Chamber Amplified

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified, hosted by Doug Jenkins from the Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, the focus is on the significance of maintaining a robust online presence for businesses. Joined by guest Nabil Shaheen of the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the episode delves into strategies for businesses to effectively manage their digital profiles, emphasizing the importance of credibility and human engagement. Moving from an initial career in journalism to heading communications at a government agency, Nabeel shares his insights on how companies can enhance their digital footprint.

Utilizing platforms like Google My Business and exploring the world of AI for content creation are discussed as key methods for establishing a credible and engaging online presence. The conversation emphasizes not only the technicalities of web management but also the human elements that make a business relatable and trustworthy to its audience. 

Key Takeaways:

• Importance of Online Presence: Businesses must maintain a strong web presence to establish credibility and ensure visibility in a digital-first world.
• Utilize Google My Business: A robust profile on Google can enhance search engine rankings and provide customers with crucial business info.
• Humanize Your Brand: Share personal and relatable stories to engage audiences and build trust with potential clients and customers.
• AI in Content Creation: Leverage AI tools for crafting compelling social media content and improving communication efficiency.
• Adapting Career Skills: Transferable skills from journalism, such as storytelling and engaging audiences, are valuable in other fields like marketing and communications.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified, Doug Jenkins from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce explores workforce development issues with Ashley Stepec-Bibler of Raise the Bar Hancock County. They talk about strategies that help students in Findlay and Hancock County connect better with potential local employers as well as the significance of exercises like mock interview events that offer high school juniors a real-world view of the job market and essential soft skills training.

Ashley and Doug also discuss the implementation of YouScience, an assessment platform that helps students identify their aptitudes and interests. By tying these findings to local career opportunities, Raise the Bar Hancock County creates targeted experiences designed to align students with industries that match their skills. The discussion highlights how modern students are eager to connect with businesses proactively, seeing potential pathways they might not have previously considered. 

Key Takeaways:

• Raise the Bar Hancock County focuses on bridging the gap between local schools and businesses through targeted events that enhance student employability.
• Mock interview events provide students with critical interview experience and feedback, helping them to better prepare for entering the workforce.
• YouScience's assessment platform is instrumental in helping students identify their aptitudes, shaping a more informed and focused approach to career exploration.
• Local businesses play a crucial role in exposing students to diverse career options, thereby enriching the community’s workforce pipeline.
• Students today are financially savvy and keen to explore various career paths early on, making local opportunities even more attractive.

Resources:

• Sign up for a free YouScience profile here. 

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Episode Summary:

Join Doug Jenkins from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce for this episode of Chamber Amplified. This week, the focus is on employee health management during the open enrollment season for managed care organizations. It's a period that plays a big role in workers' compensation for Ohio's state-funded employers. Kiesha Martin of Sedgwick talks about the importance of an MCO in improving employee retention, expediting return-to-work processes, and providing essential medical management for workplace injuries.

In this episode, Kiesha highlights the many advantages of partnering with Sedgwick, emphasizing their impressive BWC report card and expansive resources, such as their safety and unemployment divisions. Learn how Sedgwick’s comprehensive approach to managed care can be a game-changer for employers seeking to cut costs and enhance employee satisfaction through well-managed workers' compensation claims. 

Key Takeaways:

• Every state-funded employer in Ohio must have a managed care organization (MCO) that handles workers' compensation claims.
• Sedgwick leads in MCO services due to their impressive turnaround times, accuracy, and vast resources, including a full-time medical director.
• The open enrollment period for MCOs in Ohio is from April 28th to May 23rd, providing a chance for employers to evaluate or change their MCO.
• Utilizing Sedgwick as an MCO can aid in employee retention by ensuring quick and efficient management of workplace injuries.
• Sedgwick also offers a third-party administrator (TPA) service, helping employers find cost-saving group savings programs.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins dives into the topic of emergency preparedness for businesses, particularly focusing on severe weather and fire safety. Joined by Todd James from the American Red Cross and Eric Wilkins from the Findlay Fire Department, Doug explores practical steps to safeguard both employees and infrastructure during emergencies. 

The episode begins by addressing the increasing frequency of severe weather events and the necessity for businesses to proactively prepare for these occurrences. Todd James introduces listeners to the Ready Rating program, which assists businesses in self-assessing their emergency preparedness levels. He emphasizes identifying safe spaces within business establishments and the importance of communication during emergencies. Eric Wilkins further elaborates on creating fire safety plans, highlighting common oversights like fire extinguisher maintenance and evacuation procedures.

