Business Inspires

Business Inspires

By Tri-Village Chamber PartnershipBusinessCareersManagement
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Business Inspires episodes

  • Mayor Greta Kearns on the City of Grandview Heights' Exciting Developments

    In this episode of Business Inspires, hosts Brett Johnson and Katie Ellis sit down with Mayor Greta Kearns of the City of Grandview Heights to discuss the dynamic developments taking place within the city.

    From the significant milestones celebrated last year, including forty years as a Tree City USA and the fire department's centennial anniversary, to the recent unveiling of the new parks and recreation facility, you will get an inside look at the City of Grandview Heights' continual progression.

    Mayor Kearns talks about the city's capital projects, including the construction of a new city hall, police, and fire facility, and improvements to aging infrastructure.

    Additionally, she sheds light on thriving economic development, highlighting new businesses, restaurants, and retail spaces that are energizing various areas of the community.

    As the conversation unfolds, Mayor Kearns addresses how the City of Grandview Heights balances change and growth while maintaining its fiscal responsibility amid inflation, offering insights into the city's communication platforms and encouraging community involvement.

    Discover the vibrancy and forward-thinking initiatives of the City of Grandview Heights, capturing the essence of a thriving city that values resilience and community spirit.

    Key Moments

    00:00 Centennial Building's Future and Upgrades

    05:23 Grandview Avenue Development Plans

    07:03 New Openings in Grandview Area

    11:06 Enhanced Community Reporting System

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    15 min
  • Exploring HealthMarkets Services: Kelly Parton's Innovative Insurance Solutions

    In a challenging health insurance landscape, learn key strategies to employ to save small businesses money on insurance plans.

    We had the pleasure of speaking with Kelly Parton from HealthMarkets Insurance Agency! Discover the journey and expertise of a local health insurance agent who emphasizes the importance of personalized, face-to-face interactions and comprehensive coverage planning.

    Here's what you can learn from our conversation:

    • Value of Personalized Service: Understanding your client's needs goes beyond basic information. Kelly's approach of knowing at least ten personal details unrelated to business fosters stronger client relationships.
    • Stay Updated with Industry Changes: Continuous training and keeping abreast of Medicare and other insurance plan developments are crucial. Kelly emphasizes the importance of being proactive and informed in this ever-evolving field.
    • Holistic Insurance Solutions: Beyond just health insurance, considering supplemental products like accident and critical illness plans ensures comprehensive coverage and financial protection for unforeseen events.

    Inspiring Moments

    05:05 Short-Term Health Plan Shift

    09:42 Truthful, Question-Based Business Approach

    13:31 Understanding Value Post-Crisis

    16:22 Ohio Health Insurance Offerings

    20:05 Honest Business Practices

    20:56 Beyond Health Insurance Basics

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    24 min
  • Strategies for Bridging Generational Gaps and Promoting Inclusivity at Work

    Join hosts Brett Johnson, Katie Ellis, Tonnisha English-Amamoo, and our incredible guests Meredith Ulmer, and Kelsea Cozad as we talk about the crucial topic of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace.

    Our discussions are filled with actionable insights and inspiring stories, perfect for anyone looking to create an inclusive and forward-thinking work environment.

    Here are three key takeaways from this episode:

    🔹 Adapt and Innovate:

    • Learn from Kelsea Cozad on the importance of evolving with technology and how platforms like TikTok can be leveraged even if you're not in their prime demographic.

    🔹 Strategic Communication:

    • Tonnisha English-Amamoo stresses understanding your audience's language—whether that's ROI, legal, or corporate speak—to align your execution with agreed strategies effectively.

    🔹 Empowering Leadership:

    • Meredith Ulmer offers insight on leading diverse, multi-generational teams and emphasizes the importance of mentoring and supporting the next generation of leaders.

    Our guests also weigh in on the importance of open communication across generations, promoting inclusivity in hiring practices, and leveraging social media trends to impact business success.

