impact. The Boro

The Guilford Apprenticeship Partners program allows high school students to learn a trade and graduate with both their high school diploma and associate's degrees debt-free. Meridith Berger, director of existing industry services for the Chamber, sits down with Peter Shoun from LC America and Courtney Smith, an apprentice with MSI, to talk about how GAP works.

Thanks for joining us!

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

---------------------

Today’s host is Meridith Berger, Director of Existing Industry Services

Disclaimer: We recorded this episode in early February, before the impact of COVID-19. Our programming for the Guilford Apprenticeship Partners (GAP) Program is now all virtual. 

1:52 - Meridith kicks off the episode with some background information about the Guilford Apprenticeship Partners Program and how it benefits both young students and our local companies. GAP is a registered apprenticeship program for high schoolers, is in its fifth year of operation, and has grown to include six program tracks. 

3:08 - Today’s guests are Peter Shawn with LC America and Courtney Smith, a second year apprentice with Machine Specialities Inc. Peter and Courtney share some more information about how the companies interact with and teach their apprentices. 

5:44 - Peter dives into why LC America partnered with the GAP Program, the benefits that the company is seeing from the program, and how the apprenticeship program is cultivating a long-term, dedicated, and highly skilled employee for the company. Peter explains how LC America is seeing a great return on investment from taking on apprentices, but also how the students grow and benefit. 

9:40 - Meridith asks Peter about what cultural or work stresses can be presented by bringing in such young apprentices into the workplace. Peter explains that these students go through a rigorous application, are hardworking, have a particular focus and have great community support behind them. Once employees see how eager the apprentices are, their energy is contagious. 

12:10 - Meridith asks Courtney about her experiences as a student-apprentice, her interactions with the other workers, and how career mentors are helping to shape her professional learning. Courtney has found her mentors and fellow employees to be very open, helpful and accepting.

13:20 - Meridith explains that although the GAP Program is 138 students strong, only 6 are female. She asks Courtney how she’d encourage other women to get into GAP or manufacturing environments. Even though manufacturing is a male-dominated field, she feels supported and able to work just as well as her male counterparts. Courtney encourages women to pursue their interests, whatever they may be.

15:25 - For those students interested in the GAP Program, make sure to ask your school counselors, teachers, and peers for information! You can also visit https://gapnc.org/ for more information on how to apply, how it works, and participating employers.

---------------------

Find out more about GAP: gapnc.org

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media!

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment, which grants women the right to vote. Learn what local organizations are doing to mark the milestone. Guests are Catherine Magid with the League of Women Voters of the Piedmont Triad and Kathelene McCarty Smith, interim head of the Martha Blakeney Hodges Special Collections and University Archives at UNC Greensboro.

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

---------------------

1:33 - Our host Cecelia kicks off by introducing our guests for Women’s History Month, Katherine Magid from the Piedmont League of Women Voters and Kathelene McCarty Smith from UNC Greensboro’s Special Collections and University Archives. 

2:35 - Cecelia asks Katherine to explain what the Piedmont League of Women’s Voters is doing to commemorate the 100th anniversary 19th Amendment. Katherine also offers some historical background about what the League of Women Voters has done over the years.

5:06 - Cecelia asks Kathelene what historical role UNCG played in the Women's Suffrage Movement, and how the University is honoring Women’s History Month currently. Kathelene emphasizes that UNCG has always brought in women with different perspectives and experiences, in order to expose students to new ideas, and dives into how WWI mobilization efforts fed into the suffrage movement. 

8:15 - “These were certainly not shrinking violets, they were very serious, and continued to be after the war ended. ” - Kathelene, speaking about UNCG’s female students demonstrating and speaking out for their right to vote.

9:10 - Cecelia highlights Suffragette women, like Harriett Elliott from UNCG, from across Greensboro campuses. Katherine offers more detail about how the League of Women Voters is helping to identify a Suffragette from each college to honor, as well as honoring the League’s own Suffrage Woman, Gertude Wheel, who founded the League of Women Voters of North Carolina.

11:13 - Kathelene shares more about Harriett Elliott and the impact that she had on her students and the UNCG campus, and the many reasons why she is such an important figure in history.

