Wichita Chamber Business Accelerator

Bondfire Strategy exists to take the clutter out of marketing, ignite inspiration and humanize results.

Through our partnership, businesses will see results through connecting with their customer and empowering their team to feel capable, confident and ready to grow the business.

Jordan Walker is the owner of Bondfire Strategy, a firm dedicated to helping companies plan, measure and optimize marketing efforts to yield greater results and form deeper connections with customers.

As a connector, Jordan loves meeting new people, building relationships, and is energized by engaging with her community where she champions local startup efforts with Wichita Startup Week and serves as the 2022 Vice Chair of W Young Professionals Impact Team.

When she's not at her desk, you'll often find Jordan tilling up dirt in the garden, hitting the road to one of our many state and national parks, or reading a book on the patio at one of our fine local establishments.

Other Resources:

https://www.marykateandco.com/

This podcast is brought to you by the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce and is powered by Evergy. To send feedback on this show and/or send suggestions for future guests or topics please e-mail communications@wichitachamber.org.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Using Your Trials to Forge Culture (Mary Kate - Mary Kate and Company) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0600

What happens when your business finances are in disorder, the IRS is coming after you and a negative article just came out in the press. Many would fold in that situation, but Mary Kate Denton regrouped with her team and shares with Don and Ebony how that forged a culture of thriving at Mary Kate and Company. On this episode we discuss:

Her sister, “Company”
Having a different kind of salon
Never having to recruit new hires
Forging ahead through financial headwinds
Dealing with painful lessons in business
Culture created through the refining process
Being a “giving” company
Having the “Norm” factor
Stepping away from the day-to-day to lead the business
Structuring the business so that one person’s success is everyone’s success

Learn more about Mary Kate and Company:

I’ve been blessed with a long, fulfilling career in the beauty industry.I remember knowing from a very young age that I was interested in hair and beauty. I love looking back at all I’ve learned and how much I’ve grown through it. My passion for learning and growing personally and professionally drives me to always reach for more. That led me to go big with my sister, Becky, and Mary Kate and Company was born. She had all the talents, qualities, education and experience that complimented mine. Together we make an awesome partnership. We started our company in December of 2006. I have transitioned into a new phase of business ownership serving behind the scenes. big picture visioneering, coaching and leadership along with making connections in our community and industry.

My life experiences have given me a unique perspective as a leader. I’ve picked myself up and dusted myself off numerous times. It’s funny how you grow more from adversity than you do from anything else. Because of that, I always coach everyone to embrace and even celebrate difficult experiences, negative reviews and embarrassing moments as the building blocks of character, strength and resilience. I am passionate about personal growth.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Mission Before Profit (Justin Eklund - Grove 9) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Justin Eklund has one primary goal with Grove9: to help businesses and organizations focus more on the mission and good they provide our communities. He shares with Don and Ebony his journey through ministry and how it eventually led him to take a new approach in a profit driven world. On this episode we discuss:

Valuing mission over profit
From ministry to the marketplace
Helping organizations tell stories that really matter
Standing out from the crowd in an ad-saturated world
Focusing on the one thing you can be known for to clarify your brand
Defining success through your clients success
Supporting mission driven organizations here at home
Valuing internship opportunities to grow new talent in Wichita

Learn more about Grove9:

Justin Eklund is the founder and Chief Brand Strategist at Grove9. He brings over two decades of experience in marketing and advertising, both on the agency and nonprofit side. An equal blend of left and right-brained thinking, Justin loves strategy and planning brought to life by creativity and compelling storytelling. He’s passionate about helping Grove9’s amazing clients clarify their brands and grow their revenue to make a greater impact in this world.

Other Resources:

Wichita Eagle Article

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Championing Wichita Startups (Josh Oeding / Mary Beth Jarvis - NXTUS) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Josh Oeding and Mary Beth Jarvis aspire to grow the Wichita business scene through NXTUS by capturing the rapid change created by new startups. They share how all of us can be involved in supporting startup growth with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Josh’s transition from Koch to NXTUS
Establishing the entrepreneurial mojo of Wichita
Helping any business leader that walks through the door
Taking inspiration from the local craft brewery scene
How NXTSTAGE is Shark Tank without the makeup and cameras
Wichita Startup Week
How we can all be involved with local business startups

Learn more about NXTUS:

https://www.nxtus.io/

At NXTUS, Inc, is a catalyst for the region’s startup ecosystem. At their essence, they serve as a nexus for entrepreneurs, investors, corporate partners, and the community at-large.

Their primary aim is to achieve the ‘next us’ by growing startups, strengthening innovation culture and building support systems.

Based out of Wichita, they collaborate with other entrepreneur support organizations, government agencies, economic development groups, corporate innovators, and, most of all, founders and investors to positively impact and advance the economy, culture and vitality in our Midwest region.

NXTUS currently manages Accelerate Venture Partners, a fast-growing regional Angel investor syndicate, the NXTSTAGE Pilot Competitions, aimed at connecting startups to mature businesses and regional partners looking to become customers for their technologies, and NXTCONNECT and AVP Insights, free monthly education series presenting wisdom and resources for our entrepreneurs and investors.

In 2014, a group of experienced entrepreneurs came together with a vision to reinvigorate the entrepreneurial spirit of Wichita. Thus, an organization then called e2e was launched in 2016, with the support of many passionate individuals and corporate sponsors. Here are some history and program highlights:

An initial e2e Accelerator class, launched in 2016 was made up of Appointment Launch, Buddy Brands, Knoxx / Alyss Analytics, KingFit, Reverie Roasters, and Tru-Building.

LaunchPrep, launched in the Spring of 2017 as a partnership between the Wichita State University Center for Entrepreneurship and NXTUS, is a 90-day mentor driven accelerator program for early stage entrepreneurs.

In 2018, Accelerate Venture Partners was formed to broaden the base of angel-stage capital investment in the region. By the end of 2019, AVP had become one of the fastest-growing angel syndicates in the U.S.

In January 2020, e2e became NXTUS, continuing its vital work to support founders and their young, growing companies. NXTUS launched the NXTSTAGE Pilot Competition, and a new era of community-wide innovation began.

Other Resources:

https://www.cmlcollective.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Lifting Minority-Owned Businesses (Christina Long - CML Collective) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Half of the guests on the podcast have mentioned her and now we get to hear directly from the legend, Christina Long. Don and Ebony explore with her how CML Collective and the Create Campaign have lifted other minority-owned businesses in the community. On this episode we discuss:

Starting out in journalism through the Wichita Eagle, covering the ethnic and minority communities
Small beginnings with a t-shirt company and evolving
Becoming a creator and not just a consumer
A time of homecoming
The critical need to create a flow of capital and mentoring for minority-owned businesses
The risk of missing the opportunity we currently have
“I am because we are”
Having birthday resolutions
A rising tide lifts all boats
What she learned from a red rubber ball

Learn more about CML Collective:

Proudly located in the heart of Wichita, Kansas in the e2e Incubator/Accelerator, CML Collective is an award-winning company that takes projects from conceptualization to completion at highly-competitive rates. Their company executes using a streamlined service delivery model that keeps us nimble, responsive and able to provide excellent services at maximum value for their clients. They also prioritize maintaining a supply chain, vendor base and partner network that is nearly 100 percent Wichita-based.

Christina Long is an entrepreneur and community-builder who is passionate about diversity, inclusion and economic development through entrepreneurship. Long is a native of Wichita, Kansas; Wichita State University graduate and owner of CML Collective, LLC, an inclusive communication and design firm. She is also the Founding President/CEO of Create Campaign, Inc., a tax-exempt nonprofit she established to help urban entrepreneurs in Kansas to launch, innovate and grow.

Long leads the Wichita Urban E-Community, has served on the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors and is an author of her debut book, “For the Greater Success.” Her numerous honors include being named among 50 Kansans Who You Should Know by Ingram’s Magazine; earning the Chamber’s Exceptional Young Leader Award; receiving a Wichita Business Journal Leaders in Diversity Award and being named the Kansas Minority Business Advocate of the Year by the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development. Long is married to Jonathan and the couple has three brilliant children, Amarah, Malcolm and Jordyn.

Other Resources:

https://shakenorstirredbartending.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Making a Great Event First (Patrick Pelkowski - Shaken or Stirred Bartending) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

A desire to be an entrepreneur took this air traffic controller into the world of bartending. Hear how Pat Pelkowski moved from side gig work to creating a thriving business with a unique position in the market. On this episode we discuss:

An Air Force and Air Traffic Controller background brought Pat to Wichita
Getting a degree in entrepreneurship and looking for that opportunity
Bartending as a side gig
Creating a business from the ground up, business plans, market studies and more
Worrying more about creating good events than profit
Receiving the Small Business Award from the Chamber
Getting a new building to increase capacity and support growth
Adding bar trucks (Tipsy Turtle and Mobiletini)
The importance of being involved in the Chamber of Commerce
Giving back to the community and the military at McConnell

Learn more about the Shaken or Stirred Bartending:

Our local mobile bartending services came into existence with a simple love for entertainment and desire to explore entrepreneurship. Mix those together with my bartending background and a business is born!

At each party I have hosted, it seems that I have spent a majority of the time behind the bar stirring up a new cocktail creation. All the smiles made it worth all the shaking and stirring! I was an air traffic controller by day and a home bartender by night. I loved connecting with my guests in the comfort of my own home and realized the need for professional bartenders.

When a friend had a request for bartending services and brought this business idea to the forefront, I knew this could be a great opportunity! I had the entrepreneur knowledge and counsel to start what I thought would be a small retirement hobby- but I am pleased to say the growth has been exponential!

Shaken or Stirred Bartending has been in business since 2015 and we anticipate no end to our evolution as the premier mobile bartending service of Wichita and surrounding communities!

As we grow, we continue to train a professional staff of bartenders and bring forth more amazing experiences. We’ll work with your vision for any event to ensure you and your guests have a memorable experience!

Other Resources:

https://thehivewichita.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

A Community to Build Women-Owned Businesses (Andrea Hattan - The Hive) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Andrea Hattan had an idea, a vision, for women to have their own place to collaborate and encourage one another on their entrepreneurial journeys. She talks with Don and Ebony how The Hive has created that safe space for women in the Wichita community. On this episode we discuss:

Being a 5th generation entrepreneur
All the coworking spaces seemed to be men in the tech industry
Creating a “coffee shop” model that helps women have their own space to do business
Collaborating toward a common goal while allowing members to have a safe space they can be vulnerable
Creating a community from scratch while others watched and cheered her on
Opening up in March of 2020
How Wichita became cool before she came home
Receiving the Exceptional Young Leader award from the Chamber
Creating business courses to help women launch their own businesses
Finding opportunities to get women paid for public speaking

Learn more about The Hive:

Andrea Hattan is a fifth-generation entrepreneur and founder of The Hive, a membership community with its own coworking space in downtown Wichita, KS. Her mission is to empower women who run businesses to show up authentically by providing connections, support, and space to belong. Andrea is a regular speaker and panelist at events the caliber of TEDx. She's also an Innovation and Enterprise Award winner in the Startup category. Combining her background in education and marketing, Andrea built a trusted brand quickly and sustainably. She's passionate about modeling inclusive leadership, especially for her young daughter. When she is not helping start and grow businesses, Andrea enjoys discussing her latest hyperfixation over a cup of Earl Grey.

Other Resources:

https://huttonbuilds.com/services/strategic-planning/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Making Work More Human (Brandon Gaide - Sevenfold) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0600

When Brandon Gaide started the strategy and innovation firm Sevenfold, he found an unlikely partnership with construction firm Hutton. Brandon shares with Don and Ebony how that partnership has allowed the creation of something new to help businesses make work more human. On this episode we discuss:

Helping organizations become more strategic
Partnering with construction firm Hutton to build something new for businesses
The meaning behind the Sevenfold name
The marriage of strategy and innovation
Launching change, not just talking about change
How getting married relates to business strategy
De-risking strategy
Going beyond operational conversations to give leaders a place to belong
Can Wichita handle new ideas?

Learn more about Sevenfold:

A piece of paper can take flight when you fold it seven times, which takes both imagination and intention. Ben Hutton sees this as the perfect metaphor for the challenges many of our architecture and construction clients face at various times in their careers as leaders. They know they need to change and are looking for help to get there. So why not create a service to meet those clients’ needs? Enter Sevenfold, a Hutton Company.

Sevenfold is a strategy and innovation consultancy led by Brandon Gaide. He’s helping clients solve large-scale problems and design better futures by unlocking the genius and creativity in people. Sevenfold offers a fresh approach to strategic planning for companies and organizations of all sizes.

A former Presbyterian pastor, Brandon holds an MBA from Indiana University, an MDiv from Fuller Seminary, and a BA from the University of Texas. Brandon has lived in five foreign countries, learned and forgotten four languages, has two daughters, two Vizslas, and one wife. He lives in Wichita, Kansas.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Taproom Adventure (Stacy Ward-Lattin - Hopping Gnome) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes you just have to be willing to follow your passions and lean into what you don’t know. When Stacy Ward-Lattin and her husband, Torrey, started the Hopping Gnome taproom 6 years ago, they had no idea the adventure they were in for. Stacy joins hosts Don and Ebony to share the Hopping Gnome story, from home brewing to deciding to create something brand new in Wichita. On this episode we discuss:

The upcoming 6th anniversary celebration of Hopping Gnome
Home brewing competitions
Touring the taproom scene in Colorado
Wanting to build something in Wichita and help the community
Being a cheerleader for activities and events around town
Starting a business with zero business background
Overcoming the fear of talking about their business idea to get support from others
Coming up with the right name and location
Relationships with other local brewers in Wichita
The reason they used Kickstarter to help launch
New partnership with WSU Tech
Surviving the COVID-19 pandemic by getting creative and working with the Kansas legislature
Ceiling Breakers Podcast
All the great things women are doing in the Wichita community
Growing new relationships
Supporting local artists

Learn more about Hopping Gnome:

Ceiling Breakers Podcast

Torrey Lattin started home brewing over 6 years ago, and after a couple of years decided to work on a business plan in order to help grow the number of breweries in Wichita. At the time, there were only two brewery/restaurants in the area, and after traveling to Colorado and visiting the small and unique taprooms there, Torrey and his wife Stacy decided this concept would be something fresh and new in Wichita, KS.

They decided on a small taproom with a 5 BBL brewing system and distribution plan rather than a restaurant in order to create a beer-focused atmosphere, where friends can get together and play games, order in a pizza, and hang out like it’s your friend’s house (except you have to pay for the beer...we’re trying to run a business here).

The couple had several names in mind, but most were already taken or too similar to other established breweries across the US. One night, Torrey was having a beer at home, and noticed a give-away from the 2012 Kansas City Royals All Star game that was a little gnome. He ran upstairs and said “how about Hopping Gnome? You know like hops, and gnomes are known for drinking.”

The name stuck and after finding a local graphic designer to create the awesome logo, Hopping Gnome Brewing Company was born.

Located in the up-and-coming Douglas Design District, Hopping Gnome Brewing Company joined the growing craft beer community as the first taproom in Wichita, KS.

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

All in the Brand (Bill Gardner - Gardner Design) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Bill Gardner has been around the brand creation game for a long time and has a ton of insight to share. Don and Ebony dive into what has made him successful with Gardner Design and how others can be successful at building their own brands. On this episode we discuss:

The constantly changing world of branding
How success and risk are tied together
The connections and relationships that kept Bill in Wichita
Tips and pitfalls that companies need to be aware of during branding process
Where branding is going in the future

Learn more about Gardner Design:

www.gardnerdesign.com

In running a business, cause, or institution, it’s easy to get into the weeds of day-to-day details. And difficult to know exactly how people perceive your brand. Not to mention how recrafting your brand could influence their perceptions for the better.

That’s why we make your brand our business. We thrive on understanding who you are, where you are, and where you’d like to go. Then we create the best strategy and design to help you get there. Solutions that just plain work.

We’ve had the privilege of working with organizations of all types and sizes, from Fortune 500 companies to one-person shops. Regardless of size or industry, we get fired up about helping you reach new heights. Because we see it every day – better branding leads to a better future. For your customers. For your employees. For us all.

Bill Gardner is a graduate of Wichita North High School in Wichita, Kan., and he attended Kansas State University and Wichita State University, earning bachelor’s degrees in business and fine arts with an emphasis in design.

Gardner started Gardner’s Graphic Hands, a graphic design firm, in 1983. In 1987, Gardner joined forces with Sonia Greteman and Susan Mikulecky to found American Institute of Graphic Arts Wichita. Gardner served as the chapter’s founding president. Gardner, Greteman and Mikulecky started a graphic design firm – Gardner, Greteman + Mikulecky – in 1989, which became Gardner + Greteman after Mikulecky left in 1992. In 1994, Gardner founded Gardner Design as the sole owner and president and remains such today.

Gardner is also an international speaker on brand identity and graphic design. He presents logo trends annually at HOW Design Live and has participated in speaking engagements in countries around the world including Russia and India. He is additionally a contributing author to LinkedIn Learning.

Gardner’s design work has appeared or been featured in Communication Arts, Print, Graphis, New York Art Directors, the Museum of Modern Art and many other national and international design exhibitions. His works and writings regarding corporate identity, environmental graphics and three-dimensional design have been published in numerous books, periodicals and podcasts.

Other Resources:

Gardner in the News (website)

Logo Lounge (website)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Art of Coffee (Sarah Leslie - Leslie Coffee Co.) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

What started as looking for a job during college turned into a passion for the art of coffee. Eventually, Sarah Leslie opened her own coffee shop and talks with Don and Ebony about surviving the pandemic. On this episode we discuss:

Creating the third space
Discovering the art of coffee as a barista
Starting out in New York City
How to make latte art
The community refrigerator
Sarah’s approach to re-opening during the pandemic
Valuing your baristas
Having a community of support
The continuing growth of the Delano area
Winning the Wichita Small Business Award

Learn more about Leslie Coffee:

https://lesliecoffee.co/

Sarah Leslie is a barista and the owner of Leslie Coffee Co. in the historic Delano neighborhood of Wichita, KS. Sarah has spent most of her coffee career behind the bar in coffee shops or in the training lab. Her favorite drink order to prepare is an americano and hot chocolate. She loves spending time with her son building legos, riding bikes, and playing with their cat.

Other Resources:

Best Coffee Shops in America (article)
Winning the Wichita Small Business Award (video)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Shifts in Mental Health (Dr. Larry Mitnaul - Via Christi Ascension) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Mental health and wellness continues to come more infocus for businesses, leaders and their employees. Dr. Larry Mitnaul of the Ascension Medical Group talks with Don and Ebony about what this looks like and practical ways to engage mental health and wellness in our homes and workplaces. On this episode we discuss:

Having a passion to help kids and families with mental health
Always being available to help others
What wellness is and how it fits with mental health
How employers can approach mental health in the workplace
Mindfulness techniques anyone can use
The key of self-observation and what it teaches us
Creating a personal inventory
How it becomes so easy for us to focus on the negative.