    Inspiring Moments

    04:43 Leading marketing for housing authority and resident initiatives.

    06:59 Emotionally charged LinkedIn posts prompt private responses.

    11:09 Challenging corporate structures, valuing ideas over titles.

    13:33 Explaining viral internet trends to leaders is difficult.

    17:57 New dictionary requires understanding generational learning.

    22:38 Ask how leaders best digest information.

    25:19 Promote achievements; self-advocate to gain recognition.

    29:17 Promoting diversity by consciously inclusivity in careers.

    31:32 Addressing past misses by improving leadership practices.

    Inspiring Takeaways

    • Adapt and Evolve with Technology
    • Innovate Within Constraints
    • Speak Your Audience's Language
    • Tailor Information Delivery
    • Learn from Organizational Communication Patterns:
    • Self-Promotion and Networking
    • Genuine Advocacy in the Workplace
    • Breaking Traditional Hierarchies
    • Educate on Social Media's Impact
    • Inclusivity and Mentorship

    The Individual Contributor on Spotify

    The Individual Contributor on Apple Podcasts

    Kelsea on LinkedIn

    Meredith on LinkedIn

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    36 min
  • Brand Evolution: How Robles Designs Became Rebel Marketing

    How did Yasmine Robles' vision for her business evolve from the time she started Robles Designs to its brand transition into Rebel Marketing?

    Hosts Brett Johnson and Katie Ellis are joined by returning guest Yasmine Robles and first-time guest Izzy Dadosky to discuss a transformational journey in the world of marketing. Formerly known as Robles Designs, Yasmine and Izzy share the story behind the rebranding to Rebel Marketing.

    We talk about the reasons for the change, the new brand's vibrant personality, and how it distinguishes itself from the former identity. You'll hear about the careful considerations and strategic decisions involved in the rebranding process, as well as the new branding elements, including logos, colors, and messaging adjustments.

    Inspiring Takeaways

    • Embrace Your Unique Voice: Yasmine and Izzy emphasize the importance of staying true to yourself and your brand. Rebel Marketing is all about being authentic and breaking away from the stereotypical corporate mold. Your marketing should fit you like your favorite pair of stretchy pants!
    • Strategic Rebranding: The transition from Robles Designs to Rebel Marketing wasn't just a name change. It was about aligning the brand's name with its evolved identity and messaging. Thoroughly audit your current brand and ensure the new name truly reflects your company ethos.
    • Fun and Authentic Social Media Presence: Izzy highlights their approach to social media—keeping it real and relatable with a dash of humor. Instead of standard corporate posts, they focus on showing their personalities and engaging with their community in a genuine way.

    Inspiring Moments

    00:00 Rebranding: Finding Authenticity

    04:23 Rebel: Breaking Corporate Norms

    08:33 Minor Brand Updates Focused on Name

    13:42 Revamping Social Media Identity

    16:51 Rebranding Strategy Essentials

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    26 min
  • Strategies for Small Business Cybersecurity with Daniel Maldet at CMIT

    What key components should be part of a disaster recovery plan for YOUR small business?

    Preparing for Cyber Attacks: "In our world, we kinda say it's not "if," but "when." So Yeah. You know, any business should be thinking about when they get attacked or when there is an attack. And so the most important thing to think about these days is, are they prepared for that?"

    Hosts Brett Johnson and Katie Ellis are joined by Daniel Maldet, owner of CMIT Solutions, a company dedicated to providing comprehensive IT support for small businesses. Together, they talk about the critical world of cybersecurity, revealing the hidden risks that many small businesses overlook and the evolving landscape of digital threats. From Daniel's journey from fixing iPods to becoming a cybersecurity expert, to the importance of user training and disaster recovery plans, this episode is packed with invaluable insights for any business owner looking to safeguard their operations.

    Tune in to learn about the misconceptions, red flags, and essential IT solutions that can help protect your business in today's fast-paced digital environment. This essential conversation that could be the key to staying one step ahead of cyber threats.

