Business Is Booming Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/business-is-booming With a thriving industrial base and a revitalized historic downtown, business in booming in Fort Payne, Alabama. Join Jennifer McCurdy, executive director of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, as she visits with the people who are moving this progressive city forward. © 2022 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce d0b2e9db-1929-56c4-aaed-d0c1506c5ac9 no en Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:34:38 -0500 Tue, 02 Dec 2025 17:57:17 -0600 https://img.transistor.fm/F7yGBAqBJkx-NN_yhqFEGdmW_jcotmPu-SHqV6LB_qk/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/LzI5NzU4LzE2NDk2/NDYyODMtYXJ0d29y/ay5qcGc.jpg Business Is Booming episodic Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce With a thriving industrial base and a revitalized historic downtown, business in booming in Fort Payne, Alabama. Join Jennifer McCurdy, executive director of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, as she visits with the people who are moving this progressive city forward. With a thriving industrial base and a revitalized historic downtown, business in booming in Fort Payne, Alabama. business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce No No Dr. Brett Johnson: DeKalb County EDA's New Executive Director 23 23 Dr. Brett Johnson: DeKalb County EDA's New Executive Director full 8c962ca0-e7c9-47c7-9730-e0185b5848f3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e933b53b Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jessica Townsel welcomes Dr. Brett Johnson to the podcast. Johnson is the new executive director of the DeKalb Economic Development Authority, or DeKalb EDA.

]]> Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jessica Townsel welcomes Dr. Brett Johnson to the podcast. Johnson is the new executive director of the DeKalb Economic Development Authority, or DeKalb EDA.

]]> Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 2253 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jessica Townsel welcomes Dr. Brett Johnson to the podcast. Johnson is the new executive director of the DeKalb Economic Development Authority, or DeKalb EDA.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Jessica Townsel: Our New Executive Director 22 22 Jessica Townsel: Our New Executive Director full 201e4c51-f75f-4619-9699-2d0c87b7569e https://share.transistor.fm/s/31e367be Board President Mike Shirey visits with Jessica Townsel to welcome her as the new Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director.

]]> Board President Mike Shirey visits with Jessica Townsel to welcome her as the new Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director.

]]> Mon, 02 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 848 Board President Mike Shirey visits with Jessica Townsel to welcome her as the new Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Kayla Magbie: Pioneering Wellness in Schools 21 21 Kayla Magbie: Pioneering Wellness in Schools full 2c64f022-39f5-4349-a2d7-56a36814c6e7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b0bbbc88 Embark on a journey learn how Fort Payne City Schools identified a critical need for mental health support and strategically utilized Kayla Magbie to establish and define the role of mental health coordinator. Explore the innovative approach taken by the school system to integrate mental health services, from recognizing gaps in student support to actively shaping a new paradigm of care. Through Kayla's expertise and dedication, witness the evolution of Fort Payne's educational landscape towards holistic student well-being.

]]> Embark on a journey learn how Fort Payne City Schools identified a critical need for mental health support and strategically utilized Kayla Magbie to establish and define the role of mental health coordinator. Explore the innovative approach taken by the school system to integrate mental health services, from recognizing gaps in student support to actively shaping a new paradigm of care. Through Kayla's expertise and dedication, witness the evolution of Fort Payne's educational landscape towards holistic student well-being.

]]> Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:18:59 -0600 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 2155 Embark on a journey learn how Fort Payne City Schools identified a critical need for mental health support and strategically utilized Kayla Magbie to establish and define the role of mental health coordinator. Explore the innovative approach taken by the school system to integrate mental health services, from recognizing gaps in student support to actively shaping a new paradigm of care. Through Kayla's expertise and dedication, witness the evolution of Fort Payne's educational landscape towards holistic student well-being.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Empowering Futures: Unveiling the Senior Year Collective Revolution 20 20 Empowering Futures: Unveiling the Senior Year Collective Revolution full bfa9ba31-481b-4e1f-a4d5-4e780c17a90d https://share.transistor.fm/s/bc104155 Our latest podcast episode is a game-changer for the future of our community! We unravel the story behind the Senior Year Collective, a groundbreaking program that's reshaping the way high school seniors connect with their community and future careers.


Tune in as Jennifer and Stephen discuss the long-term benefits for businesses participating in the program. From attracting potential employees to building a community-focused brand, the Senior Year Collective is a win-win for all.