Key Takeaways:

• Ready Rating Program: A self-assessment tool by the American Red Cross helps businesses evaluate and improve their emergency preparedness.
• Communication is Key: Both internal team members and external visitors should be made aware of emergency plans to ensure efficient evacuation and safety during crises.
• Regular Plan Review: To maintain effectiveness, emergency plans should be reviewed and practiced at least annually.
• Training and Compliance: Fire extinguisher use and regular communication of evacuation procedures are vital elements of comprehensive emergency preparedness.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified, Doug Jenkins from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce sits down with Esther Ladipo Hill from DoorDash to discuss the  DoorDash accelerator program available for local businesses in Findlay. Esther shares insights into the program's objectives, including mentorship, financial grants, and advertising credits designed to help small businesses expand their reach. Local business owners are encouraged to apply by April 21st to take full advantage of this comprehensive support.

This episode delves into the value that the DoorDash accelerator program brings to small, locally-owned businesses. Beyond just being listed on DoorDash, participants will receive a $5,000 grant, a $1,000 ad credit, and access to a wealth of knowledge through various workshops. Esther emphasizes the program's focus on community engagement and how DoorDash serves as both a sales platform and a marketing tool to increase visibility for businesses off the beaten path.

Key Takeaways:

• The DoorDash accelerator program offers mentorship, a $5,000 grant, and a $1,000 ad credit for small businesses in Findlay, Ohio, aiming to support local growth and connectivity with new customers.
• Applications for the program are open until April 21st, with a focus on businesses eager to grow and committed to community involvement.
• The program is open to various types of businesses, including restaurants, flower shops, and convenience stores, emphasizing a broad approach to local commerce.
• Esther highlights the importance of marketing and visibility on DoorDash, where being listed can act as a powerful tool for businesses not located on major thoroughfares.
• The initiative collaborates with local authorities and support organizations to provide workshops that enhance business skills, marketing strategies, and network-building.

Resources:

• Application link for the DoorDash accelerator program: https://doordash.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3qK2CiNK03rUd2S

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Episode Summary:

Are you a business owner in Findlay or Hancock County concerned about rising energy costs this summer? In this crucial 150th episode of the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce's podcast, "Chamber Amplified," host Doug Jenkins speaks with Rick Davidson from the Chamber Energy Program about the significant energy cost increases expected in Findlay and the surrounding Hancock County area starting this summer. Learn how these increases, driven by factors like capacity auctions, will impact your business's bottom line. We also delve into the concerning trend of energy scams targeting local businesses and provide guidance on how to protect yourself. Discover practical strategies to manage your electricity expenses and ensure budget stability.

Key Takeaways:

• Protect Your Business from Energy Scams: Learn how to identify and avoid deceptive energy offers that promise low introductory rates but lead to significant price hikes in a few months. Be vigilant and always verify energy offers with trusted sources.
• Prepare for Summer Energy Cost Increases in Hancock County: Understand the reasons behind the expected surge in energy costs starting in June, including capacity auctions and market demand impacting the Findlay area.
• Secure Your Business Energy Future in Findlay with Long-Term Contracts: Explore the benefits of long-term energy contracts as a strategy to achieve price stability amidst potential energy price increases in the coming years.
• Unlock Energy Savings for Your Business with the Chamber Energy Program: Discover how the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce's Energy Program provides expert advice, resources, and potential grant opportunities for energy efficiency projects for businesses in the local area.

Learn more in an upcoming webinar from the Chamber Energy Program

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins tackles the topic of upcoming levies in Findlay and Hancock County, with a special spotlight on the Findlay City Schools levy and the Findlay Hancock County Public Library Renewal levy. The conversation delves into the significant impacts these levies can have on workforce development, community growth, and educational standards.

The podcast begins with Matt Hull of UIS Insurance & Investments and Natalie Beall of Dietsch Brothers discussing the community and business implications of the Findlay City Schools levy. They highlight the importance of supporting educational funding to ensure the city continues producing a strong, educated workforce that attracts new residents and supports local businesses. Hull emphasizes the role that education and quality school systems play in economic development, while Beall lends insight into how educational resources affect small businesses directly through the availability and readiness of young workers.

Findlay City Schools Superintendent Dr. Andy Hatton later joins the conversation to provide an in-depth understanding of the levy’s details and its necessity after failing to pass in the previous election. He clarifies the differences in earned income taxes, the challenges posed by current school funding models in Ohio, and the essential benefits of maintaining high educational standards in Findlay.

The episode concludes with Sarah Clevidence explaining the impact of the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library Renewal levy, focusing on its essential role in community literacy and providing comprehensive learning resources.