    Inspiring Moments

    00:00 Focused on helping small businesses with technology.

    04:38 Small businesses are vulnerable to cyber threats.

    08:21 AI advances impact IT security and cybercrime.

    11:47 Small businesses should consult affordable IT services.

    14:24 Love solving problems and helping people.


    Top Inspiring Takeaways

    CMIT Solutions Overview:

    CMIT Solutions specializes in providing comprehensive IT support and cybersecurity for small businesses. Their services include user training, device security, cloud security, and help desk services.

    Value of IT Support for Small Businesses:

    Small businesses face significant challenges concerning technology and cybersecurity, making specialized IT support crucial.

    Misconceptions About Cybersecurity:

    A common misconception among small businesses is that they are too small to be targeted by cybercriminals. In reality, any business can be a target regardless of size.

    The Importance of Preparedness:

    Both large and small organizations need to be prepared for cyber attacks. Preparedness involves having proper backups, security measures, and recovery plans.

    Impact of Cyber Attacks:

    Even if a business doesn't store sensitive data like Social Security numbers, it can still be severely impacted by cyber attacks, such as losing control of email accounts and websites.

    Evolving Nature of Cybersecurity:

    Cybersecurity is rapidly evolving, with new threats emerging constantly. Businesses need to stay updated and adapt to new types of attacks, including those leveraging AI.

    Training as a Key Defense:

    Employee training is one of the most effective measures to prevent cyber attacks. Training can help avoid a large percentage of breaches that exploit human error.

    Disaster Recovery Plans:

    Having a disaster recovery plan and robust data backup strategies in place are essential for minimizing downtime and recovery costs after an attack.

    Engaging IT Professionals:

    Small businesses should consider consulting with IT professionals to develop tailored cybersecurity strategies rather than attempting to manage IT and security efforts alone.

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    19 min
  • Celebrating 100 Years of Service: Grandview Heights Fire Department

    We're thrilled to bring you this enlightening episode featuring Fire Chief Greg Eisenacher and Fire Marshal Chris Evrard. We get into the role of fire departments in enhancing community safety, preparedness, and well-being.

    📌 Key Takeaways:

    • Customer Service and Community Engagement: Fire Chief Greg Eisenacher emphasizes the importance of customer service and community presence. Fire departments are often the first point of contact for various community issues, from emergency responses to basic safety inquiries.

    • Comprehensive Fire Prevention: Fire Marshal Chris Evrard elaborates on the extensive responsibilities of a fire marshal, which include fire prevention education, code enforcement, and fire investigation. Chris's hands-on approach, from regular inspections to addressing immediate hazards, ensures business and community safety.

    • Proactive Collaboration: Both Greg and Chris stress the value of collaborating with businesses from the get-go. From providing guidance before opening a new business to maintaining continuous communication, the fire department works tirelessly to prevent fires and ensure compliance with safety codes.

    Key Moments

    00:00 Focused on stability and customer service excellence.

    05:39 Fire marshal: Fire prevention education, code enforcement, investigation.

    08:58 Continuous, consistent inspections ensure safety and compliance.

    10:17 Violation severity determines correction timeframe and action.

    17:54 Thanking and including retired members in parade.

    21:18 Promote safety: fire drills, helmets, preparedness, awareness.

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    25 min
  • How School of Rock Columbus Became a Community Music Haven

    In this episode, we have a special treat as we dive into the world of music education with our guests Chad Greenwald and Russ Miller, the passionate owners of School of Rock Columbus.

    Since opening their doors, they've experienced significant growth and positive community impact. But it hasn't all been smooth sailing; they faced unexpected challenges in their first year and navigated the complexities of business decisions, delegation, and fostering a cohesive culture.

    The Secret to Our Success: "We were very particular about who we hire and why we hire them, but the personalities precede most everything."— Russ Miller

    We explore how their love for music and commitment to a positive environment has propelled their success. Chad and Russ share personal stories about their staff's dedication, the importance of teacher qualifications, and the inclusivity that defines their school.