12:45 - Cecelia asks how women are making history now, and who can be identified as some strong current female leaders. Katherine brings up the number of women candidates running for public office at every level and appreciates seeing women in politics. Kathelene mentions Alma Adams, who worked on the Greensboro City Council and was the 100th woman in congress, but also speaks to the students she interacts with at UNCG’s campus, and how these young women have truly created a vision and voice for themselves that includes leadership, equality, and strength.

16:08 - Cecelia asks her guests to detail some of the upcoming events and exhibits that are centered around Women’s History Month and the Suffrage Movement.

---------------------

Action Greensboro

Twitter: @ActionGSO

Facebook: Action Greensboro

League of Women Voters: Piedmont Triad 

Twitter: @LVWPT

Facebook: League of Women Voters of the Piedmont Triad

UNC Greensboro

Martha Blakeney Hodges Special Collections & University Archives

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media!

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

Brince Manning, Southeastern Region Manager for the US Chamber of Commerce, provides an overview of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and. Economic Security Act. The legislation provides provisions to help small businesses get back on their feet.

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

---------------------

1:00 - In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we at the Chamber are working with community partners to mitigate its effects on businesses, both large and small. In lieu of our regular podcasts, we will be sharing highlights from our Daily Action Calls, where experts share information and resources for businesses to survive in this unprecedented time.

1:43 - Brent kicks off the Daily Action Call with some general housekeeping, community updates about the Paycheck Protection Program applications and introduces today’s topic of the CARES Act. 

4:15 - Brent introduces guest Brince Manning, manager of the Southeastern Region for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. 

5:50 - Brince dives into some background information about the CARES Act package, what it includes, how it is intended to help the economy during the pandemic, and how funds can be used by individuals, businesses, and government entities. Brince also covers changes to unemployment benefits and how eligibility to that benefit has increased.

9:10 - Brince goes into the major provisions of the CARES Act for employers, from large companies to smaller businesses, sole proprietors, and nonprofits. Benefits include provisions like delaying payroll taxes, increased interest deductibility from 2019 and 2020, the Employee Retention Credit, and other methods for employers to increase liquidity that do not have income generating right now. 

13:51 - Brince goes into the differences of how the Employee Retention Credit is applied for companies with more than 100 employees, and those with less than 100 employees, and how the credit can be applied depending on the work situation. He highlights that the Employee Retention Credit cannot be used if businesses choose to participate in the Paycheck Protection Program. 

15:35 - Brince moves into how the bill affects mid-sized and larger companies and the credit facilities that will be made available to them. The Treasury Department will be supporting financial institutions across the nation to enable them to make more and larger loans to companies.

17:35 - Next, Brince details how small businesses, self-employed, independent contractors, and nonprofits can participate in the CARES Act. $349 billion has been set aside for these entities to apply for Small Business Loans and qualifications have been extended beyond typical SBA conditions to include sole proprietors and independent contractors. These general loans are not issued by SBA, but instead by qualified local lenders. Brince goes into the important details that businesses need to know to navigate these loans and how they work.

24:14 - Another small business provision to take advantage of is the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), which have been around for a long time and are generally issued for businesses impacted by natural disasters like hurricanes or tornadoes. These loans are different than what is in the CARES Act because they generally do not convert to grants, you can borrow up to $2 million that can be paid back over 30 years, and payments can be deferred for up to a year. 

26:00 - The CARES Act does add to the benefits of EIDLs. Under the Act, EIDLs can be paired with an emergency grant of up to $10,000 that has to be paid to the business or sole proprietor within 3 days. Additionally, if you are denied the EIDL, you do not have to pay back the grant.

26:50 - Brince details how EIDLs interact with the Paycheck Protection Program, as businesses can generally get both, but cannot seek loan forgiveness with both programs. You cannot take out these two loans to pay the same bills, so make sure to do research about what would be most beneficial to your business and employees. 

28:18 - Next, Brince updates listeners about paid sick leave for small businesses, some provisions which come from the CARES Act and some from the Families First Act (also known as the Phase II Bill). Employers with less than 500 employees must provide 10 days of paid sick leave to employees affected by the coronavirus, or those who are impacted by childcare center closures. There is more specific guidance for businesses with less than 50 employees, and all businesses can seek out information at the Department of Labor’s website. 

31:10 - The Phase II Bill also includes FMLA changes and extended leave due to coronavirus closures. The Bill details how payments are made to the employee, how businesses are protected, and exemptions. 

33:18 - Brent thanks Brince for his presentation, and starts with a Q&A session. The first question deals with the funds coming to individuals and how that calculation is made. Brince understands that the funds are based on your most recent income tax filing, whether that is 2018 or 2019, if you have filed already.