Learn more about Ascension Medical Group and Dr. Larry Mitnaul:

Website

Larry D Mitnaul, MD, MPH, MS, is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (Psychiatry), and the American Board of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He joined Ascension Medical Group Via Christi in 2017. Dr. Mitnaul's areas of interest within spec ialty include ADHD and anxiety disorders. He also offers treatment for depressive disorders, trauma-related disorders and impulse control/disruptive disorders. Dr. Mitnaul chose this specialty because of his experience with a child psychiatry clinic in high school. This experience made him rethink his pursuit of pediatric surgery. Dr. Mitnaul's best piece of advice for patients is to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. Outside of work, Dr. Mitnaul enjoys percussion, writing music, playing with his kids and spending time with his family. Just once, he would like to play a live show in front of a massive crowd. Dr. Mitnaul is originally from Killeen, Texas but thoroughly enjoys Wichita because of the people and their kindness.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

From the Garage to SpaceX (Jorge Martinez & Patty Koehler - JR Custom Metal Products) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

It started humbly making metal products in the garage, but now JR Custom Metal Products has thrived to over 140 employees. Hear from Jorge Martinez and Patty Koehler as they share with Don and Ebony how their father’s legacy lives on in their business. On this episode we discuss:

Jesus Raul Martinez Sr. starting in the garage in 1978
Always wanting to start his own business
Partnering with Spirit and SpaceX
Selling during the factory tour
Not focusing on a single industry
How being Hispanic flows through their company culture
Working with technical and trade schools for talent acquisition
Being a second chance for employees
The mentorship of Sam Marcus
Being a family oriented (as well as owned) business
Remembering where you came from
The key of automation
Building businesses in Wichita

Learn more about JR Custom Metal Products:

Patricia G. Koehler began working side-by-side with her father, Jesus Raul Martinez Sr., the founder of JR Custom Metal (JRCM), 48 years ago. She has held various positions within the family-owned business and served as General Manager for ten years prior to becoming President and CEO in August 1995. Under Patricia's leadership, the company became ISO 9001:2008 Certified in 2009 with SAI Global and upgraded to ISO 9001:2015 in 2018 with ISOQAR. A second multi-million dollar expansion was done in 2013.

Born in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, Patricia grew up in Wichita, Kansas and graduated from South High School. She continued her education at Kansas State University and completed a mini MBA at Wichita State University. Patricia has a strong commitment to her community. She has served on numerous Boards, including Newman University, Via Christi Hospital, the Lord’s Diner, Catholic Charities and Wichita Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. She is currently active with the WSU Tech Board of Directors and Exploration Place.

Jorge Martinez was born and raised in Wichita. He graduated from Wichita South High School and attended Wichita Area Vo-Tech School. He is the co-owner of J R Custom Metal Products, Inc. Jorge has successfully managed national installations for Boeing, Alcoa, Henri-Line and Siemens. He is responsible for researching and purchasing all major equipment for JRCM. Jorge is involved in the Wichita community and has served on many boards including the American Red Cross and Starkey. He is a member of the West Wichita Sunrise Rotary Club, the Wichita Manufacturing Association, and the Kansas Family Business Forum. He is very involved with sports and served on the Board of Directors for Two Rivers Youth Club, and was Assistant and Hitting Coach for Friends University Softball.

In 2011, JRCM received the Wichita Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year award, and the Siemens Energy Small Business Award for Supplier Excellence. In 2012, JRCM was one of five companies awarded Best in Business by the Wichita Business Journal. In March, 2013, Patricia was inducted into the Junior Achievement Wichita Business Hall of Fame.

Other Resources:

https://agents.farmers.com/ks/wichita/jose-gutierrez

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

From Teaching to Doing (Jose Gutierrez - Gutierrez Agency Inc.) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

For many years, Jose Gutierrez has helped train and develop other Farmer’s Insurance agents. But after all that time he felt the pull and bought his own agency one year ago. He shares that journey with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Moving from coach and trainer as a district manager to being a business owner
The importance of having a personal relationship with your insurance provider
Coming to Wichita from western Kansas
Showing everyone else how to be an entrepreneur and being inspired by what he was teaching others
Success is doing the right thing for those you serve
Don’t be a sideline member, get involved in the community
How Jose has been involved with the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber
Helping small businesses with their insurance needs and filling the gaps they aren’t aware of
The value of being in Wichita
Starting a new business begins with truly understanding
The local power couple who inspires Jose all the time

Learn more about Gutierrez Agency Inc.:

Originally from western Kansas, Jose Gutierrez has lived and worked in Wichita since 2002. While previously working as the district manager for Farmer’s agents in the area, Jose bought his own agency and recently celebrated his 1 year anniversary.

Jose has a Bachelor of Science in business management and completed his Masters of Science in business management from Friends University.

Other Resources:

40 Under 40: Jose Gutierrez (article)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Own Your Space (Amy Williams - Journey Unseen Pt. 3) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

On the final chapter of our Journey Unseen series host Don Sherman is joined by Amy Williams who shares about how she learned to own her own space when she entered the room. With these special conversations we share the stories of women in our community who have had a profound impact on our community through their leadership and achievements. On this episode we discuss:

What brought Amy back to Wichita
Having a passion for customer relations
Teaching others to play nicely in the sandbox together
Growing up as the bossy older child in the family
The value of adaptability
Having to tell the Emperor they have no clothes
Owning your own space when you enter a room
The struggle when you don’t see progress being made
Why Amy got started in DE&I (Diversity, Ethics and Inclusion)
Helping people see other worlds
The continuous movement towards integration
Always learning from others
Dealing with the polarization in our country

Amy joined Spirit AeroSystems in December 2015 and is currently the Senior Manager for Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I).

Amy has a long history throughout her career in both Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and DE&I. Upon joining Spirit, Amy had responsibility for the strategic direction for CSR enterprise-wide. In 2021, she was given the opportunity to lead the global DE&I strategy for the organization. Amy joined the Spirit team from the retail industry, working with Belk, Inc. and Sears Holdings Corporation (SHC). During her time in retail, she has experience actively partnering with the C-Suite, HR teams, Employee Business Resource Groups and national nonprofit partners, providing leadership to strengthen company brands and inclusive work environments.

Prior to her time in retail, Amy was with Cargill, Inc. where she spent over 10 years partnering with multiple business unit leadership teams to align and execute global CSR and DE&I strategic objectives with goals that were meaningful to the local communities.

Amy is a Wichita native and an active leader in the community. She currently sits on the boards of Music Theatre Wichita, Via Christi Foundation, the Wichita Public Library Foundation, the WSU Tech Foundation and serves as the co-chair for the DE&I Task Force of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. She completed her MBA from Newman University and has a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management from Wichita State University.

Additional Resources:

Women Who Lead (article)

DEI Task Force at the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce (website)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Find the Unexpected Path (Vera Bothner - Journey Unseen Pt. 2) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

We are joined on the second of our special three-part Journey Unseen series by Vera Bothner. As she shares with us her unique career journey as a woman in business, she reflects with host Don Sherman on the pivots and changes she has made each step of the way and what she has learned from those. On this episode we discuss:

Initially wanting to get into clinical psychology serving children
Finding the unexpected path
A passion for working with people
Being an expert in communicating with people
Being able to look back on Old Town as an idea coming to fruition
Struggling to say “no”
How the Kansas Health Foundation gave Vera a chance to pivot
Creating more margin in your life
Not waiting for someone else
Clearing obstacles to allow others to reach their vision
Dealing with imposter syndrome
Recharging by carving out alone time
Learning from the next generation of leaders
Carrying a torch for your clients and the community

You might say, Vera Bothner likes to get inside peoples’ heads. That’s what happens when you make a long and successful career out of a dual major in psychology and public relations at Kansas State University.

It also helps explain her interest in truly understanding people, and her desire to champion causes and clients that can make her small corner of the world just a bit better.

Her experiences in communications at a non-profit, as a senior leader at the state’s largest advertising and public relations firm and as a consultant to the Kansas Health Foundation gave her the experience and insight to launch a communication and consulting firm with friend and colleague Tami Bradley.

Through 17 years of business, the partners have worked side-by-side with great leaders and teams on important and complicated issues, opportunities and projects. Throughout her career she has counseled dozens of organizations on branding, issues management, community relations and through crisis.

The commitment to people and community service doesn’t stop with clients. Throughout her career, Vera has served on numerous non-profit boards. Early in her career, Vera was a lead volunteer in helping pass the first school bond issue in decades for Wichita Public Schools In addition to her bachelor's degree from Kansas State University in journalism/public relations and psychology, Vera is an accredited member of the Public Relations Society of America and member of the Counselor's Academy.

Additional Resources:

Women in Business - Vera Bothner (article)

40 Under 40 - Vera Bothner (article)

Solutions Needed to Fix Perception of Cuts at Wichita State Sunflower (article)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Value of a Mentor (Yolanda Camarena - Journey Unseen Pt. 1) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Join us for a special three-part series called Journey Unseen where we share the stories of women in our community who have had a profound impact on our community through their leadership and achievements. For the first of this series, Yoland Camarena talks about the value of mentorship in her life with hosts Don and Ebony:

Growing up with five sisters
Family values growing up in south Texas
Lessons learned from moving around in a military family
Being a first generation college student
Being active and engaged on campus
H.A.L.O. (Hispanic American Leadership Organization)
Making decisions with intention
The value of the relationships in your life
Being the only Latina at Harvard
Why mentoring became so important in her life
What motivates Yolanda
The Push

Yolanda Camarena has been a dedicated leader for the past 40 years advocating for the Latino community, in the areas of education, community development and philanthropy. As a first generation student in the 70’s she experienced the many obstacles Latino students faced trying to get a college education. She vowed when she was able to help ease that burden for other Latino students she would assist them to fulfill their goals of getting a college degree. Her career background has been in Higher Education Administration. She served as Director of Admissions for Newman University in Wichita, Kansas in the late 80’s and later took a position as Associate Director of Graduate Programs at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. During her time at Harvard she and several of the Latino graduate students founded the Journal of Hispanic Policy. The Journal continues to be a formidable source for Hispanic policy research at the Kennedy School of Government. Upon her return to Wichita she served as the Regional Coordinator for the LULAC Educational Service Center for several years. She currently serves on the Board of the Kansas Hispanic Education and Development Foundation, Board of Trustees for Newman University, Board of Directors for the Wichita Community Foundation Chair of the Schools and Scholarship Committee for Harvard College, Hispanic Scholarship Fund Advisory Committee, Board member for League 42, and serves on various city and community organizations.

Ms. Camarena holds a Bachelors degree in Education from Wichita State University, a Master’s in Public Administration from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University and was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letter from Newman University in 2015. She has two daughters, Gena and Marisa, and her husband is Gene Camarena.

Additional Resources:

Wichita State University Scholarship Announcement (article)

Outstanding Philanthropist: Gene and Yolanda Camarenta (article)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Flying Jets to Leading Others (Cathy McClain - Dauntless Leadership) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Through her long career in the Air Force, Cathy McClain has seen a lot of exciting things. But what she has found is an intense appreciation and love for the people she has been around. Now retired from her military career, she shares with Don and Ebony how she serves people by helping them become the most effective leaders they can be. On this episode we discuss:Developing leadership strengths

The belief of parents
Writing to her congressman and getting into the Air Force Academy
The gem that Wichita is
The hunger people have to lead others more effectively
The experience of flying tankers in the Air Force
Supporting high stakes, high stress leaders
The small city of McConnell Air Force Base
How to support the military members in our community

Learn more about Dauntless Leadership:

Cathy specializes in executive leadership coaching and holds an International Coaching Federation Professional Certified Coach credential. She received her training at Georgetown University and has coached CEOs and senior leaders serving in governmental, non-profit, and public sector positions. As a Center for Creative Leadership coach, Cathy works with clients at all levels to include the prestigious Leadership at the Peak program. She also coaches for Avenue 8 and Enlighteneering. With Enlighteneering, Cathy joined the initial cadre of coaches working with the U.S. Army as part of the new command selection process. Debriefing EQi2.0 is a key component of this Army coaching. Cathy is certified in Hogan Assessments, the Workplace Big 5, and the FIRO-B.

From 2012 - 2016, she was the Program Director, Business and Regional Jet Programs at Spirit AeroSystems. She was responsible for execution of the Rolls-Royce BR75, the Bombardier C-Series and Mitsubishi Regional Jet Pylon programs.

Prior to this, Cathy was the Director, Program Management Center of Excellence. In this role, she worked with Spirit's new programs teams across the global enterprise with the responsibility to promote program management best practices through direct coaching, training and execution support.

From 2007 - 2012, Cathy was a senior program manager for The Boeing Company, holding two positions. First as Program Manager, B-52 Sustainment where she was responsible for the profit, loss, and execution for weapons system integration on the B-52 bomber. Next, she was Program Manager, Air Refueling Systems, responsible for executing software development for the KC-46A air refueling system. Concurrently, Cathy managed a subcontract with L-3 Communications which modified fan cowls, engine cowls, and struts as part of a KC-135 to RC-135 aircraft conversion program.

Cathy is retired from the Air Force with 25 years of service. During her Air Force career she piloted the KC-135, T-37B and the UV-18. She also commanded at the squadron, group and wing levels. Cathy deployed on numerous occasions in support of the Global War on Terror. During Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, she commanded an air refueling group supporting B-52s over Afghanistan. She also commanded a deployed operations group performing four different aircraft missions during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Cathy also deployed as the Deputy Director of Mobility Forces, directing mobility assets in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa. Her staff assignments include her tours as an assistant professor and executive officer in the Department of Behavioral Science and Leadership at the US Air Force Academy; as Chief, Deployment Division, US Transportation Command; and as Director, Air Force General Officer Management Office, Washington, D.C.

Cathy graduated from the United States Air Force Academy with a degree in General Engineering. She earned her master's degrees from Webster University (Human Resources Development), University of Texas at Austin (Social Psychology), College of Naval Command and Staff (National Security and Strategic Studies) and the Air War College (Strategic Studies). Cathy also attended the Senior Executive Fellows course hosted by the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Additionally, she trained at the Center for Creative Leadership.

Cathy is the past Chair of the Board of Directors for the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, a Trustee of the Falcon Foundation, and is a member of the East Wichita Rotary Club, Friends of McConnell, and the Ninety-Nines.

https://1400.eldersliefarm.com/

This podcast is brought to you by the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. To send feedback on this show and/or send suggestions for future guests or topics please e-mail communications@wichitachamber.org.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dining on the River (Katherine Elder - 1400 by Elderslie) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Do you know what a bramble is? Don and Ebony didn’t, but Katherine Elder walks through how the family farm has continued to grow into a larger and larger culinary experience, culminating in the opening of 1400 by Elderslie. On this episode we discuss:

Opening in the Wichita Art Museum
What’s the deal with the goats?
When Katherine hit pause
Growing up with a culinary knack
Being dedicated to sourcing locally
All the elements going on at the restaurant
Getting connected with the James Beard Foundation
The value of mentorship through the Chamber

Learn more about 1400 by Elderslie:

As 1400 by Elderslie opens, Chef Katharine Elder has expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to serve our community in such a unique space! Having grown up in the arts, she is inspired by the dedication of so many visual artists in their life-long pursuits of excellence, expression, and adorning the lives of others. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to infuse her work in food with stories and inspiration drawn from the art around her.

https://www.theconverseteam.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Finding Financial Freedom (Brandon Converse - The Converse Team) [Re-Release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When Brandon Converse left his engineering career to join his brother at the Converse Team, he was motivated by the desire to help others secure their financial future. Don and Ebony dive in with him on how they help make that possible for companies and individuals. On this episode we discuss:

The ways The Converse Team can serve others
How Brandon found his way from being an engineer to the financial services industry
Focusing on the benefit of their clients and teaching others
What makes the Converse Team stand out
Playing the long game
Balancing family and community with business
The advocacy from the Chamber
Who inspires Brandon the most

Learn more about The Converse Team:

LinkdedIn Profile

Brandon graduated from Kansas State University as an Industrial & Manufacturing Systems Engineer in 2005. After spending eight years in the engineering field, he transitioned to the financial sector to pursue ambitions of helping others in their pursuit of financial security. Brandon holds designations as a Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist , Accredited Investment Fiduciary, and Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor. Brandon also holds his Series 63, 65, Series 7, Life & Accident and Health Producer as a registered investment adviser representative with Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Serving clients since 2013, Brandon was key in the formation of The Converse Team.

Brandon and his wife, Tara, reside in Andover and have three children. They are most frequently found at their kids sporting activities and school activities.

The Converse Team specializes in providing independent fiduciary guidance and wealth management services to businesses and individuals. We offer expertise in tax planning strategies through investment related vehicles, taking pride in turning complex topics into easily understandable and actionable items to achieve the desired goals.

https://affinityautorepair.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Empowering Others (Mark / Summer Guerrero - Affinity Automotive) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Mark and Summer Guerrero are all about supporting and empowering others with Affinity Automotive. But they share with Don and Ebony how this empowerment first started with each other an after hours garage in their home. On this episode we discuss:

Giving others a solution with car repairs
Mark starting out working with his dad and grandpa when he was 13
Seeing themselves in their apprentices
The value of constant training in the automotive industry
When Mark made Summer work on her car (when they were teenagers)
A passion for teaching and empowerment
Never stop dreaming
What’s the deal with catalytic converters
Moving from leasing to owning a building
The landlord can decide if you have a business
Summer joining the military and becoming a civilian firefighter
That moment they decided it was time to start a business

Learn more about Affinity Automotive Services:

Affinity Automotive Services started as a dream, from a home garage into the six bay shop today. They are known for honesty, integrity and passion for the industry. Recognized nationally in industry magazines, they were also the recipient of the 2016 BBB integrity award and were recognized as one of the 2019 Wichita Metro Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award winners. In September 2022, Mark and Summer both were recognized from other independent shop owners support organization Midwest Auto Care Alliance (MWACA) for their continued leadership and dedication to the industry.

Mark and Summer Guerrero were both born and raised in Wichita, and have been together since the age of 16. Mark, the President/COO of Affinity Automotive Services, is a Master ASE Certified Technician with over 26 years of automotive repair experience. He provides the technical oversight for all services, training and equipment including a final inspection (QC- Quality Control) of the vehicle ensuring repairs and services are to manufacture specifications.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Building a Team (Steve Dixon - P.B. Hoidale) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

For the past 25 years, Steve Dixon has been helping others to live their best life through providing career opportunities at P.B. Hoidale. He shares with Don and Ebony his passion for the community and people in it while providing critical needs through the gas stations his business builds. On this episode we discuss:

His great-grandfather starting the business from his garage
Why he likes to hire people who don’t already have a lot of experience
Treating employees like family
What concerns Steve about talent development
Helping the team feel pride in the value they provide
How technology has evolved their offering
Why community investment brings energy to Steve’s life
Desiring and supporting growth in the Wichita entrepreneurial community
Providing career opportunities outside of the typical college path

Learn more about P.B. Hoidale:

https://www.hoidale.com/

Steve Dixon is the President and CEO of P.B. Hoidale, a company founded by his Great Grandfather over seventy-five years ago. Hoidale is a regional company headquartered in Wichita with locations throughout Kansas and Oklahoma. While being best known for building and servicing retail fueling locations across the region, Hoidale is involved with projects relating to the storage, pumping, measuring, and dispensing of fluids for a wide variety of customers.