    "Community Growth and Impact": "We have a safe space for children and adults to be themselves and to learn how to play music."— Chad Greenwald

    We also touch on the emotional journey of team-building events and even delve into some fun musical preferences.

    Inspiring Takeaways

    1. **Community Impact**: - School of Rock Columbus has made a significant impact on the local community, engaging with schools and participating in community events.

    2. **Business Growth and Challenges**: - The business has experienced substantial growth but has also faced challenges, particularly in the first year, such as making exceptions for families and making tough decisions.

    3. **Culture and Passion**: - The positive and intentional culture at School of Rock Columbus is attributed to the owners' caring, compassionate nature and their passion for music.

    4. **Delegation and Organization**: - Delegation has been a challenge for Chad Greenwald, but the commitment and dedication of the staff have been crucial.

    5. **Team Building Events**: - Unique team-building events at the school have been impactful, helping participants bond and revealing different sides of themselves through music.

    Inspiring Moments

    04:24 A place for shared experiences and community.

    09:49 Adapting to spreadsheets, overcoming personal struggles, triumph.

    13:08 Prepared and natural thanks to great teachers.

    16:31 Inclusive community supports LGBTQ kids to be themselves.

    21:24 Authentic team building leads to higher value.

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    30 min
  • Andriel Ugbomeh's Approach to Building Healthier Workplaces

    We're thrilled to welcome Andriel Ugbomeh, CEO of Healing Without Limits Consulting and Counseling, who shares her vital insights into the importance of integrating mental health strategies into the workplace.

    Andriel explores how mental wellness is becoming a key component in organizational culture, influencing employee performance, and organizational success, even affecting recruitment.

    Workplace Mental Health Initiatives during the Pandemic: "...around 70% of organizations have done something to some type of change to enhance their benefit packages."— Andriel Ugbomeh

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 Mental well-being impacts success in all areas.

    04:24 Increase in mental health conversations and benefits.

    09:13 A university implements successful mental health program.

    12:37 Mental health support partnership benefits workplace members.

    15:07 Organization evaluation quiz available on consulting tab.

    Top Takeaways

    1. **Workplace Mental Health Integration**: Understanding the necessity for integrating mental health considerations into the workplace culture for enhancing overall organizational success.

    2. **Addressing Modern Workplace Challenges**: Exploring how modern workplaces, particularly post-COVID-19, are adapting and improving mental health resources to meet new challenges and improve employee support.

    3. **Economic Impact of Mental Wellness Programs**: Discussing how mental health initiatives can reduce financial burdens on organizations by decreasing turnover rates, lowering disability costs, and minimizing losses due to low productivity.

    4. **Leadership and HR Involvement**: Analyzing the critical roles leaders and HR professionals play in fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health and ensures wellness is incorporated into all business facets.

    5. **Quantitative Benefits of Mental Health Investment**: Highlighting statistics such as the potential for organizations to save an average of $1,400 per employee per year on insurance costs by investing in mental wellness programs.

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    21 min
  • A New Era for Grandview Heights: Insights from Mayor Greta Kearns

    We are thrilled to host Mayor Greta Kearns of Grandview Heights, who joins us to discuss the transformative journey the city has experienced under her leadership.

    Since taking office in January 2020, Mayor Kearns has navigated substantial challenges, including a significant leadership transition and the global pandemic.

    Under her guidance, Grandview Heights has enhanced its technology and communications infrastructure, expanded social services, and emboldened its commitment to safety by investing in essential infrastructure projects.

    The city has managed to attract 20 new businesses post-pandemic, significantly increased its housing units, and enhanced its reputation as a vibrant place to live and work.

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 Building leadership, capacity, and operations amid challenges.

    04:11 Invested in talent, stable, proud, underinvestment challenges.

    06:47 Building relocation plans driven by essential services.

    10:29 Change embraced, benefits outweigh challenges in community.