34:47 - As a small business with few employees, if you get the EIDL advance but not the SBA Loan, can you still get the Employee Retention Credit? Brince answers that yes, you can.

36:01 - Is there an age restriction for children being classified as a minor-dependent for the CARES Act payments to individuals? Brince confirms that dependents are counted as children.

36:35 - Brent’s next question from the audience deals with investor funds and small businesses with angel funding, and concerns around those situations. However, there is limited guidance from the CARES Act for these situations. 

38:25 - What is the best way to calculate monthly payroll? The Paycheck Protection Program application has guidance on how businesses can calculate the average monthly payroll, and Brince goes into a little more detail about how various businesses of different ages can do this. 

40:31 - Would foreign ownership of a company be a barrier to receiving assistance? Brince explains that the primary residence of the employee must be within the US, but residency of the owner shouldn’t impact the ability for program assistance. 

41:07 - If you’re a franchisee of a franchise that is not on the SBA franchise directory, are you eligible for the Paycheck Protection Program? Brice explains that a franchisee should be permitted to apply for the PPP, as the eligibility list has been expanded and is generally viewed on a case-by-case basis in this situation.

41:50 - Can an individual apply for unemployment if they are in-between leaving one job and starting their next job, which is now on indefinite hold? Brince explains that until the start date of the next job arrives, one should be able to apply for unemployment assistance. 

43:13 - What can the $10,000 SBA emergency grant be used for? There are guidelines for how to use those funds, but there are no restrictions on how to use those emergency funds. Just remember that the emergency grant cannot be stacked with the PPP; if you receive both, the emergency grant will be deducted from your PPP funding. 

46:16 - Brent and Brince remind listeners to consult with the local SBTDC for assistance with understanding and applying for loans. These experts are here to help you understand which loan is the best fit for you. 

48:00 - Brent asks if the $350 million in loan funds is enough to really help the US small businesses survive and if it will be quickly depleted. Brince answers confidently that the loan programs are strong and will not run out of funding for those who need it. However, do your research and don’t wait to apply for the loan that will help your business the most!

Find links discussed in this episode and more resources related to COVID-19at greensboro.org/covid19.

Schedule a virtual or phone appointment with an SBTDC Counselor.

Go to the Office of Disaster Assistance and apply for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/account/login

Also reference the Coronavirus Small Business Guidance and Loan Resources page.

Want to help the community by donating blood? Check out OneBlood, the main supplier for Cone Health, to find out how and where you can donate blood.

Remember to subscribe for new episode notifications each week.

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media!

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

00:53 - In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we at the Chamber are working with community partners to mitigate its effects on businesses, both large and small. In lieu of our regular podcasts, we will be sharing highlights from our Daily Action Calls, where experts share information and resources for businesses to survive this unprecedented time.

1:28 - Brent Christensen kicks off the Daily Action Call by introducing today's topic of how to work remotely, how to manage and inspire your team from afar, and how to continue to be productive while we’re in quarantine.

3:47 - Brent introduces Congressman Mark Walker, who represents NC’s 6th District. Walker shares an update about how COVID-19 is impacting North Carolina right now and information coming from the White House. Walker also reviews the three phases of the federal pandemic funding, the details of what each phase of funding covers, and how those decisions are being rolled out. 

12:45 - Brent introduces two other guest speakers; Sean Kearney, founder of UpGaged and David Horne, who owns several remote-first Greensboro-based businesses. 

13:50 - Brent asks Sean what is different about this transition to work-from-home situation and how to navigate the challenges of adapting to a new way of working. Sean explains that all organizations struggle at times with remote work situations, especially in times of uncertainty and change. What’s different about today is that everybody has been thrown into change - businesses, families, individuals, children - so we have to learn how to survive, care for each other, and adapt the best practices that no longer apply to this new situation. Sean emphasizes good, daily communication and ensuring people are acknowledged, heard, and cared for.

19:32 - Brent asks David about remote work etiquette that we should practice and be aware of. David explains bringing the same respect and patience as if your team were working together in a physical office. He emphasizes that communication is the most critical skill to practice in the move from real-time to asynchronous work, and to be considerate of how someone may interpret what is written to them. He recommends instituting boundaries and office hours, so we can balance work with quiet time.