Peter Bernard Hoidale founded the company that bears his name in 1946. Starting from a small office in Wichita, Kansas, selling fuel storage tanks and pumping units, the company had its first geographic expansion in the mid-1970s. This expansion came in the form of branch offices in Garden City and Chanute, Kansas. As the company continued to grow through the '70s and early '80s, they added additional product lines to complement their fuel equipment business, such as air compressors and lubrication equipment. By the mid-'80s, Hoidale had expanded into Oklahoma, opening offices in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The 1990s brought about another expansion of their business into electronic tank monitoring and point of-sale systems. These new POS systems were designed to provide their customers with more accurate information about how their businesses are performing. The mid 90's also saw the opening of their Kansas City branch office. Since the turn of the new century, they have again expanded their product lines to better meet the existing, as well as future, customer demand for heavy-duty lift equipment, and automated lubrication systems. They will continue to expand both their product lines as well as their geographic reach to better serve their customer base as it grows in new and exciting directions.

https://kansashealth.org/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Health, Equity and the Local Economy (Ed O'Malley - Kansas Health Foundation) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

It’s only been four weeks, but now Ed O’Malley has to know a few things in his new role at the Kansas Health Foundation. He shares with Don and Ebony the impact our physical health can have on the local economy and how Wichita can’t be left behind. On this episode we discuss:

Improving the health of all Kansans
How Kansas was one of the healthiest states, but has slipped dramatically over the last 30 years
How health is a “super-measure”
Tools a business can use for assessing employee health
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: fighting to keep it from being political
Making Wichita a place to attract diverse talent from across the country
Can debate how DEI is done, but it must be done
The Chamber on the front lines
How do we not politicize and engage in meaningful conversations?
The key is found in trusting others
As employers, are we dismantling systemic inequities?
Winning on health means winning across the board

Learn more about the Kansas Health Foundation:

O'Malley came to KHF after 15 years at the Kansas Leadership Center, a non-profit organization committed to fostering leadership for stronger, healthier and more prosperous Kansas communities. He joined KLC, which is primarily funded by KHF, in 2007 as its founding president and CEO-taking the organization from a new startup to an internationally recognized leadership training hub. Under O'Malley's leadership, KLC played a significant role increasing the number of diverse and underrepresented groups in civic leadership throughout Kansas.

Prior to his time at KLC, O'Malley served two terms as a state representative in the Kansas Legislature, gained experience in the private sector and worked on the staff of Governor Bill Graves. He is active in civic organizations, including as past board chair of the Boys and Girls Club of South Central Kansas and chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Board for the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. He has also been on an advisory committee for the Colorado Health Foundation, a director for the Beta Theta Pi National Fraternity and a coach for youth sports.

O'Malley holds a bachelor's degree in history from Kansas State University. He has also completed the Emerging Leaders Streetwise MBA program offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration and received executive training from the Harvard Business School and the Harvard John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Burger Franchise from Wichita (Scott Redler - Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

It all began with a single, humble restaurant in west Wichita, but now Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers has grown to over 400 locations all across the United States. And now you can hear directly from co-founder and COO Scott Redler on how this business came to be and how the approach they took that brought so much success. Hosts Don and Ebony grill (see what I did there?) Scott on everything from the origin story to their recent acquisition. On this episode we discuss:

Doing things the Freddy’s Way
How always looking for improvement led to making the hot dog better
The strategy about french fries
How Scott knew it was time to franchise
How to choose a franchisee
Building a culture and mission into your organization
The “no jerk” rule
The importance of teaching our children the right values to set them on a path to success
The reward of seeing others succeed
Reinvesting profits with guest driven decisions
A major donation to Butler County Community College
Acquisition talk
The Wichita quality of life
How a PMA is critical to success
HPA/LPA in business
The power of consistency

Learn more about Freddy’s:

At Freddy’s, frozen custard is such a signature part of the menu that it’s included in the name. But surprisingly, the Freddy’s story doesn’t begin with dessert. It all started with a main course back in the 1950’s. Wichita, Kansas is a historical landmark in the hamburger’s march to prominence and home to WWII veteran Freddy Simon. The savory steakburger is inspired by the 50's style staple and reminiscent of an era focused on quality, cooked-to-order meals that bring families and loved ones together. Freddy’s sons Randy and Bill Simon, and accomplished restauranteur, Scott Redler, worked tirelessly to recreate the recipe that lived up to the timeless standards of their Father's generation. Today, thousands gather at Freddy’s for food and fellowship that fills their stomach and warms their soul.

Growing up in St. Louis, Redler got his start in the restaurant business at age 15 catering events for groups of two to 6,000. Paying his way through college by managing a steakhouse, he attended the University of Missouri and earned a degree in restaurant and hotel management. Redler has managed and overseen everything from 5-star restaurants to corporate cafeterias in Wichita, St. Louis, Minneapolis and Washington, D.C. Overall, Redler has been involved

in development and operations of 21 varying concepts. In 2002, Redler partnered with Bill Simon and his brother Randy to launch Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. After franchising in 2004, Freddy’s has grown to nearly 400 domestic locations that serve 32 states across the United States. Redler currently serves as Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer for Freddy’s. Redler’s vast knowledge of restaurant ownership and operations has made him a sought-out

professional in the industry. An IFMA Silver Plate Award recipient, he currently serves on the Board of the National Restaurant Association, advocating for and representing restaurant industry interests with policymakers at all levels along with many other philanthropy boards.

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

https://monarchwichita.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Take a Risk (Jen Ray - The Monarch) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When it opened, The Monarch was not necessarily in the best location in Delano, but owner Jen Ray trusted her intuition and has been able to thrive over 9 years in business. She shares her challenges through the COVID pandemic with Don and Ebony and her perspective on the local business community. On this episode we discuss:

Jen realizing she needed to do something else than she was doing
A costly tax mistake
How the Delano area has developed around her
Creeping out of the status quo to stand apart
Watching people try to navigate the roundabout
Having no Plan B
How the small business community has supported The Monarch
Getting employees back after the COVID shutdown
The impact of the new baseball stadium
How local leaders Ben Hutton and Damon Young inspire her

Learn more about The Monarch:

The Monarch has been proudly serving Wichita since 2012. They are dedicated to providing every customer with one-of-a-kind service, from beginning to end of every dining experience. In addition, they have a variety of food items to satisfy every taste. Also, they boast a vast selection of bourbon, whiskey, scotch, and other tasty spirits.

They guarantee you’ll find something you love at our restaurant. Come experience who we are and what they have to offer at The Monarch.

Other Resources:

Monarch Owner Experiences Success, Stress and Lots of Lessons (article)

The Monarch Owner Talks About Six Years of Success in Delano (article)

https://humlicekfamilydental.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Entrepreneurial Dentist (Dr. Ashley Humlicek - Humlicek Family Dental) [Re-release]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Being a dentist that intentionally considers their practice a business is rare. Dr. Ashley Humlicek talks with Don and Ebony about her unique perspective as a healthcare provider that focuses on her practice as an entrepreneurial opportunity. On this episode we discuss:

Getting started purchasing a practice from a retiring dentist with consistent values
Creating a different dental experience
Learning the business side of health professions
Her moment of self-reflection
The assumptions and advantages of being a female dentist
Why Dr. Ashley got involved with the local business community
The helpfulness of the local dental and business network

Learn more about Humlicek Family Dental:

Dr. Ashley is a North Dakota native and formerly a Division I athlete at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where she received NCAA Academic All-Big 10 recognition all four years of her collegiate swimming career. Now, Dr. Ashley is a licensed dentist from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Dentistry where she was the class president, Dental Mission group leader, and American Student Dental Association Vice President. Dr. Ashley and her husband Greg own a Wheaten Terrier puppy named Charlie. She is an avid book enthusiast, lover of adventure, and world traveler. When she isn't redesigning smiles you can find her trying new food, scuba diving with manta rays, or barbecuing with friends and family.

We are always striving forward! When I bought the practice the previous dentist was still using film and paper charts. Now we are fully digital and using all of the cutting edge technologies. We do Wellness scans every time you come in which tracks changes in your mouth, shows you a 3D replica of your mouth and does a simulation of what your teeth look like now and what they could look like with Invisalign. We offer in house dental memberships for our non insurance patients but for our insurance patients we check all benefits ahead of time so we can give you accurate treatment plans. Everything we do is purposeful and intentional so we can be our best for our patients.

Some areas where Humlicek Family Dental Excels:

1) Reducing dental anxiety. We have noise cancelling headphones, blankets, air diffusers, offer laughing gas and pre appointment sedation medications.

2) Keeping everything we can in house. We are certified in both Implants and Invisalign, we do crowns/bridges, root canals etc. and we treat ages 1 on up!

3) Customer service is at our core and we do everything we can to make our patients informed and satisfied.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Building Leadership Capability - Part 2 (Jeff Turner - TNW Group)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

In this epic 2 part conversation with Jeff Turner, TNW founder and former Spirit Aerosystems President and CEO, we cover a broad range of thoughts on leadership. Jeff shares with Don and Ebony the lessons he’s learned and how he has grown over the years. From that he shares his philosophy and principles on leadership in our community. On this episode we discuss:

Are there enough resources for small business owners in Wichita?
The Wright Brothers v. Langley
Invention, commercialization and growth
The five aspect of leadership that Jeff focuses on
When the tornado hit the Spirit plant
Putting the right person in the right seat
Being daring in business
The constant preparation for what is coming
The Global Leadership Summit value to leaders and business owners
Who Jeff has learned from at the Global Leadership Summit

Learn more about Jeff Turner:

Jeffrey “Jeff” L. Turner retired April 5, 2013 as President and CEO of Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., a position he had held since June 2005, upon the divestiture of the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Wichita Division. As CEO, he successfully led the transition from Boeing Division to independent company completing the company’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) in November, 2006. Spirit AeroSystems is now listed (SPR) on the New York Stock Exchange. Mr. Turner was a member of Spirit AeroSystems’ Board of Directors from 2005-2014.

Mr. Turner is a partner in the Turner Nichols Williams Group which focuses on developing and growing small businesses in the Wichita, KS area. He serves on the Board of Directors of Rockwell Collins and INTRUST Bank. He is also very involved in the local community having served on a number of boards and currently Co-Chairs the community Leadership Council, as well as the Board of Directors for “Doc’s Friends”, a non-profit organization leading the effort to restore one of the last remaining B-29 aircraft to flying condition.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Building Leadership Capability - Part 1 (Jeff Turner - TNW Group)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Being a grandfather
How TNW was started and it’s goals to help business owners
Fostering an entrepreneurial environment
Loving business and people
The value of the individual outside of business
The origins of Spirit Aerosystems
Being at the center of the business strategy
I love it when a plan comes together

Learn more about Jeff Turner:

http://www.powerhouse-leaders.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

From Park Avenue To Wichita Entrepreneur (Anita Greenwood - Powerhouse Leaders)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

After years of growing in high-level leadership roles developing some of the largest brands in the world, Anita Greenwood felt like she was missing out. She tells Don and Ebony how she found something different in Wichita that gave her the freedom and lifestyle she wanted. On this episode we discuss:

00:04:00 Professional Coaching and Mentoring

00:06:00 A real-life “Emily in Paris”

00:07:00 Adopting Kansas and Starting Powerhouse Leaders

00:10:00 Career Journey of a Senior Executive: Developing Large Consumer Goods Brands

00:11:00 You Can’t Leave, I Need You

00:15:00 From Executive to Entrepreneur

00:16:00 Anita Greenwood on the Entrepreneurial Spirit

00:18:00 Unique Perspective and Professional Success

00:22:00 Opportunities to Grow with Events

Learn more about Powerhouse Leaders:

After University in London and Business School in France, Anita embarked on a global career with Fortune 500 companies such as Reckitt, Colgate Palmolive and Accenture, starting her career in sales, then leading commercial strategy development and global marketing and innovation for billion dollar brands before founding her company, Powerhouse Leaders, that specializes in helping organizations power-up performance of executive teams, high achieving leaders and emerging talent.

The only woman at many tables, Anita occupied high impact global roles while raising three children. She learned how to balance her time and leverage her voice to create strategic partnerships at the highest levels, successfully build win-win relationships with the most challenging internal and external customers and always deliver results.

Powerhouse Leaders intervenes as a strategic partner for leaders and their teams at the pivotal stages of their growth. Combining 25 years of learning how to crack the code as a collaborative, strategic leader and extensive experience as executive and team coach, Anita has built a fast track to enhanced team collaboration and to the top for leaders and entrepreneurs by building safe spaces for them to grow and achieve extraordinary impact and results.

Anita holds the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential from the International Coach Federation and has coached hundreds of leaders as Head Executive Coach of Powerhouse Leaders and Faculty at the Kansas Leadership Center. Known for her signature British accent and very practical "what got you here won't get you there" approach she serves as mentor for multiple emerging young leaders, is on the Council of Friends for HopeCo and has helped build a school and a house in Haiti. Her passions include Orange Theory Fitness, performing with her dance troupe, figure drawing and outdoor time with family.

https://www.wichitacheesecakecompany.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Our Cheesecake Company (Mark Daniels - Wichita Cheesecake Company)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

While never intending to start a business, Mark Daniels and his wife, Grace, saw a void in the marketplace because of one company who never wanted to come to Wichita. So they decided to fill that niche and have been growing ever since. On this episode we discuss:

00:04:00 Grace and I Discovered Our Cheesecake Business at a Bridal Show

00:06:00 Journey to expansion, the slow approach to growth

00:10:00 On Baking Cheesecakes

00:12:00 Managing a Restaurant Business (you can’t do both)

00:15:00 Strategies for Building a Reoccurring Book of Business

00:23:00 Strategies for Adapting to the Pandemic: Wichita Cheesecake and Metro Grill

00:26:00 Expansion Plans

Learn more about the Wichita Cheesecake Company:

A baker, a business degree, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a local niche to fill all mixed together to make the perfect recipe for starting a cheesecake business in Wichita.

The Wichita Cheesecake Company is owned by Mark and Grace Daniels and operated with the help of their two daughters - Rya and Mi-Kell - who help with baking, filling orders and marketing.

The company offers made fresh daily cheesecakes in more than 30 flavors, including banana pudding, caramel praline pecan, caramel apple, and New York style. They also offer seasonal flavors as well as custom orders. Cheesecakes can be purchased by the slice, as well as in sizes including minis, 6", 8", 9", and 10".

They started the business out of their home in 2017 and quickly outgrew the kitchen. They then utilized the commercial kitchen at their church for a couple of years, and are now celebrating the company's third anniversary at its current location at the Union Station - Grand Hotel building in downtown Wichita.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Spicy Seat (Darren McGilbray - Popeyes ARJH)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 31 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Starting at the bottom as a dishwasher, Darren McGilbray had ambitions to grow his career in the restaurant business. While others didn’t see a viable career path, Darren shares with Don and Ebony how he saw an opportunity for a bright future. On this episode we discuss:

Beginning as a dishwasher
Desiring to join the ivory tower
Tennis opportunities and success
Family ties to USD 259
Seeing opportunities in the restaurant industry
Giving back to the community in tangible ways
Career opportunities available at Popeyes
The challenges of finding team members
Being of service to the franchise
Helping others achieve success

Learn more about Darren McGilbray and Popeyes ARJH:

Community Voice KS Article

Started working for Pizza Hut in 1980 as a dishwasher. Darren’s dream as a kid was to work at the Pizza Hut Corporate office. He worked his way up from Dishwasher to Regional VP of Operations. So he did achieve my goal of working for the corporate office. He also Co-founded a company with my wife called Jewel Angels Boutique in 2010. Jewel Angels was first established at the Mid Rivers Mall in St. Louis MO. Jewel Angels is now located at 3236 E Douglas Ave, in Wichita KS. Started working for Popeyes in 2013 and quickly elevated to Regional Director of Franchise Operations. Was named President of Popeyes ARJH in October of 2022.

https://www.wichitachamber.org/chamberevents/leadership-wichita/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

More Than the C-Suite (Kim Doze-Lohmann / Joseph Shepard - Leadership Wichita)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 24 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

The Leadership Wichita program has been a staple in the community for 40 years, but over the time it’s objectives have changed. Kim Doze-Lohmann and Joseph Shepard share with Don and Ebony how the mission has shifted from the C-Suite to helping the community have leaders of all levels engaged in tackling big challenges we share. On this episode we discuss:

00:03:00 Exploring Leadership Wichita

00:05:00 An Immersive Experience for Community Leaders

00:09:00 Diversity Inclusion

00:11:00 Advancing Leadership, Broadening Perspectives, and Strengthening the Community

00:18:00 Leadership Wichita Success Stories

00:21:00 Women's Economic Development Task Force

00:23:00 Nominating Candidates for Leadership Wichita Program

00:24:00 Perspectives, Challenges, and Innovative Solutions

00:31:00 Alumni Engagement and Leadership Opportunities

Learn more about Leadership Wichita:

Joseph Shepard took a difficult childhood to change the trajectory of his life. Born into a military family, Shepard recalls sleeping in a car, living in homeless shelters, and struggling to maintain a stable lifestyle. Those experiences, coupled with other hardships, help shape his passion to tackle critical challenges that hinder young people from achieving their American dream.

As a first-generation college graduate, Shepard holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Master’s degree in Public Administration with a focus on nonprofit management and is currently working on his Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership at Wichita State University. Shepard is a community mobilizer, champion for youth and young professionals as well a conversational catalyst for equity and inclusion.

When not working for Lead For America, Joseph spends time serving in the community through various non-profit organizations.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Growing Flowers and Business (Cindy Carnahan - The Carnahan Group)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 17 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

With over 40 years in the real estate industry, Cindy has been growing her business. But what you might not know is she has had a passion for growing flowers in downtown Wichita. Find out with Don and Ebony what adventures this has brought. On this episode we discuss:

Whose friend is Cindy?
One summer to figure it out while working for her dad
Creating from the ground up
Focusing on a more collaborative environment
How the real estate industry is structured
Happy, healthy, helpful and humble. Honest and grateful all day.
Stepping into the unknown
The Kolbe test
The flowers on Douglas
The books that Cindy is reading

Learn more about The Carnahan Group:

https://tcghomes.com/

Cindy Carnahan has lived in Wichita her entire life and is proud to be a part of the Wichita area community. Cindy is a passionate fan and supporter of her alma mater, Wichita State University, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in elementary education.

