Chamber Amplified

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About the Guest:

Kyle Watts is a Work-Based Learning Liaison at Millstream Career Center, where he is dedicated to creating innovative pathways for high school juniors and seniors to engage with local industries. Kyle has been pivotal in transforming traditional job fairs into more effective experiences that better prepare students for the workforce.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins sits down with Kyle Watts from Millstream Career Center to explore a modern approach to workforce development that moves beyond traditional job fairs. As industries seek effective ways to engage younger demographics, Kyle shares his experiences that have changed how students interact with potential employers. This conversation offers perspectives on how businesses can develop tailored internship and job shadowing programs to tap into the potential of high school juniors and seniors.

The discussion delves into why conventional job fairs often fall short and how personalized, hands-on learning experiences can provide meaningful connections between students and employers. Kyle discusses the vital role of soft skills and the importance of having clear career pathways for young employees. Doug and Kyle also highlight how businesses can maximize their recruitment efforts by offering dip-your-toe-in-the-water experiences that build confidence and effectively introduce high schoolers to real-world career opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Traditional job fairs are becoming less effective in engaging high school students, highlighting the need for more personalized and interactive approaches.
• Conducting small, focused job shadowing or internship experiences can lead to higher employment acceptance rates among students.
• Businesses should clearly outline career pathways and provide hands-on training to make their opportunities more appealing to young job seekers.
• Creating an open and communicative environment where students feel comfortable asking for help fosters better learning and engagement.
• Both educational institutions and businesses share the responsibility of teaching soft skills to prepare students for the workforce.

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About the Guest:

Dr. Crystal Whipkey is an English as a Second Language (ESL) specialist with Findlay City Schools and has been instrumental in facilitating the Travel Tuesday program. This initiative highlights different cultures, encourages curiosity, and integrates non-native English speakers into the school community. 

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified, host Doug Jenkins of the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce interviews Dr. Crystal Whipkey from Whittier Elementary School about the Travel Tuesday program. This initiative embodies a cultural exchange within the school, creating an environment that benefits both students and the community. Students from various countries share their cultural backgrounds, boosting acceptance and empathy among peers, which reduces behavioral issues and enhances learning.

Dr. Whipkey outlines the substantial growth of the ESL program in Findlay City Schools, which has seen a 40% increase in only the past year. Emphasizing the importance of such programs, she explains how they enable effective curriculum participation for English learner students. The conversation highlights the broader impact of cultural understanding and education quality on the community.

Key Takeaways:

• Travel Tuesday at Whittier Elementary School enhances cultural awareness and acceptance through student-led cultural presentations.
• Dr. Whipkey highlights the growth of the English as a Second Language (ESL) program in local schools, marking a 40% increase.
• Programs like Travel Tuesday contribute to reducing behavioral problems by fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

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About the Guest:

Tim Mayle is the Executive Director of the Center to Advance Manufacturing. With a background in economic development and workforce training, Tim has been instrumental in leveraging local university resources to enhance manufacturing practices and workforce capabilities in northwest Ohio. His work entails collaborating with industry leaders, educational institutions, and community stakeholders to foster innovation and growth in the manufacturing sector.

Episode Summary:

Join Doug Jenkins from the Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce in this episode of Chamber Amplified as he delves into the intricacies of the manufacturing industry with Tim Mayle, the Executive Director of the Center to Advance Manufacturing. The discussion focuses on wage growth, workforce evolution, and the impact of continuous improvement in manufacturing within northwest Ohio. You'll also gain insights on the training programs and resources available to help businesses adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving industrial landscape.

Tim discusses the recent trends in labor participation and wage growth in northwest Ohio, and explains the data analysis processes undertaken by his organization and how they assist economic development directors. Tim also touches on the manufacturing sector's current challenges, such as the need to balance operational costs with the imperative of upskilling employees to maintain competitive advantage and ensure safety.

Key Takeaways:

• Wage Growth and Labor Participation: Wages in northwest Ohio have seen growth, and labor force participation rates are crucial for understanding regional economic health.
• Continuous Improvement: A top skill sought in manufacturing, continuous improvement involves critical thinking to enhance processes, leading to better operational efficiencies.
• Impact of Automation: Automation is leading to more efficient and safer operations, creating demand for higher-skilled jobs, especially in PLC programming and maintenance.
• Workforce Training Programs: Programs like TechCred are essential for upskilling employees, ensuring they have the necessary competencies to operate advanced manufacturing systems.
• Collaboration and Resource Sharing: Companies in northwest Ohio are increasingly collaborating and sharing best practices to optimize training programs and workforce development.

Resources:

• Center to Advance Manufacturing on LinkedIn
• Center to Advance Manufacturing on Facebook
• Email: [email protected]

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About the Guest:

Sarah Ricker is an expert in business networking and currently owns the recently opened The Findlay Office. With a background that spans various facets of community engagement and business support, Sarah emphasizes relationship-building over outright selling, bringing a unique perspective to business interactions and networking events.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to another informative episode of Chamber Amplified, hosted by Doug Jenkins from the Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce. In this episode, Doug talks with Sarah Ricker about the intricacies and importance of business networking. They delve into practical tips for building meaningful business relationships, the nuances between hard-selling and fostering genuine connections, and how visibility within your community can significantly impact your business success.

