On The Cusp

Gabriel Balderas, the owner of both Zuzul Coastal Cuisine and El Cabo Verde, recently sat down with your On The Cusp hosts, Matt and Dave, to share the inspiring journey behind the creation of these two incredible restaurants in Shreveport. Gabe has made a significant impact on the local food scene by offering a diverse range of dishes, bringing a fresh and unique perspective to Shreveport’s culinary landscape. By sourcing ingredients from his own local family-owned farm, Gabe is able to provide customers with high-quality, farm-to-table food that stands out in the area. In this conversation, Gabe opens up about his philosophy on the importance of having restaurants that not only serve great food but also foster a sense of community, with the goal of making every guest feel at home. Tune in now to hear more about his story and the passion behind his businesses!

On the latest episode of On the Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Caddo Parish School Board Superintendent, Keith Burton. Caddo Parish Public Schools are in the spotlight, earning recognition on both state and national levels. While Keith is proud of the district's accomplishments, his excitement lies in the future. He shares his vision for the positive direction Caddo Parish Public Schools are headed, focusing on both the education of students and the growth of employment opportunities around the parish. You won’t want to miss this engaging discussion—tune in now for an inside look at the future of Caddo Parish Public Schools!

This week, Dave and Matt caught up with Mark Crawford, Marketing and Public Relations Manager for the Shreveport Airport Authority, in between his flights. They talked about the exciting growth happening at Shreveport’s airport, including the addition of new restaurants. Mark shared insights into the increasing number of daily flights and the exciting destinations now accessible directly from Shreveport. He also discussed the critical role the community plays in supporting the airport’s success. Tune in now to hear some fascinating stories happening at Shreveport’s airport!

Ganapathy Subrahmaniam and Ashwin Pulisetty from the Indian Association of Shreveport Bossier recently visited with your On The Cusp hosts, Matt and Dave. During their conversation, Ganapathy and Ashwin shared that the Indian Association of Shreveport Bossier was founded in the late 1970s with the goal of bringing the community together to celebrate Indian culture and heritage. This organization exemplifies how hometown pride isn’t always born but is created by a strong, united community. Tune in now to hear all the incredible things this organization is doing for North Louisiana!

WOW! Lee Hovis is the New Owner of Shreveport’s Wonder Oasis Waterpark! Lee recently stopped by to chat with On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave about his exciting new venture as the owner of Shreveport’s beloved waterpark. In this exclusive interview, Lee shares what inspired him to purchase this iconic waterpark and what it means to him to be its new owner. He opens up about the challenges he faced getting the park ready for opening and the obstacles he had to overcome along the way. Lee also gives us a glimpse of the plans he has for the park’s future, promising even more fun for families and thrill-seekers alike. Tune in now to hear Lee’s journey and vision before you stop by to make a splash this summer!

On this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave are joined by Dr. Natalia Luraguiz, Dr. Victoria Luraguiz, and Elise Kowalewski, PA, to discuss how they’re revolutionizing healthcare and helping patients live longer, healthier lives. Dr. Natalia shares her experience of being warmly welcomed into the Shreveport community. Together, the group explores how their personalized medical services—tailored to each patient's genetic profile—are designed to boost longevity and overall wellness. Tune in to hear about the innovative services they provide and the exciting ways they are changing the future of healthcare.

On The Cusp’s special guests today are Latasha Lee and Helen Plater, founders of Orphic Training Solutions. Join your hosts, Matt and Dave, as they chat with Latasha Lee and Helen Plater, the dynamic duo behind Orphic Training Solutions in Shreveport. Orphic Training Solutions is an accelerated learning center that equips individuals with hands-on training to earn certifications in the healthcare industry. Latasha and Helen open up about the hustle of balancing their full-time jobs with their passion for helping others advance their careers. Tune in to hear their inspiring story!

