Candace Carnahan shares her philosophy about staying curious as she learns about others, including other buisness owners and community leaders.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode331

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Jason Mock, President and CEO of the Greater Dalton Chamber discusses the "Believe Greater Dalton" community strategy, initiated in 2018, which focuses on education, housing, downtown revitalization, entrepreneurship, community pride, and economic development. The strategy raised over $1 million in its first year and has led to significant improvements, including increased workforce and mid-level housing. Jason emphasizes the importance of community engagement, regular surveys, and public-private partnerships.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode330

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Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC, discussed her leadership journey and the chamber's initiatives.  She emphasized the importance of measurable outcomes, non-dues revenue, and community engagement. The chamber also addresses workforce development through initiatives like Innovate Pikes Peak and programs for young professionals.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode329

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Shariffa Jones, Executive Director of the Spencer Chamber of Commerce, discussed the chamber's role in disaster relief following a devastating flood in June 2024. The chamber served 370 businesses and had a budget of $350,000. The flood, compared to Hurricane Katrina, affected 75-80% of buildings, including critical infrastructure like the fire station and city hall. The chamber played a pivotal role in setting up shelters, coordinating relief efforts, and ensuring communication. Post-flood, the community is recovering, with some buildings still affected. Jones emphasized the importance of professional development and staying adaptable to community needs.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode328

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Brandon Burton hosts the Chamber Chat Podcast, featuring Elaine Spalding, President of the Rowan Chamber of Commerce in North Carolina. Elaine shares her 40-year career in chamber leadership and the Rowan Chamber's 100th anniversary celebration. They discuss the World Cafe model for board retreats, which facilitates board member input through small group discussions. Elaine highlights the model's success in generating new ideas and fostering team building. She also emphasizes the chamber's role as a convener, champion, and catalyst, and the importance of peer-to-peer support groups for young professionals and minority business council members. Elaine encourages chamber professionals to leverage best practices and resources within the industry.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode327

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Sharon Mason, President and CEO of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, discussed her 22 years of chamber leadership and the chamber's significant growth, from a $3 million budget to over $7 million. She highlighted the chamber's role in attracting major companies like the Atlanta Braves, which led to over 46,000 new jobs and $6.3 billion in private investment. Mason emphasized the importance of listening to businesses, adapting policies, and collaborating with local and state entities. The chamber also played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, administering $50 million in small business grants and hosting weekly recovery webinars.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode326

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Heather Lebischak, President and CEO of the North Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, discusses the chamber's rapid growth and success. Launched in January 2024 with three founding cities—Fultondale, Morris, and Kimberly—the chamber quickly gained 130 members and is on track for its first full-time hire. Heather emphasizes the importance of collaboration, detailed policies, and community engagement. She highlights the chamber's role in advocacy, event planning, and business support, including a public policy committee and an incubator space for minority-owned businesses. Heather also stresses the need for patience and adaptability in chamber leadership.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode325

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Heather Thompson, Vice President of Economy and Engagement at the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, discusses her role and the chamber's initiatives. She shares her experience in creating the "Making Edmonton Digital" program, which helped 3,500 businesses during COVID-19, securing $2 million in funding. Heather emphasizes the shift from value-driven to purpose-driven consumers and the importance of customer service, experiential retail, and right-sizing physical space to drive business success.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode324

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Thomas Sullivan, Vice President of Small Business Policy at the US Chamber of Commerce.,  discusses the challenges small businesses face, particularly inflation, and the importance of advocacy. He emphasizes the need for small business owners to engage with lawmakers directly and highlights the US Chamber's initiatives, including the CO digital platform for small business resources.

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode323

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Anne Hutchinson, President and CEO of the Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce, discusses the chamber's strategic plan, Northern Colorado Prospers, which focuses on economic growth, talent ecosystem, transportation, and a business-friendly environment. 

Full show notes are at: chamberchatpodcast.com/episode322

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