Throughout the conversation, Sarah shares effective networking strategies including the importance of listening over talking, being present in conversations, and building trust through visibility and consistency. 

Key Takeaways:

• Listen More Than You Talk: Prioritize hearing others out to understand their needs better and find long-term opportunities.
• Be Present: Focus fully on your conversation partner to leave a lasting, positive impression.
• Build Trust by Showing Up: Be visible and consistent within your community and professional networks to build trust.
• Use Social Media for Networking: Engage thoughtfully on social media by sharing, commenting, and supporting others' content.
• Ease Into Networking: Strike up casual conversations in everyday situations to practice and become comfortable with networking.

Resources:

• Findlay Office: Connect with the Findlay Office on social media or visit their office behind the Chamber of Commerce on Main Street.
• Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce: Website

Explore these resources to delve deeper into effective networking and community engagement strategies.

Stay tuned for more insightful episodes from Chamber Amplified, and be sure to listen to this episode for a comprehensive understanding of effective business networking!

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About the Guest:

Alicia Giangiordano is a marketing specialist with APM Marketing. She brings experience in developing and executing comprehensive social media marketing plans tailored to diverse business needs. Alicia's approach emphasizes understanding each client's unique goals and values, leveraging her deep insights into social media dynamics to drive engagement and brand growth.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified, Doug Jenkins from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce delves into aspects of social media marketing with Alicia Giangiordano from APM Marketing. As businesses navigate the modern landscape filled with an overwhelming number of social media platforms, Alicia sheds light on formulating effective strategies that align with business goals and attract the desired clientele.

Alicia emphasizes the importance of having a clear and consistent social media plan. She advises businesses to focus on platforms that align with their goals rather than spreading themselves thin across all available options. During the conversation, several practical tips are shared, such as understanding customer preferences to tailor content that appears organically in their feeds due to algorithmic favorability.

Key Takeaways:

• Consistent Social Media Strategy: Establish a coherent marketing strategy with defined content pillars and consistent tones to represent your brand authentically.
• Platform Selection: Focus on the social media platforms that best align with your business’s goals and audience rather than attempting to maintain a presence on all platforms.
• Detailed Targeting: Utilize advanced targeting options available in social media advertising to ensure your content reaches the right audience efficiently.
• Investment in Quality: High-quality visuals and sound are crucial in creating engaging content that retains viewer attention and conveys professionalism.
• Power of Short-form Content: Short, engaging videos are currently trending and can significantly enhance visibility and engagement on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Resources:

• APM Marketing LLC Website: Email: [email protected]
• Connect with Alicia Giangiordano:
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram

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About the Guest:

Dylan Krendl is the President of Findlay Young Professionals (FYP). He is an estate planning attorney with RCO Law with experience in fostering professional networks and community involvement among young professionals. Dylan moved to Findlay and has been a key figure in expanding FYP's outreach and impact.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins delves into the significance of Findlay Young Professionals (FYP) in helping retain young talent in the Findlay area. Joined by Dylan Krendl, President of FYP, the episode unpacks how FYP has evolved into a robust organization focusing on connection, impact, and leadership among young professionals in the community.

Key Takeaways:

• Pillars of FYP: The organization focuses on Connect, Impact, and Lead to foster social engagement, community involvement, and professional growth among young professionals.
• Employee Retention Tool: Participating in FYP can help businesses retain employees by making them feel more integrated and connected within the community.
• Intern Outreach: FYP is extending its initiatives to include interns, making Findlay more attractive for them when considering full-time opportunities post-graduation.
• Community Events: FYP is hosting a new event centered around college football to engage the community and leverage downtown Findlay's resources.
• Networking and Growth: Membership in FYP offers substantial professional development through networking with local business leaders and participating in various enriching activities.

Resources:

• Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce
• Findlay Young Professionals

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About the Guest(s):

John Barker is the President and CEO of the Ohio Restaurant and Hospitality Association (ORHA). With significant experience in the hospitality industry, John has played a role in advocating for restaurants across Ohio, especially during challenging economic periods. His expertise encompasses operational strategies, labor relations, and innovations in restaurant technology and marketing.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified, hosted by Doug Jenkins from the Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, the focus is on navigating the current landscape of the local and broader restaurant industry. John Barker of the Ohio Restaurant and Hospitality Association provides  insights into the recent spate of restaurant closures in Findlay, including the difference in survival dynamics between local eateries and national chains. The conversation covers the root causes of restaurant industry upheavals, the resilience of new restaurant startups, and the strategies for thriving in a challenging environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Restaurant Industry Volatility: The restaurant business is inherently unstable, with factors like staffing changes and food cost inflation significantly impacting operations.
• Local vs. Chain Dynamics: Different pressures face local restaurants compared to national chains, from debt issues and branding to operational challenges and lease commitments.
• Embracing Technology: Effective use of technology in point of sale, inventory management, and delivery integration is crucial for modern restaurant success.
• Legislative Wins for Tipped Workers: The failure of the one fair wage campaign to gather sufficient signatures was a significant victory for servers and restaurant owners in Ohio.
• Adapting to Market Trends: Restaurants must adapt to changing consumer behaviors, emphasizing convenience and new food trends, such as ethnic and vegan cuisines.

