Open For Business

In this episode of Open for Business: Unscripted , host Justin Dorsey sits down with Coach Kevin and Coach Suli , the passionate founders behind Reps and Sweat Martial Arts and Fitness in Frederick, Maryland. What started as one coach's creative workout during COVID has grown into a thriving community where fitness meets self-defense, confidence, and empowerment. From cardio-driven kickboxing clas...

In this important episode of Open for Business , host Dave Barnhart sits down with Dr. Michelle Ghim of Frederick Health to shed light on a critical but often misunderstood medical emergency, sepsis . As part of Sepsis Awareness Month, Dr. Ghim explains what sepsis is, who is at risk, and why timely recognition and treatment are lifesaving. Listeners will learn about the TIME acronym, Temperature,...

In this episode of Open for Business , host Dave Barnhart sits down with Tommy O'Connor, one of the owners of O'Connor Plumbing, to explore the business strategies that have powered one of the Greater Washington area's most trusted plumbing companies since 1949. Discover how a small family business transformed over eight decades into a local powerhouse built on quality craftsmanship and highly tra...

In this week's episode of "Open for Business" on the Listen Frederick Podcast Network, we had the pleasure of speaking with Laura Kefauver, founder and owner of Treasured Roots Farm. Nestled on 80 acres in the hills of Frederick County, Maryland, Treasured Roots Farm specializes in cultivating black truffles and lavender, crafting unique flavors and experiences. Laura shared insights into her jour...

In this episode, we sit down with Sharon, a leadership coach and entrepreneur, to talk about her journey launching Blackborow Coaching & Consulting. From navigating career shifts during COVID to making high-level leadership training accessible for small business owners and neurodivergent professionals, Sharon shares her vision for Untangle , her upcoming podcast. We also dive into the importance o...

This week on Open for Business , we're featuring XGolf Frederick—a state-of-the-art indoor golf experience that's redefining the game. Owners Matt and Jill share how their love for golf and community inspired them to create a fun, family-friendly space where anyone can enjoy golf, rain or shine. From high-tech simulators with 98% accuracy to leagues, fundraisers, and corporate events, XGolf offers...

Join us for a delightful ride on "Open for Business: Unscripted" as we chat with Daniel from Maryland Double Decker. This episode dives into his passion for classic buses, their fascinating journey to the U.S., and how they've become a centerpiece for unique Frederick experiences—from themed tours to private events. Along the way, we explore the joys of community connection, creative ideas for fut...

In this candid and lively discussion, we welcome Don Stackhouse of Accessible Improvements and explore the keys to building a successful business, from maintaining honesty and reliability to delivering quality work and staying creative. Our guest shares compelling stories from their journey, transitioning from hospital bed maintenance to running a specialized accessibility improvement company, all...

  On this episode, we sit down with Dustin and Tyler Higgins, the dynamic duo behind The Wi-Fi Guy, to discuss their remarkable journey of innovation and growth. From opening a brick-and-mortar location in Funkstown, Maryland, to building key partnerships and expanding their tech solutions for local farmers, these forward-thinking entrepreneurs share how they've turned dreams into reality. Hear ab...

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the story of Andrea and the legacy she left behind through "Andrea's Wish Foundation." After losing Andrea to postpartum depression, her loved ones channeled their grief into a mission to raise awareness and support for maternal mental health. Jeff shares stories of Andrea's life, their lifelong friendship, and the incredible community response to the foundati...

On this episode we dive into the world of drug awareness and prevention with Melissa from Elks Lodge 684. Melissa shares her work leading the Elks' Drug Awareness Program, offering resources, education, and community outreach to combat the rising dangers of drug abuse, especially among youth. We discuss the impact of modern drugs like fentanyl, the pressures facing young people, and the importance...

In this heartfelt episode we dive into the ups and downs of parenting, coping with grief, and the unexpected ways life challenges us. Join us as we explore how tragedy shapes relationships, the importance of finding outlets to heal, and the small but meaningful moments that keep us going. From parenting quirks to the power of positivity and mental health awareness, this raw and unscripted conversa...