BINGO! Today's On The Cusp guest is Zach Parker from Shreveport Bossier Bingo Supply! Zach sits down with your hosts, Matt and Dave, to share the story of inheriting the family business from his grandfather. Zach provides Bingo halls across Louisiana with everything they need – from traditional cards and ink to electronic Bingo cards. Tune in now to hear all about the ins and outs of the Bingo business and what it takes to keep the game dabbing!

Robert Chu of Imperial Cathay and the new co-founder of Koi stopped by to chat with On The Cusp hosts, Matt and Dave. In this episode, Robert makes an exciting special announcement about his newest venture—Koi, which is set to open in January 2025 at the newly remodeled, former Cypress location on Line Avenue. During the conversation, Robert shares valuable insights on retaining both employees and customers in today’s competitive restaurant industry. He also discusses the challenges and adaptations his businesses have faced, from the impact of Covid to staying relevant in an ever-changing restaurant world. Don’t miss out—tune in now for this informative and exciting discussion!

Let's kick off 2025 with Season 9 of On The Cusp! This episode features a conversation between your hosts, Matt and Dave, and Shreveport local Dr. Ray Jarvis of Restoration Dental. Ray shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey of taking an established practice and growing it into his own, making teeth look and feel better along the way. Tune in now to hear all about the growth, culture, and future of dentistry in the Shreveport-Bossier area. Don't miss it

On the Cusp's final guest of Season 8 is Briant Gracia, founder of 318 Latino. Briant joined your hosts, Matt and Dave, to discuss how 318 Latino is dedicated to keeping the Latino population informed about current events while working to bridge the gap between the Hispanic and American communities in Shreveport-Bossier. Through the Hispanic Heritage Association of NWLA, Briant and his team play an active role in hosting various cultural events across Northwest Louisiana, including Shreveport’s vibrant Day of the Dead festival. Tune in now for a conversation on cultural economic development and the efforts to unite communities.

This week's episode of On The Cusp features Shreveport native Moss Duvall, the owner of Duvall’s Amusement Rentals and Pelican Tents & Events. Moss sat down with your hosts, Matt and Dave, to share the story behind growing a thriving full-service event rental business in the Shreveport/Bossier area. From local events to large-scale productions across the country, Moss discusses the exciting projects he’s helped bring to life. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at the event industry—tune in now!

Justin Sevier from Vintage Homes recently joined Matt and Dave, the hosts of "On The Cusp," to discuss the booming building industry in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. Justin’s team plays a key role in developing several large new neighborhoods and commercial projects that are shaping the future of Shreveport’s community. In this engaging conversation, Justin shares insights into the current housing market and how it remains affordable compared to larger cities across the United States. Tune in to hear more about the economic development driving growth in the region and how Shreveport is becoming an increasingly attractive place to live and work.

On The Cusp is back this week with social media strategist Kalli Combs, owner of Social Pal Kal! Kalli sat down with your hosts, Matt and Dave, to share how she caught the "entrepreneurial bug" that inspired her to build her personal brand. She opens up about her journey and how she now helps businesses leverage social media through effective strategies. In this episode, Kalli offers valuable tips and tricks for developing your brand voice, especially at the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your online presence, Kalli’s insights will help you take your social media game to the next level. Tune in now!

In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Bart Alexander from Chem-Air, a local helicopter business specializing in aerial application services. Operating across the nation, Bart explains why his company has chosen to keep its headquarters firmly planted in North Louisiana. Bart shares his perspective on the importance of developing strong ties to the community, fostering a positive work environment, and building both local culture and jobs simultaneously. Don't miss this discussion on how Chem-Air is staying true to its roots while flying high in the world of aerial application. Tune in now.

Join us as DJ Roman and Keith Haley, the dynamic duo behind Bossier City’s latest entertainment hotspot, Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar, visit On The Cusps hosts, Matt and Dave. In this episode, DJ and Keith share the inspiration behind their exciting business venture, how they found their talented performers, and their plans for the future. Tune in now to catch the full conversation!

