The Bulldog Business Show

The Bulldog Business Show - October 31, 2024

The Bulldog Business Show, hosted by Dean Scott Grawe of the College of Business at Mississippi State University, provides an engaging platform to explore university highlights, success stories, and insights from alumni, faculty, and community leaders.
In this episode, College of Business Dean Scott Grawe welcomes Cate Robinson, an MBA alumna and Senior Wealth Advisor at Cadence Bank. Cate shares her journey from earning her undergraduate degree at Delta State to completing her MBA at MSU, inspired by her father’s legacy. She highlights the MBA program’s impact on her career, emphasizing its focus on critical thinking and problem-solving, which she applies daily in wealth management. Cate also reflects on her ongoing engagement with the College of Business, contributing as a lecturer, advisory board member, and mentor, as she encourages others to get involved through mentorship, financial support, or volunteering.
The Bulldog Business Show is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Podbean.

The Bulldog Business Show - October 15, 2024

In this episode of The Bulldog Business Show, host Dr. Scott Grawe welcomes Mary Graham, Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Mississippi State University. Mary shares insights into her background in banking and her transition into her current role, driven by a passion for helping small businesses. She explains the wide range of services provided by the SBDC, from assisting startups with initial planning to supporting established businesses with more advanced needs like cybersecurity, marketing, and succession planning.Mary also highlights the resources available through the Mississippi SBDC network, including specialized centers like the RISE Center, which offers in-depth market research and international trade support. She discusses how SBDC services are free, supported by the SBA and Mississippi State University, and available to small businesses across Mississippi. Additionally, Mary explains how the SBDC helps businesses navigate financing options, including grant-funded programs like the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) for those who may not qualify for traditional loans.For those interested in SBDC services, Graham encourages them to visit the website, www.mississippisbdc.org, to register for counseling, even if they're still in the idea phase of their business. The Bulldog Business Show is available on YouTube, as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where listeners can continue to learn from alumni and partners of the Mississippi State College of Business.

The Bulldog Business Show - September 25, 2024

In this episode of The Bulldog Business Show, host Scott Grawe, Dean of the College of Business at Mississippi State University, introduces Dr. Nick Pashos, the new Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach. Pashos shares his journey from studying biomedical engineering at Drexel University to launching his own company, BioAesthetics, which specializes in tissue regeneration for breast cancer survivors. He explains what drew him to Mississippi State, particularly the hands-on and inclusive approach of the university’s E-Center, which serves not only business students but the entire campus community.Pashos highlights several key programs at the E-Center, such as the VentureCatalyst Program, which provides grant funding and mentorship to student entrepreneurs, and the VentureTech MBA Fellow Program, which combines full MBA scholarships with startup support. He also discusses the expansion of the E-Center’s resources, including new spaces in downtown Starkville and beyond, designed to support both the campus and local communities.The episode underscores the E-Center's commitment to fostering innovation, with Pashos encouraging students, faculty, and alumni to get involved by visiting the center’s website, ecenter.msstate.edu.

The Bulldog Business Show - August 31, 2024

In this episode of The Bulldog Business Show, College of Business Dean Scott Grawe interviews Seth Pounds, Director of the Risk Management and Insurance (RMI) Program. A third-generation Bulldog, Seth discusses his personal background, the growth and impact of the RMI program, and its longstanding industry relationships.The discussion dives into the unique opportunities offered by the RMI program, which has been a part of the College of Business since the 1940s. Seth highlights the program's flexibility and diverse curriculum, covering principles of insurance, property and casualty, life and health, and more. The program also emphasizes real-world experience through internships and industry engagement, preparing students for various careers in risk management.Seth discusses the strong connections with industry partners and organizations, including the Mississippi Independent Agents and the Risk and Insurance Management Society, which provide students with networking and scholarship opportunities. He also touches Insurance Day, a major continuing education event that doubles as a fundraiser for the program, bringing together industry professionals and students for networking and career development each year.

The Bulldog Business Show - August 29, 2024

In the latest episode of The Bulldog Business Show, we explore the dynamic PGA Golf Management Program at Mississippi State University with guest Adam Scott, the program's director. Adam shares his journey from student to educator, detailing how his passion for golf led him to Starkville, where he has since played a pivotal role in shaping future golf professionals.
 
The episode delves into the structure of the PGA Golf Management Program, highlighting its blend of business education and specialized golf training. Adam discusses the rigorous curriculum, which includes extensive internships and a focus on real-world experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the golf industry.
 
Viewers will learn about the program's recruiting strategies, the importance of community and mentorship within the program, and the crucial role of the MSU Golf Course in both education and community engagement. Adam also reflects on the program's future, emphasizing a commitment to growth, continuous improvement, and honoring the legacy of past graduates.
 
The episode wraps up with a nod to the MSU Golf Course's offerings, including a well-stocked golf shop that provides a wide range of MSU gear, perfect for any Bulldog fan. (https://www.golfshop.msstate.edu/) Listen in to discover how the College of Business is helping the next generation of golf professionals and making a significant impact in the world of golf.

