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About the Guest:

Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted has a history of serving in various capacities within the state government, including as the Secretary of State and Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives. As Lieutenant Governor, Husted oversees Ohio's workforce transformation strategies and focuses on initiatives like the TechCred program to improve job training and education, aligning with the state's economic goals.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, we're joined by Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted to tackle the pressing issues surrounding workforce development, job training, and employee recruitment that are affecting the local business community. Discover what Ohio is doing to ensure qualified applicants are available for in-demand jobs and how these initiatives can impact businesses seeking to thrive in the current economic environment.

Husted sheds light on `In Demand Jobs Week`, delving into why it's an opportune time for Ohioans looking for career advancement or change. With around 180,000 jobs available on OhioMeansJobs.com, he emphasizes that many high-paying positions don't require a college degree but rather specific skills or credentials that are now in urgent need. Programs such as TechCred are under the spotlight for providing valuable upskilling opportunities that benefit both employers and employees.

Chapters:
01:09  | Difficulty in filling open positions due to high demand and limited pool of candidates.
02:00  | Discussion on jobs that don't require a college degree and the importance of certifications and credentials.
04:35  | Overview of the Tech Cred program and its benefits for both employees and employers.
07:11  | Strategies to bring people back to Ohio, including targeting former Ohioans and promoting the state's affordability.
10:12  | Information on In Demand Jobs Week and resources available for job seekers and educators.

Links:
In Demand Jobs Week: Click Here
Previous podcast about Tech Cred: Click Here

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In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, we talk to Angela LaRosa, who discusses the inception and development of a collegiate summer baseball team set to join Findlay's sports landscape in 2025. As the team's Director of Social Media, Angela provides an insider look into the early stages of the team's creation and the community anticipation surrounding this initiative.

Angela highlights the community support from the mayor's office and the University of Findlay that has played a crucial role in nurturing the team's beginnings. Conversation touches on the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League, the structure and essence of collegiate league baseball, and the significance of such a project for the local business community. Angela also underscores the hands-on experiences that the students, including herself, will gain by bringing the team to life.

Key Takeaways:

*   The Findlay community is set to welcome a Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League baseball team in 2025, a project that began as a small idea and gained significant local support.
*   The venture is heavily student-driven, offering students significant hands-on experiences in fields like marketing, sports management, and operations.
*   Tasked with establishing a solid foundational presence, the project's immediate goals include developing a logo, building a website, and recruiting a team and coaching staff.
*   Businesses, young professionals, and families in the Findlay area are expected to benefit from and contribute to the project once it becomes operational.

Chapters:

 | 0:01:45  | Discussion on how the league works and teams involved
 | 0:04:02  | Planning and preparations needed before the first pitch next summer
 | 0:05:43  | Focus on involving students and young professionals in the project
 | 0:08:18  | Brainstorming ideas to attract people to the games
 | 0:09:23  | Personal motivation for getting involved in the project
 | 0:10:13  | Conclusion and benefits of working in a nonprofit organization
 | 0:10:33  | The organization is currently student-run, but they may be looking for additional help in the future.
 | 0:11:40  | Follow the progress of the organization on their Facebook page, Flag City Sluggers.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins talks with Alissa Preston of Visit Findlay, providing an in-depth look into the impending total solar eclipse in northwest Ohio. The conversation illuminates the extensive planning that has gone into preparing for the event and shares advice for local businesses on how to capitalize on the influx of visitors.

As the total solar eclipse approaches, businesses in Findlay and Hancock County are advised to consider modifying their operations to accommodate the expected surge in customers. With invaluable insights into how the area is mobilizing for this unique opportunity, Preston encourages businesses to extend hours, especially on Sunday, and to update their Google listings to reflect these changes for the benefit of out-of-town guests.

Emphasizing the long-term benefits, the discussion turns towards the anticipated economic impact and the region's history of successfully hosting major events, such as past youth sports tournaments. Moreover, both Preston and Jenkins reflect on the adaptation and recovery of tourism post-COVID, noting that the area has not only returned to normal but has begun exceeding previous activity levels.

Key Takeaways:

• Businesses should consider adjusting their operating hours during the solar eclipse, especially on April 7th and 8th, when visitor traffic will peak.
• Updating Google and Apple map listings to accurately reflect changes in business hours for the eclipse event is crucial for attracting customers.
• The upcoming 50th anniversary of Flag City USA in May, and America's 250th anniversary in 2026, are significant upcoming celebrations to plan for.
• The community's adaptability and openness are key factors in turning first-time visitors into returning tourists.
• Keeping informed through local radio stations will be vital during the eclipse, with regular traffic updates and important information.