24:30 - Brent asks Sean what are the best ways to keep a remote team engaged in the work that they’re doing. As leaders of businesses, we cannot solve all engagement issues and this is a big challenge. Real engagement comes from interaction, rather than giving out directives. Constant status updates aren't always the best use of time; have a clear thought, invite your teams to give you feedback, interact between themselves, and build trust.

28:04 - Brent asks David about how remote teams build and maintain organizational culture. David explains that culture is built from people’s experiences and interactions together. Embracing that from a remote standpoint means continuing to communicate, building in multiple touchpoints, creating effective processes that are productive but also build trust, acknowledging employees and good work. Planning unproductive time together is also useful - have a videoconference in the morning for a coffee and chat with your team. 

32:50 - Brent asks Sean about his steps for setting up remote work processes. 

Step one, think of the five to ten people that others turn to for advice or help (whether that’s employees, customers, vendors, etc.). This creates relevance in your messaging, because your trusted people are helping to build your message. 

Step two is to ask “how are you; what are you concerned about” and really listen to the answer. Make sure you fully understand so you can figure out how to help. 

Step three is to follow up with anyone that you believe has potential solutions. Review your notes and find patterns for solutions.

Step four is to acknowledge concerns and fears, and then offer solutions and suggestions. Maybe create a short video to make it more human and accessible, share information from your trusted sources.

Step five is to ask for feedback and comments from your viewers, employees, customers. Understand what you need to provide them in the remote work world and challenge your people to get uncomfortable and create new habits.

41:20 - What tools in the remote workspace work well to help teams continue to engage with each other? Sean talks about “bring your own” team tools, like Slack and Microsoft Teams, for internal communications and file sharing. David emphasizes finding the right tools for the business that people will actually use and not overloading on how many apps or tools are used.

North Carolina small businesses and nonprofits are now eligible to apply for the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. The working capital loans of up to $2 million can provide vital economic support to small businesses and nonprofits to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thanks for joining us!

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

Today’s host is Brent Christiansen, the Chamber’s President and CEO.

0:33 - Brent kicks off the discussion with a few housekeeping items, updates that business owners need to be aware of in the changing world of COVID-19, and what community resources are available. We’ll dive more into the SBA Loans that have recently been made available and what that means for small business owners. 

3:34 - Today’s guests are from the Small Business Association. We’re joined by Levi Kinnard, Economic Development Specialist from the NC District Office, as well as Bob Weston and Victor Dau, Director and Assistant Director of the Piedmont Triad Region for the Small Business Technology Development Center.

4:39 - Brent asks Levi to walk us through what the new SBA Loans are, how to apply for a loan, and other important information that business owners should know about receiving assistance. Levi explains more details about the Economic Injury Disaster Loan, which is now available because of the Governor’s declaration of a state of emergency. 

7:19 - Brent asks about which businesses and organizations can qualify for this loan. Levi explains how the disaster loan program is operating differently in this situation, as there is no physical damage from COVID-19, like what we would see after a hurricane. In this case, small businesses and non-profits are now eligible to receive these loans, and he explains how some of the loan guidelines have been relaxed due to the unconventional nature of the COVID-19 crisis. If you need help putting together your disaster loan application, Levi lists many resource groups in Greensboro who are available to help. 

11:34 - Brent asks about the calculation involved in the loan process based on a business’s ability to pay. Levi explains that the SBA loans are working capital loans, which takes into consideration pre-crisis revenues and operating costs. Based on that, assessors will look at your ability to repay the loan once business is restored. However, deferment periods are being built into the loan to protect the longevity and sustainability of business operations.

13:04 - Are there any regulations and tracking methods about how the loan funds can be used? Levi explains that there are guidelines, but the loans are intended to help with operating costs - bill payments, fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable - but are not intended to replace lost sales or allow businesses to expand.

14:17 - Brent inquires about which, if any, industries are excluded from applying for these loans? Levi lists that agricultural enterprises (who rely on the USDA), religious and charitable organizations, small businesses that make ⅓ or more revenue from gambling profits, casinos and racetracks are barred from applying for this loan.  

15:54 - Some questions from the online group chat are based around what would be considered collateral for these types of loans. Levi explains that there is a collateral requirement for any loans over $25,000 and while personal or business collateral can be put up, real estate is preferred. 

