Coles County Connection

Mr. Walk talks with Mr. Brian Daniels the Managing Partner of West and Company. They talk about Mr. Daniels experience as an accountant, and how he got started. They also speak on the influence of technology through the generations and how that has shaped the work landscape.

Mr. Walk talks with Mr. Joseph Dively, the Chairman and CEO of First Mid Bank and Trusts. They talk about Mr. Dively's years of experience and how he came to be the on the board of First Mid. They also discuss Mr. Dively's connection to Coles County.

Mr. Walk talks with Ed Dowd, the Director of the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce in Coles County, IL. They discuss opportunities in the community, how the Chamber facilitates business to business relations and about how important supporting local businesses can strengthen the local economy.

Mr. Walk talks with Courtney Conlin, the owner of Plush Boutique in Coles County, IL. They discuss about always being "on-call" and about how important adapting in the face unforeseen circumstances can lead to growth, reaching new customers, and building personal connections can ensure the longevity of your business.

Mr. Walk catches up with Colton Anderson, the owner of Relentless Fitness here in Coles County, IL. They speak his time after graduating high-school and about how important internships are the power of motivation and, finding the relentless pursuit of finding mentors.

Mr. Walk sits down with Ashley Berkheimer, Owner of Soul Wieghts here in Coles County, IL. They speak about Mrs. Berkheimer's time as an athlete and the hardships of her life and how they helped shape the foundation of her business. They also discuss the more personal side of entrepreneurship and how that can impact your approach to starting a business.

Mr. Walk talks to Avery Drake, the owner of Drake Homes here in Coles County, IL. They speak about Mrs. Drake's background and how she came full circle in her life of wanting to leave, the small town life to how she and her husband now make a living here. They also discuss the impact of rising costs supplies on the housing market, and what to look for when you begin to hire employees.

Mr. Walk sits down to talk with Mr. Bertrand as they converse about how Mr. Bertrand got started in Coles County, where the name Pensees Books originated, and the importance of an online presence.

Mr. Walk sits down to talk with Mr. Summers and Mr. Drummond. They converse about how Mr. Summers' family found themselves in Coles County, and Mr. Summers and Mr. Drummond's initiative to help small business owners, while helping to revitalize downtown Mattoon, IL.

Vinny sits down to talk with the owner of Jack & Bill's Clothing, Mr. Steve Hardin. They discuss how Mr. Hardin got started, the importance of buying power, and, the importance of 'living out of a calendar".