Following graduation, Cindy went on to teach in the Wichita Public School System for a short time before going to work with her mother and father in the family owned business, The Ed Clarke Company Realtors.

Cindy devoted herself to the family business, expanding her knowledge, experiences and learning the best of the Real Estate business for 14 years.

When her father retired at age 72, Cindy decided to broaden her experiences by going to work for her biggest competitor, J.P. Weigand & Sons, Inc. She quickly achieved significant sales growth as well as reputation for tenacity and dedication to customer service. Cindy formed The Carnahan Group in 1988 and the team quickly became the top-volume Real Estate group in Wichita.

In 2019, Cindy and The Carnahan Group joined ReeceNichols South Central Kansas, part of the state's largest residential real-estate group.

Today, with more than 40 years of Real Estate experience, Cindy is widely recognized as one of Wichita's most successful entrepreneurs and has been the top Realtor® in Wichita for more than two decades. Her knowledge and skill is unparalleled, as is her commitment to her clients; a combination that makes Cindy your best advocate as well as your best advantage in any Real Estate transaction.

https://fiberdynamics.net/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Permission to Dream Again (Darin Teeter - Fiber Dynamics)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 10 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes we lose touch of dreams as we grow up. But for Darrin Teeter, he sees his company at Fiber Dynamics as an opportunity to let his team pursue their own passions. He shares his vision with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

The uses of carbon fiber
Diving into the nerd stuff
Launching with a new baby and $13,000 in the bank
Hardwired to be an entrepreneur
Helping employees to dream again
Getting creative to improve retention
Needing to diversify
Of course we can make that, no problem
Learning about business through the Chamber

Learn more about Fiber Dynamics:

Before establishing Fiber Dynamics, Darrin Teeter served as a research associate and composites lab manager for the National Institute for Aviation Research. While at NIAR, he recognized the market’s need for more efficient ways to manufacture composite parts. He decided to capitalize on the advantages of resin transfer molding, which offers customers high-performance parts with quick turnarounds — and often at a lower total cost.

Fiber Dynamics is a leading composite manufacturer that offers a one-stop shop for highly engineered parts. From concepting to packaging, our Wichita facility is outfitted to deliver a full range of turnkey solutions for a variety of industries.

Early programs included the production of kit plane parts and high-volume, high-performance bicycle components such as wheels, frames and swing arms. The company then crossed over into general aviation, making interior parts for aircraft and quickly becoming an experienced manufacturer of advanced composites.

Fiber Dynamics continued refining its materials and processes to better serve aircraft makers who required complex hollow-cavity components. Until then, such parts were nearly impossible to fabricate by conventional means.

Today we manufacture major parts for world-class business jets, military drones, rockets, Formula One race cars and more.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Flying Jets to Leading Others (Cathy McClain - Dauntless Leadership)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 03 May 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Developing leadership strengths
The belief of parents
Writing to her congressman and getting into the Air Force Academy
The gem that Wichita is
The hunger people have to lead others more effectively
The experience of flying tankers in the Air Force
Supporting high stakes, high stress leaders
The small city of McConnell Air Force Base
How to support the military members in our community

Learn more about Dauntless Leadership:

https://primeivhydration.com/locations/kansas/wichita-ks/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Finding a Franchise Fit (Cody Beard - Prime IV)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When Cody Beard and his wife started on their journey to find a franchise business they could run together, they focused on their own lifestyle desires. Cody shares with Don and Ebony how that led them to Prime IV. On this episode we discuss:

Having ambition to start a business together
The franchise courtship dance
Knowing what you want out of your life
The Prime IV business model
Helping you achieve your health goals
Needles!
Going back to school to get his pharmacy tech certification
How the Chamber brings the right people together
The feeling of Wichita

Learn more about Prime IV:

After graduating from Goddard High School, Cody couldn't wait to set sail out of Wichita and into the Navy. After 4 years in the Navy and couple years of living and working in Los Angeles, he couldn't wait to get back to the city he didn't realize he loved so much!

Once the U-Haul was unpacked in Wichita, Cody and wife Lacey started their family, business, youth sports, volunteering, and married life. Lacey was the founder (Cody was the handy man) of the east side AVON retail store in 2009 and Cody began his leadership career in the corporate world. He held various mid to senior level leadership roles with familiar company's such as Westar Energy, PolyOne, and Sherwin Williams. For the past 7 years until the decision was made to start their own family business in 2022, Cody served as a Plant Manager for Sherwin Williams and CTDI.

Along the way, Cody and Lacey knew the value and higher calling of volunteer work and charitable donations. Cody served on Westar Energy's community outreach board for several years and was on the board of the YMCA for 7 years serving 2 of those as annual campaign chair. For the last 7 years Cody has had the full time volunteer role of Head Coach and Director of the Andover Wrestling club. When he "retires" from coaching next year, he will have coached youth sports for 14 years through the YMCA and club wrestling. Family and the youth of our community has always been his true calling.

In 2022 after a decade of aggressively saving money, the Beard's finally determined, "it's time." They took the leap and Cody exited the corporate world that had been so great to him for almost 20 years. After a year of planning and building, the east side Prime IV Hydration and Wellness business is up and running! The west Wichita location is slated for grand opening this year approximately June. In this business he is able to do what he values the most. Helping and serving others, leading a team of professionals, improving the lives of others, and having his customers as his only "boss".

Cody holds a bachelors in Nuclear Engineering from Edison State University, a Master's in Business Administration from Friends University, and most recently earned his Pharmacy Tech certification and license so he's able to hands on help in his health spa.

https://www.corporatecaterersofwichita.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

An Intrepid and Two Ice Chests (Ben Arnold - Corporate Caterers / AVI)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Ben Arnold started his catering business with only $30lk in the bank and his Dodge Intrepid and a couple of ice chests. He shares with Don and Ebony how his energy, hustle and creativity led him to find a steady stream of customers. On this episode we discuss:

Starting as a dishwasher (at 11 years old)
When he decided to start moving and start his own business
What’s in a business name
Being creative with getting access to a kitchen
Being responsive early as a new business owner
The sandbox of college
Getting creative during COVID
The AVI name
What retirement will look like for Ben

Learn more about Corporate Caterers / AVI:

In his 49-year career, Ben Arnold has worked at every position in a restaurant. He moved to Wichita in 1995 to work for Amarillo Grill. After a three-year stint, he opened Black Canyon Grill with two brothers who also worked at Amarillo Grill. On July 4th, 1999, he declared his own independence and began laying out a business plan to start his own company, Corporate Caterers of Wichita. In 2011 he opened AVI, and they also operate the Intrust Bank Executive Dining Room and Employee Cafe.

https://sheldenarchitecture.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Building It All (Stan Shelden - Shelden Architecture)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When Stan Shelden growing up he loved all the art and technology. So naturally, he married those two into a career in architecture, brining the experience he gained in Chicago back to his hometown with Shelden Architecture. On this episode we discuss:

Loving a diverse range of things and staying a generalist
Being inspired by the passion of students
The influence of entrepreneurial grandfathers
Being good at people, not a building type
Hungry, humble and smart
The projects Stan has been a part of
The value and creativity in repurposing existing spaces
Thinking longer term
Treating others as professionals and encouraging them to take time off

Learn more about Shelden Architecture:

Positive. Upbeat. To Stan Shelden, the glass is always half full. Whether he’s sketching out a design or spending time with his wife and five daughters, Stan is likely to have a smile on his face. “If you’re not having fun, then please find something else to do!”

You can see Stan’s optimism reflected in his work. As owner and founder of the firm, he takes personal pride and ownership in each project. He believes in his team and the work they produce.

Stan serves on the Wichita Douglas Avenue Steering Committee, the Wichita Design Council, and is a past member of the Wichita Historic Board. He also serves as an Elder at Heartland Community Church.

https://goforemanlaw.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Breaking the Law (Sam Foreman - Foreman Law)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Sam Foreman is on a mission to change the way legal firms operate with his own business law firm. He shares his views on caring about mental health and balance in the workplace with Don and Ebony (and a few dad jokes as well). On this episode we discuss:

Sam’s alternative energy idea for Evergy
Buying and selling businesses
The startup above a sushi restaurant
The historic toxic schedules of legal firms
The role that mental health plays
Building resilience in the business ecosystem for risk
Sam’s podcasts (How to Buy or Sell a Business; Breaking the Law)
Being a positive influence to push the legal industry forward
The gift Sam brought to Don and Ebony

Learn more about Foreman Law:

Sam works with business owners, entrepreneurs, scaleable businesses and technology companies, through a variety of transactions ranging from simple to complex.

The majority of Sam’s practice is focused on helping business owners through the complexities of buying or selling businesses, or scaling up early stage or maturing businesses. Sam works with clients in a variety of industries where creativity and practicality are an asset - ranging from technology and professional services, to manufacturing and medical.

Sam focuses on building personal relationships with his clients and developing a deep understanding of their priorities in order to deliver excellent client service. He brings a practical, business-minded approach to solving problems, and scaling the solution to obstacles and opportunities around the corner and around the globe.

He also serves his clients in a full lifecycle of legal needs from forming a business, protecting key intellectual property and structuring ownership relationships, to family succession planning, acquisition, sale and everything in between.

https://1400.eldersliefarm.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dining on the River (Katherine Elder - 1400 by Elderslie)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Opening in the Wichita Art Museum
What’s the deal with the goats?
When Katherine hit pause
Growing up with a culinary knack
Being dedicated to sourcing locally
All the elements going on at the restaurant
Getting connected with the James Beard Foundation
The value of mentorship through the Chamber

Learn more about 1400 by Elderslie:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

When Everyone Leads (Julia Fabris McBride - KLC)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When your view on leadership is that it’s not a position, but an action, then no one is exempt from being able to become a leader. Julia Fabris McBride from the Kansas Leadership Center joins Don and Ebony to talk about the steps anyone can take to lead. On this episode we discuss:

What the Kansas Leaderhship Center is
Partnerships around the globe
Getting to the why of leadership
Why everyone needs to lead
Raising the heat
Authorizing yourself to lead
De-risking leadership

Learn more about When Everyone Leads:

Julia Fabris McBride is chief leadership development officer at the Kansas Leadership Center, where more than 15,000 people around the world have attended programs since 2007. She is a certified coach, former actor, and author or two previous books including The Your Leadership Edge Teacher Companion. Julia splits her time between Wichita and Matfield Green, KS.

In the latest book from the Kansas Leadership Center, co-authors Ed O’Malley and Julia Fabris McBride present a revolutionary approach to leadership. It’s not about position or authority, but an activity open to anyone who can see and seize their moments to lead and engage differently. In a culture where everyone leads, individuals, organizations and communities make more progress on their most difficult problems.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Follow the Calling (Kianga Kelley-Crowley - Simply A Lady)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0500

When Kianga Kelley-Crowley was tempted to criticize others, she heard the call to help instead. Now she shares with Don and Ebony how she has been blessed by the way the Wichita community has embraced her Simply a Lady journey. On this episode we discuss:

Seeing a need to develop our connection with others
The importance of nonverbal cues
How negative thoughts turned into a calling
Developing proper etiquette
What the pandemic exposed
Overcoming obstacles as an entrepreneur
How Kianga’s past developed her skills for the present
In Wichita, if you can think it you can do it
What is the small stuff?

Learn more about Simply a Lady:

Approachable, entertaining, charming, and open-minded! Kianga Crowley is simply a lady who is on a mission to shift the way we develop leaders and our emotional intelligence through etiquette. She prides herself on providing unforgettable etiquette experiences for all ages, gender and race.

Born in the Midwest, but a southern belle at heart, Kianga takes etiquette and courteous practices to heart. She is a second-generation etiquette coach, following in the footsteps of her mother. The Indiana native is a graduate of Grambling State University in Grambling, La. There, she honed her skills as a well-respected radio personality while earning a bachelor’s in communication. It wasn’t until her professional journey as a television news reporter, that she discovered her gift to connect with others and to share their stories accurately.

Kianga’s desire to expand her knowledge took a pleasant turn while obtaining her Global MBA at Friends University in Wichita, KS. A lecture on the power of nonverbal communication piqued her desire to explore the broad spectrum of communication and its connection to etiquette and the role both play in our society. She came to realize cultural awareness and business etiquette mattered, too. So began her research in intersectionality of communication in the US for both social and business etiquette.

Kianga’s expertise has been featured on both local and national news platforms. She is consistently being recognized for her work in the community. Some of her accolades include Wichita Mom’s “She Means Business”, USD 259 Wichita Public School’s “Gold Apple” award, Young Professionals of Wichita Innovations in Business awardee and the Wichita Business Journal’s “Women Who Lead” as well as “40 Under 40”. She recently polished up her leadership skills throughthe Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Wichita class of 2022.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Print Isn't Dead (Ashley Martin - Valley Print Logistics)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Despite what you may have heard, print isn’t actually dead. Ashley Martin shares with Don and Ebony how the family business Valley Print Logistics has grown over the last few years and serves as a major component of any marketing campaign. On this episode we discuss:

What motivated her dad and grandfather to start the business
The school that both Don and Ashley went to
Campaigns and mailers
Adding value to your customers
Full-service direct target marketing mailers
Being a companion to e-mail marketing
Acquisitions and rebranding
How Ashley has connected with others through the Chamber
The power of the human connection

Learn more about Valley Print Logistics:

https://valleypl.com/

Ashley started working for the family’s business in September of 2008 after four years in the hotel industry. She started off as a Customer Service representative and then in 2008-09 she transitioned to Sales/Marketing. Within the last year and a half, she has started transitioning to help her father, Travis, on the business side of things.

Valley Print Logistics is your complete source for high-quality printing, graphic design, mailing services, and promotional products. Their efficient and knowledgeable staff is always happy to work with you and exceed your expectations.

They service a diverse clientele with a wide range of products, printing anything from full-color magazines to 1-color note pads—and everything in between. Print quality and efficiency are a given—their real product is service. They also offer superior customer service, an art & pre-press department, online order fulfillment, in-house bindery, warehousing, delivery and shipping.

https://www.thethreadwlc.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Coming Home to Build Up Other Women (Audra Dinell - The Thread)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0600

When Audra Dinell was reflecting on what she would do if she were her most audacious self, she was inspired by another leadership experience to come back home and start The Thread: A Women’s Leadership Collective. She shares with Don and Ebony the journey that has taken her on and the confidence others have poured into her. On this episode we discuss:

Moving away from home
Being inspired by a serial entrepreneur father
Wanting to create something herself
The ease of living in Wichita
Creating a mastermind for ambitious women
Creating a brand with room to expand
The three pieces that make a successful entrepreneur
Doing things that scare you
Creating a family culture of support
Outsourcing locally

Learn more about The Thread:

Audra is the Founder of The Thread, applying her bold vision and action-oriented approach to transform womens' confidence and leadership abilities through an award-winning personal and professional development experience. She brings more than a decade of agency marketing and a social entrepreneurship focus to community building in Wichita, after working in markets across the country. A native Wichitan with a B.A. from Wichita State University in Communications with a focus on Integrated Marketing, Audra is married to a fellow Shocker and mother to two boys.

http://trailblazersacademyict.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Helping Our Children Grow (Regina Miller - Trailblazers Academy)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

As we wrap up Black History Month we are joined by the legendary Regina Miller. She shares her vision for early childhood education with Don and Ebony and how she pours her effort into community with the Trailblazers Academy. On this episode we discuss:

Decades of work in child care and early childhood education
Carrying the legacy of her late daughter, Helen
The value of staff that cares
Why early childhood education is so important
A work of heart
Wanting success to feed back into the community
Jumping in with both feet
Keeping children engaged
Success is being able to reach back and help others
What it means to “do the meeting”
The upcoming anniversary celebration
Big enough to serve you and small enough to know you

Learn more about Trailblazers Academy:

Trailblazer’s Academy in the News

Trailblazers Academy is a privately owned and operated child care facility in Wichita, Kansas. Trailblazers (formerly Princeton Children’s Center) was established in March of 2009 and has become an award winning child care center.

Trailblazers Academy currently offers care for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Teachers combine quality care and early education with a tailored program designed to meet the children’s individual goals and objectives. Care routines, scheduling, safety, health, and an age-appropriate curriculum is emphasized. This strategy enhances the children’s creativity, promotes both gross and small motor skills, develops social interactions, and balances learning with fun.

Structured choice, teacher and self-directed activities, along with parental communications are fully integrated. Regina Miller has been married for 37 years to her best friend and business partner, Jesse, and together they have two adult children and one granddaughter. She has two degrees and over 35 years of leadership experience and is an active Board member at Friends University.

Chamber Legislative Agenda Page

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Getting the Government to Help (Gabe Schlickau and James Krstolich)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Government advocacy can make a huge difference for businesses, but often times that’s reserved for large companies with significant resources. Gabe Schlickau and James Krstolich share with Don and Ebony how the Wichita Chamber has provided that advocacy for smaller businesses in our region. On this episode we discuss:

What government advocacy is
Creating a healthy business environment
The annual legislative survey
The value of the small business voice
The impact of policy on business
Serving the underserved
The effort the Wichita Chamber puts in to support small businesses
The PAC resource
The policies the Chamber is focused on
Looking objectively at the voting of lawmakers

Learn more about government advocacy at the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce:

Legislative Scorecard

The Advocate Legislative Update

Win Loss Agenda

Gabe Schlickau is the Vice Chair of Advocacy for the Wichita Regional Chamber Board of Directors. He provides volunteer leadership focused on ensuring a diverse cross section of the Chamber’s membership is informed and actively involved in efforts to encourage public policy that is good for business and our community. Gabe has been professionally involved in the Wichita region for over 15 years. He’s a past Chair of the Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas and past President of the Wichita Manufacturer’s Association. Gabe has experience working with a broad range of local industries which include energy, aerospace, agriculture, and finance. In 2020 he returned to his roots in agriculture by joining the team at CoBank, where he is part of the Regional Agribusiness Banking Group providing credit and financial services to agribusiness and Farm Credit customers.

https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Love at First Bike (Jacob Wayman - OrangeTheory Fitness)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Has a love story ever led to the launching of a business success story? Hear the unusual connection Jacob Wayman and his wife made at OrangeTheory fitness. He shares his unique journey to entrepreneurship with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Getting started in the entrepreneurial community
Being a community builder with E2E (now NXTUS) and 1 Million Cups
What makes Orange Theory different
The infusion of technology into their business
How Jacob got kicked out of his future wife’s class
Your path is not linear
Creating business collisions in the community
Building up their team members for success
No Shower Happy Hour
The new location
Looking at the big picture of the business
Being the same person no matter what
The impact of Leadership Wichita

Learn more about OrangeTheory Fitness:

Facebook Profile (East Wichita)

Facebook Profile (West Wichita)

OrangeTheory is a total-body group workout that combines science, coaching and technology to guarantee maximum results from the inside out.