17:13 - Brent reads another question from the chat asking if business owners should wait and see the financial impact in a few weeks, or apply for the loan sooner? Levi recommends applying sooner (especially if you’ve already seen an impact) and get approved for as much funding as possible. This is because it is easier to be approved for more funding now and not spend it all, rather than ask for multiple loans throughout the crisis.  

18:51 - A question from a young business: If your business is less than a year old and doesn’t have the year-over-year revenues to determine need, how are those loan applications handled? Levi explains what documentation is needed if your business is newly established, and that the Office of Disaster Assistance can make a credit decision based on all the information that is given to them.

20:39 - Brent asks for the loans up to (but not over) $25,000, what are the terms and negotiating items that businesses should be prepared for? In these cases, there is no collateral requirement, and you can negotiate with the Office of Disaster Assistance on the repayment terms of the loan to reduce the monthly cost up to 30 years. 

21:57 - Levi offers clarification about what defines a “small business” and which organizations would qualify for these new SBA loans. Levi recommends finding out your NAICS classification code.

24:08 - Brent brings on Bob Weston, who details the wide range of services the SBTDC offers ordinarily to help businesses, and then speaks specifically what the organization can do now to help small businesses with their loan applications and make the process as easy as possible. Bob reiterates Levi’s recommendation to go ahead and apply for these loans, use the checklist and reference the paper application before submitting the electronic application. 

30:17 - Brent reads another question from chat, asking how long it will take for funds to be dispersed. Levi explains that the normal processing time for an application is 8 to 21 days, but one of the biggest hindrances to getting funds is that business owners do not check the message center that loan officers communicate through. Levi recommends frequently checking the loan message center for any updates. Once the loan is processed and approved, there is usually a 5 day distribution period. 

34:34 - Brent asks what the difference is between an SBA 504 loan and these new disaster loans. Bob explains the details of typical SBA loans, and how the disaster relief loans are different. Levi adds that there is no cost to apply for a disaster loan and no obligation to take the loan if it is offered.

37:44 - For business owners with branches in several locations, the recommendation is to apply for a loan for the main business location. Corporate structure decides whether you apply for one or two loans; if both companies originate from the same corporate entity, then you would apply for one loan. For questions specific to your business situation, be sure to contact an SBTDC Counselor. 

---------------------

Learn more about the NC Small Business Association.

Get connected: 336-256-9300

Schedule a virtual or phone appointment with an SBTDC Counselor.

Go to the Office of Disaster Assistance and apply for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/account/login

Also reference the Coronavirus Small Business Guidance and Loan Resources page.

Want to help the community by donating blood? Check out OneBlood, the main supplier for Cone Health, to find out how and where you can donate blood.

Remember to subscribe for new episode notifications each week.

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media! 

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

Looking to boost your business' social media presence but unsure where to start? Follow these five tips from Megan Mabry, our director of marketing and communication, and Hannah Pomphrey, owner of Hue + Tone Creative.

Thanks for joining us!

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

 ---------------------

Today’s host is Megan Mabry, the Chamber’s Director of Marketing and Communications.

1:42 - Megan welcomes Hannah Pomphrey of Hue and Tone Creative as today’s podcast guest. Hannah shares some background about herself, her business, and how she works to help with the Chamber of Greensboro’s various marketing and social campaigns.

3:05 - Megan asks for Hannah’s insight on the important things to remember when managing a social media site. One of Hannah’s key tips is to set aside time each day to work on social media in order to interact, comment, follow, and build rapport with your audience. 

5:06 - After setting aside your dedicated time for social media management, how can this time be used most effectively? Hannah uses timers to keep on track with posting, following, commenting, and browsing new social channels for increased interaction. She suggests that timed, individual tasks and setting priorities help accomplish more in the long run.

6:40 - Megan brings up Hannah’s use of content calendars and asks her to dive deeper into how those tools help with managing social media. Content calendars help with planning out posting content, dates and times posts will happen, on what social channels the messaging will go out. Hannah uses Excel and Google Doc to help her plan monthly and quarterly posts for both her personal and business accounts.

8:33 - Megan asks how Hannah helps people and businesses figure out the best time of day to post on social media? Hannah explains how some apps, like Instagram, can show you when your audience is most active. Otherwise, it’s a little bit of trial and error to figure out the best posting time for you and your business specifically. 

9:40 - The next tip that Megan and Hannah offer is to focus on one or two social platforms - having many doesn’t always mean that your reach is most effective. Managing many different social accounts also is a huge time commitment, so be strategic about which platforms work best for you and the type of business that you’re in.

