In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett—the head of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce—kicks things off by sharing what the podcast’s all about: boosting local businesses and getting the community more involved. She also gives a heads-up about some exciting stuff coming up, like a spring job fair. Later on, Kyle Draper from the Bedford Regional Water Authority joins the conversation to talk about some cool, forward-thinking water projects and how they’re working with the community to keep things sustainable. The whole episode is a great reminder of how local efforts and teamwork really make a difference.

In this episode, Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events at the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, chats with Brenda and Jan from the Bedford Area Master Gardeners Association. They dive into their personal journeys, what the association is all about, and what’s coming up on their calendar. Brenda and Jan share some cool stories about the group’s roots, how they train new members, and awesome community efforts like the therapeutic gardening program and the popular annual plant sale. Foster keeps things lively and reminds us how important it is to get involved locally, giving a big shoutout to the association’s work in spreading horticultural knowledge and caring for the environment in Bedford, Virginia.

In this episode of Chamber Vibes, host Foster Garrett chats with Andy Gibson from Smith Mountain Lake Insiders. They dive into what the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce is all about, touch on cool upcoming events like the spring job fair, and talk about why staying connected with the community really matters. Andy shares a bit about her background, how she’s bringing new life to Smith Mountain Lake Insiders, and what’s new with their food and entertainment guide. They also get into the summer boating issue, the community guide, and other fun stuff happening around the chamber. It’s a great convo that highlights the awesome teamwork and local love that make the Bedford area special.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett—Marketing and Events Director at the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce—chats with Pam Armstrong from the Bedford County Office of Economic Development. They talk about what’s coming up at the Chamber, like the 12th Annual Spring Job Fair, and how Pam helps drive business growth around the county. She shares some cool info about local business parks and the Bedford One program, which gives students a behind-the-scenes look at different industries. They also touch on why Career and Tech Ed matters, how the job fair supports parents with childcare, and some grant opportunities for local childcare providers.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett chats with Mary Massey from Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. Mary shares how she went from working in the museum shop to becoming the Director of Programs and Education, all while following her love for history and community. They talk about what makes Poplar Forest such a special place, some fun upcoming events like the Spring Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival, and all the cool educational stuff going on there. Mary also shares the big news that she’s heading off to a new role in North Carolina—it’s a bittersweet goodbye. Be sure to check out Poplar Forest’s website to learn more and get involved with everything they have going on.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, chats with Chris Hackman from the United Way of Central Virginia. They dive into the organization’s mission—supporting health, education, financial stability, and basic needs—while also talking about how United Way helps local nonprofits and made a difference for nearly 40,000 people last year. Plus, they cover some exciting community events coming up, like a 5K and the Day of Caring, and highlight how businesses and nonprofits can work together to create a bigger impact.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett sits down with Al and Jennifer from the Bedford Domestic Violence Coalition. They chat about how the coalition supports survivors through things like transportation, medical costs, and shelter projects. Al, who’s been with the coalition for ten years, shares insight into their mission and how they secure funding. Jennifer, the treasurer, talks about the importance of community involvement and keeping finances transparent. Foster also touches on the Chamber of Commerce’s role in supporting local initiatives and upcoming events. Tune in to hear about the coalition’s partnerships, fundraising efforts, and their year-round work to raise awareness about domestic violence.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, chats with Tara from Center in the Square, a nonprofit in Roanoke, VA. They talk about how the chamber supports local businesses and dive into exciting upcoming events like the spring job fair. Tara shares how she got involved with Center in the Square, the impact it has on the community, and fun initiatives like the Miniatures on the Market event and the Illuminates winter light show. It’s a great conversation about community, collaboration, and keeping downtown Roanoke vibrant—don’t miss it!

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, introduces the podcast's mission and upcoming events.
She then interviews Brooke, Senior Program Manager at the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Brooke discusses her background, the association's programs, and resources for Alzheimer's disease. She highlights the importance of community involvement, recent advancements in research, and legislative efforts.

On this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett—Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce—is joined by the team from Croft Insurance Services. Joining her are owner Sue Melody, President Melody Kee, and team member Anne. They dive into the details of the new Medical Savings Account (MSA) and why it’s a game-changer. With no network restrictions, tax benefits, and the ability to roll over unused funds, this flexible option puts more control in the hands of clients when it comes to managing healthcare costs. Tune in to learn more!