OrangeTheory Fitness is the leading fitness gym near you. It offers group personal training workouts based on high intensity interval training that blend cardiovascular and strength training. Our innovative workouts make us a health studio that you will see results at.

Jacob Wayman’s career path is everything but linear. He went to school to become a healthcare administrator and had every intention of doing so until I moved back home to Wichita. In Wichita is where his trajectory took a turn towards entrepreneurship.

Since moving back to Wichita, he helped launch 1 Million Cups, e2e (now known as Nxtus), Startup Grind, Shift ICT, and Connecting ICT. Following those experiences he knew that he wanted to be a business owner and set out to purchase OrangeTheory Fitness. Beyond Orangetheory Fitness, he’s also very active in my community through the Rotary Club of Wichita, Salvation Army, Leadership Wichita, and the 344th ARS at McConnell AFB. He’s also the husband to an amazing woman (she’s the real reason they own OrangeTheory) and the father to two amazing boys.

https://www.communityvoiceks.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Perspective of Local News (Bonita Gooch - The Community Voice)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

It took some time, but Bonita Gooch’s father eventually convinced her she needed to buy The Community Voice and bring African American perspective to the news in our community. She shares with Don and Ebony the key mentors who helped her grow this valuable business and resource. On this episode we discuss:

The reach of The Community Voice
Getting more involved with western Kansas (and bringing other organizations along)
Bringing a unique perspective to the news
Coming back to Wichita and becoming an entrepreneur
The support to save local newspapers
Bringing on more reporters to cover what is happening
How Covid made everyone hungry for news
Viewing advertisers as partners
Black History Month celebration and stories in February
The mentors who helped Bonita along her journey

Learn more about The Community Voice:

Since 1996, Bonita has served as as Editor-in-Chief of The Community Voice newspaper. As the owner, she has guided the Wichita-based publication’s growth in reach across the state of Kansas and into the Kansas City metro area; and in a period of decreasing newspaper circulation, she increased the publications to one of the largest non-daily newspapers in Kansas. Bonita has always insisted on providing high-quality journalism focused on the interest and needs of the African-American readers in her distribution areas. Her commitment is to positively enhancing the lives of her readers and their communities. In her spare time, Bonita is an avid tennis player and gardener.

Our multi-platform publication helps our readers address their needs and the needs of their community by providing them news and information that educates, connects and empowers them to act for positive change.

The Community Voice is a trusted source of news and information for the African-American communities of Kansas and the Kansas City metro area. Now in it’s 28th year, The Community Voice is a multi-platform news source and community (civic) partner that provides clear and accessible information on topics of crucial importance to its readers.

https://www.theconverseteam.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Finding Financial Freedom (Brandon Converse - The Converse Team)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

The ways The Converse Team can serve others
How Brandon found his way from being an engineer to the financial services industry
Focusing on the benefit of their clients and teaching others
What makes the Converse Team stand out
Playing the long game
Balancing family and community with business
The advocacy from the Chamber
Who inspires Brandon the most

Learn more about The Converse Team:

LinkdedIn Profile

Brandon and his wife, Tara, reside in Andover and have three children. They are most frequently found at their kids sporting activities and school activities.

https://affinityautorepair.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Empowerment of Others (Mark / Summer Guerrero - Affinity Automotive)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Giving others a solution with car repairs
Mark starting out working with his dad and grandpa when he was 13
Seeing themselves in their apprentices
The value of constant training in the automotive industry
When Mark made Summer work on her car (when they were teenagers)
A passion for teaching and empowerment
Never stop dreaming
What’s the deal with catalytic converters
Moving from leasing to owning a building
The landlord can decide if you have a business
Summer joining the military and becoming a civilian firefighter
That moment they decided it was time to start a business

Learn more about Affinity Automotive Services:

The Chung Report
Daylight Savings Time (News)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Falling in Love with Wichita (Jenny Helms-Calvin - SOMA Therapy)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

When Jenny Helms-Calvin arrived in Wichita, she already had a two year plan to get out. But as she shares with Don and Ebony, she recognized her misconceptions and saw an opportunity to launch and grow SOMA Therapy to help improve mental health in our community. On this episode we discuss:

A brand-new acquisition of New Perspectives
Thinking about the business first, even as a licensed therapist
The initial business launch being messy, but how growth got started
Focusing on marketing early on
How important healthy workplace relationships are
Moving from Atlanta to Wichita and having a bad attitude (initially) and how her perspective changed with time
Being intentional about how you work and it creating a “labor of love”
The higher levels of mental care needed in Wichita
Being willing to pick up the phone and respond to messages because it’s hard to ask for help and not get a response
How mental health trends are changing in our culture
We need more community instead of technology

Learn more about SOMA Therapy:

https://somawichita.com/

Jenny Helms-Calvin, Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT), is a passionate and ambitious business owner. She founded and owns SOMA Therapy, the largest mental health practice in Kansas with over 50 mental health providers and growing. She and her husband, Kyle, also recently acquired New Perspectives, another Wichita mental health practice that has been in Wichita for 10 years and has ~20 mental health providers. She also enjoys spreading mental health and trauma awareness on social media, and has a TikTok following of 230K+ subscribers.

Her areas of interest & advocacy include: relationship trauma, self-worth, eating disorders, and mental health in the workplace and for high performers.

Other Resources:

https://www.wichitachamber.org/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Faithful Investment in People (Joy Eakins - 2023 Chamber Chair)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

With 2023 upon us, incoming Chamber Chair Joy Eakins is challenging the business community to make faithful investments in people. She shares her vision for this year with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

How Joy was invited to participate more and more in the Chamber
Finding great people to be supported by
The generous investment that Wichitans make in each other
Creating a dashboard to measure progress in the Wichita business community
Setting a strategic plan to address the new challenges businesses face
2023 Chair’s lunch at Intrust Bank Arena

Learn more about the Chamber in 2023:

2023 Chamber Chair’s Lunch

In 2008, Joy Eakins founded what would later become known as Cornerstone Data. With a multi-disciplinary background in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Theological Studies, Joy was uniquely positioned to view data science in light of the people and organizations that produced it. The company was created to provide such a bridge. Joy honed her programming, database, and analytical skills at Milliman, ICB Consulting, Bell Labs/Lucent Technologies and Avaya.

Joy is a champion of education, Joy served on the Wichita School Board from 2013 to 2018. She was recently education chair of FlagshipKansas.Tech, an organization promoting Kansas’ technology Industry. She has served as a Chamber Board member since 2016 and is the current Board Chair.

Other Resources:

Joy Eakins - Cornerstone Data (Episode 21)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Providing Help in the Workplace (Stacey Winter - empac) [rebroadcast]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

While we all get ready for the new year, take a listen to one of our favorite episodes from 2022. We spend much of our daily time in the workplace. Often, that is where it’s easiest to see that our friends and colleagues need support and help. Empac CEO Stacey Winter shares with Don and Ebony how her EAP brings that help directly to businesses. On this episode we discuss:

Loving your life and loving your work
How an Employee Assistance Program works
The origin of EAPs in Wichita
Pivoting support services during the pandemic
How culture allows Empac to stay healthy
Helping supervisors and managers deal with mental health issues
Starting an EAP in your business

Learn more about Empac:

https://empac-eap.com/

Stacey Winter received her Master of Science in Family Therapy from Friends University in 1996. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Stacey spent much of her career in the child welfare system.

As a clinician and as CEO of empac, Stacey assists individuals, couples, families and groups through counseling, training, coaching, and consulting. Throughout her work, Stacey has focused on organizational health, building and maintaining effective teams and the impact of trauma.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Making Others Successful (Justin Eklund - Grove9 Marketing)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Valuing mission over profit
From ministry to the marketplace
Helping organizations tell stories that really matter
Standing out from the crowd in an ad-saturated world
Focusing on the one thing you can be known for to clarify your brand
Defining success through your clients success
Supporting mission driven organizations here at home
Valuing internship opportunities to grow new talent in Wichita

Learn more about Grove9:

Other Resources:

Wichita Eagle Article

https://www.tandemcyber.co/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Delivering Value in Unexpected Places (Tevin Manuel - Tandem Cyber)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Tevin Manual has had a clear vision for his future for a long time, and he’s out here chasing it with Tandem Cyber Operations. He explores his past with Don and Ebony and how it led him to provide services to schools and universities to fulfill an unmet requirement. On this episode we discuss:

How certifications are more valuable than degrees
Starting his first company as a mental health break in 2016
How setting goals in the 3rd grade launched Tevin on his path
Serving schools and universities who don’t have dedicated cybersecurity personnel, but are regulated need it
Being proactive v. reactive
Cybersecurity insurance, it really is a thing
A blend of the big-city and tight community in Wichita
Wichita talent is so much more than just aircraft
Inspired by Andrew Gough at Reverie Coffee Roasters (Episode #54) and Groover Labs
The value of a “throw away” account
Trying something new with a 4-day work week

Learn more about Tandem Cyber Operations:

Tandem was founded to solve midwest cybersecurity problems and now serves organizations across the US. We know that traditional cybersecurity offerings are expensive and unreachable to many companies and we want to change that. By offering reasonable rates for high quality service, we help make your security in the cyber world attainable.

‍Cyber threats are continuing to grow daily and organizations need to start preparing their defenses today. There is a large need for security work in higher education institutions. Meeting that need not only helps the schools but builds your teams knowledge and orients us to help you better.

Other Resources:

https://www.forgepodcast.co/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Accidental Entrepreneur (Bryan Steele - Forge Podcast Co.) - 100th EPISODE!!!!

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

100TH EPISODE! For this special occasion, we are putting our producer behind the microphone. How do you accidentally become an entrepreneur? Bryan Steele will tell you it happens one day at a time. He talks with Don and Ebony how the creation of Forge Podcast Co. was a long journey that he never saw coming. On this episode we discuss:

Falling backwards into podcasting over a love of basketball
Learning what you need to know on the fly
Seeing an opportunity to add value into the market
Solving technical challenges for others so they can focus on adding value
How podcasts fill a unique space in the content creation marketplace
The different ways to measure success with a podcast
What causes Bryan to turn off a podcast
How a small business culture is a reflection of the founder
Bryan tries to turn the tables on Don and Ebony
How being an entrepreneur is an inherently creative endeavor
What makes a podcast good or bad
The essence of a business: a skill, a need, a promise fulfilled

Learn more about Forge Podcast Co.:

Forge Podcast Co. founder Bryan Steele didn’t set out to be an entrepreneur. It just kind of happened. After several years of producing music, he started helping out with a podcast on Wichita State basketball, mostly just because he likes Wichita State basketball. As he developed the systems around producing this podcast, he couldn’t help but think that other businesses and organizations might benefit from this expertise. When the pandemic hit and forced a 7-week furlough from his day job, Bryan took this as a sign and launched the Forge Podcast Company. Now, just over 2 years on this solopreneur journey he continues to help others launch and manage their podcasts while taking care of the details so that the hosts and creators can focus on delivering amazing content to their audience.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

When Outsourcing Makes Sense (Bill Maness - Syndeo)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

When Bill Maness was fired from his sales job over disagreements about what it meant to support clients, he likely did not expect to see Syndeo, his own business, one day celebrating its 20th anniversary. He shares with Don and Ebony his thoughts on service, outsourcing and the value the Chamber provides to local businesses. On this episode we discuss:

How he chose to operate a service oriented business
Prioritizing customer service
Getting fired over disagreements with others
How Wichita was a fertile market for outsourced HR
Helping others focus on their actual business
Becoming an ally or friend in business
The culture at the core of Syndeo
Creating efficiency through outsourcing
Being unique in a marketplace
How the Chamber represents Wichita businesses
Keeping it in the family

Learn more about Syndeo:

https://syndeohro.com/

Headquartered in Wichita, Kan., Syndeo is a regional leader and an independently owned human resources company. The Syndeo family of companies is made up of: Syndeo Outsourcing, a full-service human resources outsourcing (HRO) provider and Syndeo Staffing, a full-service recruiting and staffing services provider.

While all these options are available to companies, these branches of Syndeo provide targeted solutions for every client. In fact, we provide more services and programs in the field of human resources for each client than any other competitor in the state of Kansas.

In addition, we are an Employer Services Assurance Corporation (ESAC) accredited professional employer. This ensures compliance with government regulations and important industry standards.

Over the years, Syndeo has developed unprecedented expertise in the region’s diverse economy. We understand what works for Kansas businesses.

Bill started Syndeo Outsourcing in July 2002 with one other employee and seven clients that consisted of 300 worksite employees combined. Bill launched his own business because he didnt like the level of service that was being delivered by his former employer. Syndeo has grown steadily since its inception, has more than 50 employees, and serves more than 150 small and medium-sized businesses across the region. Under Bill's leadership, Syndeo has become an industry leader across the U.S. and a model by which other companies measure themselves. Bill is the board chair for the Employer Services Assurance Corporation, the co-chair of NAPEO Gives Back Committee and vice president of the Kansas Golf Foundation board. He recently completed a four-year term as a board member of the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations.

Other Resources:

Syndeo Named to National HR List for 3rd Straight Year (article)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

LIVE from the 2022 Business Expo!

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

For this very special episode of the WCBA, Don and Ebony were live at the 2022 Wichita Chamber Business Expo meeting lots of people on the red carpet. On this episode we met with:

Chris French - Cox Business
Bethan Johnson - South Central Kansas Economic Development District (SCKEDD)
John Schwartz - Wichita Shredding
Tara Clary - High Touch Technologies
Chris Batcheller - CheckSix Creative Studios
Nicole Williams - NCredibly Sweet
Ben Sauceda - Kansas Aviation Museum
Van Williams - Youth Horizons
Marilyn Lee - Scott Rice Promotional Products
Jennifer McDonald - Jenny Dawn Cellars

These interviews took place on September 29th, 2022 at the Wichita Chamber Business Expo at Century II in downtown Wichita. Be sure to make plans to attend the next Business Expo in 2023!

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Creating a Youth Movement in Financial Services (Margaret Dechant - 6 Meridian)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

The financial services industry finds itself with an aging workforce, but Margaret Dechant and 6 Meridian are focused on bringing a youth movement to their business. Join her as she shares her story with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Finding a passion for the financial industry at Bank Four
Relieving financial stress for clients
Starting from nothing when creating a new firm
Having a business plan but being willing to adjust
Finding a solution for the aging workforce in the financial services industry
Is it the Wolf of Wall Street out there?
How to handle things when the market is this volatile
What is day trading? Is it effective?
How to approach new innovations like cryptocurrency

Learn more about the 6 Meridian:

https://6meridian.com/

Margaret Dechant is Chief Executive Officer and Partner of 6 Meridian LLC, an investment and advisory firm based in Wichita, Kansas. Often credited as the visionary of the 6 Meridian team, Margaret has earned the informal title of "people architect." Her ability to connect with individuals and harness their respective strengths is uncanny. And her passion for service is unmatched.

In September of 2016, Margaret and 6 other Partners successfully broke away from Morgan Stanley to launch their RIA firm, 6 Meridian LLC. In less than six months, the team of 13 had reestablished all business operations and successfully transitioned $2B in assets. Within 4 years, 6 Meridian had grown to a team of 25 and $3B in assets.

Margaret has spent her entire career working with high net worth clients and managing financial professionals in both the banking and brokerage arenas. Previously, Margaret was Executive Vice President of the Commerce Trust Company and Senior Vice President and Wealth Advisor with Bank of America Private Bank advising some of the bank's top clients. In addition, Margaret holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.

Margaret has volunteered time for many organizations including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas, Youth Entrepreneurs, and The Kansas Humane Society. She has also served as a mentor for young professionals and has been a featured panelist for a number of career mentoring and leadership events. In 2014 recognized as one of Wichita's Top Women in Business, in 2017 was selected for the Wichita Business Journal Hall of Fame and is an alumni of Leadership Wichita. On the national level, Private Asset Management awarded 6 Meridian the Women in Wealth Advocate of the Year- Firm Level 2021. An award presented to a firm and its leadership that best promotes diversity within the organization as well as creating a unique approach to serving women clientele and their families.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

From the Stage to the Boardroom (Maddie Butler - Kent Audio Visual)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Maddie Butler thought she would be on tour with her background in theater productions. But she has found herself running a wide variety of events with Kent Audio Visual. She shares with Don and Ebony how her career led her here and how Wichita has been the perfect place to grow. On this episode we discuss:

The role of the General Manager
How Maddie transitioned from performing arts to corporate audio visual
The types of events that Kent AV executes
Starting in inventory management and front admin
Focusing on the well-being of employees
If we want the community to invest in us, we have to invest in the community
Woman-owned and woman-operated AV company in a male-dominated industry
How the Chamber creates bridges between businesses
What it should mean to shop local

Learn more about Kent Audio Visual:

http://www.kentav.com/

Maddie Butler is a Wichita, Kansas native, with a passion for advancing her community and redefining her industry. Since 2017, she has served as the General Manager and Operations Director for Kent Audio Visual. Maddie originally started her career in the theatrical arts. She obtained her Theatrical Degree in Lighting Design and Management from Wichita State University. After many years of freelancing, she switched from a life of theater to pursue a career in the corporate audio visual industry. When Maddie is not at work, or participating in board service, she loves spending time with her three Miniature Schnauzers and husband participating in all things local.

Other Resources:

https://thehivewichita.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

A Community to Build Women-Owned Businesses (Andrea Hattan - The Hive)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Being a 5th generation entrepreneur
All the coworking spaces seemed to be men in the tech industry
Creating a “coffee shop” model that helps women have their own space to do business
Collaborating toward a common goal while allowing members to have a safe space they can be vulnerable
Creating a community from scratch while others watched and cheered her on
Opening up in March of 2020
How Wichita became cool before she came home
Receiving the Exceptional Young Leader award from the Chamber
Creating business courses to help women launch their own businesses
Finding opportunities to get women paid for public speaking

Learn more about The Hive:

Other Resources:

https://cheris-bakery.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

No One Else Can Own This Business (Kalee Rose & Marisa McCall - Cheri's Bakery)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

When an opportunity to buy the bakery they had been working at for years presented itself, Kalee Rose and Marisa McCall told themselves they were the only ones who could take over. They share about their leap into entrepreneurship with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Kalee and Marisa’s favorite treats
Their biggest pain point as new entrepreneurs
Coming from culinary and art backgrounds
Who makes the best cake decorators
Overcoming the fear to get started
Constantly being creative to meet their customers needs
Creating a network through the Chamber
Deciding they didn’t want to work for anyone else

Learn more about Cheri’s Bakery:

Kalee and Marisa are Co-Owners of Cheri's Bakery. They specialize in custom cake and cookies and also have a full line of bakery products such as pies, muffins, brownies etc.

