In this episode, we talk with Joe Ulmer, Valley native and owner of Overlook Produce Bakery and Deli. Starting as a small farm stand, Joe and his family have grown their operation to a year-round destination featuring produce, a greenhouse, a deli, locally made products and more. Listen in as Joe shares his story and the vision he has for the future of Overlook Produce!

Valley native and recent JMU graduate Kyle Showalter shares why he chose to stay in the Shenandoah Valley after graduating from James Madison University. Now working as the assistant controller for Partners Excavating, Kyle talks about why he values working at this long-standing Valley company and how he turned an internship into a full time career opportunity.

In this episode of the SV Life Podcast, we sit down with Vanessa Morosco, Executive Director of the American Shakespeare Center. Vanessa first discovered the Shenandoah Valley as a recent college graduate performing with the Shenandoah Shakespeare ensemble. After building her career across the country, her journey came full circle when she returned to guide the organization forward. Listen in as she shares her story and the story of the American Shakespeare Center.

Brooke Buffington, Associate Vice President of Career and Professional Development at Mary Baldwin University joins the SV Life podcast to share her passion for helping students craft their message and find their path after graduation. Transitioning to higher ed after years in a corporate setting, Brooke has a unique perspective in bridging communication between businesses and prospective employees. Plus, she shares her favorite Shenandoah Valley spots and a one-of-a-kind project she had the opportunity to be a part of.

Maya Elcox was first introduced to Ryzing Technologies as a high school student mentee. As she progressed through her educational journey, she had the opportunity to intern with the company and today, is a full-time employee. Listen in as Maya, a Shenandoah Valley native, shares her story and some inspiring words for all young girls interested in STEM.

In this episode of SV Life, we chat with Ann Cundy, executive director of the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC). Ann grew up in Richmond but always had strong ties to the Shenandoah Valley. She went to college in the area and eventually decided to put down roots here. Ann shares her story and gives us a look at some of the many programs and projects the CSPDC is involved in.

In this episode we talk with Piete Casius, President & CEO of Friendship Industries. Living in the Shenandoah Valley since 2008, he shares the journey that brought him to Virginia and eventually to his leadership role. Starting as Director of Commercial Operations at Friendship Industries in 2016, Piete reflects on how working at a nonprofit has shaped him personally—and the meaningful impact the organization has on the community.

It's National Dairy Month and in this episode, we're talking with Amanda Culp, director of Marketing for Maola Dairies. A local dairy co-op that works with farmers in the Valley and beyond, Amanda shares some of the co-op's history and future plans plus where you might their products in the Valley. Educated in forestry and a native of Texas, Amanda also shares a little of her own story and why she now calls the Valley home.

In this episode of SV Life, Jay sits down with Kevin Hutton, Director of Massanutten Technical Center. Coming from a family of educators, Kevin always felt drawn to the field and shares the path that led him from the classroom to his current leadership role at MTC. A native of the Shenandoah Valley, Kevin reflects on the time he spent out of the area and the reasons he ultimately moved back, underscoring why this region will always be home.

In our milestone 50th episode of the SV Life Podcast, we’re turning the mic around! Our very own host and SVP Executive Director, Jay A. Langston, Ph.D.—a 40-year veteran of economic development—is in the hot seat. With decades of experience and a passion for economic development, Jay shares his journey and passion for the region he champions. Don’t miss this special episode that brings Jay’s story full circle!