What if you could transform your local business with the power of trust and community? Join us as we sit down with Rick Watkins, a seasoned board member of the Better Business Bureau and the executive director behind Trust Acadiana. From his early days in Morgan City to his entrepreneurial journey through Florida’s restaurant scene, and finally returning to opening a restaurant in Lafayette, Rick shares his unique insights into the restaurant industry, especially navigating the complexities of operating in an industrial area. Learn about the strategic decisions that made his ventures successful and the lessons he gathered along the way.

Rick's story doesn't end with the restaurant business; it evolves into something even more impactful. Discover how he transitioned into establishing Trust Acadiana, a thriving barter network that began in 2010 with just 22 members and has grown to over 515 local businesses. Rick sheds light on the importance of community trust, referrals, and the lessons learned from working with a dynamic nine-member rotating board of directors. You'll hear about the rebranding journey to Moxie and why managing this internal currency is crucial for the network's success.

In our final segment, we explore the broader themes of continuous personal and professional development. Rick emphasizes the benefits of engaging with business organizations like the Better Business Bureau and how diverse viewpoints on a board can foster meaningful growth. We also dive into the significance of social media in modern business, generational shifts in work ethic, and the importance of valuing employees. Tune in for a treasure trove of advice on maintaining integrity, trust, and growth in any business endeavor.

To learn more about BBB Serving Acadiana, visit our website:

🔗 https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/better-business-bureau-serving-acadiana

This podcast is an AcadianaCasts production and part of the AcadianaCasts Network. Go to acadianacasts.com for more South Louisiana sourced content.