Archives: Episodes

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.

In this episode, I welcome Dr. Stephanie Lanham, an expert in nutrition, to the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast. We discuss the vital connection between food and health, delving into the imbalances caused by processed foods and the misconception surrounding obesity. Dr. Lanham emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in eating habits, urging listeners to understand hunger, fullness, and the nutritional value of their meals. She sheds light on the intricate relationship between food and genes, showcasing the power of proper nutrition in influencing our health outcomes. As our conversation unfolds, I’m captivated by Dr. Lanham’s insights, leaving me and our listeners with a newfound appreciation for the impact of mindful eating on our overall well-being.

Learn more about Rediscover Health at https://www.rediscoverhealthllc.com/

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.