12:30 - Megan asks Hannah about curating a “voice” on social media. Hannah recommends having a brand voice, but to keep it open and conversational. Interact on social media as you would in person; deliver good customer service, be polite, avoid heated exchanges, and treat others how you’d want to be treated.

13:50 - What about the ROI that businesses and organizations can measure through their social media accounts? Hannah speaks to finding what is meaningful for your specific business, things beyond direct sales like inquiries, tours to your space, new relationships, or increases in event RSVPs are all indicators that your social media is creating a positive impact for your business.

15:55 - Hannah also shares her insights about advertising on social media platforms. Facebook Analytics and Facebook Pixel allow you to see data about your audience and how they respond to your posts, so you can learn more about what gets higher interaction and where to put your advertising dollars. Megan recommends to start small, see what works, and use your analytics to help guide you in making advertising choices!

17:45 - The last, bonus tip that Hannah and Megan offer is to resist the temptation to always hand your social media accounts over to your young interns! You want a social media manager who is well-versed in your business, who will be around for a long time to build a brand voice, and who has the experience to respond appropriately to customers. Interns do not always have those skills or longevity (but you can guide them in learning).

21:00 - Hannah wraps up with a reminder to make your public-facing marketing a priority in your business, and that investing time and energy into your social media can lead to an increase in customers and overall success.

---------------------

Want to learn more about Hannah’s business? 

Check out her website: hueandtonecreative.com

and Instagram: @hueandtone

Remember to subscribe for new episode notifications each week.

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media! 

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

We reflect on the 60th anniversary of the Woolworth’s lunch counter sit-ins and learn about some of its lesser-sung heroes: the women of Bennett College. Our guests are Bennett College President Suzanne Walsh and sit-in participant Dr. Linda Brown. The Chamber's executive vice president for member engagement, Tracy Myers, hosts.

Thanks for joining us!

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

 ---------------------

Today’s host is Tracy Myers, the Executive Vice President for Member Engagement.

1:55 - Tracy welcomes guest Dr. Suzanne Walsh, President of Bennett College, and Dr. Linda Brown, a Bennett alumni who participated in the famous Sit-In movement in July 1960. Tracy asks them to share some information about themselves.

2:52 - Tracy invites Dr. Brown to speak about the book she wrote about her experiences and the role of herself and other women during the Civil Rights movement. Dr. Brown’s accounts of these moments in history are so critical because she worked on laying the foundation to make the sit-ins happen, and experienced the movement happening first-hand. 

6:37 - Dr. Brown speaks about how she and other female activists worked behind the scenes to make the sit-ins happen, but that their actions went unnoticed. “The women at Bennett never wanted to take away from the decision of the guys, and one of the reasons it wasn’t talked about, it wasn’t corrected, was that we were looking for solidarity and we didn’t want to appear to the community to be fighting with each other. That would not have done the movement any good.”

7:57 - Tracy asks Dr. Walsh to speak on how she promotes Bennett, tells the school’s story, and emphasizes how Bennett has played a critical role in Greensboro. Dr. Walsh starts by highlighting her favorite statistic from Bennett’s history - that 40% of the student population was arrested during the Sit-Ins, and those Bennett Belles were wholly supported by their university president at that time. 

10:22 - Dr. Walsh furthers the discussion into Dr. Brown’s book, as Dr. Brown not only tackles the role of women in the Civil Rights movement but also dives deeply into the role of gender, the expectations of gender, the respectability of women, why and how women are hidden figures of history. 

14:27 - Dr. Brown talks about how previous Bennett presidents have advocated for Bennett to be included in the history of the Civil Rights and that their on-going support enabled her to complete her book. Dr. Walsh discusses how a Bennett Belle she visited still has letters and “college mementos” from the time that are now seen as vital pieces of the accurate telling of Bennett’s role in the movement. 

17:22 - To wrap up, Tracy asks what it is about the culture of Bennett College that produces students who are unafraid to stand up for their beliefs. The answers, grounded in past experiences and strong educational backgrounds, highlight how that spirit of participation and involvement is strong within the Bennett conversation. 

23:02 - To find Dr. Brown’s book, Belles of Liberty: Gender, Bennett College, and the Civil Rights Movement in Greensboro look locally if you’re in Greensboro, search on Amazon, or look via Dr. Brown’s website.