]]> Our latest podcast episode is a game-changer for the future of our community! We unravel the story behind the Senior Year Collective, a groundbreaking program that's reshaping the way high school seniors connect with their community and future careers.


Tune in as Jennifer and Stephen discuss the long-term benefits for businesses participating in the program. From attracting potential employees to building a community-focused brand, the Senior Year Collective is a win-win for all.

]]> Tue, 21 Nov 2023 19:51:21 -0600 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1027 Our latest podcast episode is a game-changer for the future of our community! We unravel the story behind the Senior Year Collective, a groundbreaking program that's reshaping the way high school seniors connect with their community and future careers.


Tune in as Jennifer and Stephen discuss the long-term benefits for businesses participating in the program. From attracting potential employees to building a community-focused brand, the Senior Year Collective is a win-win for all.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No How A Community Grows: From Recruitment To Investment 19 19 How A Community Grows: From Recruitment To Investment full dcdde6fc-57b5-4804-875f-83329a90bf6b https://share.transistor.fm/s/35ff44c3 In this episode of Business is Booming, Jennifer McCurdy and Stephen V. Smith have a conversation about the inner workings of community growth. From identifying 'leakages' to the role of investors, they delve into the efforts that create an inviting and thriving environment for small businesses. Discover the partnership between the city, local businesses, and organizations working behind the scenes to make good things happen.

]]> In this episode of Business is Booming, Jennifer McCurdy and Stephen V. Smith have a conversation about the inner workings of community growth. From identifying 'leakages' to the role of investors, they delve into the efforts that create an inviting and thriving environment for small businesses. Discover the partnership between the city, local businesses, and organizations working behind the scenes to make good things happen.

]]> Tue, 07 Nov 2023 21:17:16 -0600 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1615 In this episode of Business is Booming, Jennifer McCurdy and Stephen V. Smith have a conversation about the inner workings of community growth. From identifying 'leakages' to the role of investors, they delve into the efforts that create an inviting and thriving environment for small businesses. Discover the partnership between the city, local businesses, and organizations working behind the scenes to make good things happen.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Building Tomorrow's Workforce: The Community College Advantage with Kerry Wright 18 18 Building Tomorrow's Workforce: The Community College Advantage with Kerry Wright full ded78eb3-03d8-4f7e-bec5-9dfe19531d5b https://share.transistor.fm/s/0d74b06e Listen in to this episode with Kerry Wright, NACC's Dean of Workforce Development. You'll gain insight into how community colleges are driving change in workforce development, meeting industry needs, and preparing individuals for high-demand, high-wage careers. Join us as we explore the dynamic intersection of education, industry, and economic progress.

]]> Listen in to this episode with Kerry Wright, NACC's Dean of Workforce Development. You'll gain insight into how community colleges are driving change in workforce development, meeting industry needs, and preparing individuals for high-demand, high-wage careers. Join us as we explore the dynamic intersection of education, industry, and economic progress.

]]> Thu, 19 Oct 2023 12:04:11 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1446 Listen in to this episode with Kerry Wright, NACC's Dean of Workforce Development. You'll gain insight into how community colleges are driving change in workforce development, meeting industry needs, and preparing individuals for high-demand, high-wage careers. Join us as we explore the dynamic intersection of education, industry, and economic progress.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Brian Jett: Innovations in Education 17 17 Brian Jett: Innovations in Education full 6d807452-e640-4284-a7e0-4fdfee380458 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cd3556c3 In this episode of "Business is Booming," host Jennifer McCurdy sits down with Brian Jett, the superintendent of the Fort Payne City School Systems, to discuss the exciting developments and initiatives in the local education system. They delve into the extensive growth and transformation of the school facilities, with a particular focus on the creation of the BEAT Center (Building Electrical Aviation Technology Center), offering a range of programs from aviation and drone technology to green car construction. They also explore the significance of career coaches and the opportunities they provide to students. They also discuss the collaborative Senior Year Collective platform that connects DeKalb County seniors with career readiness options and internships, helping students discover their interests and passions. The episode shares a glimpse into future expansion plans, including an updated high school facility.

]]> In this episode of "Business is Booming," host Jennifer McCurdy sits down with Brian Jett, the superintendent of the Fort Payne City School Systems, to discuss the exciting developments and initiatives in the local education system. They delve into the extensive growth and transformation of the school facilities, with a particular focus on the creation of the BEAT Center (Building Electrical Aviation Technology Center), offering a range of programs from aviation and drone technology to green car construction. They also explore the significance of career coaches and the opportunities they provide to students. They also discuss the collaborative Senior Year Collective platform that connects DeKalb County seniors with career readiness options and internships, helping students discover their interests and passions. The episode shares a glimpse into future expansion plans, including an updated high school facility.