They were both long time employees of the bakery (Kalee 15 years, Marisa 11 years, and had very different paths that got them to the bakery). In the summer of 2021 Cheri decided to retire and they purchased the bakery together.

Other Resources:

https://kansashealth.org/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Health, Equity and the Local Economy (Ed O'Malley - Kansas Health Foundation)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Improving the health of all Kansans
How Kansas was one of the healthiest states, but has slipped dramatically over the last 30 years
How health is a “super-measure”
Tools a business can use for assessing employee health
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: fighting to keep it from being political
Making Wichita a place to attract diverse talent from across the country
Can debate how DEI is done, but it must be done
The Chamber on the front lines
How do we not politicize and engage in meaningful conversations?
The key is found in trusting others
As employers, are we dismantling systemic inequities?
Winning on health means winning across the board

Learn more about the Kansas Health Foundation:

Other Resources:

https://agents.farmers.com/ks/wichita/jose-gutierrez

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

From Teaching to Doing (Jose Gutierrez - Gutierrez Agency Inc.)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

For many years, Jose Gutierrez has helped train and develop other Farmers Insurance agents. But after all that time he felt the pull and bought his own agency one year ago. He shares that journey with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Moving from coach and trainer as a district manager to being a business owner
The importance of having a personal relationship with your insurance provider
Coming to Wichita from western Kansas
Showing everyone else how to be an entrepreneur and being inspired by what he was teaching others
Success is doing the right thing for those you serve
Don’t be a sideline member, get involved in the community
How Jose has been involved with the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber
Helping small businesses with their insurance needs and filling the gaps they aren’t aware of
The value of being in Wichita
Starting a new business begins with truly understanding
The local power couple who inspires Jose all the time

Learn more about Gutierrez Agency Inc.:

Jose has a Bachelor of Science in business management and completed his Masters of Science in business management from Friends University.

Other Resources:

40 Under 40: Jose Gutierrez (article)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Moving (and talking) Fast in the Auction Business (Megan McCurdy Niedens - McCurdy Auction)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

As an auctioneer, Megan McCurdy Niedens is used to talking fast, but when COVID hit and live events shut down she had to pivot McCurdy Auction fast in a way to serve their clients. She shares with Don and Ebony how that has created new growth and opportunity. On this episode we discuss:

Auctioneering as a family business
Why auctions create an advantage for the seller
Shedding the stereotypes around auctions (distress, divorce and death)
Working in the business as children
Business lessons from her father
Shifting into real estate over the years
Rapid movement into online auctions during the COVID shutdown
Auction watch parties
How succession planning isn’t just about family
Other real estate businesses adding auction components: competition or validation?
Serving others

Learn more about McCurdy Auction:

https://www.mccurdy.com/

A highly accomplished auctioneer, Megan is a third generation auctioneer who grew up in the industry and won the title of 2013 International Auctioneer Champion, Women’s Division. As champion, Megan served as an Ambassador for the National Auctioneers Association, traveling throughout the country representing the auction industry and training other auctioneers. She is also the only female real estate auctioneer in the city of Wichita.

Megan is known for her outgoing personality, outstanding customer service, strong attention to detail and ensuring positive experiences for all parties of the transaction. Working in every facet of the industry Megan has made a high level commitment to her real estate auction education, having been mentored and coached by several of the most highly successful and acclaimed auctioneers and real estate agents.

She also leads the personal property and benefit auction divisions. Megan holds the prestigious Certified Auctioneers Institute (CAI) and the Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) designations from the National Auctioneers Association’s Education Institute. In 2014, she was a recipient of the Wichita Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 honors.

Founded in 1982, McCurdy has grown into one of the leading auction firms in the country.

Made up of nearly 30 real estate, marketing, legal and accounting professionals — we offer the experience and expertise to perform every task necessary for your real estate and personal property needs. Conducting nearly 700 auctions last year alone, we have built an efficient, proven system for successfully selling and obtaining optimal prices for our clients. No matter how challenging.

Other Resources:

https://bodybarpilates.com/studios/eastwichita/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Finding New Business Concepts Outside Wichita (Kalene Hoffman - BodyBar Pilates)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

While she started in the corporate world, Kalene Hoffman always had a desire to bring new businesses to Wichita. In 2011 she used her passion for healthy living to start launching businesses over the years. She shares her journey with Don and Ebony and talks about her latest endeavor, BodyBar Pilates. On this episode we discuss:

Kalene’s background in mathematics
Becoming a serial entrepreneur
Building from scratch or opening a franchise
A passion for health and developing others
Seeing opportunities and concepts that Wichita doesn’t have
Regrets from the COVID shutdown
Can balance every truly be achieved?
Member appreciation on October 23rd at Chicken and Pickle
How her circle of friends serve as inspiration and accountability
Not shying away from an entrepreneurial calling

Learn more about BodyBar Pilates:

Kalene graduated from Wichita State University with a Mathematics degree and Newman University with a Masters in Business. She has a deep passion for health and fitness which led her to entrepreneurship. In 2011 she opened her first business, GoTimeTraining - a boutique fitness studio. Since then she has opened a luxury hair salon, owned residential and commercial real estate and her newest venture is Bodybar Pilates. She is on a mission to help others live a healthy lifestyle.

Other Resources:

BodyBar Pilates on Good Day Kansas (video)

https://www.friendsofmcconnell.org

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Friends of McConnell (Mike Heldstab and Capt. Ryan "Sugar" Shieve)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

It’s been 4 years since there was an air show at McConnell AFB, but now Frontiers in Flight is back! So we thought this would be a great time to highlight that event and share about the economic impact of McConnell AFB on our local community. Don and Ebony are joined by Mike Heldstab and Capt. Ryan “Sugar” Shieve. On this episode we discuss:

How does McConnell AFB impact our local community economically?
What is “Friends of McConnell” and how does it work?
Keeping military talent in Wichita
How pilots get their call signs
Partnerships with the W young professionals organization through Mission Wichita
All the airshow events and static displays that you can check out (there is a lot)
The parking situation
What to bring / leave at home
Oh yeah, did we mention that the air show is FREE!?!?!?!

Learn moreabout Friends of McConnell / Frontiers in Flight:

https://www.frontiersinflight.com/

Mike has brought years of experience in working with our nation’s military and McConnell Air Force Base as he previously served as State Military Liaison for United States Senator Jerry Moran.

During his time working for Senator Moran, Mike worked diligently to connect with each Kansas military installation and its leaders. His experience in this area and others will allow the Chamber to continue in its long-standing partnership with McConnell Air Force Base and the military units based there, as well as reinforce the base’s economic impact on our region.

Mike is currently an Honorary Commander for the 22nd Communications Squadron. He has volunteered with the Kansas National Guard Foundation, Humanities Kansas, the Kansas Association for Youth, and the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge. Mike is an alumnus of the Chamber Leadership Academy, Mission Wichita and Leadership Wichita.

Originally oraganized in the 1960’s to provide financial support for a variety of non-budgeted items, the group initially consisted of ten non-budgeted items, the group initially consisted of ten civic leaders who each stepped forward with a $1,000 donation. During the 1990s the Friends of McConnell’s visibility on Base increased and it became the key link for the Wichita and Derby for Base commanders – active duty, reserve and guard. More recently the organization expanded to encompass Andover, Haysville, and Mulvane and became the vital link between regional business and military. The group supports activities and programs on Base which expands awareness of the local military asset throughout the region and state.

The Friends of McConnell is a select group of area business leaders and citizens dedicated to developing a strong social and economic link between McConnell’s senior military leaders and their civilian counterparts. The Friends of McConnell expresses both pride and appreciation for Team McConnell by providing organization and financial support for Base programs that directly benefit airmen and their families.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

From the Garage to SpaceX (Jorge Martinez & Patty Koehler - JR Custom Metal Products)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Jesus Raul Martinez Sr. starting in the garage in 1978
Always wanting to start his own business
Partnering with Spirit and SpaceX
Selling during the factory tour
Not focusing on a single industry
How being Hispanic flows through their company culture
Working with technical and trade schools for talent acquisition
Being a second chance for employees
The mentorship of Sam Marcus
Being a family oriented (as well as owned) business
Remembering where you came from
The key of automation
Building businesses in Wichita

Learn more about JR Custom Metal Products:

Other Resources:

https://www.marykateandco.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Using Your Trials to Forge Culture (Mary Kate - Mary Kate and Company)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

What happens when your business finances are in disorder, the IRS is coming after you and a negative article just came out in the press? Many would fold in that situation, but Mary Kate Denton regrouped with her team and shares with Don and Ebony how that forged a culture of thriving at Mary Kate and Company. On this episode we discuss:

Her sister, “Company”
Having a different kind of salon
Never having to recruit new hires
Forging ahead through financial headwinds
Dealing with painful lessons in business
Culture created through the refining process
Being a “giving” company
Having the “Norm” factor
Stepping away from the day-to-day to lead the business
Structuring the business so that one person’s success is everyone’s success

Learn more about Mary Kate and Company:

Other Resources:

https://www.theboutique5.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Creating Community as a Serial Entrepreneur (Alexus Scott - Boutique 5 Stationary & Petite Gifts)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Alexus Scott has a passion to create businesses as she constantly looks for ways to engage and build community. She shares with Don and Ebony how the love of paper products led to Boutique 5 Stationary & Petite Gifts (and the creatives who join her there). On this episode we discuss:

Being a serial entrepreneur
Where the love of paper came from
How a boss encouraged her to spread her wings
Working by faith to create something new
Partnering with artists and creatives
Giving yourself grace
The Grace Creators Academy
Getting rid of fear
How Wichita is fertile for business
Wanting to partner with large corporations

Learn more about Boutique 5 Stationary and Petite Gifts:

Alexus Scott, M. Ed. is the exceptional entrepreneurial mind behind Boutique 5 Stationery & Petite Gifts, the Executive Director of Queens 4 Christ, and the author of Never Underestimate an Incidental Encounter, a book that inspires faith in higher education while addressing the passion within.

Alexus is a strategic goal-oriented woman who enjoys mentoring women and small businesses, advocating for K-16 education, and doing management consulting through her company Bridge + Grace to help people grow. She earned a master’s degree in educational psychology from Wichita State University and has a background in higher education student affairs.

Achievements and certifications include being nominated and/or awarded for the 2022 Women in Business Awards; Wichita Business Journal, W’s Choice Award for Small Business, W’s Distinguished Young Professionals Award, W’s Innovation in Business Award, 2022 Small Business Awards Finalist through the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce, 2021 Wichita Business Journal Diversity and Inclusion Award, 2021 Higher Education Leadership Certification, Martha Stewart’s Living Magazine Stationery Standouts, and so much more!

She is committed to achieving results for clients to engage with their passions through business, education, and faith all while holding the 2022 Miss ICT pageant title where she competed at Miss Kansas USA and received honorable mention during her pursuit.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The Art of Coffee (Sarah Leslie - Leslie Coffee Co.)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Creating the third space
Discovering the art of coffee as a barista
Starting out in New York City
How to make latte art
The community refrigerator
Sarah’s approach to re-opening during the pandemic
Valuing your baristas
Having a community of support
The continuing growth of the Delano area
Winning the Wichita Small Business Award

Learn more about Leslie Coffee:

https://lesliecoffee.co/

Other Resources:

Best Coffee Shops in America (article)
Winning the Wichita Small Business Award (video)

https://www.heysoteria.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Cybersecurity Isn't a Buzzword (Bill Ramsey - Soteria Technology Solutions)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

You hear about cybersecurity on the news, but it’s hard for it to seem like anything more than a buzzword. Bill Ramsey, co-founder of Soteria Technology Solutions, breaks down with Don and Ebony how cybersecurity can impact any business On this episode we discuss:

Cybersecurity certifications and gap analysis
Being a serial entrepreneur
Creating a different kind of IT company
The danger of ransomware on any business
The #1 weakest point in any network
How Bill thinks about his personal and work life
Hiring the right people for your culture
EOS - Entrepreneurial operating system
How the Wichita Business Expo has helped his business grow
Always looking for opportunities to expand

Learn more about Soteria Technology Solutions:

Bill Ramsey is CEO and co-founder of Soteria Technology Solutions, a fast-growing IT firm that serves companies in Wichita, Kansas, and throughout the Midwest. He has more than twenty years of experience as an expert in IT for small and medium businesses and the US Navy.

Bill and his team at Soteria have always held a compliance mindset. Early in his career, Bill served as IT Director and HIPAA Security Officer for Halstead Hospital and Hertzler Clinic during the Y2K debacle and the initial years of HIPAA implementation in the early 2000s.

In 2001, he founded The Bill Guy Technology Solutions, one of several entrepreneurial enterprises Bill built, grew and sold. With more than two decades of compliance experience, Bill knows that IT professionals must have a “compliance + cybersecurity” mindset to succeed in a competitive marketplace. It’s what sets Soteria Technology Solutions apart from other MSPs.

Bill was a two-time finalist for the Chamber Small Business of the Year and was awarded SBA Small Business Person of the Year for Kansas. After surviving two strokes by the time he was 33 years old due to a congenital heart condition, Bill knows the value of living every day to the fullest.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Making Social Media Work for Your Business (Krissy Buck - WSU Tech)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Does your online presence need an upgrade? Krissy Buck, Program Director of Digital Marketing at WSU Tech joins the show to talk all things social media and digital presence. Hosts Don and Ebony pepper Krissy with questions aimed to help you optimize your digital marketing efforts in a way that will grow your reach to potential customers. On this episode we discuss:

Diving into the digital media world
The unique career journey Krissy has followed
The goal of the digital marketing program at WSU Tech
Finding your customers online
The importance of the customer journey
Some basic keys to SEO for your website and YouTube
Being effective at content creation
The types of videos that people prefer online
How often should you sell to your customers through Social Media?
Using all the digital tools that are available to you
How often you should be posting
Serving others online in order to grow
Highlighting user generated content
How social media influencers are bridging the gap between brands and customers
Leveraging a chat bot effectively
The flywheel approach to transitioning followers to customers
The Accept / Seek / Go approach
The value of building an online community
The biggest mistake she sees small businesses make online

Learn more about WSU Tech:

WSU Tech is a different kind of college, changing lives by training people for high-wage, high-demand jobs. We work hand-in-hand with employers to determine their job needs now and into the future so our students graduate with the right skills. The WSU Tech Digital Marketing Program provides graduates with the skills necessary to succeed in the specialized realm of digital marketing. The program coursework combines traditional marketing skills with the specialized technical skills required to develop first-class digital marketing content. Topics include digital strategy, web development, and analytics as well as digital marketing buys, multimedia creation, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM) techniques.

Krissy is a digital marketing educator in higher ed. She is a speaker that teaches businesses how to build online communities around their brand. She is an experienced Social Media Strategist with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Strong marketing professional with an Associate's Degree focused in Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design from Butler Community College.

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

https://getquickhire.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Tech Startup with Zero Tech Experience (Deborah Gladney / Angela Muhwezi-Hall - QuickHire) [rebroadcast]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

When sisters Deborah Gladney and Angela Muhwezi-Hall saw a need for the workers and employers in the service industry, they didn’t let their lack of tech knowledge hold them back from starting QuickHire. They share with hosts Don and Ebony how their tenacity led them to create a tech startup that is on the rise. On this episode we discuss:

Starting a tech company with no tech background
How the pandemic was the catalyst to start the business
Dignity of work in the service industry
The old tech way service jobs were filled
Being a bootstrapped startup
The lie of “Day 0 Funding” in capital raising
Being a minority in the tech industry

Learn more about QuickHire:

Deborah and Angela are sisters and the co-founders of QuickHire - a career discovery marketplace for the service economy. In April of 2021, QuickHire officially launched with Gladney and Muhwezi-Hall as, respectively, CEO and COO. With its current emphasis on the retail, restaurant and hospitality industries, the app went live just in time to help local businesses find enthusiastic workers amid a nationwide labor shortage. So far, QuickHire has attracted more than 12,000 jobseekers and listings from 70 local businesses.

Deborah Gladney (CEO): Entrepreneur with more than a decade of experience designing communication strategies and programs. Deborah has managed stakeholder engagement, media relations, reputation/issues management and strategic positioning for a host of organizations in a variety of environments, including agency, corporate and nonprofit.

Angela Muhwezi-Hall (COO): Seasoned career and educational advisement professional with nearly a decade of experience helping people discover and advance in their careers. Prior to QuickHire, Angela ran various career programs at some of the nation's top institutions, including the University of Southern California.

Other Resources:

Wichita Sisters Become First Black Women in Kansas to Raise $1M for Startup (article)
AfroTech Article on Raising $1M (article)
People Starting Businesses During Pandemic (video)
Startups to Watch in 2022 (article)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Website Building Superhero (Marisa VanSkiver - Captain Coder)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

From a lover of comics to creating her own business, Marisa VanSkiver (aka Captain Coder) has been on the forefront of everything digital marketing. She talks with Don and Ebony about how a great website is the foundation of marketing a successful business. On this episode we discuss:

Building cool websites, the foundation of marketing a business
The nickname her love of comics created
Driving traffic to your website and business
The importance of effective copywriting
Focusing on your customers with your website
Coding since the age of 13
Being a female developer amongst teams of men
Building an e-mail list
The danger of focusing solely on social media
Connecting to the people behind a brand

Learn more about Captain Coder:

https://captcoder.com/

Marisa has been working in marketing since she was 18 and fresh out of high school. She has been a developer, a Reputation Manager (yay online reviews!), a ghost-writing blogger, a copywriter, social media manager, and a digital ads strategist. She knows the digital marketing world because she’s been in almost every facet of it.

Other Resources:

http://method-productions.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Art, Passion and Entrepreneurship (Rik Dubiel & Gabe Juhnke - Method Productions)

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

When Gabe Juhnke and Rik Dubiel left KPTS to start their own video production company, Method, they wanted to stand out. They share with Don and Ebony how they help businesses who don’t have Hollywood budgets. On this episode we discuss:

The trial by fire at KPTS
How art and passion fit into entrepreneurship
Finding an underserved market
Why launching a business in Wichita is great
The necessity of creating video content
Competing when everyone has a pretty great video camera on their phone
Growing the local business community

Learn more about Method Productions:

Luis Rodriguez podcast episode

In 2012, after a decade of producing for KPTS, now PBS Kansas, and other organizations, Gabe Juhnke and Rik Dubiel founded Method. Bringing award winning experience that combines design, live action, animation, live streaming and visual effects to agencies, brands and businesses large and small.

