Can you transform a vision into reality with just $2.50? Discover how Winnie Comstock-Carlson did exactly that when she founded Comstock's Magazine. Join me, Kelly Brothers as Winnie, the president and publisher, and Judy Farah, the magazine's editor, recount their inspiring journeys in the media world. From Winnie's initial conviction that Sacramento needed better business reporting to Judy's impressive career that spans significant events like the 1984 Olympics and the Oscars, this conversation is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of journalism.

We'll journey through the evolution of Comstock's Magazine under  Winnie's ongoing influence and more recently, Judy's editorial acumen. Learn about the strategic changes that have kept the magazine engaging and relevant, including the addition of restaurant reviews, diverse profiles, and the celebrated "Icon" section. We'll also highlight the significance of covering business developments in smaller towns around Sacramento, emphasizing the importance of regional journalism in fostering community and democracy.

Finally, we look ahead to the future of journalism in the digital age. Winnie and Judy discuss how Comstock's collaborates with an editorial advisory board to maintain high standards, the challenges print media faces, and their optimistic outlook for its future. They share insights on how the magazine weathered the COVID-19 pandemic and celebrate Sacramento's transformation over the past 35 years. An award winning magazine in many different categories, this is an inspiring discussion on the vital role of journalism and the influential power of civic engagement in shaping a vibrant community.

To learn more about Comstock's magazine, visit https://www.comstocksmag.com/
You can follow them on social at the following addresses:
Twitter: comstocksmag
Facebook: Comstock's Magazine
Instagram: comstocksmag
LinkedIn: Comstock's Magazine

For more information on what we provide at CAPTRUST visit www.captrust.com.
You can contact me, Kelly Brothers, through the show at: bisifipodcast@gmail.com
To reach me at CAPTRUST visit www.captrust.com/locations/sacramento-ca/

Episode Highlights
(00:00 - 48:45) Silent Conversation
(03:15 - 05:31) Building a Print Publishing Business
(09:52 - 11:21) Expanding Comstock's Magazine for Broader Audience
(16:50 - 18:25) Development Opportunities in Sacramento
(19:35 - 20:35) Navigating Bias in Political Writing
(28:29 - 28:53) Revival of Print Journalism
(35:04 - 36:01) Printing Costs Force Magazine Relocation
(40:06 - 41:51) 35 Years of Sacramento History

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Comstock's Magazine
Winnie and Judy reflect on Comstock's Magazine's 35th anniversary, their careers in media, and the importance of business news in the community.

(09:05) Comstock's Magazine Evolution and Vision
Comstock's Magazine evolved under Judy Farah's leadership, featuring diverse profiles, restaurant reviews, and coverage of smaller towns.

(22:22) Future of Journalism in Digital Age
Collaboration, challenges, and optimism for print media's future discussed by Comstock's Magazine's president and editor.

(34:45) Evolution and Future of Comstock's Magazine
Comstock's magazine faced challenges during COVID-19, including increased printing costs and celebrating 35 years in Sacramento's growth.

(47:17) Sacramento's Impact on Regional Politics
Comstock's magazine discusses Sacramento's political environment and the neglect of its riverside assets, emphasizing civic engagement and regional challenges.

Episode 39: Comstocks Magazine - 35 Years of Vision, Evolution, and Impact.

Ever wondered how childhood entrepreneurial ventures can shape a successful business career? Join me, Kelly Brothers, as Brad Squires, CEO of Sacramento Venture Philanthropy, shares his transformative journey from a young boy selling mistletoe with his brothers in Woodland, California, to co-founding a global B2B maintenance management software company, Maintenance Connection. Brad's stories offer a nostalgic look at the early lessons he learned, including responsibility and cash flow management, which have profoundly impacted his approach to entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

Discover how Brad's passion for innovation led him to create Sacramento Venture Philanthropy, an organization that applies venture fund principles to support local nonprofits. We explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these nonprofits in the Sacramento region and how initiatives like the Fast Pitch program empower them to effectively communicate their missions and secure vital resources. Brad shares success stories, such as the Food Literacy Center, and discusses how SVP bridges the gap between traditional nonprofit management and rigorous business practices.

Finally, we discuss the importance of community engagement and capacity building, offering insights into how strategic initiatives can bolster nonprofit organizations. Brad introduces us to innovative programs like Think Tankathons and the "five T's" of being a generous partner. We also touch on understanding fiduciary duty in financial advising, highlighting the need for transparency and vigilance when navigating financial services. This episode promises to leave you inspired by Brad's journey and enlightened on the intersection of entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

To learn more about SVP visit: https://www.svpsacramento.org/
For more information on what we provide at CAPTRUST visit www.captrust.com.
You can contact me, Kelly Brothers, through the show at: bisifipodcast@gmail.com
To reach me at CAPTRUST visit www.captrust.com/locations/sacramento-ca/

Chapter Summaries(00:10) CEO Brad Squires Talks Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneur Brad Squires shares his journey from childhood business to co-founding a successful software company, blending entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

(10:04) Childhood Paper Routes
Nature's unique experiences of running a flower farm business, selling mistletoe, and early entrepreneurial ventures.

(18:28) Venture Philanthropy and Fast Pitch Program
SVP uses venture fund approach to support nonprofits in Sacramento region, bridging gap between traditional management and business practices.

(27:58) Success Stories of Fast Pitch Program
Fast pitch in Sacramento helps organizations articulate their mission, with high-powered partners and volunteer coaches, leading to success stories and collaborations.

(36:56) Community Engagement With Sacramento Nonprofits
SVP provides strategic philanthropy through programs like Fast Pitch and Think Tankathons, emphasizing capacity building and the five T's.

(49:12) Understanding Fiduciary Financial Advisors
Fiduciary duty in financial advising: understanding fees, prioritizing clients' best interests, and transparency in financial arrangements.

Episode 48: Blending Business Success Into Venture Philanthropy. Brad Squires Explains.

At various points in his 30-year broadcast career, Kelly Brothers has anchored the No. 1 evening newscast in Sacramento on KCRA 3 and the No. 1 morning news show on News 93.1 KFBK. He is currently a Principal and Advisor at CAPTRUST, based in Sacramento.  For the program, Kelly serves up some of the most succulent stories from our region about people, places and things that impact the community and your financial well being. I'm sure there will even be a few tasty surprises here and there, when the recipe is right. The goal is to have you learn, think, even laugh a little bit, all calorie free. Hopefully you'll enjoy what he's delivering right to your kitchen table or dining room or... will you be eating in your car, wherever you choose to listen.

Episode 48: Blending Business Success Into Venture Philanthropy. Brad Squires Explains.

Bite Sized Finance

Related tracks