]]> Wed, 11 Oct 2023 11:38:31 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1467 In this episode of "Business is Booming," host Jennifer McCurdy sits down with Brian Jett, the superintendent of the Fort Payne City School Systems, to discuss the exciting developments and initiatives in the local education system. They delve into the extensive growth and transformation of the school facilities, with a particular focus on the creation of the BEAT Center (Building Electrical Aviation Technology Center), offering a range of programs from aviation and drone technology to green car construction. They also explore the significance of career coaches and the opportunities they provide to students. They also discuss the collaborative Senior Year Collective platform that connects DeKalb County seniors with career readiness options and internships, helping students discover their interests and passions. The episode shares a glimpse into future expansion plans, including an updated high school facility.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Mike Shirey on Increasing Relevance of EV Infrastructure and Growth Readiness 16 16 Mike Shirey on Increasing Relevance of EV Infrastructure and Growth Readiness full 74838b99-3831-4e14-9fd7-82518e1fde33 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3a2a700a In this episode of the podcast "Business is Booming," host Jennifer McCurdy, the director of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, engages in a conversation with Mike Shirey, the general manager of Fort Payne Improvement Authority. He shares how the collaboration between public organizations, strategic planning, and grant funds led to the successful implementation of an electric vehicle charging station in Fort Payne. It showcases the growing relevance of EV infrastructure in today's economy and the positive impact it can have on both local communities and the environment. They also discuss a new substation and it's potential for future industry growth. 

]]> In this episode of the podcast "Business is Booming," host Jennifer McCurdy, the director of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, engages in a conversation with Mike Shirey, the general manager of Fort Payne Improvement Authority. He shares how the collaboration between public organizations, strategic planning, and grant funds led to the successful implementation of an electric vehicle charging station in Fort Payne. It showcases the growing relevance of EV infrastructure in today's economy and the positive impact it can have on both local communities and the environment. They also discuss a new substation and it's potential for future industry growth. 

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:18:06 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1245 In this episode of the podcast "Business is Booming," host Jennifer McCurdy, the director of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, engages in a conversation with Mike Shirey, the general manager of Fort Payne Improvement Authority. He shares how the collaboration between public organizations, strategic planning, and grant funds led to the successful implementation of an electric vehicle charging station in Fort Payne. It showcases the growing relevance of EV infrastructure in today's economy and the positive impact it can have on both local communities and the environment. They also discuss a new substation and it's potential for future industry growth. 

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Alan Kilgo on Community Leadership and Engagement 15 15 Alan Kilgo on Community Leadership and Engagement full a05668a6-c114-4939-818d-a82e58a6dec0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e9fd5286 In this episode of the Business is Booming podcast, Jennifer McCurdy with the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce welcomes Alan Kilgo, a former board president and a proactive member of the community. Jennifer highlights Alan's ability to take action and get things done, making him a valuable asset. She invites Alan to share his insights on why he serves on the chamber board, his involvement in the community, and the significance of stepping up as leaders within the community. Join them as they discuss the importance of community engagement and leadership.

]]> In this episode of the Business is Booming podcast, Jennifer McCurdy with the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce welcomes Alan Kilgo, a former board president and a proactive member of the community. Jennifer highlights Alan's ability to take action and get things done, making him a valuable asset. She invites Alan to share his insights on why he serves on the chamber board, his involvement in the community, and the significance of stepping up as leaders within the community. Join them as they discuss the importance of community engagement and leadership.

]]> Sun, 25 Jun 2023 21:34:35 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 835 In this episode of the Business is Booming podcast, Jennifer McCurdy with the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce welcomes Alan Kilgo, a former board president and a proactive member of the community. Jennifer highlights Alan's ability to take action and get things done, making him a valuable asset. She invites Alan to share his insights on why he serves on the chamber board, his involvement in the community, and the significance of stepping up as leaders within the community. Join them as they discuss the importance of community engagement and leadership.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Darlene Rotch on Impact of Cultural Arts on the Community 14 14 Darlene Rotch on Impact of Cultural Arts on the Community full d0e84d05-f252-4ebb-8746-aae2d34b885c https://share.transistor.fm/s/de10730b In this episode of the Business is Booming podcast, Jennifer McCurdy interviews Darlene Rotch, the founder of Boomtown Makers Market. Jennifer emphasizes the significance of highlighting individuals who drive the local economy and contribute to the community's growth. She explains her personal interest in Boomtown Makers Market, as it aligns with the crucial role of arts and culture in economic development, a topic frequently discussed in various conferences and chamber events. Darlene shares the importance of arts and culture, her motivation behind starting Boomtown Makers Market, and how the initiative came to fruition. Join them as they explore the impact of cultural arts on communities and the journey of creating a thriving marketplace.