In 2014, Method became thirds with the addition of Luis Rodriguez. He really needs no introduction and is no stranger to this podcast. Regardless of the size or scope of the project, together, we find a solution. We are open, collaborative and use our collective experience and technical knowledge to create meaningful and compelling content for all mediums. Idea on a storyboard, cocktail napkin, or just rattling around in your head? Method knows: It's all part of the process. And we have been doing that for AARP, American Heart Association, Wichita Chamber, Gardner Design, 6 Meridian, Vornado, Keycentrix, Kansas Leadership Center, Wichita Art Museum, Viega, Bunting Magnetics, SKT, NXTUS, Kansas Center of Osteopathic Medicine, Rise Against Hunger, Delta Dental... the list really does go on and on.

Other Resources:

https://keystonesolidsurfaces.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Cyle Barnwell - Keystone Solid Surfaces

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

When Cyle Barnwell went to help the previous owner of Keystone Solid Surfaces sell his business he had no idea he would eventually buy the business with his best friend. He shares his story with Don and Ebony on transitioning from accountant to entrepreneur. On this episode we discuss:

The role of good mentors
Moving the business from Benton to 16th and Wabash
Involvement in the community
The importance of a partner who provides strengths in your areas of weakness
Massive growth over three years
When he knew he was ready to switch to being a business owner
Taking care of your employees
Supply chain and inflation challenges
Community, craftsmanship and integrity
Small businesses must ask for help, others are willing
The best advice Cyle has received and what he would tell his younger self

Learn more about Keystone Solid Surfaces:

Cyle grew up in Emporia, Kansas and graduated from Emporia High school. He came to Wichita to play basketball at Newman University in 2005 and played until 2009. He received his degree in accounting and worked for Grant Thornton, BKD, Koch Industries, and Redguard in various financials and accounting roles.

Cyle always had entrepreneurial spirit and in 2017 a deal came across his desk to purchase Keystone Solid Surfaces. He was able to convince his best friend (childhood friends since age 6 or 7) to come in and be part owner of Keystone. Cyle handles the finance, tax, sales side of the business and his handles operations, machining and tooling.

When they purchased Keystone they inherited 10-12 employees and a 10,000 sq ft shop in Benton KS. In less than 5 years in business they have grown 500% in revenue, employees and space.

They now have a 50,000 sq ft facility in downtown Wichita and nearly 60 employees. They just added a division in Kansas City and fabricate and install countertops all over the Great state of Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.

Other Resources:

https://heartland-derm.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Tim Young - Heartland Dermatology

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 06 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Tim Young came in as a consultant but stayed on as a CEO with Heartland Dermatology. He shares his story with Don and Ebony on transforming the business and serving the community. On this episode we discuss:

90 days to set the course for the future
Seeing an opportunity in an underserved area
The growth of the aesthetics industry since COVID
Helping others see how they contribute to the success of the business
Culture as the unwritten expression of an organization acting out its core beliefs
What you celebrate reveals your culture
Improving engagement across the company
Meeting the needs of the rural community

Learn more about the Heartland Dermatology:

Tim has worked in the healthcare industry for more than 20 years. He has expertise in organizational strategic planning and implementation, executive leadership development, and many others. He is passionate about improving healthcare and the quality of life for our communities.

Heartland Dermatology is proud to offer our patients access to some of the best dermatologic providers in the entire state. Whether you’re looking for medical, surgical or cosmetic dermatology, their team of passionate skin health professionals are standing by to learn about your goals. They have been serving Western and Central Kansas families since 1977 with offices in Salina, Hays, Great Bend, Newton, Dodge City, Concordia, McPherson, Wichita, and El Dorado.

Other Resources:

https://shakenorstirredbartending.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Patrick Pelkowski - Shaken or Stirred Bartending

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

An Air Force and Air Traffic Controller background brought Pat to Wichita
Getting a degree in entrepreneurship and looking for that opportunity
Bartending as a side gig
Creating a business from the ground up, business plans, market studies and more
Worrying more about creating good events than profit
Receiving the Small Business Award from the Chamber
Getting a new building to increase capacity and support growth
Adding bar trucks (Tipsy Turtle and Mobiletini)
The importance of being involved in the Chamber of Commerce
Giving back to the community and the military at McConnell

Learn more about the Shaken or Stirred Bartending:

Shaken or Stirred Bartending has been in business since 2015 and we anticipate no end to our evolution as the premier mobile bartending service of Wichita and surrounding communities!

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Tasha Parker - Institute of Development

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Tasha Parker loves community psychology so much that she thinks everyone should get involved. She shares with Don and Ebony the pivot she made in December to create the Institute of Development. On this episode we discuss:

Making changes and creating a new business
Finding something where you can see the efficiency build
Helping non-profits maximize their impact
Getting introductions through the Chamber
How success means helping others better

Learn more about the Institute of Development:

https://iodict.com/

Dr. Tasha Parker earned her MPA and MSW from Wichita State University and graduated in May 2022 with her Ph.D in Community Psychology. Dr. Parker is fairly new to the evaluation world after spending the last 12 years practicing clinically and focusing on trauma treatment and program and policy improvement for service delivery. She believes evaluation is essential to capacity building in organizations and a key ingredient to bridging the gap between sustainability and service outcomes. Her expertise is in trauma and resiliency informed systems with special interest in ACEs, prevention, criminal and social justice, and diversity and inclusion.

Her training and experience as a clinician, community psychologist, and in public administration give her a unique skill set and ability to navigate complex systems. She believes that in order to resolve social problems, we must accurately assess and define all contributing factors.

Institute of Development aims to address social issues using applied research methods, while bridging the gap between sustainability and service. IOD provides a variety of different services through partnering and collaborating with organizations to support sustainable and effective outcomes.

Other Resources:

http://www.opticologyeyecare.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dr. Greyson Barger - Opticology Eyecare

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Cold starts in the medical field are intimidating and challenging. Dr. Greyson Barger did just that with Opticology Eyecare, and he shares with Don and Ebony how he went from doing everything himself to recently moving into a new building to handle the growth. On this episode we discuss:

Moving into a new building
The path to becoming an optometrist
Delegating and micro-managing
Starting a business from the ground up
Having a desire to create something new
Doing everything yourself in the beginning
How early should babies get their first eye exam?
Eye strain and damage from screen time
Cataracts appearing early for some
The value in networking with others, even those outside your industry

Learn more about Opticology Eyecare:

Dr. Greyson Barger grew up in Sedgwick, KS, and graduated from Sedgwick High School. He received his Bachelors of Science from Bethel College and earned his Doctorate of Optometry from the Illinois College of Optometry located in Chicago, Illinois.

Dr. Barger has trained in a variety of clinical settings including Jamaica Plain VA in Boston, MA, Commonwealth Eye Surgery in Lexington, KY, and at several university-affiliated clinics in the Chicago, IL area. These varied experiences have given him a well rounded clinical background and excellent experience with the management of eye changes caused by diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Dr. Barger has also had extensive experience with pre and post-operative care of cataract and refractive surgery (LASIK) patients. Dr. Barger has also had extensive training in pediatrics and vision therapy. He recommends infants receive their first exam at six months of age.

Other Resources:

https://www.keyconstruction.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dave Wells - Key Construction

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

What do you do when you don’t think someone else will hire you out of college? You start our own business and grow from there. Dave Wells shares with Don and Ebony the journey he went on with Key Construction. On this episode we discuss:

Deciding to start his own business with his brother
Making mistakes and looking for solutions
Getting kicked out of college but persisting
Never quitting
Failure leading to success
The value of Wichita
The investments and risks taken by businesses

Learn more about Key Construction:

Dave co-founded Key Construction, Inc. in 1978 with his brother Ken. The brothers started by purchasing and refurbishing homes and rental properties. After acquiring over 30 residential properties, they founded Century Property Management and branched into property management and commercial and residential remodeling work. They eventually sold Century Property Management and began to focus exclusively on commercial construction. Today Key Construction is one of the largest contractors in the state with annual sales exceeding $200 million.

Other Resources:

https://www.funfitwichita.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Renaire Palmer - Fundamental Fitness

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0500

What are you willing to give your 100% to? Renaire Palmer found this out on his journey to becoming a small business owner with Fundamental Fitness and he shares some excellent fitness tips with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Getting kicked out to start his business in a basement
The connections and getting started
The role of diet in fitness
Portion is in the palm of your hand
Helping kids with the right technique
The key is in your personal goals and understanding those
Should you weigh yourself
The recent ribbon cutting excitement

Learn more about Fundamental Fitness:

Fundamental Fitness has been changing lives all over Wichita since it was established in 2010 . We believe that fitness is not a hobby, but a way of life. We founded our gym to be the second home for all our customers. Whether you exercise every day or you’ve never stepped into a gym before, Fundamental Fitness can help shape the new you. We want to be your next workout partner.

Renaire received his undergraduate degree from Kansas State University and his graduate degree from Wichita State University. He served as the Strength and Conditioning Coach at Newman University and opened Fundamental Fitness 12 years ago in the basement of an insurance agency after Gayle Paige made the connection for him.

Other Resources:

https://www.johnsonsgarden.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Marty & Jeremy Johnson - Johnson's Garden Center

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 25 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

For four generations, Johnson’s Garden Center has been bringing beauty to Wichita through horticulture. Hear from Marty and Jeremy Johnson as they share their past and exciting future with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Starting over 90 years ago
Loving spending time in the dirt
The impact that the garden center brings to the community
The value of supporting local
Big announcement about some growth plans at Johnson’s Garden Center

Learn more about Johnson’s Garden Center:

Wichita's 4th Generation garden center started as a small fruit and vegetable stand in the 1920s on the outskirts of town at the corner of Douglas and West street in Wichita, KS. As the business grew, Harold Johnson, with his father Orie, bought 5 acres of land on west 13th street, and opened Johnson's Garden

Center. This location is still operating today! With the ever changing demands of the customers, and the surrounding neighborhood growing by leaps and bounds, Harold and Orie decided they needed to renovate and expand the current location, and finally had to add another location in the 1970s to accommodate customers on both sides of Wichita.

This second location was opened at Central and Edgemoore, and was later relocated to the current east location, near the corner of 21st and Woodlawn in the spring of 1983. In 1995, Johnson's added 2 more locations, a seasonal/flower shop in Derby (which closed in 1996), and the 802 N. Ridge Rd location that closed in 2014. Today, Johnson's continues to operate out of two locations, online, and also operate a landscape distribution center, serving landscape companies not only locally, but around the state as well.

From Marty:

I grew up in the gardening business since I was little and got Jeremy involved at a young age as well. My grandfather Orie started Johnson's as a truck farm. My father Harold joined with Orie after a career at the Post Office. I grew up in Wichita and went to Wichita North High School. I also went to Friends University and K-State and studied Horticulture and Business. Jeremy attended K-State and Wichita State and got his Masters in Business Administration at Friends University.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Stacey Winter - empac

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 18 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

We spend much of our daily time in the workplace. Often, that is where it’s easiest to see that our friends and colleagues need support and help. Empac CEO Stacey Winter shares with Don and Ebony how her EAP brings that help directly to businesses. On this episode we discuss:

Loving your life and loving your work
How an Employee Assistance Program works
The origin of EAPs in Wichita
Pivoting support services during the pandemic
How culture allows Empac to stay healthy
Helping supervisors and managers deal with mental health issues
Starting an EAP in your business

Learn more about Empac:

https://empac-eap.com/

Stacey Winter received her Master of Science in Family Therapy from Friends University in 1996. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Stacey spent much of her career in the child welfare system.

Other Resources:

https://www.hartkepresents.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Jessie & Adam Hartke - WAVE / Hartke Presents

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 11 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

No one was hit harder during the pandemic than music venues, but when faced with this challenge Jessie and Adam Hartke persevered and found new opportunities that have positioned them for success now. They show Don and Ebony how the music community in Wichita is primed for growth. On this episode we discuss:

How their personal and business relationships are very intertwined
First surviving, then thriving
Finding ways to showcase local talent when their weren’t many opportunities
Becoming partners with other independent venues
Their own music backgrounds
How the music community has been overlooked
Getting support from all our state representatives during the pandemic
How the music industry is better positioned now by identifying weak spots
Providing artists have a viable path to a career

Learn more about Hartke Presents and the Wave:

WAVE is a concert venue and community space in Downtown Wichita. The perfect hybrid of a major event space and your favorite neighborhood bar, WAVE welcomes eclectic crowds of 500-3,500 people for concerts and events in our indoor-outdoor space. Surrender to the backyard vibes with live music, lounge areas and a fine selection of craft beers. Whether you’re kicking back under a sunny sky or a full moon, WAVE’s atmosphere is unforgettable.

Since our opening, we have had the pleasure of bringing Wichita performances by: Wu-Tang Clan, The Flaming Lips, Rancid, The Dropkick Murphys, The Bronx, George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, Toadies, Nappy Roots, Cursive, The Toasters, The Wailers, Blockhead, Flatland Cavalry, William Clark Green, Jamey Johnson, Whiskey Myers, Jelly Roll, Snoop Dogg, Black Joe Lewis, Ginuwine, Mya, Dru Hill, Yonder Mountain String Band, Billy Strings, Lake Street Dive, Robert Randolph, Ani DiFranco, LANCO, Kip Moore, The Claypool – Lennon Delirium, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Blueface, Gov’t Mule, Phaseone, Highly Suspect, Blue October, Sebastian Bach, Sugarhill Gang, In Flames, BONNIE X CLYDE, Kansas, Justin Townes Earle, The Steel Woods, Hawthorne Heights, Lucii, Cody Jinks, LOCASH, Bobby Bones, Coheed and Cambria, The Used, Shakey Graves, Kevin Gates, Incubus, and more!

Other Resources:

https://www.theprintsourceinc.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Stu Lungwitz - The Print Source

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 04 May 2022 03:00:00 -0500

From humble beginnings getting paid in cinnamon rolls, Stu Lungwitz has always been growing as an entrepreneur. Listen as he gives Don and Ebony a behind-the-scenes look at how The Print Source has had to adapt and innovate over the years. On this episode we discuss:

A family history of entrepreneurs
Getting paid in cinnamon rolls
A business legacy that dates back to 1947
Moving beyond bumper stickers
The unique impact of adhesives
How the PC and desktop publishing changed the print industry
Adding value for your clients
Trying to stay balanced in a family business

Learn more about The Print Source:

The Print Source, Inc. is a family-owned, full-service printing and graphics company in Wichita, KS. Since our founding in 1947, we have grown from three employees to more than 100. At The Print Source, Inc., we work diligently to exceed our customer’s expectations and maintain a great atmosphere for our employees. As a company, we are committed to investing in state-of-the-art technology and providing increased opportunities for personal and career growth for our employees. We serve customers in a variety of industries, including schools and organizations, global manufacturers, aerospace companies, breweries, refineries, construction companies and more.

Other Resources:

https://scotthuynhdesign.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Scott Huynh - Scott Huynh Design

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes you just have to take your passion and run with it. Hear from Scott Huynh as he talks with Don and Ebony about how his passion to create led him away from the path he always thought he would follow. On this episode we discuss:

Starting down the path to a medical degree
A chance opportunity in a photography class
Listening to others about what you are good at
Selling drawings for Hot Cheetos
The passion for the arts leading to his side hustle
Focusing on social media videos to allow others to tell their story
Helping creatives connect with the business community
Local leaders who inspire him

Learn more about Scott Huynh Design:

Born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, Scott got his degree in Biology at Wichita State University before deciding to leave healthcare behind and start a creative business. He now owns a business doing social media videos for small business in Wichita, and is active in the community and enjoys being a W volunteer and leadership team member for NAAAP.

Other Resources:

https://www.theglassguru.com/wichita

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Michael Gomm - The Glass Guru

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

After a career in the aerospace industry, Michael Gomm and his wife, Valerie, were looking for something different. They share with Don and Ebony how they spotted a great opportunity to start a Glass Guru franchise in the Wichita area. On this episode we discuss:

Beginning in aerospace and coming to Wichita
Changing priorities and goals
Revenue is secondary to a great customer experience
The different types of glass work
How Michael and Valerie spotted their business opportunity
Looking for an opportunity to do what makes you happy
The science of foggy windows
The booming business of glass pet doors
The culture of Wichita

Learn more about Glass Guru:

Valarie & Michael Gomm are the owner operators of The Glass Guru of Wichita. As the majority owner, Valarie is excited to be a part of Wichita's thriving Woman-Owned Business (WBE) community. Prior to opening The Glass Guru of Wichita, Valarie spent the early part of her professional life in retail and banking before she chose to focus her organizational skills on being the full time CFO & COO of Gomm Enterprises.

Michael spent 20+ years in Wichita's aerospace segment prior to opening The Glass Guru of Wichita with his wife Valarie. He is an accomplished sales & customer service professional and is passionate about providing an enhanced service experience to The Glass Guru of Wichita customers. Michael is an active member of Wichita's craft beer community, volunteering and judging at local events, as well as serving on the beer advisory board for a popular local brewery. Michael has been a board member on the Wichita City Council District IV Advisory Board for 8 years and is a strong voice for helping make Wichita more small business friendly. When he's not out making new friends and satisfying customers with his value driven approach to customer needs, Michael is a commercial rated pilot and enjoys flying, biking the local trails, participating in shooting sports with his sons, and of course sharing time with friends at Wichita's great local breweries.

Valarie & Michael have been married 30 years, and have 3 sons: Joshua, Daniel, & Elijah, and a grandson Stetson. All their sons help in the business in some way: installations, shop work, trade shows, etc., The Glass Guru of Wichita is truly a local family enterprise that looks forward to serving you.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dr. Larry Mitnaul - Via Christi Ascension

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Having a passion to help kids and families with mental health
Always being available to help others
What wellness is and how it fits with mental health
How employers can approach mental health in the workplace
Mindfulness techniques anyone can use
The key of self-observation and what it teaches us
Creating a personal inventory
How it becomes so easy for us to focus on the negative.

Learn more about Ascension Medical Group and Dr. Larry Mitnaul:

Website

Other Resources:

https://bondfirestrategy.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Jordan Walker - Bondfire Strategy

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Taking the clutter out of marketing
Having a focus on people and relationships to build connections
Not being afraid to ask for help
The network connections the Chamber provides
Connecting with and supporting in-house marketing teams
Choosing Wichita

Learn more about Bondfire Strategy:

Bondfire Strategy exists to take the clutter out of marketing, ignite inspiration and humanize results.

Through our partnership, businesses will see results through connecting with their customer and empowering their team to feel capable, confident and ready to grow the business.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Andre Anderson Jr. - Anderson Oil

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes all it takes is a screwdriver and the will to figure it out. Hear how Andre Anderson Jr applied this philosophy to his unique mobile automotive service business. On this episode we discuss:

Starting with the screwdriver and a fuel pump challenge
Bringing convenience to others
Watching his grandfather save his flooded car
Butler’s automotive education
The challenge of explaining his service to potential customers
The impact of the weather on business
Providing package deals
How he can help vehicle fleets
His dad’s inspiration

Learn more about Anderson Oil:

Mobile automotive services at your convenience, at reasonably low prices. Free auto education, and inspections on every oil change. We also offer brake and rotor services, tune ups, diagnostics, check engine light scans, tire rotations.