In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Curtis Elkins, the owner of Pyromania Fireworks. What began as a small firework stand in North Bossier has blossomed into a powerhouse of pyrotechnics, with Curtis orchestrating everything from intimate wedding displays to some of the largest firework shows in the nation. Curtis shares his journey, detailing the challenges he faced in the industry and how he overcame them, while building a skilled team of local pyrotechnical specialists in North Louisiana. Join us for an enlightening conversation about creativity, community, and the magic of fireworks. Tune in now!

Lauren Jones from Shreveport’s own environmental non-profit, Shreveport Green, recently stopped by to chat with your On The Cusp’s hosts, Matt and Dave. In this enlightening discussion, Lauren highlights the transformative changes and benefits that Shreveport Green brings to the community—far beyond just farming and landscaping. She emphasizes that the ultimate goal of Shreveport Green is to foster a deeper connection with our environment, reminding us that we are important to the ecosystem and that by caring for it, we ultimately care for ourselves. Don’t miss this insightful conversation—tune in now!

Join hosts Dave and Matt on On The Cusp as they sit down with Billy Weatherall, the visionary behind Bossier's first free Christian gym. In this episode, Billy shares the inspiring story of his entrepreneurial journey, starting with Christ Fit Resale Thrift Store and expanding to include Christ Fit Gym, Strongmen Movers, and Christ Fit Recycling. Billy emphasizes the vital role of community in driving growth in North Louisiana, highlighting that giving goes beyond monetary donations. He believes that contributions come in many forms, from donations to acts of community service, all of which can create meaningful change. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear how Billy and his initiatives are making a difference. Tune in now!

In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave welcomed Shreveport's high fashion boutique owners, Kyle and Lauren Baudoin. The duo shared insights into their stores, M. and L.E. & Chalk, discussing the importance of authenticity in marketing—whether through billboards or social media. Join us to hear the inspiring stories behind the creation of both boutiques and how they’ve carved out a unique space in both the men’s and women’s fashion scenes in North Louisiana.

In this week’s episode of On The Cusp, your hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Shreveport’s newest resident and manufacturing expert, Justin Wilkinson. As the Vice President of Operations for Multipack, a leading beverage manufacturing, packaging, and distribution company, Justin shares insights on his vision for the industry and the exciting impact he’s making in Northwest Louisiana. With plans to bring over 150 jobs to the area, Justin discusses the importance of community engagement and innovation in manufacturing. Don’t miss this conversation about growth, opportunity, and the future of local industry!

On the Cusp hosts Matt and Dave are back with previous podcast guest, Chef Blake Jackson, to kick off Season 8. Chef Blake Jackson's new ventures, Mae & Co and Heron, will set the stage for some exciting dining experiences in Shreveport. Tune in now to hear all about how Blake is channeling his creativity and expertise into these two projects, and how they might bring something unique to the local food scene.

On the Cusp’s last guest of season 7 is Harrison Lilly, Bastrop native, real estate agent, and the owner of The Harrison Lilly Team. Harrison talks with Matt and Dave about how putting in the hours and surrounding yourself with the right people can have a positive impact in any company. Tune in now to hear from one of the top real estate agents in Louisiana.

Landon Durr, social media content creator and owner of High Tide Rise, spoke with On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave about her start in the social media world. Let’s take a peek behind the scenes with Landon as she discusses what it takes for her and her team to ensure they generate the best content for her clientele to grow their businesses. Tune in now!

In this week’s episode of On The Cusp, hosts Dave and Matt sit down with Ricky Murov, owner of Mattress Plus, a family-owned furniture store in Shreveport. Ricky talks about the changes he’s made to continue to see growth both locally and regionally. Tune in now!