]]> In this episode of the Business is Booming podcast, Jennifer McCurdy interviews Darlene Rotch, the founder of Boomtown Makers Market. Jennifer emphasizes the significance of highlighting individuals who drive the local economy and contribute to the community's growth. She explains her personal interest in Boomtown Makers Market, as it aligns with the crucial role of arts and culture in economic development, a topic frequently discussed in various conferences and chamber events. Darlene shares the importance of arts and culture, her motivation behind starting Boomtown Makers Market, and how the initiative came to fruition. Join them as they explore the impact of cultural arts on communities and the journey of creating a thriving marketplace.

]]> Sun, 25 Jun 2023 21:30:12 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1135 In this episode of the Business is Booming podcast, Jennifer McCurdy interviews Darlene Rotch, the founder of Boomtown Makers Market. Jennifer emphasizes the significance of highlighting individuals who drive the local economy and contribute to the community's growth. She explains her personal interest in Boomtown Makers Market, as it aligns with the crucial role of arts and culture in economic development, a topic frequently discussed in various conferences and chamber events. Darlene shares the importance of arts and culture, her motivation behind starting Boomtown Makers Market, and how the initiative came to fruition. Join them as they explore the impact of cultural arts on communities and the journey of creating a thriving marketplace.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Mental Health Awareness Month - Small Business Success Series Part 4 13 13 Mental Health Awareness Month - Small Business Success Series Part 4 full a4e70da9-0d03-469e-a339-8cf4f7aee75d https://share.transistor.fm/s/05874dd8 In this episode, Jennifer McCurdy is joined by Stephen Smith who shares his vision for Mental Health Awareness Month focusing on practical tips for small business owners. He challenges perspectives and offers actionable insights for a healthier approach to entrepreneurship. Smith emphasizes that the purpose of these efforts extends beyond productivity, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the world. 

]]> In this episode, Jennifer McCurdy is joined by Stephen Smith who shares his vision for Mental Health Awareness Month focusing on practical tips for small business owners. He challenges perspectives and offers actionable insights for a healthier approach to entrepreneurship. Smith emphasizes that the purpose of these efforts extends beyond productivity, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the world. 

]]> Tue, 16 May 2023 11:45:52 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 2033 In this episode, Jennifer McCurdy is joined by Stephen Smith who shares his vision for Mental Health Awareness Month focusing on practical tips for small business owners. He challenges perspectives and offers actionable insights for a healthier approach to entrepreneurship. Smith emphasizes that the purpose of these efforts extends beyond productivity, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the world. 

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No John Dersham on Tourism's Economic Impact 12 12 John Dersham on Tourism's Economic Impact full 7480a245-7012-46d1-b063-1a46d01a4524 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b6532b4b John Dersham with the DeKalb County Tourism Association shares his insights on the economic benefits of tourism as well as what makes this region such a great tourist destination. 

]]> John Dersham with the DeKalb County Tourism Association shares his insights on the economic benefits of tourism as well as what makes this region such a great tourist destination. 

]]> Tue, 18 Apr 2023 17:08:03 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 2382 John Dersham with the DeKalb County Tourism Association shares his insights on the economic benefits of tourism as well as what makes this region such a great tourist destination. 

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Navigating the Hub & Spoke Mindset - Small Business Success Series Part 3 11 11 Navigating the Hub & Spoke Mindset - Small Business Success Series Part 3 full 95ef059b-68b8-4e61-b9ed-622e91807ecf https://share.transistor.fm/s/ea19c757 This episode touches on the negative impact the "hub and spoke" mindset can have on a business when you take on too much work yourself, or have trouble handing over projects to your employees. Learn steps to break the cycle, empower your team through delegation, and improve your business and quality of life.

This is Part Three of our special Small Business Success Series inside the Business Is Booming podcast. The series looks at some of the challenges small business owners face, examines current trends, and discusses ideas owners can put to work to improve their companies. It's hosted by Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy, with guest co-host and local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith.


