We R Randolph-Sheppard Podcast
Nicky Gacos, Terry Smith
The We R Randolph-Sheppard Podcast is a monthly presentation co-hosted by nationally recognized experts and advocates Nicky Gacos and Terry Smith. Sponsored in part by the National Association of Blind Merchants, the podcast will focus on past, current, and future issues impacting the Randolph-Sheppard Program and blind entrepreneurs. Nicky and Terry will lead discussions on important topics and invite nationally acclaimed guests to share their perspectives. The ultimate goal is to promote blind entrepreneurship.
A Lot Happening in DC
In this episode, Nicky and Terry discuss everything going on in DC as it relates to Randolph-Sheppard. And it’s a lot
January 2025 Blitz
In this month’s episode, you’ll get all of the latest and greatest news in the world of Randolph Shepherd. It is time for the quarterly Blitz
What would Jennings Randolph Say?
In this episode, Nicky and Terry use artificial intelligence to go back in time and interview Senator Jennings Randolph who sponsored the original Randolph-Sheppard Act in 1936. What would he think about the program today? Well, you will find out.
Food Trucks Are Hare
In this episode, Terry and Nicky talk with Washington BEP Director about Jim Hemmen about that state’s first mobile vending facility.
The Blitz October 2024
In this month’s episode, you’ll get all of the latest and greatest news in the world of Randolph Shepherd. It is time for the quarterly Blitz
The Planted Foot
This month Nicky and Terry welcome Stephen Shapiro, author of “Pivotal: Creating Stability in an UncertainWorld.” Learn how the planted foot helps you pivot in your business.
NAMA Now: What The National Automatic Merchandising Association Is Working On
In this episode, Nicky and Terry welcome Matt Bisenius from NAMA’s Government Affairs Office to discuss legislative issues facing the convenience services industry.
The Blitz, July 2024
In this episode, Nicky and Terry share all of the news that is the news when it comes to Randolph-Sheppard. Hear about the latest victories and setbacks, the Supreme Court decision that could impact blind entrepreneurs, industry trends, and more.
Business Strategies for Blind Entrepreneurs
On this episode listeners will hear from Jimmy Newson, Founder and CEO of Moving Forward Small Business. Jimmy was one of the featured speakers at NABM’s BLAST Innovation 24 earlier this year in Orlando and received great reviews. Jimmy discusses the importance of planning for small businesses.
A Creative Transition Program
In this episode, Nicky and Terry discuss the new RSA guidance on initial stocks and supplies. Plus, you will hear from some high school kids participating in a unique vending training program at the Tennessee School for the Blind.
The April 2024 Blitz
This episode focuses on news related to Randolph Sheppard from across the country. You will hear all the latest happenings.
Innovation Is the Future
In this episode, Nicky and Terry recap NABM’s Innovation Conference, and listeners will hear from some of the terrific presenters.
Just Talking All Things Randolph-Sheppard
This month, you can eavesdrop on a conversation between Terry and Nicky as they discuss everything Randolph-Sheppard. "
The January 2024 Blitz
This episode focuses on Randolph Sheppard related news from across the country. You will hear all the latest happenings.
Examining the Military Exchanges and Randolph-Sheppard
In this episode, Attorney Lauren McLarney joins Terry and Nicky to discuss legal strategies in dealing with the conflict between military exchanges and Randolph-Sheppard. "
Building Collaboration to Build a Better Program
This month Nicky is mad as Hell but puts that behind him and he and Terry discuss building collaboration with RSA.
The October 2023 Blitz
This episode focuses on Randolph Sheppard related news from across the country. You will hear all the latest happenings.
Nicky and Terry Unplugged
This month, Nicky and Terry do the show with no guests and discuss everything from their football picks to the dangers on the horizon for Randolph Sheppard.
Vending Asset Management: A Deeper Dive
In this session, Terry and Nicky take a closer look at National Vending's Asset Management Program. Is this an idea whose time has come? "
The Blitz is Back
The Blitz returns as part of the We R Randolph Sheppard Podcast. Catch up on the latest news and happenings from around the country.
Blind Entrepreneurs Invade Atlanta for NAMA
In May, over 160 Randolph-Sheppard stakeholders attended the NAMA Show in Atlanta. Listeners will learn about the new and exciting things in the industry.
What Does It Take to Be an Effective SLA?
This month, Terry and Nicky and special guest Jesse Hartle discuss what it takes in today’s environment to be an effective SLA. And at long last, Terry reveals the Top 10 SLAs based on the scorecard developed by NABM.
Jesse Hartle Unplugged
What do Randolph-Sheppard and Disney have in common? What can swamp land in Florida tell us about the future for blind entrepreneurs? Jesse Hartle has the answers. Tune in and get to know a different side of Jesse in his candid conversation with Nicky and Terry.
Welcome Home Dee Jones
This week's special guest Dee Jones shares some of her life’s stories and gets a little philosophical.
Micromarkets - Fact and Fiction
In this episode, Nicky and Terry invite a special guest and national expert Steve Closser to the show and dive deep into Micromarkets and the potential they have for blind entrepreneurs.
Merry Christmas Randolph Sheppard
If Randolph-Sheppard could get one thing from Santa this Christmas, what would that gift be? Nicky and Terry will share their Christmas wishes for the Program, as will many other blind entrepreneurs.
Background music via https://www.FesliyanStudios.com
More Visitors to Nicky’s Bar & Grill.
In this episode, 3 state agency guys drop by Nicky’s Bar & Grill to talk about the future of the Randolph Sheppard Program.
Let’s Drink to the Future of Randolph Sheppard
In this episode, Terry and Nicky meet 3 special friends at Nicky’s Bar & Grill and talk about what the future holds for blind entrepreneurship in this country.
A Second Look at Nominees
Nicky and Terry continue to explore the nominee concept with special guests Ray Hopkins and Jimmy Cunningham. Listeners will hear the perspective of Virginia’s former agency director and current Committee Chair.
A Look at the Nominee Agency Concept
Could nominee agencies be the key to the future of Randolph Sheppard? This month Nicky and Terry explore the advantages of contracting out the day-to-day management of a state business enterprises program. They welcome special guest Chant Connock, the head of the Virginia nominee.
Inflationary Pressures on Blind Entrepreneurs
In this month’s episode, Nicky and Terri explore the inflationary pressures and supply chain issues that blind entrepreneurs are experiencing. They welcome special guest Reed Barton from Sodexo to share his insights on these important topics. You may also learn some things about the two hosts that you probably did not know.
Legal Issues Discussed
In Episode #5, Terry and Nicky discuss legal issues surrounding the Randolph Sheppard Program. They welcome renowned attorney Andy Freeman as their special guest.
The 2022 NAMA Show
In Episode 4 Terry and Nicky talk about their experiences and bring you interviews from the 2022 National Automated Merchandising Association in Chicago.
A Look at the Kennelly Amendments
In this episode, Terry and Nicky look at the history of vending at the interstate rest areas and the impact on the lives of many blind entrepreneurs.
Looking Back to 1974 - Part 2
In this episode, we hear from the iconic Jim Gashel and look back at the passage of the 1974 Amendments to the Randolph-Sheppard Act.
Looking Back to 1974 - Part 1
In this episode we hear from the iconic Jim Gashel and look back at the passage of the 1974 Amendments to the Randolph-Sheppard Act.