           In this episode of Open for Business: Unscripted, our very own Jack Diamond steps in the role of host to chat with Sean Norwood, General Manager of TriState Home Services, a family-run business spanning four generations since 1949. Sean shares insights on maintaining and upgrading HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical services, with practical tips on efficiency, system lifespan, and pr...

  Join us for an engaging episode as we sit down with Jake Weddle, partner at RWC Lawyers, a Frederick-based firm specializing in business litigation, property disputes, and more. Discover Jake's journey from a science background to becoming a champion for the "little guy," his approach to balancing work and family, and his passion for skiing. Hear how his team brings a collaborative and client-fo...

In this episode of Open for Business, guest host Dave Barnhart talks with Tom Albero, CEO of Alliance Material Handling, about the company's transformative Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Since its inception in 2004, the ESOP has helped Alliance grow from a $29 million to a $200 million company, reducing employee turnover and creating 25 employee millionaires. Albero shares how this program...

  In this episode of Open for Business , special guest host Dave Barnhart sits down with Dan Shapiro, owner of Precision Point Shooting and Training in Frederick, Maryland. Dan shares what makes this new facility unique, with its state-of-the-art design, extensive training options, and a welcoming environment for all skill levels. They discuss the variety of services offered—from everyday shooting...

On this episode we talk with James Meunier owner of the the Hagerstown Warthogs basketball team and Jerrod Mustaf Founder of the Street Basketball Association (SBA). We talk about their mission to revive street basketball culture in Hagerstown, Maryland. Jared, former NBA player and SBA President, shares his passion for using basketball as a community-building tool, providing local talent with a p...

On this episode, two Listen Fredrick Podcasts collide. We sit down with   Mark Maradei, host of The Original Sports Podcast , to explore his journey in podcasting, the dedication behind producing engaging sports content, and the fun banter his team brings to each episode. Mark shares insights into balancing passion with professionalism, the future of podcasting, and the unique approach his team ta...

In this episode, we explore the charm and unique experiences offered by Big Cork Vineyards in Maryland. Keith Morris, the General Manager of Big Cork, shares his daily tradition of capturing panoramic views of the stunning landscape, his transition from California's wine industry, and the joys of working at a vineyard nestled in "Pleasant Valley." He discusses the winery's world-class wines, the i...

In this episode we sit down with Mike Dickson, a top-ranked golf instructor and creator of innovative training aids like the Lag Master. Mike shares his journey from teaching at prestigious golf clubs to launching his own company, helping golfers of all levels improve their swing. We dive into his passion for coaching, his creative inventions, and his plans for upcoming golf schools. Whether you'r...

In this episode we take you to the heart of the 40th Annual Middletown Heritage Festival. Join us as we explore the vibrant community, meeting local vendors, artists, and businesses that make the festival special. From custom apparel to handmade pottery, alpaca socks, and even bee-keeping, this lively event has something for everyone. Join us for an unscripted tour of Middletown's rich heritage an...

  In this episode we sit down with Tiffany, also known as The Frederick Mom, who has built a local community around family-friendly events and businesses in Frederick. We discuss her journey from starting a page to highlight welcoming places for families to her growing presence with 20,000 followers. Tiffany shares insights on her passion for supporting local businesses, nonprofits, and providing...

In this episode we welcome back Nora Neil Daggett, author of When Tears Have Voice, to discuss her upcoming book Beyond Tears. We dive into themes of loss, healing, and faith, exploring how grief can be transformed through spiritual strength. Nora shares her thoughts on the power of hope, the impact of her 31 Days of Peace scripture cards, and how her faith guides her writing. The episode also tou...

In this episode we honor the individuals that make "The Great Frederick Fair" such a sought-after event year after year. From vendors to volunteers, businesses to entertainers, professional fair employees to the public, so many people have an imperative role in making "The Great Frederick Fair" so Great! I have gathered some of my favorite moments from just a small hand full of those exact individ...

In this episode we welcome Kim Dow, the founder and publisher of Sass Magazine , a women-focused lifestyle and business publication. Kim shares the story of how her passion for graphic design and celebrating women in business inspired her to create Sass Magazine . We discuss the success of the magazine, including its local Sass Choice Awards, the challenges of running a small business, and plans f...