---------------------

Interested in Dr. Brown’s book? 

Purchase Belles of Liberty: Gender, Bennett College, and the Civil Rights Movement in Greensboro on Amazon.

Be sure to check out Dr. Brown’s website for her writing, events, workshops, and more:  www.lindabeatricebrownauthor.com 

Remember to subscribe for new episode notifications each week.

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media! 

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

Greensboro is known as "Tournament Town," but it's not just because of the NCAA and ACC. Ainsley Johnston, the Chamber's event manager, sits down with the Greensboro Sports Foundation to discuss how our city lives up to its moniker the other 363 days of the year.

Thanks for joining us!

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here  

---------------------

1:23 - Ainsley welcomes us to the podcast and introduces guests Rob Goodman, the Executive Director of the Greensboro Sports Foundation, and Marc Bush, the Vice Chairman of the Foundation. Ainsley, Rob, and Mark are discussing the idea of “Tournament Town” and how the Greensboro Sports Foundation plays a critical role in bringing these events to our community.

1:58 - The Greensboro Sports Foundation is the local organizing committee for helping to bring sporting events to Greensboro and ensuring that visitors have a great time. Once the event is in town, the Foundation is responsible for hosting, coordinating logistics, and helping to make people feel welcome and excited to come back to Greensboro. 

3:50 - Ainsley asks Rob and Marc to expand on the breadth of sporting tournaments that Greensboro hosts. Greensboro earned the name of Tournament Town because it has played host to numerous ACC Basketball tournaments, the US Figure Skating Championships, ODAC Swimming Championships, ACC Women’s and Men’s Swimming and Diving, NCAA Basketball and Swimming Championships, and more!

6:12 - Ainsley asks for more detail on the numerous swimming and diving events held in Greensboro, as we have a fantastic aquatics center but most often hear about basketball. Marc discusses how the Greensboro Aquatics Center (GAC) has helped put Greensboro on the map for national championship events. The GAC recently was awarded the YMCA’s Y National Long Course event for three years and is currently in the bid process for the NCAA Swimming and Diving Division 1 and Division 3 events. 

8:10 - The discussion moves to the addition of a fourth pool at the Aquatics Center. The fourth pool has now made Greensboro Aquatics Center the largest in the nation, opening up many other event and tournament options. This expansion has also helped the Center honor its commitment to serving the community, hosting local programs even when tournaments are in town.

12:55 - Ainsley moves the conversation to basketball and what to expect in Greensboro for 2020. Rob describes hosting the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament for the 20th time during the first weekend of March, followed by the ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament (Greensboro’s 27th time hosting), then the next weekend will be the NCAA Division 1 Men’s Basketball first and second rounds. The logistics of hosting this sporting trifecta takes the perfect, coordinated effort of talented and dedicated Coliseum staff!

17:25 - Rob talks about how the community is coming together to work on decorations and marketing around these events, and how the revamped Tournament Town logo is now focused on Greensboro, tradition, and the fans that drive the economic boom that comes with these events. 

19:08 - Ainsley asks about events planned for fans during the basketball tournaments. Rob describes a kickoff lunch, speakers, a Tuesday night party open to the public, a Saturday night concert with the Indigo Girls, tailgating, food trucks, live music, festivals, live watch parties, and so much more. It’s an exciting and packed schedule!

23:50 - Ainsley asks Rob and Marc to explain how local support helps Greensboro get and keep these tournaments and all the positive economic impact that comes with them. Marc explains the enormous economic impact that sporting events have on Greensboro’s local economy, from restaurants and hotel rooms to selling tickets and Coliseum concessions. Rob details that local support helps Greensboro stay competitive among other cities that host tournaments by creating an experience unlike anywhere else. 

---------------------

Remember to subscribe for new episode notifications each week.

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media! 

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

Learn more about this year’s Tournament Town events here. 

Get tickets to the NCAA tournament: www.greensborocoliseum.com/events/detail/2020-ncaa-mens-basketball-tournament

The Chamber's synerG Young Professionals program is preparing to host its 2020 Lead Your City Summit, which will bring our best under-40 talent together to grow their leadership skills, build on their ideas, serve their community and connect their network. synerG Director Sarah McGuire is joined by Candace Martin, a synerG Council member and the communications and operations manager for Action Greensboro.

Thanks for joining us!