The Bulldog Business Show - July 31, 2024

In the latest episode of The Bulldog Business Show, host Scott Grawe, Dean of the College of Business at Mississippi State University, welcomes Ricky Clifton, the Coordinator of Career Engagement for MBA students. Ricky, a two-time graduate of Mississippi State University, shares his journey back to his alma mater after a 30-year career in manufacturing and design for medical devices. He expresses excitement about contributing to the university that played a significant role in his career and working with students, employers, faculty, and staff.Ricky discusses his role in engaging with MBA students, starting from their orientation week, and introduces them to the "MBA +" program, which offers networking opportunities with employers. He emphasizes the importance of understanding students' career aspirations and supporting them in achieving their goals. Ricky also highlights his efforts to build and strengthen relationships with employers, including organizing employer business forums across the state to create new opportunities for students.The episode also explores the value that Mississippi State University MBA students bring to employers. Ricky discusses the rigorous training and diverse skills that the students possess, making them valuable additions to any organization. He shares insights into his interactions with students, including resume reviews, interview preparation, and career planning, emphasizing the importance of networking and being open to unexpected opportunities.Additionally, Ricky talks about his collaboration with the university's Career Services Office, which recently launched a new Career Center website, www.career.msstate.edu. This platform provides valuable resources for students and employers, enhancing the overall career engagement process.Employers interested in Mississippi State's MBA students can connect with Ricky Clifton via phone at 662.325.0434 or email at rclifton@business.msstate.edu for recruiting opportunities.

Bulldog Business Show - July 30, 2024

The Bulldog Business Show is a bi-monthly program dedicated to bringing you all the latest news and information from MSU’s College of Business. In this inaugural episode of the new format for the show, College of Business Dean Scott Grawe introduces an engaging lineup of conversations aimed at keeping listeners informed about the latest developments within the college. Emphasizing a fresh approach, Dean Grawe kicks off the series with Dr. Frank Adams, a seasoned professor of supply chain logistics at the college, as his first guest.Dr. Adams shares his journey as a fourth-generation Bulldog, reflecting on his diverse career path before joining Mississippi State to revitalize the supply chain program. This program, which began in the 1950s, has evolved significantly under his leadership, growing from two students to a major with consistent growth of about 8% per semester. The discussion highlights the program’s success in preparing students for the workforce through early engagement and partnerships with employers.The conversation also delves into the unique challenges of rapid growth and how the program has managed to maintain a strong connection with the business community. Dr. Adams emphasizes the importance of equipping students with analytical skills and practical problem-solving experiences through real-world projects with companies like PACCAR, Hershey's, and CAT Global.Additionally, the episode touches on the collaborative spirit within the supply chain academic community, including partnerships with universities like Auburn and participation in initiatives such as the Women Impacting Supply Chain Excellence.Dr. Adams also discusses his active research pursuits, focusing on sustainable practices in supply chains and the impact of green initiatives on performance. His work is aimed at understanding the integration of sustainability into business operations and its effect on supply chain efficiency.As the Bulldog Business Show embarks on this new journey, Dean Grawe invites the audience to tune in twice a month for insightful discussions with various guests from the College of Business, promising to provide valuable updates and foster connections within the business community.

The Bulldog Business Show - June 2024

The Bulldog Business Show (formerly The Dividends Show) is a monthly program dedicated to bringing you all the latest news and information from MSU's College of Business. Each episode gives you an inside look at the College's programs and events, history, faculty, students, and alumni.
 
In the June episode of the show, host Jeffrey Rupp speaks with College of Business Dean Scott Grawe, who reflects on his first year at Mississippi State University. He shares insights from his initial listening tour, highlighting the similarities and differences from his previous tenure at Iowa State University. Dean Grawe emphasizes the importance of understanding the passion and commitment of alumni and the broader university community, which has informed the development of a strategic plan for the College of Business.
 
The show also discusses the launch of new programs and initiatives aligned with the college's mission, including the search for a new director for the Entrepreneurship Center. Additionally, the episode marks a transition as Jeffrey Rupp, the current host, prepares to pass the baton to Dean Grawe. Rupp shares memorable moments from his tenure, particularly highlighting outreach programs like i-Create Camp, The Idea Shop's Guitar Building Workshop, and the Golden Triangle Lemonade Day, which engages young students and fosters community connections.
 
Rupp also discusses his upcoming role at Glo, a company started at the university’s E-Center, reflecting his transition from academia to industry. The episode concludes with Rupp's final sign-off, marking the end of an era for "Dividends" and setting the stage for Dean Grawe's future leadership as host of the show.

The Bulldog Business Show - April 2024

In the April 2024 episode of The Bulldog Business Show (formerly The Dividends Show), host Jeffrey Rupp welcomes special guests Bonnie Harvey and Michael Houlihan, the founders of Barefoot Wine-- the largest wine brand in the world. The two returned to Mississippi State University as keynote speakers in the College of Business for the second time, having previously visited in 2014 as part of the Leo W. Seal Jr. Distinguished Speaker Series where they inspired a large audience of student entrepreneurs. The episode explores the Barefoot Wine story, focusing on the themes of hardship, hustle, and heart, as highlighted in their best-selling book, "The Barefoot Spirit."
 
Bonnie Harvey discusses the innovative and cost-effective marketing strategies that propelled Barefoot Wines to success, emphasizing the importance of supporting community events and non-profits as a way to give back. She shares the creative origins of the Barefoot brand, including how her own footprint became the logo that symbolizes the relaxed and approachable nature of their wines.
 
Michael Houlihan joins the conversation to introduce their latest venture, Business Audio Theater. This innovative concept brings business stories to life through audio dramatizations, aiming to improve employee engagement and retention by making business principles more memorable and relatable. Houlihan explains the unique appeal of this format, which combines narration and dialogue with sound effects and music, engaging listeners in a way that traditional books cannot.
 
Harvey and Houlihan express their passion for supporting entrepreneurship and community development, reflecting on their continued involvement with Mississippi State's expanding Entrepreneurship Center. They share their philosophy of following opportunities passionately, a principle that has guided their journey from Barefoot Wines to their latest entrepreneurial endeavors.