You can reach Jennifer at https://fortpaynechamber.com or jennifer@fortpaynechamber.com. You can learn more about Stephen and his work at https://rarelife.coach/ and https://www.iwanttosellmysmallbusiness.com/.

]]> This episode touches on the negative impact the "hub and spoke" mindset can have on a business when you take on too much work yourself, or have trouble handing over projects to your employees. Learn steps to break the cycle, empower your team through delegation, and improve your business and quality of life.

This is Part Three of our special Small Business Success Series inside the Business Is Booming podcast. The series looks at some of the challenges small business owners face, examines current trends, and discusses ideas owners can put to work to improve their companies. It's hosted by Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy, with guest co-host and local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith.


You can reach Jennifer at https://fortpaynechamber.com or jennifer@fortpaynechamber.com. You can learn more about Stephen and his work at https://rarelife.coach/ and https://www.iwanttosellmysmallbusiness.com/.

]]> Wed, 22 Mar 2023 19:13:20 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1563 This episode touches on the negative impact the "hub and spoke" mindset can have on a business when you take on too much work yourself, or have trouble handing over projects to your employees. Learn steps to break the cycle, empower your team through delegation, and improve your business and quality of life.

This is Part Three of our special Small Business Success Series inside the Business Is Booming podcast. The series looks at some of the challenges small business owners face, examines current trends, and discusses ideas owners can put to work to improve their companies. It's hosted by Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy, with guest co-host and local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith.


You can reach Jennifer at https://fortpaynechamber.com or jennifer@fortpaynechamber.com. You can learn more about Stephen and his work at https://rarelife.coach/ and https://www.iwanttosellmysmallbusiness.com/.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Jerry Clifton on Investing in Your Community 10 10 Jerry Clifton on Investing in Your Community full 58d152cb-d48e-47c9-ad33-610e9f0c3f66 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9f27dd48 Local real estate developer Jerry Clifton joins the podcast today to talk about the importance of investing in the community by helping to bring more to our residents and visitors. Clifton touched on the switch to investing in commercial businesses and the historical preservation taking place in downtown Fort Payne. Listen now to learn more about Clifton's and others' vision for investing in the community.

]]> Local real estate developer Jerry Clifton joins the podcast today to talk about the importance of investing in the community by helping to bring more to our residents and visitors. Clifton touched on the switch to investing in commercial businesses and the historical preservation taking place in downtown Fort Payne. Listen now to learn more about Clifton's and others' vision for investing in the community.

]]> Mon, 27 Feb 2023 19:18:20 -0600 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1992 Local real estate developer Jerry Clifton joins the podcast today to talk about the importance of investing in the community by helping to bring more to our residents and visitors. Clifton touched on the switch to investing in commercial businesses and the historical preservation taking place in downtown Fort Payne. Listen now to learn more about Clifton's and others' vision for investing in the community.

]]> business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Are You Ready to Sell Your Business? - Small Business Success Series Part 2 9 9 Are You Ready to Sell Your Business? - Small Business Success Series Part 2 full 37878027-a006-4a8e-a5cd-4c3129de7449 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ca0b3798 This is Part Two of our special Small Business Success Series inside the Business Is Booming podcast. This series looks at some of the challenges small business owners face, examines current trends, and discusses ideas owners can put to work to improve their companies.


The series is hosted by Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy, with guest co-host and local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith.


This episode focuses on what comes next when you are ready to move on from your small business. Do you close it? Pass it on to your children? Sell it to a strategic acquirer? Local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith and his wife Michele sold their marketing company WordSouth in 2020 to a strategic acquirer based in Oregon. Stephen talks with Jennifer about that process, and some things owners may face when selling their small business.

You can reach Jennifer at https://fortpaynechamber.com or jennifer@fortpaynechamber.com. You can learn more about Stephen and his work at https://rarelife.coach/ and https://www.iwanttosellmysmallbusiness.com/.

]]> This is Part Two of our special Small Business Success Series inside the Business Is Booming podcast. This series looks at some of the challenges small business owners face, examines current trends, and discusses ideas owners can put to work to improve their companies.


The series is hosted by Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy, with guest co-host and local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith.


