We Are Business

Join Chamber President and CEO Susan Spears on a journey as she interviews some of the top community leaders in this series. Susan and her guests share their insight and wisdom on making teams more effective, leveling up communication skills, and building the courage to lead during difficult times. The Leader2Leader series is about making the most of it all, with insights, advice, practical tips, and expertise to help you become the leader you desire to be.

Today’s Guest: Tom Scott, President of Virginia’s Innovation Crossroads Alliance

For Tom Scott, some of the biggest moments in his leadership journey began with one simple decision: saying yes.

In this episode, Tom joins Susan to reflect on more than 25 years of leadership and the lessons he has carried from banking and economic development to his role here in the Fredericksburg region. He shares how taking risks, stepping into unfamiliar opportunities, building meaningful relationships, and learning from others have shaped the leader he is today.

“I’m a strong believer in invitations. When an invitation is given, I usually try to say yes.”

Tom also shares why humility is essential to successful leadership, the importance of surrounding yourself with people you can learn from, and why great leaders should look for opportunities to recognize and develop the strengths in others.

From having the courage to step into the unknown to becoming what Tom calls a “good finder” in the people around you, this conversation is a reminder that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about continuing to learn, build bridges, add value, and having the courage to say yes.

What does it look like to lead by creating opportunities for others to shine?

In this episode of Leader to Leader, Susan Spears sits down with Dori Stewart, founder and publisher of Fredericksburg Neighbors, to talk about entrepreneurship, community and what Dori calls “servant leadership with a megaphone.”

Dori shares her journey from high school engineering teacher to founder of Engineering for Kids, which grew from a local program into a global franchise, and how that experience shaped the leader she is today. She also opens up about mentorship, learning to lead without having all the answers and her belief that great leadership is not about being the smartest person in the room. It is about building the room and celebrating the people in it.

Now, through Fredericksburg Neighbors, Dori is putting that philosophy into practice by creating platforms that connect people, tell local stories and champion businesses across the Fredericksburg region.

Tune in for a conversation about taking chances, building confidence, lifting others up and using your platform to make an impact.

Leader2Leader takes you inside the conversations that shape great leadership. Join Chamber President & CEO Susan Spears as she interviews some of the region's most influential community leaders, sharing their insight, experience, and practical wisdom on building stronger teams, improving communication, navigating challenges, and leading with purpose.

Today's Guest: Dr. Jamee Rodgers, CEO of the Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

Dr. Rodgers shares his leadership philosophy centered on service, trust, and empowering others to succeed. Together, he and Susan discuss servant leadership, building high-performing teams, strategic planning, organizational culture, and creating opportunities for people to thrive. Whether you lead a business, nonprofit, or community organization, this episode offers practical insights to help you become the leader you aspire to be.

In this episode of the Chamber's We Are Business podcast, Susan Spears sits down with Dr. Christopher Newman, CEO of Mary Washington Healthcare, and Dr. Troy Paino, President of the University of Mary Washington, to discuss how regional collaboration is shaping the future of healthcare in the Fredericksburg region. From workforce development and a proposed medical school to innovation and economic growth, discover how these partnerships are helping build a stronger future for our community.

Join Chamber President and CEO, Susan Spears on a journey as she interviews some of the top community leaders in this series. Susan and her guests will share their insight and wisdom on making teams more effective, leveling up your communication skills, and building the courage to lead during difficult times. The Leader2Leader series is about making the most of it all —with insights, research, advice, practical tips, and expertise to help you become the leader you desire to be.

Today's Guest: Dr. Tashika Griffith, President, Germanna Community College

In this episode of We Are Business, Susan Spears and Ginny Matern, founder and owner of Matern Staffing, discuss leadership, professional development, and the importance of regional collaboration. From Leadership Fredericksburg to key Chamber initiatives, they explore how investing in people and partnerships strengthens businesses and the entire Fredericksburg region.

In this episode of Chamber Talks, Carley Walker lists down with the Chamber's marketing team, April Milupi, Marketing Specialist, and Gretchen Rusden, Director of Marketing & Communications, to discuss how businesses can make the most of their Chamber marketing benefits. From simple strategies to quick pro tips, this episode is packed with practical advice for businesses that may not have a dedicated marketing team but still want to grow their visibility and community presence.

Welcome to Chamber Talks—the podcast where we dive into all things Chamber-related! From upcoming events and workforce initiatives to education, policy, and community development, we’re here to keep you informed and inspired.

Today's Guest: Dr. Filiz Tabak, Dean, College of Business, University of Mary Washington 

Join Chamber President and CEO, Susan Spears on a journey as she interviews some of the top community leaders in this series. Susan and her guests will share their insight and wisdom on making teams more effective, leveling up your communication skills, and building the courage to lead during difficult times. The Leader2Leader series is about making the most of it all —with insights, research, advice, practical tips, and expertise to help you become the leader you desire to be.

Today's Guest: Jeff Small, Clerk of the Circuit Court, Fredericksburg, Virginia

Leader 2 Leader Series:

Join Chamber President and CEO, Susan Spears on a journey as she interviews some of the top community leaders in this series. Susan and her guests will share their insight and wisdom on making teams more effective, leveling up your communication skills, and building the courage to lead during difficult times. The Leader2Leader series is about making the most of it all —with insights, research, advice, practical tips, and expertise to help you become the leader you desire to be.

Today's Guests: Latasha Brooks, Owner, A & B Creative Events and Coach Brooks Consulting, and Susan Coleman, CEO & Founder Coleman Coaching and Consulting