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We R Randolph-Sheppard Podcast

Entrepreneurship

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.

Location:

United States

Description:

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.

Language:

English


Episodes
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The Dynamic Dup Becomes the Dynamic Trio

2/1/2026
In this episode, Nicky and Terry are joined by Ed Birmingham, a Chicago blind entrepreneur who recently retired after a long career. The three discuss a number of issues related to Randolph-Sheppard and current events.

Duration:00:56:52

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January 2026 Blitz

1/4/2026
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.

Duration:00:58:06

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A Christmas Visit to Nicky’s Bar & Grill

12/6/2025
In this episode, Nicky and Terry welcome 4 new friends to Nicky’s Bar &Grill to discuss all things Randolph-Sheppard.

Duration:01:15:27

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Let's Hear from the SLAs

11/1/2025
In this episode, Nicky and Terry invite the President and President-Elect of the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind, and they also discuss current issues involving the Department of War.

Duration:01:03:28

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We Say Goodbye to Bill Findley

10/5/2025
In this episode, Terry and Nicky double up with a farewell interview with the Florida BEP Director, as well as The Blitz.

Duration:01:04:14

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Say What? DOD Wants a Waiver

9/1/2025
Say What? DOD Wants a Waiver - Nicky and Terry welcome 2 guests to discuss Secretary Hesgeth's request for a DOD waiver from the R-S priority.

Duration:01:03:36

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The Blitz July 2025

7/1/2025
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.

Duration:01:04:09

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A Return to Nicky’s Bar and Grill

6/1/2025
On this episode, Terry and Nicky have a drink and talk all things Randolph-Sheppard with some special guests.

Duration:01:10:16

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The Tennessee Near Miss

5/5/2025
In this episode, Nicky and Terry invite special guests from Tennessee to discuss legislation that threatened the priority in that state.

Duration:01:00:15

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April 2025 Blitz: All the news that is the news

4/1/2025
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

Duration:01:01:53

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A Lot Happening in DC

2/1/2025
In this episode, Nicky and Terry discuss everything going on in DC as it relates to Randolph-Sheppard. And it’s a lot

Duration:00:56:08

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January 2025 Blitz

1/1/2025
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

Duration:00:57:06

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What would Jennings Randolph Say?

12/1/2024
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.

Duration:00:44:35

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Food Trucks Are Hare

11/3/2024
In this episode, Terry and Nicky talk with Washington BEP Director about Jim Hemmen about that state’s first mobile vending facility.

Duration:00:47:21

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The Blitz October 2024

10/1/2024
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

Duration:01:00:50

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The Planted Foot

9/1/2024
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.

Duration:00:40:41

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NAMA Now: What The National Automatic Merchandising Association Is Working On

8/1/2024
In this episode, Nicky and Terry welcome Matt Bisenius from NAMA’s Government Affairs Office to discuss legislative issues facing the convenience services industry.

Duration:00:46:47

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The Blitz, July 2024

7/4/2024
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.

Duration:00:51:14

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Business Strategies for Blind Entrepreneurs

6/2/2024
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.

Duration:00:48:32

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A Creative Transition Program

5/8/2024
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.

Duration:00:36:11