This episode focuses on what comes next when you are ready to move on from your small business. Do you close it? Pass it on to your children? Sell it to a strategic acquirer? Local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith and his wife Michele sold their marketing company WordSouth in 2020 to a strategic acquirer based in Oregon. Stephen talks with Jennifer about that process, and some things owners may face when selling their small business.

You can reach Jennifer at https://fortpaynechamber.com or jennifer@fortpaynechamber.com. You can learn more about Stephen and his work at https://rarelife.coach/ and https://www.iwanttosellmysmallbusiness.com/.

]]> Fri, 20 Jan 2023 08:28:21 -0600 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1678 As a small business owner, have you thought about what comes next when you are ready to stop running your business? Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy talks about selling your small business with local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith, who sold his company WordSouth after 25 years. As a small business owner, have you thought about what comes next when you are ready to stop running your business? Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy talks about selling your small business with local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith, who sold his business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Adapting to the New Mentality of Employees - Small Business Success Series Part 1 8 8 Adapting to the New Mentality of Employees - Small Business Success Series Part 1 full eef0290e-e4ff-48c7-be6c-30168e185823 https://share.transistor.fm/s/68f25cef This is Part One of our special Small Business Success Series inside the Business Is Booming podcast. This series looks at some of the challenges small business owners face, examines current trends, and discusses ideas owners can put to work to improve their companies.


The series is hosted by Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy, with guest co-host and local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith.


The first episode in our new series is Adapting to the New Mentality of Employees. We will talk about the Quiet Quitting phenomenon, dealing with activity disengaged employees, and practical ways you can invest in your company's most important resource — your employees.

You can reach Jennifer at https://fortpaynechamber.com or jennifer@fortpaynechamber.com. You can find Stephen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenvsmith, or visit https://www.rarelifemedia.com.

]]> This is Part One of our special Small Business Success Series inside the Business Is Booming podcast. This series looks at some of the challenges small business owners face, examines current trends, and discusses ideas owners can put to work to improve their companies.


The series is hosted by Chamber Executive Director Jennifer McCurdy, with guest co-host and local entrepreneur Stephen V. Smith.


The first episode in our new series is Adapting to the New Mentality of Employees. We will talk about the Quiet Quitting phenomenon, dealing with activity disengaged employees, and practical ways you can invest in your company's most important resource — your employees.

You can reach Jennifer at https://fortpaynechamber.com or jennifer@fortpaynechamber.com. You can find Stephen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenvsmith, or visit https://www.rarelifemedia.com.

]]> Tue, 06 Dec 2022 07:56:58 -0600 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1260 Part One in the new Small Business Success Series. This episode focuses on adapting to the new mentality of employees. Part One in the new Small Business Success Series. This episode focuses on adapting to the new mentality of employees. business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Ken Grissom and All Things Small Business 7 7 Ken Grissom and All Things Small Business full a26eda6a-a85a-41fe-be70-9d0f55825f5c https://share.transistor.fm/s/fd4925f9 Jennifer sits down with Ken Grissom of Jacksonville State University's Small Business Development Center to talk "all things small business." Grissom emphasizes the importance of our small businesses and breaks down the free services available to them. 

]]> Jennifer sits down with Ken Grissom of Jacksonville State University's Small Business Development Center to talk "all things small business." Grissom emphasizes the importance of our small businesses and breaks down the free services available to them. 

]]> Fri, 21 Oct 2022 09:48:22 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1599 Jennifer sits down with Ken Grissom of Jacksonville State University's Small Business Development Center to talk "all things small business." Grissom emphasizes the importance of our small businesses and breaks down the free services available to them. Jennifer sits down with Ken Grissom of Jacksonville State University's Small Business Development Center to talk "all things small business." Grissom emphasizes the importance of our small businesses and breaks down the free services available to them. business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Steven Stiefel on the Storytelling of Local Journalism 6 6 Steven Stiefel on the Storytelling of Local Journalism full f87b2afe-244e-4022-9e79-204bad9057f1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/98545d85 Fort Payne Times-Journal Publisher Steven Stiefel brings to light the role newspapers still serve in communities today as the area's storyteller and ways to stay involved in the growth and happenings in and around Fort Payne. 

]]> Fort Payne Times-Journal Publisher Steven Stiefel brings to light the role newspapers still serve in communities today as the area's storyteller and ways to stay involved in the growth and happenings in and around Fort Payne. 

