Archives: Episodes

Hey, it’s Joe Justice at the LaBelle Theater in South Charleston with Vicki Vaughn from the CVB. We’re diving into the town’s vibrant scene—free movies at LaBelle, December concerts with Metro Band, and the much-anticipated Christmas parade on December 2nd. Vicki spills the details on parade logistics, from Santa’s float to street closures.

Get ready for a festive December 1st at 5:30 PM, with a tree lighting ceremony at the mound featuring Santa, free hot chocolate, and the Metro Band. Don’t miss the chance for kids to win the world’s largest Christmas stocking at the library.

South Charleston isn’t just a holiday wonderland; it’s a year-round gem. The CVB showcases museums, restaurants, and unique spots, making it a must-visit. Swing by LaBelle Theater or check the CVB website for the full scoop.

And for a quirky touch, Vicki would hire the Grinch to add mischief and charm to the town’s holiday spirit. So, from free movies to parades and giant stockings, South Charleston is the place to be. Until next time, keep hustling with a smile!

In this Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast episode, I sit down with Steven Ghareeb, owner of Ghareeb Dental Group, unraveling the fascinating history of his family’s dental legacy. Steven shares the journey that began with his father, Dr. Sami Ghareeb, and the expansion of their practice across the Kanawha Valley. The Ghareeb Dental Group stands out for its commitment to education, evident in their involvement with the West Virginia Academy of General Dentistry. Steven highlights their diverse skill set, from high-end cosmetic dentistry to comprehensive implant treatments. The family’s ability to handle a broad range of procedures in-house sets them apart in the field. We touch upon the unique challenges and perceptions of dentistry in Appalachia, emphasizing the versatility instilled in WVU-trained dentists. The episode concludes with Steven offering advice for aspiring dentists and expressing eagerness to contribute to the entrepreneurial spirit in the Kanawha Valley. The Ghareeb Dental Group’s story unfolds as a compelling narrative of family, education, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in dentistry, resonating with the essence of the Kanawha Valley.

It’s Joe Justice from the Kanawha Valley Hustlers. In this episode at Bar 101, I’m chatting with Erin about the Young Professionals group’s monthly event. It’s too loud inside, so we take the conversation outdoors, discussing the early darkness due to daylight savings.
Let’s create some new holidays with Erin Noon, Mike Stockman, DJEJ, Hunter Wilkes, Elishua Brown, Dan Irwin, William J. McCormick, Elena Compton and Britney.

Hypothetically scrapping all holidays, I ask Erin about creating a new one. Her suggests National Nice People’s Day, celebrating the kindness at Charleston Area Lines. Mike Stockman follows with Veterans Day and a quirky Elf Day.

Other participants join in, proposing holidays like an amplified New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Rebirth for personal growth, and “Don’t Care Day” for authenticity. Dan Irwin suggests a soccer season celebration, while William J. McCormick introduces “William J Day” with a big sale and goofy antics. Elena Compton envisions an extended International Women’s Day, emphasizing gratitude.

Britney opts for Appreciation Day with a potluck feast, and I introduce “Anti-Hustle Day” as a reminder to avoid burnout. The message? Hustle hard, hustle smart, but always hustle with a smile. Until next time, this is Joe Justice, signing off.

In today’s episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I’m joined by Bob Bliss, CEO of Bob Bliss and Associates. We delve into Bob’s diverse expertise, from his recent book highlighting the pitfalls of the education system to his role as a consultant guiding businesses. Bob sheds light on the concerning trend of students being stuck on an educational conveyor belt, devoid of challenge and motivation. Drawing from his vast experience in higher education, he emphasizes the need for accountability, responsibility, and open communication in business leadership. Bob’s passion for helping businesses thrive is evident, rooted in his belief that employees are a company’s most valuable asset. Despite opportunities to retire, Bob remains dedicated, driven by his good health, love for challenges, and aversion to boredom. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: have unwavering confidence, determination, and surround yourself with the right people. Bob’s insights serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of passion, knowledge, and collaboration in both education and business.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I sit down with Ashley Alford Glance, the dynamic president of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce. Ashley, affectionately known as “Ashley at the Chamber,” shares her passion for serving over 500 Chamber members. Putnam County is experiencing significant growth, with new businesses opening their doors regularly. The area’s excellent school system and proximity to larger cities contribute to this thriving community. We discuss the exciting initiatives in Putnam County, including Shop Small Saturday, where the community rallies to support local businesses. The Chamber plays a vital role in fostering connections through networking events and the prestigious Annual Dinner, where outstanding community contributions are recognized. As Putnam County continues to flourish, the Chamber stands as a beacon of collaboration, celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship and community engagement.

In this podcast episode, I sit down with Jess Backus at her shop, Liberty Roe Children’s Clothier and Toy Co., located at the Bridge Road Shops. Jess shares her inspiring hustle of helping families by providing high-quality clothing and legacy toys, all while making the world a better place. She carefully selects brands that prioritize quality and purpose, supporting causes like feeding hungry children and combating human trafficking. Jess emphasizes the importance of sourcing products that stand the test of time, avoiding cheap, disposable items. She offers unparalleled customer service, creating a kid-friendly environment where families can shop without pressure. Jess also talks about her journey into opening the business, detailing the challenges of retail, overbuying certain products, and unexpected surprises, like finding hidden items around the store. Despite being relatively new in the market, Jess’s dedication to her mission and her commitment to quality make Liberty Roe Children’s, Yours and Toy Company a haven for families seeking enduring products and a positive shopping experience.