In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Mike and Heather discuss upcoming Central Virginia Business Coalition events, including ribbon cuttings, a Back to School Bash, and Bedford Centerfest. Guest Mike from Strategic Doers Group shares insights on Integrated Leadership, emphasizing the importance of clarifying business purpose, balancing personal and professional life, and building scalable systems. The conversation also covers time management, team dynamics using the Working Genius framework, and the value of community networking. Heather promotes the CVABC's Christmas in July membership drive, encouraging local business owners to engage actively with their community.

Ron Ferrin, founder of Shop Click Give, shares how his passion for supporting teachers inspired him to create an innovative e-commerce platform that gives back to local communities. Through Shop Click Give, businesses can set up free merchant accounts and donate 5–10% of each sale to a classroom, school, or nonprofit chosen by the buyer.

In this episode, Ron discusses the challenges of overcoming skepticism, the importance of supporting local businesses, and how joining the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC) helped increase awareness of his mission. He also shares valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of patience, persistence, and building a solid financial foundation before pursuing a passion-driven business.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Heather Alto of the Central Virginia Business Coalition shares upcoming events, including a Christmas in July membership drive, Bedford Centerfest, and the first annual Community Champions Back to School Bash. She then welcomes Amy and Kevin, co-owners of Love and Umami, a new Asian-inspired food business. The couple shares how their passion for bold flavors and inclusive dining led them to launch their business in Lynchburg. They discuss their diverse menu of rice bowls, Asian hot dogs, and tiramisu, and where locals can find them throughout the week.

In this special episode of Talk Local to Me, co-hosts Heather and Mike turn the microphone on themselves. Mike shares his journey building Visiting Angels of Lynchburg, a senior home care service, discussing caregiving challenges, community involvement, and his passion for karaoke. Heather highlights her work championing small businesses through the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC), emphasizing the power of networking and authentic relationships. Together, they reflect on leadership, entrepreneurship, and what it means to truly serve their community, offering listeners an intimate look at the people behind the podcast.

Heather Alto of the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC) shares the organization's history, dating back to 1906, and its evolution into a thriving business coalition serving Central Virginia.

She discusses her passion for empowering local businesses, the challenges of raising awareness, and the impact of signature events like the Lynchburg and Bedford Christmas Parades, the Empower Women's Seminar, and Bedford Centerfest. Heather also emphasizes the importance of collaboration over competition and encourages the community to Buy Local, Support Local, and Think Local.

Matt Litchford of Brown's Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical shares the story behind the company's growth over the past 20 years. He discusses how founder Brandon Brown built the business from the ground up with a small loan, as well as his own 25-year career in the electrical trade and what led him to join the Brown's team.

Matt also talks about the expansion of the company's services to include electrical work, the challenges of building customer awareness, and the importance of hiring trustworthy employees. He emphasizes the value of following industry codes and standards, as well as the role community support and the CVABC have played in helping Brown's grow into a trusted local business.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike welcome several local business owners who are making a positive impact throughout the Bedford community.First, Kelly and Pam from Kennedy's Miracle Carriage discuss their non-emergency medical transportation service, which serves a 100-mile radius with certified drivers and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They also share their vision for a future nonprofit that will help provide transportation for individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford it.The conversation continues with Jai from The Blue Lady, who announces the restaurant's upcoming relocation and rebranding as Electric Blue Eatery. He also highlights his other ventures, including a chocolate shop and Queen Bees, a boutique specializing in wigs and plus-size clothing.This episode shines a spotlight on entrepreneurship, community service, and the innovative ways local businesses are meeting the needs of Central Virginia residents.

Rebecca Mason, founder of Mountain Laurel Learning, shares her journey from corporate food service and café operations to becoming a solopreneur. Today, she offers food safety certifications and leadership development for businesses.

She discusses the challenges of switching industries, her passion for supporting local entrepreneurs, and why Central Virginia feels like home. Rebecca also shares a key insight: entrepreneurs are finite resources and must protect their time, energy, and well-being to sustain their businesses long-term.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike discuss ways to support small businesses during the summer slowdown, offering practical tips like shopping locally, dining out, and buying gift cards. They also welcome guests Melissa and Benny from Shineforth, a local foster care organization, who share insights on fostering, debunk common misconceptions, and highlight the urgent need for foster parents particularly for teenagers. Benny shares his personal fostering journey, while Melissa outlines the support Shineforth provides. Listeners are encouraged to get involved through fostering, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness.