In the Loop with the Charlotte Area Chamber

Charlotte is building something bold, and right at the center of it is The Pearl, a game-changing innovation district near uptown where healthcare, technology, and collaboration are making a local, regional, national, and even global impact.On this edition of In the Loop, we are talking with Craig Scharton, Director of Connect Labs Charlotte, and one of the key forces establishing The Pearl. Have a listen to learn about this innovative launchpad happening right here in the Queen City - fueling startups and connecting global companies with breakthroughs in healthcare, medical research, and more.

Our guest on this edition of In the Loop is Heathir McElroy, Founder and CEO of Momentor – a Parenting Mentor and Guide.Her goal is to enhance workplace well-being through group parent support.She partners with HR and People Leaders to attract, retain, and empower professionals who parent.Heathir has valuable insights to share. Have a listen and let us know what you think.

Our special guest on this edition of ‘In the Loop’ is Robin Ciordia, a founder and the Principal Partner of the award-winning Charlotte business, The Secret Chocolatier.

The Secret Chocolatier was named Small Business of the Year at the 2026 Partners in Tourism Awards by the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority.

This started as a family table at farmers markets and grew into the little chocolate shop they run today - built on craft, hospitality, and the kind of experiences they love sharing with both visitors and locals.

Have a listen to this inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and persistence for success.

#CharlotteNC, #CLTChamber, #CharlotteBusiness, #CharlotteCommunity, #CharlotteNetworking, #CharlottePodcast, #CharlotteAreaChamber

What a year it’s been! From inspiring conversations to empowering local businesses, the Charlotte Area Chamber Podcast has been your go-to for growth and connection. As we close out 2025, we’re grateful for every listener, every story, and every moment shared. Here’s to an even bigger, bolder 2026—packed with fresh insights, local voices, and opportunities to thrive. Stay tuned, because the best is yet to come! #CharlotteAreaChamber #YearInReview

Today on the show, we’re joined by a visionary entrepreneur whose journey spans from the decks of luxury yachts to the skyline of New York—and now, to the forefront of outdoor innovation. Ryan Dickerson is the CEO and founder of Alizé Umbrellas, a company redefining outdoor comfort with its revolutionary umbrellas that feature built-in fans, USB charging, and marine-grade craftsmanship.Originally from Athens, Georgia, Ryan’s career has been anything but conventional—professional sailing in the West Indies, cooling system engineering in skyscrapers, and even immunology research in China.Alizé Umbrellas began as a Kickstarter dream and has grown into a global brand with showrooms from Mooresville, NC to Sydney, catching the attention of luxury resorts, Michelin-starred restaurants, and design professionals worldwide.

In this special episode of In the Loop, we’re celebrating five incredible years of growth, connection, and community with The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce. Over the past half-decade, our chamber has been a driving force for local businesses and nonprofits—sparking collaboration, championing innovation, and creating opportunities for organizations across our area.

Please tune in to our conversation with Chamber founders, Jessica Helms and Michael Orzech, as we take a look back at the milestones that shaped the journey and get a glimpse of the exciting future ahead.

Our guest for this edition of In the Loop is the President and CEO of SouthPark Community Partners. Adam Rhew.

Adam is a dynamic leader with a mission to drive economic vitality, create memorable experiences, and ensure an extraordinary quality of life in Charlotte's SouthPark commercial district.

Adam shares his vision for the future of SouthPark and his goals for one of Charlotte’s most vibrant communities.

Have a listen and let us know what you think.

#CharlotteNC, #CLTChamber, #CharlotteBusiness, #CharlotteCommunity, #CharlotteNetworking, #CharlottePodcast, #CharlotteAreaChamber

Dr. Sergei Shirman is a highly respected dentist in Charlotte, North Carolina. With over 15 years of experience in the dental

His practice is known for its modern, welcoming environment

RobotLAB Charlotte offers a wide range of robots, services, products, and training programs tailored to meet the local demands of restaurants, hotels, assisted living facilities, educational entities, schools, businesses, and governmental organizations.

Our very special guest for this edition of In the Loop is the President and CEO of University City Partners, Keith Stanley. 

       University City Partners (UCP) is a nonprofit organization that invests resources to shape public spaces and plans for a better-built environment that influences he way we live, work, play and learn in University City.

Keith is an inspiring leader with a great story. Have a listen!