Resources:

• Ohio Restaurant and Hospitality Association (ORHA): eatdrinkohio.org
• Contact Doug Jenkins: Email at [email protected]
• Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce: findlayhancockchamber.com

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About the Guest:

Michelle Donnelly is an active member of the Findlay Area Human Resource Association. With experience in Human Resources, she specializes in employee retention and recruitment strategies, focusing on innovative benefits packages, workforce collaboration, and compliance issues.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins explores the evolving trends in local workforce dynamics with Michelle Donnelly of the Findlay Area Human Resource Association. The discussion delves into innovative retention and recruitment strategies amidst current employee turnover rates and the impending wave of Baby-Boomer retirements.

Throughout the episode, Doug and Michelle tackle the challenges businesses face in keeping and attracting employees, the creative solutions companies are implementing, and the evolving management styles fostering better employee satisfaction.

Key Takeaways:

• Boomer Retirements: Approximately 4.1 million Boomers are turning 65 yearly through 2027, impacting the workforce as they retire or reduce work hours.
• Innovative Retention Strategies: Companies are employing various creative tactics, such as offering bonuses, appreciation events, flex time, and hybrid work models, to retain employees.
• Enhanced Benefit Packages: Businesses are expanding their benefits to include wellness packages, financial planning aids, and other ancillary services to attract and retain talent.
• Management Evolution: Enhanced transparency and open communication from management are emerging as critical factors in maintaining a motivated and committed workforce.
• Local Collaboration: Firms are increasingly collaborating with each other to share successful strategies and retain local talent effectively.

Resources:

• Findlay Area Human Resources Association (FAHRA)
• Michelle Donnelly LinkedIn
• Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce

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About the Guest:

Theresa Nelson is an attorney and the Practice Group Leader on Labor and Employment at Bricker Graydon LLP. She specializes in guiding businesses through complex employment laws, including those related to medical and recreational marijuana. Her legal expertise is frequently sought after for seminars and speaking engagements, and she is also known for her blog posts on labor and employment challenges.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, Doug Jenkins discusses the evolving landscape of marijuana legalization in Ohio and its impact on local businesses. He is joined by Theresa Nelson, who provides an expert's viewpoint on employer rights and considerations for workplace policy regarding both medical and recreational marijuana use. This is particularly relevant as Ohio adapts to new voter-approved recreational marijuana laws.

The episode dives deep into the specific rights Ohio employers have concerning marijuana use among employees, exploring the intricacies of state laws compared to federal mandates. Nelson explains the importance of updating employment manuals to reflect current laws and protect both employees and employers. 

Key Takeaways:

• Employers' Rights: Ohio law does not require employers to accommodate the use or possession of either medical or recreational marijuana by employees.
• Testing Challenges: Marijuana stays in the human system longer than alcohol, complicating impairment testing and workplace safety protocols.
• Policy Updates: Employers should review and update their handbooks and policies to align with current laws and organizational culture regarding marijuana use.
• Safety Considerations: Even with a permissive culture, employers must ensure employees do not work while impaired to maintain workplace safety.
• State Law Comparisons: Understanding differences in marijuana laws across states is crucial, especially for businesses operating in multiple jurisdictions.

Resources:

• Bricker Graydon: Comprehensive legal services and expert guidance in labor and employment law. Bricker Graydon Website
• Theresa Nelson on LinkedIn: Professional insights and updates. LinkedIn Profile
• Bricker Graydon Blog: Regular updates on labor and employment law. Bricker & Eckler Blog

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About the Guest:

Jake Ward is a patent attorney with extensive experience in intellectual property law. He is a partner at Ward Law Office, a boutique firm that offers legal solutions for inventors and businesses. Jake also teaches patent law and practice at the University of Toledo College of Law.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce Doug Jenkins talks with patent attorney Jake Ward about the intricacies of protecting intellectual property. From understanding the difference between patents and trademarks to navigating the complex and often lengthy patent application process, this episode delves into the steps entrepreneurs need to take to secure their ideas.

Key Takeaways:

• Necessity of Patents: Patents provide the exclusive right to exclude others from making, using, selling, or importing an invention, which is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the market.
• Complexity of the Process: The patent application process is lengthy, rigorous, and often requires professional expertise to navigate successfully.
• Different Types of Intellectual Property: Beyond patents, businesses should consider trademarks and copyrights to protect their brand and creative works.
• Importance of Being First: The U.S. operates on a first-inventor-to-file basis, meaning the timing of your patent application is crucial.
• Real-World Examples: Stories like the Wright brothers' initial patent rejection illustrate the importance of using professionals in the patent process.

Resources:

• Ward Law Office: wardpatent.com
• Email Jake Ward: [email protected]
• Contact Phone: 419-408-5500

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