South Florida’s Top Business Podcast

Fried on Business: Silver Knight Award Recipients

SHARE

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.

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.

 

Episode 570: 6-24-20

(To download, right-click and select “Save Link As”.)

Recent Posts

Follow Us

Watch Recent Episode

In Episode 827 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried is joined by capital markets expert Michael Cohen, founding partner of Brighton Capital Advisors, to talk about where the money is—and how to get it—in today’s evolving real estate environment.

With interest rates elevated and banks pulling back on commercial lending, many investors and developers are facing a new challenge: how to secure capital for deals in a shifting, risk-conscious market. Michael offers real-time insights into how Brighton Capital Advisors helps clients bridge that gap with creative financing strategies, tailored debt solutions, and targeted equity partnerships.

The conversation covers:

How capital markets are reacting to rate pressure

The role of private credit and alternative lenders

Which asset classes are getting funded—and which are stalled

How to position deals to attract institutional interest

Trends in debt restructuring, refinancing, and construction lending

Michael also shares lessons from working across market cycles, emphasizing transparency, speed, and strategic alignment as the new pillars of deal-making.

Whether you're a developer, investor, broker, or family office executive, this episode will give you clear insights on navigating capital markets in 2025 and beyond.

🎧 Tune in and discover how smart capital strategy is still possible—even in a tight financial environment.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

In Episode 827 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried is joined by capital markets expert Michael Cohen, founding partner of Brighton Capital Advisors, to talk about where the money is—and how to get it—in today’s evolving real estate environment.

With interest rates elevated and banks pulling back on commercial lending, many investors and developers are facing a new challenge: how to secure capital for deals in a shifting, risk-conscious market. Michael offers real-time insights into how Brighton Capital Advisors helps clients bridge that gap with creative financing strategies, tailored debt solutions, and targeted equity partnerships.

The conversation covers:

How capital markets are reacting to rate pressure

The role of private credit and alternative lenders

Which asset classes are getting funded—and which are stalled

How to position deals to attract institutional interest

Trends in debt restructuring, refinancing, and construction lending

Michael also shares lessons from working across market cycles, emphasizing transparency, speed, and strategic alignment as the new pillars of deal-making.

Whether you're a developer, investor, broker, or family office executive, this episode will give you clear insights on navigating capital markets in 2025 and beyond.

🎧 Tune in and discover how smart capital strategy is still possible—even in a tight financial environment.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

0 0

YouTube Video VVU4aS1uUXJ0T1VrQmVOeGNhODFzaHV3LnVmanpmTGRXZ3Uw

Special Servicing expert describes commercial loan market at crossroads

Jim Fried 9 views July 3, 2025 4:26 am

Lessons We Can All Learn from the Florida Panthers' Stanley Cup Winning Formula

Jim Fried 11 views June 25, 2025 4:22 pm

In Episode 824 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried welcomes Ed Cairo, founder and principal of American Home Finance Group, for a timely and strategic conversation about the state of the mortgage market in 2025.

As homebuyers, investors, and real estate professionals navigate the uncertainty of rising interest rates, tighter lending conditions, and shifting credit strategies, Ed brings clarity and practical advice from the front lines of financing.

Drawing on decades of experience in residential and investment property lending, Ed shares:

What interest rate movements mean for first-time buyers and investors

How banks are changing their underwriting in today’s market

The biggest mortgage mistakes buyers are making right now

When refinancing makes sense—and when it doesn’t

How brokers can better educate and guide their clients

Whether you're trying to secure a home loan, advising clients, or investing in income property, this episode delivers the financial insights you need to make smart, confident decisions.

Ed also discusses how private lenders and smaller firms are stepping up as big banks tighten credit, and why personalized service is more important than ever in today’s lending landscape.

🎧 Tune in now for a real-world look at what’s happening behind the mortgage curtain—and how to use it to your advantage.



🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

In Episode 824 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried welcomes Ed Cairo, founder and principal of American Home Finance Group, for a timely and strategic conversation about the state of the mortgage market in 2025.

