Archives: Episodes

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Cindy Skiles about her journey from physical therapist to entrepreneur and now into a new chapter focused on nutrition. She tells me how she started her clinic in a small space with treatment tables she built herself and grew it into a 28,000 square foot facility with two locations, including a gym that still operates today. Cindy shares how she wasn’t afraid to do the dirty work—cleaning, fixing things, and handling whatever needed done. After selling the business in 2018, she’s pursued things she loves like gardening, substitute teaching, working at Grits Farm, and now studying and speaking about functional nutrition. She says she’s still working, just not for a paycheck, and is focused on staying active and helping others. Her advice to others is to work hard, stay curious, and always look for new ways to grow.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Nancy Bruns, president and co-founder of J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works. She shares how her family began making salt in Malden in the early 1800s, tapping into an ancient ocean beneath West Virginia. Their salt is rich in minerals and has a unique flavor. Nancy explains the day-to-day operations, with a team of 12 handling salt production, shipping, sales, and a busy event business that includes weddings and farm-to-table dinners. She talks about the challenges of rising shipping costs and competing with large companies offering free shipping. Marketing is done through their website and social media. When I ask for advice for entrepreneurs, Nancy says passion is key—it’s what gets you through the tough times.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I visit the i3 Innovation Showcase at the University of Charleston, where students and faculty present projects ranging from research and business ideas to art and community service. I speak with Allyssa Covert and Travis Kahle, who explain that this event has evolved from a traditional research day into a broader celebration of innovation across all disciplines. As a judge, I notice how the evaluation criteria are designed so anyone can fairly assess a presentation, with the burden on presenters to clearly explain their ideas. The Innovation Center, opened in 2017, plays a big role by offering tools like a maker lab and stop-motion studio to support student creativity. Travis also shares that the Downtown Innovation Hub on Capitol Street connects UC’s resources with the wider community, inviting business owners and the public to get involved.

In this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I chat with Bob Theuring, founder of Tandem Innovations, about the importance of action over endless preparation. Bob explains how companies used to invest more in leadership training, but now many rely on online resources, which can lead to analysis paralysis. I share my own experience learning to ride a bike—not by researching, but by doing—and Bob reinforces that real learning happens through practice. We discuss how musicians, like Bob’s brother, spend years honing their craft, despite social media making success look effortless. Bob introduces the concept of deep work from Cal Newport’s book and highlights Steve Martin’s advice to be so good that people can’t ignore you. As we wrap up, Bob emphasizes that business growth comes from action—making calls, taking steps, and moving forward rather than just reading or planning.

In this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I chat with Raymond Wyrick and Brandon McCutchon about juggling multiple jobs while building their businesses. Raymond runs The Dream Market, specializing in custom merchandise and fundraising apparel, making it easy for customers to order and receive digital mockups. Brandon operates Vital Flow, a mobile IV hydration company, offering treatments at home with physician consultations over FaceTime. Both work full-time jobs while growing their ventures, emphasizing the importance of financial stability and taking action rather than waiting for the perfect moment. Brandon saw a need for IV hydration in the area, providing an alternative to hospital visits for those needing fluids and vitamins. Raymond compares the learning curve of business ownership to parenting—easier the second time around. They dedicate their free time to their businesses instead of leisure, demonstrating the hustle that defines Kanawha Valley entrepreneurs. Dream Market and Vital Flow are accessible through social media, email, and phone for those interested in their services.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Amanda Farley at Meet-Up 64 about mental health and suicide prevention in West Virginia. She shares that suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10 to 34 in the state and that awareness and education are key to addressing the issue. Amanda explains that suicide is often misunderstood, with many assuming it results from a single event rather than a combination of mental health struggles and life circumstances. She highlights the work of the West Virginia chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, which provides education, advocacy, and community events like the Out of the Darkness walks. She also emphasizes the importance of the 988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline as an accessible resource. Amanda’s goal is to reduce stigma, create safe spaces for discussion, and encourage people to recognize warning signs in those around them. She invites listeners to get involved in suicide prevention efforts and help build a stronger, more supportive community.