Chapters:

0:01:19 | Discussion on the importance of being open on Sunday for businesses
0:03:54 | Mention of downtown retailers adjusting their hours for the eclipse
0:05:28 | Importance of updating Google listings for businesses
0:06:37 | Comparison of the eclipse to other major events in the area
0:08:43 | Announcement of the upcoming 50th anniversary of Flag City USA
0:09:29 | Mention of the upcoming 250th anniversary of America in 2026
0:10:45 | Discussion on the recovery of tourism in Findlay and Hancock County after COVID-19
0:11:15 | Highlighting the busy season with tournaments and increased business travel
0:11:15 | Summer tournaments and business travel picking up.
0:11:44 | Showcasing the area to attract repeat visitors.
0:13:12 | Tune into local radio stations for updates.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins digs into the heart of community building with Stacy Shaw of Children's Mentoring Connection (CMC). As they celebrate an impressive 50-year legacy, Stacy offers a deep-dive into the organization's evolution, the significance of mentorship, and the strategies employed to navigate fundraising during challenging times.

The conversation centers around the essential need for mentorship in the Hancock County area, detailing how mentors of all ages can have a substantial impact on local youth. Stacy underscores the uniqueness of high school mentors interacting with younger children, realizing the potential of mentoring to influence both academic and extracurricular interests positively. Beyond discussing mentoring benefits, the episode also delves into the organization's adaptive strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly focusing on their creative approach to maintaining their signature fundraiser event, Bowl for Kids.

Key Takeaways:

• Children's Mentoring Connection has contributed to Hancock County for 50 years, originally starting as Big Brothers Big Sisters before transforming into CMC.
• A significant need exists for mentors in the local community, and individuals from varied walks of life, including high school students, make effective mentors.
• Mentoring not only benefits the children but also fosters empathy and perspective among the high school students who serve as mentors.
• The annual Bowl for Kids is CMC's signature fundraising event, critical in sustaining their initiatives at no cost to families or schools.
• CMC showcased flexibility in face of the pandemic by reinventing their fundraising event to include at-home versions like cornhole tournaments, thus maintaining community involvement.

Chapters:

0:01:26Discussing the history of Children's Mentoring Connection
0:03:34Importance of having an outside influence as a mentor
0:05:17Anyone can make a good mentor if they care about kids
0:06:18High school students mentoring elementary kids
0:08:52Overview of Bowl for Kids as a signature fundraising event
0:09:26Importance of fundraising to support the organization
0:10:38Explanation of Bowl for Kids event and team formation
0:11:05Bowling event details and fundraising goals
0:12:31Discussing how the event was adapted during COVID-19
0:14:37Contact information for Children's Mentoring Connection

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In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, we're joined by Cheri Mason, an accomplished leader with rich experience in navigating and innovating within vast organizations. The focus of the discussion is the ever-evolving landscape of leadership and the increasing need for understanding the delicate balance between professional and personal success.

Cheri delves into the shifting perceptions of professional achievement and how modern leaders are tasked with adapting to the changing needs of their organizations and employees. The conversation also touches on the reluctance of individuals to step into leadership roles, the fear of failure, and the importance of finding purpose through one's mission statement. Cheri offers clarity on how traditional leadership models are being challenged and the necessity for leaders to engage more personally with their teams.

Key Takeaways:

• Evolving Leadership: The necessity for leaders to adapt to changing organizational dynamics and redefine what professional and personal success means in today's world.
• Leadership Reluctance: Understanding why individuals may hesitate to assume leadership positions, driven by concerns over responsibility, work-life balance, and the fear of not succeeding.
• Living Mission Statement: The impact of a personal mission statement on driving purpose, impact, and value in one's leadership journey.
• Organizational Change: Insight into Cheri Mason's strategies for successfully leading change within a large federal organization like the Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Personal Engagement: The shift in leadership expectations to include a more personal and engaged approach with team members.

Chapters:
0:01:41Cheri Mason discusses the changing role of leaders
0:05:14Cheri Mason explains why people shy away from leadership roles
0:08:04The impact of technology on leadership styles
0:09:57How leaders can make small changes to adapt their leadership style
0:11:31Cheri Mason's experiences navigating change in the Department of Veterans Affairs
0:12:27Cheri Mason discusses the importance of engaging with employees to improve leadership
0:13:42Cheri Mason's personal experiences with veterans and their families drive her to make a difference in the Department of Veterans Affairs
0:15:24Cheri Mason shares her approach to connecting with employees in a large organization, including walking around and scheduling time to check in with them
0:18:07Cheri Mason discusses how she maintained connection and engagement with employees during the pandemic through videos, virtual coffee times, and teaching her leadership team to do the same
0:19:30Cheri Mason reflects on facing criticism and adversity, drawing on her past experiences of being excluded and not accepting limitations placed on her

For more information about Cheri's book, click here.

To register for the April 17 Women's Leadership forum, click here.