As homebuyers, investors, and real estate professionals navigate the uncertainty of rising interest rates, tighter lending conditions, and shifting credit strategies, Ed brings clarity and practical advice from the front lines of financing.

Drawing on decades of experience in residential and investment property lending, Ed shares:

What interest rate movements mean for first-time buyers and investors

How banks are changing their underwriting in today’s market

The biggest mortgage mistakes buyers are making right now

When refinancing makes sense—and when it doesn’t

How brokers can better educate and guide their clients

Whether you're trying to secure a home loan, advising clients, or investing in income property, this episode delivers the financial insights you need to make smart, confident decisions.

Ed also discusses how private lenders and smaller firms are stepping up as big banks tighten credit, and why personalized service is more important than ever in today’s lending landscape.

🎧 Tune in now for a real-world look at what’s happening behind the mortgage curtain—and how to use it to your advantage.



🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

0 0

YouTube Video VVU4aS1uUXJ0T1VrQmVOeGNhODFzaHV3LnFBMHRobVlweWNr

Mortgage Market Update - Is now the Time to Get Your Loan?

Jim Fried 5 views June 11, 2025 4:16 pm

In Episode 823 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried welcomes back real estate analyst and journalist Peter Zalewski, founder of MiamiCondo.club, to deliver a data-driven breakdown of the Miami condo market in 2025.

With inventory rising and interest rate pressures reshaping buyer behavior, Peter gives a candid and research-backed look into what’s really happening in South Florida’s most dynamic property segment. The conversation explores pricing correction signals, stalled absorption rates, and how developers and brokers are reacting—or not reacting—to shifting conditions.

Peter also examines the psychology of buyers in today’s uncertain climate and challenges some of the “boom” narratives dominating mainstream real estate chatter. His message is clear: The market is at an inflection point, and only those with accurate information and a long-term mindset will make smart moves.

Listeners will learn:

Which neighborhoods are oversupplied or overheated

Why cash buyers are hesitating despite opportunity

The real impact of interest rates on resale inventory

Strategic insights for brokers, investors, and buyers

Whether you’re considering a purchase, managing client portfolios, or trying to understand Miami’s evolving condo landscape, this episode offers the clarity you need.

🎧 Tune in to hear the truth behind the trends—only on Fried on Business.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

In Episode 823 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried welcomes back real estate analyst and journalist Peter Zalewski, founder of MiamiCondo.club, to deliver a data-driven breakdown of the Miami condo market in 2025.

With inventory rising and interest rate pressures reshaping buyer behavior, Peter gives a candid and research-backed look into what’s really happening in South Florida’s most dynamic property segment. The conversation explores pricing correction signals, stalled absorption rates, and how developers and brokers are reacting—or not reacting—to shifting conditions.

Peter also examines the psychology of buyers in today’s uncertain climate and challenges some of the “boom” narratives dominating mainstream real estate chatter. His message is clear: The market is at an inflection point, and only those with accurate information and a long-term mindset will make smart moves.

Listeners will learn:

Which neighborhoods are oversupplied or overheated

Why cash buyers are hesitating despite opportunity

The real impact of interest rates on resale inventory

Strategic insights for brokers, investors, and buyers

Whether you’re considering a purchase, managing client portfolios, or trying to understand Miami’s evolving condo landscape, this episode offers the clarity you need.

🎧 Tune in to hear the truth behind the trends—only on Fried on Business.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

1 0

YouTube Video VVU4aS1uUXJ0T1VrQmVOeGNhODFzaHV3LjdwOUNfaVozX2xN

Peter Zalewski Reveals What’s Really Happening in the Miami Condo Market

Jim Fried 164 views June 5, 2025 4:24 am

In Episode 821 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried is joined by Tim Becker, Director of the UF Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies, and Max Wolfman, a student whose recent competition win is launching him into a promising real estate career in Miami.

This episode shines a light on how higher education—when paired with mentorship and real-world experience—can create powerful professional outcomes. Tim shares how the Bergstrom Center’s forward-thinking approach connects students with industry leaders and hands-on experiences that translate directly into job offers and career clarity.

