On The Cusp

Hosted by Dave Smith and Matt Snyder

Business EntrepreneurshipInterviews guests

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Episodes

156

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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About the show

Launching and growing a new business comes with its share of unpredictable challenges — but it doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. Get ready to ride the wave of entrepreneurship with the On The Cusp Podcast! We're here to educate Northwest Louisiana by shining a spotlight on the voices and untold stories of our vibrant community. From passionate activists to innovative entrepreneurs and dedicated small business owners, our podcast dives deep into the heart of NWLA. Tune in to discover the inspiration, challenges, and triumphs that define our local trailblazers. With On The Cusp, you're always just one episode away from the next big idea!

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60 recent

August 20, 202619 min

Season 15, Episode 1: Ronnie Remedies with Shreveport Limousine

On this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Ronnie Remedies, owner of Shreveport Limousine, to hear how a side hustle grew into a full-time business spanning more than 25 years. Ronnie shares how he expanded beyond limousines into buses, iShuttles, and luxury SUVs to meet the growing transportation needs of North Louisiana. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at the types of clients he serves and explains why he sees his employees as ambassadors for the Shreveport-Bossier community. Ronnie also opens up about navigating a fast-changing transportation industry and why staying adaptable and continuing to evolve has been a key part to his success. Tune in now for a front-row seat to the North Louisiana transportation industry and the story behind a business that keeps moving forward!

August 12, 202621 min

Season 14, Episode 14: Jacqueline Scott

In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Shreveport local legend Jacqueline Scott to talk about her entrepreneurial journey. Ms. Scott shares how her journey began and grew into a remarkable career built on hard work and determination. Born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, she has spent her life striving to become a better person and make a lasting difference in her community. From catchy billboards to reality TV to owning her own island, her story is a testament to bold ambition and constant growth. Tune in now to hear this inspiring story of perseverance, motivation, and building a future on your own terms.

August 5, 202618 min

Season 14, Episode 13: Lisa Haynie with Lisa's Flowers & Gifts

On this episode of On The Cusp, Matt and Dave welcome their first florist to the podcast, Lisa Haynie of Lisa's Flowers & Gifts, to talk about owning and growing a flower shop in North Louisiana. Lisa shares how she became the second Lisa to own the business, the changes she's made since taking over, and the importance of strong vendor relationships and customer service. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the floral industry and the business decisions that keep her local flower shop thriving. Tune in now to hear Lisa's story and learn more about the business behind the blooms. P.S. Howard, thanks for always watching On The Cusp!

July 29, 202617 min

Season 14, Episode 12: Waynette Ballengee with Shreveport Regional Airport Beautification Committee

On this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Waynette Ballengee, Chairwoman of the Shreveport Regional Airport Beautification Committee, to talk about the exciting transformation underway at Shreveport Regional Airport. As the first impression for visitors arriving in our area, the airport is getting a fresh new look both inside and out, thanks to both the Airport and the Beautification Committee's efforts. Waynette shares how the airport is embracing a new identity featuring local artwork and North Louisiana souvenirs that showcase what makes our region unique. From updated decor to thoughtful design details, every change helps travelers feel a genuine connection to North Louisiana the moment they step off the plane. Tune in now to hear how these changes are helping put our area's best foot forward for visitors and travelers alike!

July 22, 202616 min

Season 14, Episode 11: Val & Benn with The Magnolia Pit

You might want to have a snack within reach for this one, because On The Cusp is diving into all things barbeque. Hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Valerie and Taneia Benn, owners of The Magnolia Pit in Shreveport. Val and Benn talk about what led to their decision to buy the restaurant from Chef John Strand and what drew them into the restaurant business in the first place. They share what they wanted to do differently from other local barbeque spots, including keeping the culinary menu inclusive so guests with any diet can find something to enjoy. This conversation dives into the importance of supporting fellow women chefs in our area and highlights the rising number of women making their mark in the culinary industry. Tune in now to hear what really goes on behind the counter and in the Pit at one of Shreveport-Bossier's hottest restaurants. This episode was recorded before Val and Benn made the decision to sell The Magnolia Pit, and we wish them the best! We're excited to see what the new owners bring to this local favorite.

July 15, 202616 min

Season 14, Episode 10: Keith Payne with Payne Mechanical Services

In this episode of On The Cusp, Keith Payne of Payne Mechanical Services shares the story of the family business his grandfather started back in 1956, growing from residential plumbing into a powerhouse commercial plumbing and HVAC company. Keith joins hosts Matt and Dave to break the exciting news that Payne Mechanical Services has expanded from four locations to five, with a brand new location now open in Tulsa, OK. He also dives into how the company gives back by supporting the communities their employees call home, and how word of mouth and community involvement drive their marketing and growth. Keith makes the case for skilled trades as a smart career path, offering hands-on training and real opportunity without the need for a four-year college degree. Tune in now to hear how Payne Mechanical Services built a lasting legacy and why the trades might just be the career move you never considered!

July 1, 202623 min

Season 14, Episode 9: Mike & Dennis Etheredge with Etheredge Industrial Services

On this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with father-son duo Mike and Dennis Etheredge to talk about Etheredge Industrial Services, a 40-year-old Shreveport business built from the ground up. Mike shares what motivated him and his wife to start the company, how he raised the capital to get it off the ground, and why he credits their employees as the true backbone of the business. Dennis opens up about growing up around the business, always knowing he'd end up working on electric motors, and the story behind Mike passing the company on to him. Together, they discuss how the father-son team has since expanded operations to other cities across the South. Tune in now to hear how a family business built on hard work turned into an industrial success story!

June 24, 202617 min

Season 14, Episode 8: Chris Phillips with The Picklr

On this episode of On The Cusp , hosts Matt and Dave talk with Chris Phillips, co-owner of The Picklr , Bossier City’s newest premier pickleball destination located at the Louisiana Boardwalk. Chris shares what it took to bring the franchise to the Shreveport-Bossier area and discusses the growing popularity of pickleball across the country. The conversation also highlights the importance of local entrepreneurs and community support in bringing new opportunities and entertainment to the region. Whether you're an experienced player or just looking for a fun activity with family and friends, The Picklr has something to offer. Tune in now and hear the story behind one of the area's newest places to play, connect, and have fun.

June 17, 202613 min

Season 14, Episode 7: Nicole Harrington with Margaritaville Casino & Resort

Matt and Dave take On The Cusp on the road, heading straight to the patio at Margaritaville Resort & Casino in Bossier City to sit down with Director of Food & Beverage Nicole Harrington. Nicole shares how the resort is creating unforgettable experiences that go well beyond gaming, bringing a true "resort" atmosphere to life in Northwest Louisiana. She also highlights how the local community has shown up strong for Margaritaville, and how the resort is giving back through partnerships with area businesses like Chasing Aces, the Picklr, and the vibrant Eastbank District. Tune in now and let Nicole take you behind the scenes of one of Bossier City's most exciting destinations, because the fun doesn't stop at the front door!

June 10, 202617 min

Season 14, Episode 6: Kyle Hand with Hand Construction

Kyle Hand, owner of Hand Construction, joins On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave to discuss the company's current projects, including ongoing work at the Shreveport Regional Airport. Kyle shares how his father founded the company in the 1980s and the role Hand Construction has played in developing the Shreveport-Bossier area over the years. He also shares his thoughts on the upcoming data centers, the job opportunities they could bring to the region, and what the permitting and construction process looks like for large commercial projects. Tune in now and get the inside scoop on the blueprints building North Louisiana’s future!