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Ohio's economy is at an intriguing crossroads, where the potential for expansion meets the challenges of adaptation. In the 100th edition of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, we're joined by Steve Stivers, President and CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, to talk about responsive strategies and evolving trends within the state's business environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Retaining college graduates, specifically from out-of-state, is crucial for workforce growth in Ohio.
• Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are twin forces propelling productivity, yet call for careful workforce transition strategies.
• A considered approach to immigration, alongside intra-state recruitment, can bolster Ohio's economy.

Chapters:
0:02:05 | Concerns about employee retention and growth in Ohio
0:03:29 | Strategies to bring back Ohioans who left the state
0:03:59 | Retaining out-of-state college students after graduation
0:04:28 | Creating an internship pairing program to keep college students in Ohio
0:05:07 | Nationwide Insurance's efforts to employ underrepresented communities
0:06:40 | Tapping into the talent pool of retired individuals
0:07:26 | Dividing jobs to accommodate retirees and part-time workers
0:09:36 | Encouraging high school students to join the local workforce
0:11:14 | Expanding internship opportunities for non-college-bound high school students.
0:12:14 | Discussion on attracting young professionals to smaller cities and municipalities in Ohio.
0:13:25 | Steve Stivers highlights the attractions and marketing potential of cities like Findlay, Ohio for young professionals.
0:14:01 | Steve Stivers discusses Jobs Ohio's strategy to recruit people from outside Ohio to move and work in the state.
0:16:13 | Conversation about the current use cases of automation and AI in businesses and the productivity benefits.
0:17:54 | Steve Stivers expresses concerns about AI potentially automating certain jobs in the next few years.
0:18:49 | Discussion on the impact of automation on the workforce and the need for workforce development programs.
0:19:18 | Steve Stivers talks about the opportunities for reshoring jobs and increased competitiveness through automation.
0:20:45 | Conversation on the importance of immigration for economic growth and the need for immigration reform.
0:23:21 | Steve Stivers emphasizes the need for international immigration to fill job gaps in certain sectors.
0:24:07 | Steve Stivers expresses excitement about Ohio's economic trajectory, including big company investments and small business innovation.
0:24:45 | Small business as the driver of the economy, challenges with workforce, regulation, and taxation.

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Military veterans, with their skills and discipline, are an invaluable asset within the business community. The transition from military to civilian life is a significant change, often accompanied by challenges that can be navigated with the right support. As the corporate landscape evolves, it becomes increasingly vital for businesses to understand how to integrate veterans effectively into their workforce. In this edition of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, we talk with Nichole Coleman of Hancock County Veteran Services and they delve into workforce development, veteran engagement, and business support within the local business community.

Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the transition from military to civilian workplaces is critical for veteran retention in businesses.
- Veteran resource groups bridge the cultural gap and create a sense of belonging within companies.
- Collaborations between veteran services and businesses bolster community strength through economic and social support.
​
Chapters:
0:01:20Importance of educating employers about hiring veterans
0:02:52Challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian workplace culture
0:04:10Benefits of having a veteran resource group in the workplace
0:07:52Initiatives to identify and support veteran-owned businesses
0:10:19Introduction of "Welcome Home" signs to connect with veterans
0:11:57Purpose and information on the "Welcome Home" signs
0:11:57Discussing the importance of storing medication and weapons safely
0:12:21Using QR codes to encourage veterans to explore available services
0:13:27Emphasizing the need for veterans to educate themselves on available benefits
0:14:07Highlighting the ripple effect of veterans sharing information about services
0:14:35Plans to compile a comprehensive list of local businesses offering veteran discounts
0:15:14Introducing stickers and window clings to promote veteran discounts
0:15:52Aim to initiate conversations between veterans and businesses offering discounts
0:16:40Seeking to reach out to unserved veterans and ensure they receive entitled benefits

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About the Guest:

Steve Wilson is the project manager for the Blanchard River flood mitigation project in Hancock County. His achievements include overseeing several key projects aimed at improving flood resistance, reducing the financial burden of flood insurance, and enhancing overall emergency response capabilities during floods.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified Doug Jenkins of the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce talks with Steve Wilson in a discussion about local flood mitigation efforts and their significance for businesses and residents alike. This episode delves deep into the strategies, challenges, and progress made in addressing the flood risks prevalent in the area.

Starting with an outline of completed flood mitigation projects, such as the Blanchard River benching and the removal of vulnerable buildings, the conversation moves towards recognizing the broader benefits these undertakings provide to the whole community. Steve Wilson highlights the complexities of coordinating with various stakeholders, including the railroad and federal agencies, to facilitate necessary infrastructure developments.