]]> Wed, 29 Jun 2022 13:25:17 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1687 Fort Payne Times-Journal Publisher Steven Stiefel brings to light the role newspapers still serve in communities today as the area's storyteller and ways to stay involved in the growth and happenings in and around Fort Payne. Fort Payne Times-Journal Publisher Steven Stiefel brings to light the role newspapers still serve in communities today as the area's storyteller and ways to stay involved in the growth and happenings in and around Fort Payne. business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Silvia Hernandez on Starting a Business from a Vision 5 5 Silvia Hernandez on Starting a Business from a Vision full a369e85b-31b2-4c67-a716-b7dd7f53790b https://share.transistor.fm/s/74d8ec2f Silvia Hernandez, owner of GO PLAY Therapy in Fort Payne, sits down with Chamber Director Jennifer McCurdy to look back at her early beginnings as a small business owner and the personal stories that led her to opening a practice specializing in pediatric occupational and speech therapies. The two also look at ways business owners can serve and practice leadership in the community.

]]> Silvia Hernandez, owner of GO PLAY Therapy in Fort Payne, sits down with Chamber Director Jennifer McCurdy to look back at her early beginnings as a small business owner and the personal stories that led her to opening a practice specializing in pediatric occupational and speech therapies. The two also look at ways business owners can serve and practice leadership in the community.

]]> Wed, 29 Jun 2022 13:02:30 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 997 Silvia Hernandez, owner of GO PLAY Therapy in Fort Payne, sits down with Chamber Director Jennifer McCurdy to look back at her early beginnings as a small business owner and the personal stories that led her to opening a practice specializing in pediatric occupational and speech therapies. The two also look at ways business owners can serve and practice leadership in the community. Silvia Hernandez, owner of GO PLAY Therapy in Fort Payne, sits down with Chamber Director Jennifer McCurdy to look back at her early beginnings as a small business owner and the personal stories that led her to opening a practice specializing in pediatric business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Mary Wirth and the Mission of Main Street 4 4 Mary Wirth and the Mission of Main Street full 1f0756ac-0a91-4f3a-bd20-c791b435b1db https://share.transistor.fm/s/12eb9e63 Tue, 21 Jun 2022 19:33:07 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1132 Mainstreet Alabama president Mary Wirth sits down with Jennifer McCurdy to look back at the strides the organization has made in Fort Payne in recent years, while looking to more growth in the future. Mainstreet Alabama president Mary Wirth sits down with Jennifer McCurdy to look back at the strides the organization has made in Fort Payne in recent years, while looking to more growth in the future. business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Mayor Brian Baine and the Future of Fort Payne 3 3 Mayor Brian Baine and the Future of Fort Payne full 3e44a600-08ab-48a0-b217-bf22c1d907df https://share.transistor.fm/s/b6bd3321 Sun, 10 Apr 2022 23:15:21 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1987 Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine visits with Jennifer McCurdy to discuss the progress being here and the many reasons business is booming in this Northeast Alabama city. Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine visits with Jennifer McCurdy to discuss the progress being here and the many reasons business is booming in this Northeast Alabama city. business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Logan LeGrande on Helping Those Facing Challenging Times 2 2 Logan LeGrande on Helping Those Facing Challenging Times full 76be33b7-5e38-4f03-a625-f583ca11c5d5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/75f8c4f8 Sun, 10 Apr 2022 23:10:53 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 1013 Logan LeGrande, Founder and Director of Marked For Life Ministries, visits with Jennifer McCurdy to talk about bringing hope to people throughout the Fort Payne area. Logan LeGrande, Founder and Director of Marked For Life Ministries, visits with Jennifer McCurdy to talk about bringing hope to people throughout the Fort Payne area. business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No Brandi Lyles of FTC and the Power of Broadband 1 1 Brandi Lyles of FTC and the Power of Broadband full 368cdb75-b358-44b0-883c-aa5c432db701 https://share.transistor.fm/s/147ae494 Sun, 10 Apr 2022 23:01:36 -0500 Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce 993 Brandi Lyles is the Executive Vice President, Marketing and Public Relations, for Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative. She joins host Jennifer McCurdy to kick off "Business Is Booming," the new podcast from the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce. The two discuss the important role of broadband in our society, and the work FTC is doing to ensure everyone in its Northeast Alabama service area can access the internet over a world-class fiber network. Brandi Lyles is the Executive Vice President, Marketing and Public Relations, for Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative. She joins host Jennifer McCurdy to kick off "Business Is Booming," the new podcast from the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce. The two d business, industry, chamber of commerce, Fort Payne, Alabama, downtown No