Have you ever wondered if you are in the right job or possibly too old to be an entrepreneur? Myron Griffing, owner of Space: Interiors, sits down with On The Cusp’s hosts Dave and Matt in this week’s episode to address those same concerns he faced 12 years ago. Listen in as Myron discusses how his previous employments led him to take a chance on himself, which ultimately led to him being a nationally known interior designer.

When Joey, owner of Joseph Guin Barber, took a chance on an old building in downtown Shreveport, he had no idea the positive effect it would have for the community. Joey recaps the challenges, risks, and support he received when starting his barbershop in downtown Shreveport. Tune in now to hear about his entrepreneurial journey.

New business owners, Sara Balch and Amy England, sit down with On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave to share how they started Peach Therapies. Sara and Amy hope to make things easier for kids and parents by bringing a new type of direct access for both physical and speech therapy to Shreveport. Tune in today to hear how Peach Therapies is breaking barriers!

Dany Martin, partner at Williams Financial Advisors (WFA), shares his story on this week’s episode of On The Cusp. Hosts Matt and Dave learn about Dany’s passion to help people strive for both financial and personal health, whether it’s a local high school student in Junior Achievement or a safety in the NFL. Tune in now!

Wishing you could take your side-hustle and make it your full-time job? David McCandless made this dream a reality in 2023 when he started McCandless Consulting LLC. David talks with Dave and Matt about how the use of data, forecasting, and automation tools can help drive and transform a business. Tune in now.

West Monroe native, Caleb Etheridge, sat down with Dave and Matt for this week’s On the Cusp episode to talk about the company he started with his brother, Etheridge Pipeline & Conduit. Listen in as the guys chat about taking the leap to start a business and training programs EPC helped develop to educate North Louisiana’s workforce in the pipeline industry.

This episode of On The Cusp takes us east on I-20 to Monroe, Louisiana. Tune in as hosts Matt and Dave speak with Matt Dickerson, Business Development & Strategy Officer of Mid South Extrusion. Get ready to take a deep dive into how Matt and his team hope to develop and grow the workforce in North Louisiana.

What better way to kick off Season 7 of On The Cusp than with the return of Season 1 guest, Julie Gilley Milam. Join Matt, Dave, and Julie on a trip down memory lane as they discuss the lessons they’ve learned from 6 seasons of entrepreneurs and small business owners who are making an impact in our community.

C.E. Byrd High School graduate, Bob Thames, saw an opportunity to mix the fields of accounting and customer service in Shreveport, Louisiana. He co-created @Single Source Business Solutions in 2022. Bob is the hospitality frontman who creates strong customer relationships while his partner concentrates on bookkeeping. Tune in to hear some intriguing stories that lead Bob on his entrepreneurial journey.

Quentin Durr, founder of Louisiana Catalyst, joins us for this week’s episode of On the Cusp. Quentin founded Louisiana Catalyst in 2019 to support local entrepreneurs by providing access to workspaces, resources, and mentorship. You might even say Dave Smith is his role model. Tune in to hear how Quentin is making an impact in Monroe, Louisiana.

Ever wondered if a realtor could find success as an independent contractor? Randolph Smith co-created Pinnacle Realty Advisors for this specific purpose. The long-time Shreveport native is president of a cloud-based real estate brokerage company that offers a "Brokerage-as-a-Service" model for agents. Listen in now to hear about his entrepreneurial start!

We’re talking to Jarrett Lofton in this episode of On the Cusp. Jarrett is a Shreveport native and the founder of Legal Weapon, LLC. After law school, Jarrett found his niche offering legal consulting for entrepreneurial startups. Tune in!

Meet Ryan Williams, CEO of Seedlinks Behavior Management. Ryan serves the community by helping families access recovery support and mental health care. Listen in to hear how Ryan is making a difference in North Louisiana.

