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In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Valeria Gonzalez about her work in AI and machine learning, particularly in healthcare. Valeria explains her focus on predictive AI, which uses data to help hospitals identify urgent cases and improve patient outcomes. She shares the challenges of implementing new technology, such as resistance from healthcare professionals who value human connection in patient care. Valeria emphasizes that AI is a tool to enhance, not replace, their work. She describes her journey into the field, starting with a background in marketing and a master’s in data and information science, which led her to projects like studying why COVID-19 affected Hispanic populations more severely. We discuss how AI, especially predictive models, can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns, such as diagnosing conditions based on patient history. Valeria highlights the potential for AI to save time and improve efficiency in healthcare, while also addressing misconceptions about its role. It’s an insightful conversation about innovation, adaptability, and the future of technology in healthcare.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I respond to Mark Zuckerberg’s recent announcement about changes at Meta. Despite plans to be out interviewing people this week, a snowstorm keeps me in the studio, giving me time to dive into this major news. Zuckerberg admits Meta has focused on content takedowns in recent years but plans to simplify moderation going forward. They’re eliminating fact-checkers, introducing community notes, removing restrictions on controversial topics, and refocusing on combating crime and illegal activity. He also reveals that Meta will bring back political content and move its content safety board from California to Texas. These shifts mark a significant change for anyone relying on Meta’s platforms like Facebook or Instagram. I think it’s worth discussing and invite listeners to share their thoughts.

On this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I dive into the difference between reciprocal and transactional relationships to help listeners set better expectations and avoid misunderstandings. Reciprocal relationships thrive on trust and mutual support, often seen in friendships, marriages, and business networking groups like BNI chapters. These bonds are long-term and aren’t about keeping score. On the other hand, transactional relationships focus on short-term exchanges with specific outcomes, like employer-employee agreements or customer purchases. Confusing these two types of relationships can lead to disappointment—expecting emotional support in a transactional dynamic or immediate returns in a reciprocal one causes friction. For instance, asking an employee to help move furniture on a weekend without pay assumes a bond that may not exist, creating tension. As we head into 2025, I encourage listeners to evaluate their relationships, identify their nature, and set clear expectations to build trust and success in both personal and professional interactions.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I reflect on 2024, thank listeners for their support, and invite feedback as I plan for 2025. My mission is to cultivate entrepreneurship in the Kanawha Valley by spotlighting local businesses, sharing productivity and marketing tips, and fostering community connections. I ask listeners what they’d like to see next year, whether it’s more interviews with local leaders, advice-based content, or technical tutorials on tools like Google Ads or Canva. This year, I’ve leaned into “man on the street” interviews at community events and developed my studio space to create more engaging content. Starting my business in 2024 has taught me a lot, and I want to share those lessons while continuing to support the incredible business growth in our region. As I wrap up the year, I urge listeners to comment on social media or reach out directly with ideas and feedback. Together, we can make 2025 even more impactful.

I chat with Captain Mike Michels of the Salvation Army to talk about their iconic red kettle fundraiser, which is crucial for supporting the community during the holiday season and year-round. Captain Mike shares the history of the kettle campaign, which started in San Francisco when Captain MacPhee wanted to feed those in need but didn’t have the funds. What began as a small effort has now grown into a global campaign raising millions of dollars annually. We discuss the various ways people can contribute, including the traditional kettle and new options like Venmo and Apple Pay. Captain Mike also highlights how donations help fund emergency services, youth centers, and more. As Christmas approaches, he emphasizes the Salvation Army’s message of “love beyond hopelessness,” offering hope to those struggling during the season. It’s a reminder that even a small donation can make a huge difference, and I encourage everyone to contribute when they see a kettle this holiday season.

I chat with John Roberts from Mountain Mission, an organization with nearly 100 years of history, to discuss their work helping those in need. Mountain Mission provides emergency assistance like food, housing, clothing, and furniture, focusing on faith-based support for people going through tough times. John shares how Christmas is especially significant for them, as they provide food for over 1,000 families during the holidays, helping to keep families together and create lasting memories. We also talk about the ongoing issue of food insecurity in West Virginia, with one in four children affected, and how Mountain Mission strives to offer nutritious options like fresh fruits and vegetables to those in need. It’s clear that the work Mountain Mission does has a real impact on the community, and I’m grateful to learn more about their efforts to make a difference in the lives of so many in the Kanawha Valley.