Épisodes

  • Episode 20 - The Future of Panama City: Growth, Tourism & Community with Jennifer Vigil

    Episode 20 - The Future of Panama City: Growth, Tourism & Community with Jennifer Vigil
    Nov 24 2025
    In the season finale of The Road to Rich Podcast, host Aaron Rich sits down with Jennifer Vigil, President & CEO of Destination Panama City, for one of the most inspiring conversations of the season. Jennifer shares the remarkable 10-year journey of promoting and elevating Panama City, the strategic role of tourism, and how data-driven marketing has fueled economic growth for local businesses, downtown districts, and the entire community.

    From the city’s transformation after Hurricane Michael, to the rise of walkable districts, waterfront activation, expanding events, and the importance of attracting new residents and visitors, Jennifer provides a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to shape a thriving coastal city. They unpack topics like the city’s evolving identity, small-business support, the surge in tourism metrics, and future opportunities including convention space, marina development, cultural venues, and major waterfront events.

    Packed with community pride, real insights, and a forward-thinking vision, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves Panama City, cares about its future, or wants to understand how tourism and local leadership work together to build a stronger hometown.
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    48 min
  • Episode 19 - Panhandle Weather: Reinventing Forecasting Through Innovation and Entrepreneurship

    Episode 19 - Panhandle Weather: Reinventing Forecasting Through Innovation and Entrepreneurship
    Oct 20 2025
    In this episode of The Road to Rich Podcast, host Aaron Rich sits down with Chris Smith and Dan Nyman, the visionary founders of Panhandle Weather — the Gulf Coast’s first 24/7 streaming weather channel. They share how they left traditional broadcasting to build a digital-first weather platform from the ground up, balancing technology, family, and community trust. Discover how they’re transforming local weather coverage through entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience — and why the future of media is hyper-local and human-driven.
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    1 h et 4 min
  • Episode 18 - Turning Sweet Ideas Into Big Business: How Brad Brownlow Built Fat and Weird Cookie

    Episode 18 - Turning Sweet Ideas Into Big Business: How Brad Brownlow Built Fat and Weird Cookie
    Oct 13 2025
    On this episode of The Road to Rich Podcast, host Aaron Rich talks with Brad Brownlow, founder of Fat and Weird Cookie, about turning a fun idea into a booming business. What started as a birthday surprise with a thousand cookies quickly became one of the most creative dessert brands in the country.

    Brad shares his journey from social-media fitness influencer to full-time entrepreneur, revealing how he built a loyal following, scaled his cookie company nationwide, and kept his business culture fun while staying focused on growth.The two dive into marketing strategy, brand storytelling, leadership, and work-life balance—showing how passion and perseverance can turn any dream into a thriving business.

    If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, small-business owner, or just love an inspiring startup success story, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
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    43 min
  • Episode 17 - The Strength to Rise Again: Ryan Mulvey's Story

    Episode 17 - The Strength to Rise Again: Ryan Mulvey's Story
    Sep 29 2025
    In this powerful episode of the Road to Rich Podcast, Aaron sits down with Ryan Mulvey, host of Inside Drive, former Bay Point Golf GM, and Bay County Chamber chairman. Ryan shares his courageous journey battling brain cancer, from his shocking diagnosis to multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and innovative treatments like proton therapy and immunotherapy.

    Through it all, Ryan opens up about resilience, mindset, family, and the importance of faith and community. Whether you’re facing illness, hardship, or simply need inspiration, his story offers timeless lessons on positivity, perseverance, and living each day with purpose.

    Tune in for an honest and uplifting conversation that will leave you motivated to face life’s challenges head-on.
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    38 min
  • Episode 16 - From Family Business to Roofing Success With Matt Andrews

    Episode 16 - From Family Business to Roofing Success With Matt Andrews
    Sep 22 2025
    On this episode of The Road to Rich Podcast, host Aaron Rich talks with Matt Andrews, founder of HammerDown Roofing, about growing a successful roofing business in Bay County and the values that guide him. Matt shares how lessons from his father, consistency in leadership, and a focus on customer relationships and online reviews have fueled HammerDown’s growth.

    They also discuss the challenges of scaling a service business, the importance of hiring the right team, and how faith and family keep Matt grounded. From the impact of FSU’s Early Childhood Autism Program (ECAP) to advice for young entrepreneurs, Matt’s story blends business insights with community and purpose.

    If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, small business growth, roofing industry insights, or balancing faith, family, and leadership, this episode delivers practical takeaways and inspiration.
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    57 min
  • Episode 15 - The Business of Laughter: Jason Hedden’s Journey with Panama City Comedy

    Episode 15 - The Business of Laughter: Jason Hedden’s Journey with Panama City Comedy
    Sep 15 2025
    In this episode of The Road to Rich, Aaron Rich sits down with Jason Hedden—Executive Director of Recruitment and Community Relations at Gulf Coast State College and owner of Panama City Comedy. Jason shares how a one-liner in the classroom turned into a passion for standup, the challenges (and bombs) of starting out, and how Panama City has grown into a vibrant comedy hub. From booking national acts like Kevin Nealon and Tim Meadows to mentoring local talent, Jason reveals what it takes to build a scene, balance art with business, and create opportunities for others. Full of laughter, behind-the-scenes stories, and lessons on chasing your creative spark, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, performers, and comedy lovers alike.
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    52 min
  • Episode 14 - Beyond the Books: Jenny Kelly on Building Community Through Bookish Boutique

    Episode 14 - Beyond the Books: Jenny Kelly on Building Community Through Bookish Boutique
    Sep 1 2025
    In this episode of The Road to Rich, host Aaron Rich sits down with Jenny Kelly, owner of Bookish Boutique, Panama City’s vibrant pink bookstore that’s become a cornerstone of downtown’s revitalization. Jenny shares her journey from launching the shop in just 25 days to creating more than a bookstore—it’s a gathering place, a wine bar, and a hub for book lovers and community connection.

    She opens up about the challenges of running a small business, advocating for downtown growth, and why staying positive (even through eight months of road construction) has been key to her success. From author events to collaboration with other local businesses, Jenny’s story is an inspiring look at entrepreneurship, resilience, and the power of community.

    Tune in for insights on building something unique, lessons learned as a business owner, and a glimpse into the exciting future of downtown Panama City.
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    43 min
  • Episode 13 - Finding Joy in Leadership and Life with Karen Smith

    Episode 13 - Finding Joy in Leadership and Life with Karen Smith
    Aug 25 2025
    In this inspiring episode of Road to Rich, host Aaron Rich sits down with Karen Smith — entrepreneur, real estate leader, and creator of the My Happy Ass Life blog and podcast. Karen opens up about building a business rooted in kindness, faith, and resilience, while navigating challenges like loss, addiction in her family, and self-doubt.

    She shares how daily affirmations turned into a movement, why gratitude fuels true happiness, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, money, health, and creating a lasting impact in her community.

    From balancing business growth with personal purpose to leading with love (even when it’s hard), Karen’s journey is a masterclass in finding joy through service and authenticity. If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or anyone seeking encouragement to embrace your calling and build a meaningful life, this conversation will leave you energized and motivated.
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    53 min