he needs encouragement, that file reconnects him with the value he has created.

He also follows a “no bad energy person” rule, regularly evaluating which relationships elevate him and which ones drain momentum.

The message is practical: do not wait to feel inspired. Build the people, habits, records, and routines that help you create inspiration whenever you need it and keep your best qualities in motion.

This episode of Fried On Business is brought to you by our presenting sponsor, Warren Henry Auto Group.

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Cash Is King: Build Opportunistic Capital keep your business safe & take advantage of opportunities

Jim Fried 303 views August 15, 2026 7:31 pm

Nobody knows exactly what comes next. Interest rates could fall—or stay elevated. The economy could slow. Artificial intelligence could transform your industry faster than expected. Consumer confidence, inflation, labor markets, and demographics can all change. In Episode 884 of Fried On Business, Jim Fried explains why successful business owners don't need to predict every outcome. They need to build businesses capable of surviving when their predictions are wrong.

Jim's central message is simple: the biggest mistake isn't making the wrong prediction. It's building a business that only works if that prediction comes true.

Using today's real estate market as an example, Jim examines investors who expected interest rates to fall, values to rebound, and capital to become easier to access. Instead, higher borrowing costs have trapped equity in older deals, complicated exits, and left some otherwise viable projects unable to move forward.

So how should business owners respond?

Jim lays out a practical survival guide built around scenario planning, liquidity, flexibility, and leadership. What happens if revenue drops 10%, 20%, or 30%? What if interest rates remain high for another three years? Where can expenses be reduced without damaging the business? Could you act immediately if an extraordinary opportunity appeared?

Jim also tackles AI, arguing that it's another powerful tool businesses must learn to incorporate rather than fear. Technology can generate ideas and improve efficiency, but relationships, experience, communication, and the ability to overcome objections still matter.

Above all, Jim emphasizes preserving "opportunistic capital"—resources that remain available when changing conditions suddenly create opportunity.

The goal isn't simply preparing for the downside. Great businesses remain ready for the upside, too.

Uncertainty is unavoidable. Being unprepared isn't. Jim's message to business owners is to stress-test assumptions, conserve resources, remain flexible, and build a company capable of moving when tomorrow arrives.

This episode of Fried On Business is brought to you by our presenting sponsor, Warren Henry Auto Group.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480 Stop Predicting the Future: Build a Business Ready for Anything

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Jim Fried 4 views August 12, 2026 4:59 pm