    13:19 Upgraded tech infrastructure with broad reach, engagement.

    Embracing Community Change: "Change is hard. But on the whole, we have benefited far more than we had than it has worked to our detriment. And we really embrace it and welcome it. And we really don't have a choice, but I think I would much rather have a community like this who is open to change than to be stagnant." — Mayor Greta Kearns

    Top Takeaways

    1. **Leadership Transition and Continuity**: Mayor Kearns highlighted the challenges and opportunities of taking over leadership after a long-standing mayor, emphasizing the necessity of managing considerable staff transitions and appointments in key leadership roles.

    2. **Infrastructure Modernization**: The mayor discussed the significance of upgrading critical infrastructure, such as IT services and municipal buildings, to meet current demands and future needs, underscoring an era of building capacity and updating outdated systems.

    3. **Crisis Management During the Pandemic**: The discussion provided insight into how Grandview Heights navigated the COVID-19 pandemic without cutting services, transitioning to virtual platforms for public meetings, and managing city operations under unprecedented conditions.

    4. **Community and Economic Growth**: Mayor Kearns expressed pride in the community's growth, including the addition of new businesses and housing units, reflecting on how the city's economic and demographic expansion aligns with regional development trends.

    5. **Fiscal Strategy and Voter Support**: The mayor detailed the city's approach to financial management and the successful voter approval for funding new municipal facilities, highlighting the importance of community support in funding public projects.

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

    Please leave us a review on Google!

    We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

    Discover more podcasts like this at Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    22 min
  • Rekindling Passion in Leadership with Brian John of Echo and Athena

    Brian John, founder of Echo and Athena, possesses a deep-seated passion for leadership, inspiration, and kindness—a trinity of values he identified as his calling from a tender age.

    A firm believer in the power of productivity and the significance of leaving a lasting legacy, Brian's relentless pursuit of results saw him ascend swiftly within the educational sphere.

    Brian's journey, spanning several transformative years, ultimately culminated in the creation of Echo and Athena, a venture that stands as a testament to his lifelong commitment to leadership and the profound desire to drive forward meaningful change.

    Love Led Leadership: "Every single person is a leader, and we all embrace the fact that, yeah, we all follow someone, but we're we also are responsible to lead ourselves." — Brian John

    Memorable Moments

    00:00 From football coach to principal, battling depression.

    03:51 Creating Echo and Athena: Leadership, Mental Wellness, Impact.

    07:22 Inspirational talk on Love Led Leadership summary

    12:06 Cognitive well-being coaching for busy professionals.

    13:52 Appreciation for paving the way in leadership.

    16:41 Personalized client approach, flexible program, concierge coaching.

    20:05 Encouraging wholeness and possibility in professional development.

    Top Takeaways

    Sure, here are ten key takeaway concepts from the "Business Inspires" podcast episode titled "Echo and Athena":

    Leadership Grounded in Well-being - Brian John founded Echo and Athena as a reflection of his journey through stress and depression to advocate for an alternative approach grounded in mental well-being and authentic leadership.

    Authenticity and Legacy - The importance of pursuing authenticity in personal and professional life to build a legacy predicated on meaningful interactions rather on outcomes alone.

    Echo and Athena’s Genesis - The name "Echo and Athena" represents a call back to one's true self and the wisdom and courage to embrace authenticity.

    Mental Health Awareness in Business - An acknowledgment of the mental health epidemic and the push towards a more integrative approach to life and work that prioritizes employee engagement and connection.

    Love Led Leadership - A proposed style of leadership by Brian John that involves leading oneself first, overcoming personal traumas, and triumphantly empowering others to build an authentic and loving work culture.

    To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

    With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

    Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

    This season is presented by:

    1. Grandview Heights

    To schedule a guest appearance or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

    Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    [email protected]

    Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

    HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

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    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/kitchen-dance - License code: U9SOBWUIY0PUOLOY

    Copyright 2026 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

    29 min

About Business Inspires

From the publisher's feed

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you are envisioning.