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

---------------------

00:52 - Brent introduces today's topic, young professionals in the Triad. Today, we have Sarah McGuire, Director of synerG Young Professionals here to tell us more about the program.

01:25 - Sarah is joined today with Candace Martin, Operations and Communications Manager at Action Greensboro and the newest edition to synerG to talk about exciting events coming up with synerG within the next few months and how to get involved in the program altogether. Sarah kicks the conversation off with Lead Your City and what to expect there.

06:44 - Sarah talks about the venue itself being a great way for young professionals to brush up on networking skills and the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals plus other awesome benefits for attendees. Sarah tells us about early bird ticket prices to the event.

08:55 - Candace gives recognition to the volunteers who help make the event possible, and to the sponsors who help and invest in Greensboro’s young professionals. Shout outs are given to a handful of sponsors. Candace shares some insight on what to expect from the event,  On Tap.

12:53 - Candace talks about the various lunch-n-learn throughout the year with topics ranging from personal development to leadership hosted by synerG. Sarah mentions a lunch-n-learn coming up soon on reducing student loan debt.

15:12 - Sarah mentions that Candace is still a volunteer for synerG after being added as a council member, she asks what her perspective is on how synerG has helped her career grow as a young professional. Candace gives recognition to the marketing and social committee of synerG. Our hosts strongly encourage outreach from any bar, restaurant or venue owner who would be interested in an event taking place at their location. Sarah expands on the placemaking committee that Candace brought up earlier, what their role is and what they’ve done for the community.

18:18 - Our hosts finish on final thoughts urging the young professionals in our community to come to an event and participate in city activities!

-----

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

Visit synerG.org for details on sessions at Lead Your City 2020

Tag synerG in your participating posts on Facebook & Instagram: @synerggso

Remember to subscribe for new episode notifications each week.

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media! 

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

Launch Greensboro's annual Capital Connects pitch competition is coming up on March 4 - and more than $20,000 in prize money and in-kind services is at stake. Jennifer Hensel, assistant director of Launch Greensboro, sits down with 2013 Capital Connects winner Ryan Pratt, CEO of Guerilla RF, to discuss his experience in the competition.

hanks for joining us!

This episode is sponsored by Truliant Federal Credit Union

Visit Truliant here

---------------------

00:26 - Brent sets the stage for today’s host, Jennifer Hensel, assistant director of Launch Greensboro. She and Ryan Pratt, founder and CEO of Guerrilla RF will be introducing an event coming to Greensboro, Capital Connects which will be coming up in March of 2020. Ryan shares his background and shares what his company does.

02:28 - Jennifer gives context to what she and Ryan will be talking about for those who are not in the entrepreneur world, just so they are able to follow along with the conversation. She explains what Capital Connects is and how it helps entrepreneurs and investors.

04:19 - Ryan and Jennifer answer, “What do you think makes a great pitch?” and “What kinds of companies should apply and present at Capitol Connects?”

06:39 - Jennifer asks what year Ryan participated in Capital Connects. He explains what led him to apply for the event and details his experience was. Ryan shares his entrepreneurial successes.

13:20 - Jennifer asks Ryan what it felt like to be on stage pitching his business idea to investors against other competent entrepreneurs in a competitive environment. Jennifer also asks what it was like to push personal boundaries and to grow from it.

17:00 - Ryan tells the story of when his business had one week’s worth of expenses left and how he handled and overcame the situation.

20:43 - Jennifer asks Ryan to describe his relationship with his investors. We learn the process of having a phone call conversation versus a meeting with an investor?

24:32 - Jennifer explains more about Capitol Connects detailing the competition and the prize winners are competing for. Ryan talks about how back when he competed and won, there was no prize money. 

26:59 - Since the success of Ryan’s business through Capitol Connects, Ryan has been an audience member and even a judge for the program. Jennifer asks what it’s like to hear different companies compete now that the roles are reversed. 

29:37 - Ryan shares advice for the companies pitching on March 4th along with uplifting parting words for entrepreneurs wanting to build a company and stay local. 

Register for Capital Connects: bit.ly/2020CapitalConnects

Learn more about Guerilla RF: guerrilla-rf.com

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.

-----

Thanks for joining us!

Remember to subscribe for new episode notifications each week.

Make sure to follow impact. The Boro on social media! 

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @gsochamber

Recorded and Edited by Press Play Studios

Visit the Chamber website at greensboro.org.