Max discusses his personal journey through UF’s real estate program, including how participating in national competitions helped him develop the leadership, communication, and strategic skills needed to stand out in a competitive market. Now, Max is bringing that momentum to Miami, where he’s set to begin his first job in the field.

Whether you’re an aspiring professional, a current student, or someone looking to mentor the next generation of talent, this episode offers a front-row seat to how academic institutions can shape the future of industries through opportunity, community, and education.

🎧 Listen now to hear how real estate careers are being built today—from the inside out.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

In Episode 821 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried is joined by Tim Becker, Director of the UF Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies, and Max Wolfman, a student whose recent competition win is launching him into a promising real estate career in Miami.

This episode shines a light on how higher education—when paired with mentorship and real-world experience—can create powerful professional outcomes. Tim shares how the Bergstrom Center’s forward-thinking approach connects students with industry leaders and hands-on experiences that translate directly into job offers and career clarity.

Max discusses his personal journey through UF’s real estate program, including how participating in national competitions helped him develop the leadership, communication, and strategic skills needed to stand out in a competitive market. Now, Max is bringing that momentum to Miami, where he’s set to begin his first job in the field.

Whether you’re an aspiring professional, a current student, or someone looking to mentor the next generation of talent, this episode offers a front-row seat to how academic institutions can shape the future of industries through opportunity, community, and education.

🎧 Listen now to hear how real estate careers are being built today—from the inside out.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

1 0

YouTube Video VVU4aS1uUXJ0T1VrQmVOeGNhODFzaHV3Lmg1Y3BaUFhTMFJn

Training Tomorrow’s Talent: UF’s Bergstrom Center and the Future of Real Estate Education

Jim Fried 11 views May 21, 2025 4:20 pm

In Episode 820 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried welcomes Larry Zinn, Executive General Manager of Warren Henry Automotive, to talk about the company’s groundbreaking automotive vocational training program—a paid, two-year opportunity aimed at helping high school students launch careers in the auto industry.

Warren Henry Automotive is a sponsor of Fried on Business. This episode features a discussion of their training program as part of that ongoing relationship.

As the automotive world continues to evolve with technology and electrification, the demand for skilled technicians and service advisors is growing rapidly. Zinn shares how Warren Henry is addressing that gap by reaching out to students who want more than a classroom education. Through this program, participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and a real paycheck—all while developing valuable skills that can lead to full-time roles in one of Florida’s most respected dealership networks.

This episode covers how the initiative works, what students can expect to learn, and why supporting workforce development in trades is not just good business—it’s a smart investment in the future.

Whether you're an educator, parent, student, or someone curious about alternative career paths beyond college, this episode delivers real insight into how local businesses can drive impact and opportunity from the ground up.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how Warren Henry is putting young talent in the driver’s seat of their futures.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

In Episode 820 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried welcomes Larry Zinn, Executive General Manager of Warren Henry Automotive, to talk about the company’s groundbreaking automotive vocational training program—a paid, two-year opportunity aimed at helping high school students launch careers in the auto industry.

Warren Henry Automotive is a sponsor of Fried on Business. This episode features a discussion of their training program as part of that ongoing relationship.

As the automotive world continues to evolve with technology and electrification, the demand for skilled technicians and service advisors is growing rapidly. Zinn shares how Warren Henry is addressing that gap by reaching out to students who want more than a classroom education. Through this program, participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and a real paycheck—all while developing valuable skills that can lead to full-time roles in one of Florida’s most respected dealership networks.

This episode covers how the initiative works, what students can expect to learn, and why supporting workforce development in trades is not just good business—it’s a smart investment in the future.

Whether you're an educator, parent, student, or someone curious about alternative career paths beyond college, this episode delivers real insight into how local businesses can drive impact and opportunity from the ground up.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how Warren Henry is putting young talent in the driver’s seat of their futures.

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6126418013716480

3 0

YouTube Video VVU4aS1uUXJ0T1VrQmVOeGNhODFzaHV3LlN2NUdnM1NTSVVr

From Classroom to Garage: Larry Zinn on Career Paths in the Auto Industry

Jim Fried 35 views May 15, 2025 4:26 am