Key Takeaways:

• The Findlay City Schools levy and Library Renewal levy are critical issues impacting future workforce development and community growth in Findlay, Hancock County.
• A strong educational system is pivotal for attracting new residents and businesses, creating a robust economic environment.
• Business leaders and community representatives emphasize the levies as critical investments rather than expenses, for maintaining district excellence and community stability.
• The Findlay City Schools is respected for high educational standards, contributing significantly to student success and community reputation.
• Public library services are fundamental in promoting lifelong learning and literacy, with the library levy renewal crucial for sustaining these initiatives.

Resources:

• Findlay Schools City Schools Levy Website
• Findlay Hancock County Public Library

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About the Guest:

Orion Jones is the founder of True North Motivation, a company dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through leadership and motivation training. His leadership background includes having managed teams across various industries, including a significant stint as the Director of Operations and Capital Projects at the University of Findlay. 

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins and Orion Jones explore different management styles and their impacts on businesses. The episode examines the nuances of micromanagement and how self-awareness and trust in employees can vastly improve team dynamics. Orion and Doug talk about the common issues faced by managers, particularly focusing on the challenge of transitioning from a hands-on role to a leadership position that demands delegation and trust.

Key Takeaways:

• Micromanagement Detriments: Micromanagement can erode employee trust and self-confidence, ultimately hindering productivity.
• Transparency in Leadership: Being transparent about managerial decisions and fostering open communication can enhance trust and organizational alignment.
• Adapting Leadership Styles: Effective leaders balance empathy with the needs of the business, carefully managing delegation and support.
• Self-Worth and Performance: Personal self-confidence and professional self-worth are critical for both individual and organizational success.
• Proactive Mental Health Strategies: Implementing mental health awareness programs can protect businesses from potential legal issues and enhance overall employee well-being.

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About the Guest:

Gary Wilson is a member of the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce's Agribusiness Committee. With a history of involvement in agriculture, Gary helped start the Agribusiness Committee in 1989. He has a long connection to Hancock County, being part of a family farm that dates back to 1834. 

Episode Summary:

With spring on the horizon, the focal point of this edition of Chamber Amplified is the agricultural sector’s readiness for the upcoming planting season. The discussion sheds light on how Hancock County's agricultural community, the largest economic contributor in the area, is adapting to contemporary challenges, such as fluctuating commodity prices and the implications of tariffs.

Gary dives into the current state of the agricultural domain, sharing insights about the impacts of tariffs and regulations on local agriculture. He elaborates on the significance of exports in sustaining the farming economy, noting how about 40-50% of produce is exported, making tariffs a pressing concern. Drought management and the usage of advanced technologies in mitigating agricultural risks were also examined.

Key Takeaways:

• Agriculture remains the biggest industry in Hancock County, with an estimated total receipt of around $250 million.
• Tariffs and commodity price fluctuations heavily impact the agricultural sector, necessitating strategic adaptations.
• Advanced technologies and practices, such as soil testing and tiling, are essential in managing the inherent risks of farming.
• The Agribusiness Committee plays a crucial role in supporting the local agriculture economy through scholarships and fundraisers like the annual sausage sale.

Take part in the annual sausage sale by clicking here.

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Episode Summary:

Welcome to Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, where host Doug Jenkins examines  issues affecting local businesses. In this episode, Doug connects with State Representative Ty Matthews to explore legislative matters influencing the business environment in Findlay and beyond. Representative Matthews shares insights from his early months in office, discussing his focus on workforce development, small business advocacy, and innovative policy initiatives.

Throughout their conversation, Doug and Ty dive into regional business needs. Matthews introduces the Ohio Defense Initiative, aimed at attracting emerging tech industries to the state. By fostering collaboration among businesses, educational institutions, and government entities, this initiative aims to bolster Ohio’s defense sector and overall economic development.

Key Takeaways:

• Early Legislative Experiences: Matthews reflects on his initial months in office, describing the challenges and learning curve faced by new political representatives.
• Ohio Defense Initiative: Ty Matthews details his policy proposal to attract defense industry companies to Ohio, focusing on emerging technologies and small business advantages.
• Workforce Development Focus: Emphasis on workforce development through addressing housing, transportation, and child care challenges in Findlay and Hancock County.
• Community Engagement: Matthews stresses the significance of local insights and expertise in crafting effective legislative solutions, highlighting the necessity for government-citizen collaboration.
• Collaborative Opportunities: Potential opportunities for Ohio to harness existing manufacturing strengths and defense sector connections in advancing economic growth.

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