What a "waste" it would be to miss this episode of On The Cusp! Brandon Wakefield, owner of Precision Waste Solutions, educates hosts Dave and Matt about his nationwide waste management company. Tune in to learn more about how Brandon and his company developed innovative recycling programs right here in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux and our hosts have an in-depth discussion about the bond issue which will be on the April 27, 2024, ballot. Listen in to get your questions answered about upcoming infrastructure projects proposed in Shreveport.

Why not Shreveport? Clean Slate Botanical’s owner Ben Whalen discusses the benefits of opening a business in Shreveport during this week’s episode of On the Cusp. Listen in to find out more about Ben’s entrepreneurial journey and why he pivoted his business model after the pandemic.

Dave Bushnell with Sound Minds stopped by the studio to discuss his audio and video systems business with On The Cusp’s co-hosts Dave and Matt. Bushnell has been in business in Shreveport, Louisiana for over 20 years. He has grown Sound Minds into one the largest audio/video companies in the Ark-La-Tex. Tune In!

On the Cusp is kicking off season 6 with the “social media goddess” from Minden, Louisiana, Sara McDaniel. Sara is the founder of Simply Southern Cottage and has made a name for herself in the world of social media interior decorating. Listen to the episode to hear about Sara’s journey through renovations, real estate, and social media stardom. 

Our last episode of Season 5 of On The Cusp features Don Rucker with Outerlink Global Solution. Don joined Metro Aviation as the Director of Metro's Technical Service Group in 2016. In this role, Don oversees some of the most technologically advanced safety initiatives in aviation, including Outerlink Global Solution's IRIS System, the MetroAlert smartphone app and more.

This episode of On the Cusp features Megan Chavez with Prepped Up Meals. Prepped Up Meals is a meal prep business located in Shreveport, Louisiana.  Listen to Megan explain how convenient doesn’t have to mean unhealthy. 

This episode of On The Cusp features Ashley Rockett, the CEO and Executive Consultant of Sheer Technology. As an established leader in the IT industry, Ashley Glassell Rockett brings the concept of Information Technology Consulting to her hometown of Shreveport, LA by launching Sheer Technology, LLC. Ashley has served in both IT and Accounting capacities for start-up companies and Big 4 Public Accounting offices in both Washington, DC, and Dallas, TX.Ashley has coupled her experience as an award-winning IT professional with her CFO experience to grow the IT Consulting concept and profession in Northwest Louisiana. She holds the Excel Communications Circle of Stars Award, given only to 1% of its worldwide associates. Ashley has been an integral part of teams streamlining Fortune 500 companies’ sales and internal documenting and has served as a partner in a start-up IT Consulting firm generating nearly $10 million in sales in a Top 5 community. Ashley is accredited by the Project Management Institute and has worked in the financial services, retail, real estate, and telecommunications industries.

Today's guest is owner of the Remington Suite Hotel, Newton Dorsett. Dorsett draws upon more than 35 years of leadership experience while managing and transforming the Shreveport, Louisiana-based hotel into a premier destination. Moreover, he regularly provides event space at the Remington for local nonprofits to use.Prior to purchasing the Remington in 2006, Mr. Dorsett was heavily involved in oil and gas business pursuits. He founded Diamond Drilling, Trinity Disposal and Trucking, and Trinity Service Company, the latter of which completed oil field construction projects and performed workovers on oil and gas wells. He is also the former president of Loutex Production Company, which developed and operated wells in Northwest Louisiana and East Texas. Furthermore, he served as president of Marshall Properties, through which he owned more than 100 commercial and residential properties.

Our special guest this week is Jennifer Skinner LaPierre, owner of RUSHGreek boutique, and Cayenne Marketing.Tune in!

This week's guest is Jennifer Skinner LaPierre - the owner of RUSH Greek Boutique Cayenne Marketing.Tune In!

EAP’s On the Cusp hosts interview BRF’s 2024 Annual Event speaker Dr. Marci Rossell. Dr. Rossell is a world renowned economic and financial expert, and former CNBC Chief Economist and host of morning news talk show Squawk Box.