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In today’s podcast, I’m joined by Margaret Ann O’Neal, president of the United Way of Central West Virginia. Margaret’s hustle revolves around raising funds for the United Way, supporting vital programs in health, education, financial stability, and safety nets. She sheds light on the unique challenges faced by West Virginia, emphasizing the need to address root causes, especially related to substance use disorder and education. Margaret’s passion for her work is evident, especially when she talks about initiatives like the Equal Footing Shoe Fund and the United Way Mobile Market, aiming to combat hunger in underserved communities. Her story as a former pumpkin farmer adds a touch of humor to her resilience. As our conversation concludes, Margaret urges listeners to contribute their time, talent, or resources, reminding us all of the impact we can make when we come together to support our community.

I am at the grand opening of Social Event Space, talking to Ashley Deal, the passionate owner. Situated in Hurricane, WV, this venue is more than just a place; it’s a vibrant hub for celebrations. Ashley excitedly shares their vision: accommodating up to 100 people, the space hosts various events, from weddings to live music nights. What sets them apart is their thoughtful approach – every booking includes elegant wooden tables and chairs, eliminating the need for costly decorations. The venue boasts a soon-to-be-ready kitchenette and a bar area, making it a one-stop solution for event hosts.

Listening to Ashley’s journey, I’m inspired. Her 15 years of experience in the industry fuel her dedication. The building, once George’s dry cleaners, now stands as a testament to her dream and the spirit of entrepreneurship. Her advice to aspiring business owners resonates – success is a winding path, but with passion and the right partnerships, dreams can become reality. As I sign off, I’m filled with hope for the future, reminded that hard work, passion, and community support can transform dreams into thriving businesses.

Recording this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers from The Clay Center today, I find myself surrounded by 180 curious third graders, their eyes wide with wonder as they dive headfirst into the world of science and chemistry. Brad Bolduc, representing a science materials business, Arclin Amines, shares their recent acquisition of Bell Chemical Company, emphasizing their dedication to inspiring the next generation of scientists.

I also speak with Heather Henson, a senior chemist at Arclin Amines, who passionately engages with kids in STEM programs. She recounts a recent experiment at Riverside Library, where students’ innovative questions led to an unexpected discovery, highlighting the boundless potential of young minds.

In this vibrant atmosphere, I witness the magic of learning unfold, as children’s inquiries spark real-time experiments and ignite a passion for discovery. As the event concludes, I’m left inspired by the energy and creativity of these future scientists, reminded that curiosity knows no bounds. Today, I’ve seen the future of science, and it’s brilliantly bright.

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of my business, the Joe Justice Organization. I emphasize the essentials of starting a business: establishing a Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) for legal protection, focusing on basic skills and work ethic rather than degrees, and implementing a robust follow-up system for potential clients. Financial stability is crucial; saving up for at least six months’ worth of expenses is vital due to delayed payments and uncertain income during the initial stages. I encourage listeners to share their thoughts and ideas, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and learning from each other. Together, we’re shaping the entrepreneurial landscape, not just locally but across West Virginia and beyond.

In this lively podcast episode at the Charleston Area Alliance’s Business After Hours at Embassy Suites, I pose a unique question to our guests: if they had to hire a Halloween monster, who would it be and for what job? The responses are both entertaining and inventive. From Frankenstein as a receptionist to Elvira in housekeeping, the guests’ choices showcase their creativity. Some opt for monsters like Jason Voorhees to generate sales leads, while others, like Herman Munster, are envisioned as bodyguards. The imaginative answers reveal the playful side of the networking event, highlighting the power of creative thinking in unexpected situations. Amidst the laughter and witty responses, the episode becomes a testament to the fun and innovative spirit of our business community, proving that even in professional settings, a touch of Halloween whimsy can inspire imaginative solutions.

I step into the Coop, a dynamic coworking space in Hurricane, West Virginia, eager to learn from Wes Wyrick, the visionary behind this bustling hub. Wes exudes a passion for helping others, focusing on the underserved and providing mortgages in the real estate world. The Coop, a blend of innovation and community, stands as a testament to his vision. It’s not just a workspace; it’s a thriving ecosystem where entrepreneurs and dreamers unite. Wes shares his journey, from navigating the banking sector to founding REfōcus Mortgage, an endeavor aimed at empowering buyers with competitive rates. His advice resonates: eliminate fear, surround oneself with positive influences, and learn from those who’ve succeeded before. Inspired by his words, I leave Hurricane, infused with the spirit of entrepreneurship and a renewed determination to pursue my dreams.