Topics:

0:01:54 | Discussion on the positive impact of flood mitigation on the community
0:04:34 | Transportation improvements made to ensure access during flood events
0:06:33 | Update on the Norfolk Southern bridge replacement project
0:08:47 | Details on the upcoming benching project along the Blanchard River
0:10:56 | Overview of the retention basin project and funding status
0:12:42 | Explanation of how the retention basin will function to mitigate floods
0:15:12 | The flood mitigation conversation went from contentious to collaborative

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About the Guest(s):

Alanna Smith is a dedicated professional working with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), a state agency focused on empowering Ohioans with disabilities in employment and independence. Elena serves as a Business Relations Specialist and plays a vital role in providing employers with a network of services and resources to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Stan and Aaron Doty are a father and son duo from Doty Dental, winners of the 2023 Family Owned Business Award. Stan Doty, the founder, has a longstanding history in the dental practice and community engagement in Findlay, Ohio. His commitment to both professional and civic life is echoed by his son, Aaron Doty, who brings a fresh perspective to the established family practice as he steps into the business.

Episode Summary:

Alanna Smith from Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities shares her insights on how businesses can become more accessible for individuals with disabilities while staying abreast of the latest workplace accommodations. Following Elena, Stan and Aaron Doty of Doty Dental join the show to celebrate their recognition as the 2023 Small Business Award winners and discuss the dynamics of a family-owned business.

Alanna's segment provides a thorough overview of the services OOD offers to businesses and individuals, highlighting accessibility in the workplace and debunking common myths regarding employment accommodations. Offering an optimistic view, Alanna underscores that accommodations can be cost-effective, with many resources available to assist employers in integrating a more diverse workforce.

Stan and Aaron Doty's conversation offers a glimpse into the multigenerational management of Doty Dental. They emphasize the continuous learning and adaptability necessary to drive a legacy forward within a family business. Their reflections provide inspiration and guidance for businesses looking to pass the torch to new generations.

Key Points:

0:02:22 | Discussion on the services and resources provided by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.
0:04:19 | Addressing employer concerns about hiring people with disabilities.
0:06:29 | Accessible Ohio program offers free resources and accommodations for employers.
0:07:30 | Process for employers to connect with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.
0:09:12 | Success story of helping an employee with a traumatic brain injury continue working.
0:11:34 | Benefits of retaining employees with disabilities and eliminating onboarding costs.
0:14:31 | Introduction to Doty Dental, winners of the Family Owned Small Business Champion of the Year award.
0:15:51 | Stan Doty's decision to start Doty Dental in Findlay.
0:18:38 | Aaron Doty's decision to join the family business.
0:19:23 | Sense of community and pride in Findlay and Hancock County.
0:20:12 | Findlay's unique combination of a large enough customer base and a close-knit community.
0:21:33 | Advice for businesses with the next generation joining or taking over.
0:23:21 | Aaron's comfort in asking questions and learning from his father's experience.
0:24:43 | Older generation and new generation challenges in family-owned businesses

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About the Guest(s):

Bret Barnes is a prominent member of the Hancock Leadership class of 2024. He's a community-focused individual dedicated to leaving a lasting legacy through impactful projects. His advocacy for programs that assist youth and the championing of local initiatives stand out as his remarkable contributions.

Stefanie Troph serves as the Ministry Director at City Life Findlay, a segment of the youth-focused organization Youth for Christ. Stefanie possesses extensive experience with at-risk youth, and her passion lies in helping them in all life aspects, including spiritual, emotional, mental health, and life skills. Her move to Findlay a year and a half ago has been marked by significant community involvement and heartfelt dedication to the betterment of local teenagers.

Episode Summary:

In this installment of Chamber Amplified, host Doug Jenkins welcomes Bret Barnes and Stefanie Troph for a conversation about Hancock Leadership and its collaboration with City Life Findlay. The episode dives into how local businesses can fortify their operations through leadership and community engagement.

Hancock Leadership, a nine-month class series, sharpens the leadership talents of area employees while engaging them with the heartbeat of the community. This episode's focus lands on the leadership class's annual project, with Bret Barnes sharing insights on their decision to collaborate with Stefanie Troph's City Life Findlay. The program provides meal provision and integral life skills training for teens in need within the Findlay community.

Discussion Points:

0:00:24 | Bret Barnes explains the goal of the Hancock County Leadership Class project
0:03:01 | Bret Barnes highlights the impact of City Life Findlay on the community
0:04:18 | Stefanie Troph shares her motivation for joining City Life
0:05:51 | Stefanie Troph discusses her background in sports and coaching
0:06:49 | Bret Barnes explains why City Life's proposal stood out among others
0:09:29 | Bret Barnes provides information on how to get involved as a sponsor
0:11:21 | Stefanie Troph encourages community members to volunteer and support City Life
0:11:21 | Getting the City Life name out there and ways to help
0:12:25 | Donating to the project and offering meals
0:13:30 | Volunteering time with the students
0:14:22 | Holistic ministry to kids and the importance of volunteers
0:15:36 | How to donate to the Hancock leadership class project

Donate to the Hancock Leadership project here

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