We take tremendous pride in providing high quality automotive maintenance and repair services with the mobile convenience that allows us to bring the “shop” to you!

The days of spending your afternoons waiting in long lines for vehicle maintenance are over! Call the team that offers custom appointments that work best for your schedule while ensuring your vehicle is receiving the highest level of car care beyond the standard!

Our commitment is to always be here when you need! Quality and service with words you can trust! We are Anderson Oil!

Andre Anderson, Jr. is a passionate entrepreneur born in Wichita, Kansas and is a believer in the present and future of our community. He is a loving family man, who is greatly committed to building something amazing for the next generation. As a graduate from Wichita Northwest, his connections to our community run extremely deep.

Having served with various organizations in the community, he has a strong belief that we should do all that we can to help one another. As the owner of Anderson Oil and Vice President of ALA Enterprises LLC, the spirits of entrepreneurship and business development are embedded within his core. A committed steward and dedicated businessman with the blessings of a strong family serving as support, he believes our best days are in our future waiting for us to create them!

Other Resources:
Andre Anderson Jr. Profile (article)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Robin Lies - Burnell's Fine Jewelry

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Starting out with a background in art, Robin Lies found her way into the jewelry business with Burnell’s Fine Jewelry. Learn how customer experience is at the forefront of creating a lasting legacy through business. On this episode we discuss:

From art teacher to the jewelry business
Having someone dedicated to social media marketing
Switching from traditional to digital media
Recreating jewelry from sentimental pieces
The Burnell Story
The booming bridal business
Seeing multiple generations of jewelry customers
Building trust with customers through integrity
Wrestling against the COVID shutdowns to have the best year ever
The need for Wichita’s transportation infrastructure to improve
Glassblowing is magical at CityArts

Learn more about Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design:

https://burnells.com/

Welcome to Burnell’s Fine Jewelry And Design, Wichita’s premiere custom jewelers, gemologists and purveyors of the most exciting lines of designer jewelry. We offer a wide variety of styles and prices in amazing jewelry by the world’s most sought after designers. Founder Jerry Burnell began his career in his basement. With a few used tools he forged the foundation of the business, which still thrives today. In 1979 he opened his first store on Rock Road and began to earn a reputation for fine custom work that won over 50 state and national awards. Jerry retired in 2014 and his legacy lives on in today’s store, which employs many of the original staff and enjoys continued success.

Robin Lies is the Co–General Manager, Gemologist and Buyer, has had a passion for the jewelry business since she was 5. She had the good fortune of being able to help her grandmother pick out new jewelry every time she got a new dress. It stuck. Robin majored in art in college and focused on jewelry and textile design. After teaching art for a few years, she decided to pursue a career in jewelry.

Robin’s been in the business thirty-seven years as buyer, corporate sales director, manager and gemologist. She has a B.A. degree, a Gemologist degree from GIA and a Jewelers of America Senior Management Certificate. Robin is involved in the Wichita Independent Business Association and Wichita Chamber of Commerce. She teaches glassblowing and her hobbies include all things dogs, reading and music. Her dog’s name is Marilyn and it is fitting.

Other Resources:

https://www.milb.com/wichita

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Bob Moulette - Wichita Wind Surge

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Ever wonder what it was like to do branding and marketing for a professional sports team? Bob Moulette shares with Don and Ebony what it has been like to build the MLB affiliated Wind Surge from the ground up. On this episode we discuss:

Building something special from scratch
Marketing in professional sports
Creating the brand identity of the Wind Surge
Culture of the Wind Surge
Being Wichita’s front porch
What the ballpark offers other than baseball?
The all-new NBC museum
Always give more than you take

Learn more about the Wichita Wind Surge:

The Wind Surge were supposed to begin play in 2020 as the Triple-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins in the Pacific Coast League. However, a combination of the cancellation of the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Major League Baseball's realignment of the minor leagues for 2021, resulted in the team changing to Double-A as affiliates of the Twins without having played a Triple-A game.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wind Surge were scheduled to begin their inaugural season on the road playing against the Round Rock Express on April 8, 2020, and to play their first home game on April 14 against the Memphis Redbirds. Initially postponed due to the pandemic, the season was ultimately cancelled on June 30. That summer, owner Lou Schwechheimer also passed away

In 2021, the team dropped to the Double-A classification without having played a Triple-A game due to Major League Baseball's realignment of the minor leagues after the 2020 season. Instead of being a Miami Marlins affiliate, the Wind Surge became affiliated with the Minnesota Twins. The Wind Surge went on to win the Northern Division title by finishing the 2021 season in first place with a 69–51 record. They qualified for the championship playoffs by possessing the league's best record. In the best-of-five series, they were defeated by the second-place Northwest Arkansas Naturals, 3–2. Wichita manager Ramon Borrego was selected as the league's Manager of the Year.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Fresno State University, California, in 2008, Bob then began working for a casual luxury retailer. Although he worked up to a management role, where he was leading a team of 1,000+ workers, after eight years with the company, Bob decided to make a major career change. In 2013, Bob took an internship with the California League, Colorado Rockies affiliate, Modesto Nuts. In this position, he was responsible for many different responsibilities including developing of the Nuts' social media, marketing, and advertising platforms.

In fall of 2016, Bob joined the then named New Orleans Zephyrs as the team embarked on a complete rebrand, transforming into the Baby Cakes. The Baby Cakes rebranding was hugely successful, resulting in over three-quarters of million dollars in merchandise revenue, in a little over one year. Following the 2017 season, Bob was promoted to assistant general manager. In this role, he was responsible for marketing; social media; and all game day responsibilities, employees, training, and the internship program. Thanks to his previous experience in the retail management and internet marketing industries, Bob was able to apply his versatile skills to many aspects of his baseball responsibilities.

Bob moved once again from New Orleans to Wichita as he excitedly joined in the process to aid in the building of the Wichita Wind Surge brand. Now, as Director of Fan Experience, he is currently responsible for the many aspects of the business as it relates to the fan experience, but also overseas many aspects of Riverfront Stadium operations and is heavily involved in the Wichita community.

A little over a year ago he and his wife Stephanie made their very first house purchase in the Riverside Neighborhood.

Other Resources:

https://metrodelivers.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Anita Oberwortmann - Metro Courier / Wilson Building Maintenance

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0600

After decades in business, nothing scares Anita Oberwortmann. She shares her entrepreneurial origin story with Don and Ebony, revealing the key business lessons she has learned along the way. On this episode we discuss:

From scrubbing toilets to maintaining Koch Industries
Organic growth of a business
From small cars to 28 ft. freight trucks
Why not all business is good business
The Chamber is the center of the business community
How her persistence has paid off
Never be too reliant on one customer
Nothing scares Anita

Learn more about Metro Courier:

Founder/President/CEO of Wilson Building Maintenance, Inc. a janitorial and building maintenance company and Metro Courier, Inc., a delivery service firm.

In 1978, Anita started Wilson Building Maintenance with a broom and a mop. 43 years and over 200 employees later, Anita remains the CEO of the company. Anita purchased Metro Courier in 1999 and remains President and Owner along her son, James. Wilson services some of Wichita’s most prestigious facilities, some as large as 1.5 million square feet, and Metro Courier has grown from in-town courier deliveries to nationwide freight capabilities.

Anita has served in various volunteer capacities. She took the lead on many committees and attained the level of President or Chair for many organizations. Her volunteer activity spans most of the 40 years she’s been in business. She was the first woman to be top volunteer for several organizations including Chairman for The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce, President of the Wichita YMCA, President of the Quivira Council Boy Scouts of America and a four state region of the American Cancer Society.

Anita has been recognized with honors from the American Cancer Society where she received the National Divisional Award St. George Medal. The Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing Office of Minority and Women Business Development recognized her with the Woman-Owned Service Industry Firm of the Year for three years. She is a Girl Scout Woman of Distinction, Blue Chip Enterprise Award Top State Designee and Small Business Administration Women in Business Advocate of the Year honoree. Other awards she has received include the Metro Award two years in a row. Rotary Club of Wichita Service Above Self Award, Youth Entrepreneurs Pillar Award, Boy Scouts of America Quivira Council Silver Beaver Award, Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Award, Wichita Business Journal Women in Business Hall of Fame Award and in the 20th Anniversary Issue of the Wichita Business Journal, Anita was—unsurprisingly—named as one of the top ten most influential women in Wichita.

Other Resources:

Conditions Improving in Wichita for Women-owned Businesses (article)
Record Year for Metro Courier Amazon Deliveries (article)
Metro Courier Adapting Delivery Strategies (article)
2016 Enterprise Awards: Anita Oberwortmann (article)
Metro Courier Expanding to Meet Freight Demand (article)
2018 Women in Business Hall of Fame Honorees (article)
Women in Business Hall of Fame: Anita Oberwortmann (article)
Many Wichita Women Have Found Entrepreneurial Success (article)
Local Women-Owned Wichita Businesses are Growing (article)
Women in Business: Anita Oberwortmann (article)

https://comfortcarehomes.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Doug Stark / Robert Miller - ComfortCare Homes

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0600

After taking care of his their own grandparents, it became clear to Robert Stark’s family that there was a clear need in Wichita to provide higher quality care for the elderly struggling with dementia. He is joined by Robert Miller as they share their journey with Don and Ebony to bring more compassionate care to Wichita. On this episode we discuss:

How it all began
Being a healthcare hero with no medical background
Thinking about a social model, not a business model
The family “serial entrepreneur”
Being a resource to support and educate
What they learned from the Small Business Award
Building new resources and capabilities into home care

Learn more about ComfortCare Homes:

Wichita is the flagship city of ComfortCare Homes. Founded by the Stark family in 1993 after their experiences caring for their own family members with dementia, the company remains a family business strongly committed to developing models for dementia care that foster compassion and drive innovation.

In the process of caring for the Stark grandparents at home, the vision of ComfortCare Homes materialized. The core concept of ComfortCare Homes centers on providing a clear alternative to hospital-like nursing homes by building and remodeling traditional houses to suit the needs of small communities of people living with dementia.

ComfortCare Homes understands that clinical care in large impersonal facilities can elevate stress and increase confusion, and that most people suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia respond well to calm, familiar environments. When the Starks opened the first ComfortCare Homes residence in 1993, they began to see their intuitive understandings create meaningful impacts on lives outside of their own family. Before long, ComfortCare Homes acquired several more residential properties throughout Wichita, and in 2014, built the very first advanced dementia care home from the ground up--Founders Crest--using the insights and innovations gleaned from our first twenty years of operations.

Wichita has been our home for more than 25 years. In that time, we’ve expanded across the city with nine homes, and across the state of Kansas through licensee partnerships in several other cities. We invite you to discover the wide range of services and unique amenities that we offer our residents.

About Doug Stark

Doug Stark has served as president of ComfortCare Homes since 1995. A native of Wichita, Kansas, he attended Wichita public schools and the University of Kansas. Community and civic involvement are core ethics of Doug Stark. He has served on several regional and local boards and member organizations, including the Wichita Downtown Rotary and the Alzheimer’s Association where he was board chair. He was a Big Brother for 12 years, and served on the board of Kansas Health Ethics as treasurer, vice president, and president.

Other Resources:

The ComfortCare Homes Blog
2016 Small Business of the Year Award (video)
ComfortCare Building $2.8M Dementia Care Homes (article)

https://www.martinpringle.com/attorneys/robert-j-moody

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Robert Moody (2017 Leadership Wichita) - Martin Pringle

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

For many years, it didn’t even dawn on Robert Moody that he could become a lawyer, but at the age of 35 he went back to school and now finds himself as a partner at Martin Pringle. He talks with Don and Ebony about his Leadership Wichita experience and how he is pulling others up to give them hope through our justice system. On this episode we discuss:

Moving from Montgomery, Alabama to Kansas
An accidental start in the legal profession
Not realizing it was possible to become a lawyer, but then achieving partner
Encouraging diversity in the legal profession in Wichita
How a hip-hop guy fits in as a lawyer
Breaking down barriers for others, giving them hope
Record expungement
What impacted him most from Leadership Wichita

Learn more about Robert Moody:

Robert Moody was born in Montgomery, Alabama, and lived there for the first ten years of his life. To thisday, he remains a rabid Auburn fan. When he was in grade school, Robert and his family moved toProtection, Kansas, a little town full of friendly people.

Robert’s first job in the legal field was working as a runner. After graduating from Wichita State University’slegal assistant program, Robert began working as a legal assistant in a small and bustling general litigationfirm in Wichita, Kansas. Seven years later, Robert applied for a position in the clerk’s office of the UnitedStates District Court for the District of Kansas. He thrived in this competitive environment, and was selectedfor the job from a large pool of candidates. After three years in the clerk’s office, Robert accepted a positionas the courtroom deputy for the Honorable Monti Belot, United States District Court Judge.

Robert’s experiences in these positions stimulated his keen intellect and inspired him to attend law school.After observing lawyers and legal proceedings from these distinctly different angles, Robert realized that hecould handle the pressures and challenges of practicing law. More importantly, he realized he wanted tobecome a lawyer. Taking on more responsibility, and having a greater impact on the outcome of contestedmatters, appealed to Robert. He wanted to be a direct advocate for his clients, and he wanted to help themachieve favorable resolutions to their legal problems.

Robert’s practice focuses on general civil & commercial litigation, insurance defense, DUI defense, as well asdivorce and family law. He is a member of many professional and civic organizations, including UrbanProfessionals of Wichita, Community Operations Recovery Empowerment, the Kansas Association of DefenseCounsel, and the Defense Research Institute.

Other Resources:

Survival Series: Interview with Robert Moody (video)
2017 Leaders in Diversity (article)

https://www.drinkgreatness.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Troy Brooks - Greatness Vodka

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

It took a lot of phone calls, but the determination of Troy Brooks to be great eventually broke through as he created Greatness Vodka. He shares with Don and Ebony how he was inspired to create his own liquor brand in Wichita. On this episode we discuss:

How liquor is recession-proof
Standing up instead of laying down
Calling (and being hung up on) anyone he could find
Showing up when no one else expects you to
Next steps to take his brand national
Encouraging others to live in their greatness
Finding balance in prayer

Learn more about Greatness Vodka:

Made with 100% US-based corn, GREATNESS Vodka is a balanced, clean vodka, versatile enough for anycocktail yet enjoyable all on its own. This is not your typical neutral, flavorless vodka - each sip is full ofnatural cherry and peach flavor, brimming with character.

GREATNESS Vodka is carefully derived with quality taste at the start of the process. The result is anexceptionally smooth vodka made from only the finest corn and spring water. Experience for yourselfthe smooth flavor and amazing quality that is GREATNESS Vodka. Designed by specialist, made in theUSA.

Other Resources:

Is a Pandemic a Good Time To Start a Business? (article)
Wichita Entrepreneur Launches a New Wichita-based Vodka (article)

https://getquickhire.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Deborah Gladney & Angela Muhwezi-Hall - QuickHire

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Starting a tech company with no tech background
How the pandemic was the catalyst to start the business
Dignity of work in the service industry
The old tech way service jobs were filled
Being a bootstrapped startup
The lie of “Day 0 Funding” in capital raising
Being a minority in the tech industry

Learn more about QuickHire:

Other Resources:

https://www.thehairysofa.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Julie Breault - The Hairy Sofa

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Julie Breault has always been focused on helping furry friends, but now with The Hairy Sofa she has created a business that gives dogs the VIP treatment. She shares with Don and Ebony how she has dealt with growth and struggles since opening in 2013. On this episode we discuss:

Always wanting to work with animals, first as a vet tech
Creating a one-stop-shop to support dogs
Poaching a fantastic groomer from PetSmart to be a partner
Race cars and speed bumps
Creating a culture of gratitude
Focusing on the dog’s experience to create a low stress environment
Giving groomers time to provide a high-quality experience
Pandemic puppies
Getting the cuteness on TikTok
The human-animal bond

Learn more about The Hairy Sofa:

TikTok Profile

Julie Breault has preferred the company of pets since she was a child. She went to Iowa State pre-veterinary program, but before applying for veterinary school, she decided being a doctor was not in the cards for her. She started in veterinary medicine as a veterinary technician 30 years ago. She married a veterinarian, Dr Gary Breault in March of 2000 and they bought Heartland Animal Hospital in April of the same year.

In 2012, she started noticing that the animal hospital was getting calls for a recommendation for a groomer. There were no groomers that stood out on the NE side of Wichita at that time. She had never groomed and never will, but she knows how important it is to your pet’s health. Heartland has always considered grooming an essential part of healthcare and the groomer as a part of the healthcare team!

She started looking for a partner to jump on board with her new adventure as a grooming salon owner!! She found Sara when she took her pets to PetSmart for grooming. She was amazing, so she made it her goal to convince her that they could do something great together!! They started The Hairy Sofa Pet Grooming Boutique in January of 2013 at 37th and Rock. They both knew exactly how it should be run - her as a master groomer and Julie as a business manager! She is so proud of the space we have created. So... we decided to do it again.

In March 2020, we opened our doors in Naftzger Park just as the City of Wichita shut things down because of the pandemic. They are hanging in there and getting busier every week.

Other Resources:

Good Day Kansas Feature (video)
How to Keep Pets Safe During COVID-19 (video)
Groomer Business Booms After Ruff Months During Quarantine (video)

https://www.icon-structures.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Tricia Wilson - Icon Structures

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Although Tricia Wilson and her husband, Brandon, didn’t expect to start their own business, they slowly moved from side-projects to creating Icon Structures. Tricia shares their journey of humble beginnings to statewide success with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

Starting in the basement and growing to 80 employees
Having well defined roles
Success is about the people around you
The value of relationships as the business began
Receiving the Wichita Chamber Small Business award
Facing an uncertain future during the pandemic
Merging with another construction company
Being solution makers
What entrepreneurship looks like at the family dinner table

Learn more about Icon Structures:

Icon Structures, Inc. is a general contracting firm providing complete construction services to fit the needs of each individual client, large or small. From new construction to remodels and general building maintenance, Icon strives to build allegiance by exceeding expectations.

With experience in all major industries, Icon is accomplished in providing every aspect of a client's unique vision from concept to completion.

Over the years, many Wichita, Kansas building owners, property managers and architects have given Icon the chance to prove our expertise. Their positive experience on previous projects has led them to work with Icon time after time, structure after structure.

Icon's ultimate goal is to raise the bar for integrity and quality in the local construction industry.

Other Resources:

https://www.reverieroasters.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Andrew Gough - Reverie Coffee Roasters

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Andrew Gough has shaken up with coffee scene in Wichita with Reverie Coffee Roasters. He shares with Don and Ebony his perspective on empowering and supporting employees and the community. On this episode we discuss:

Expanding to a new location in Newton
Pivoting to areas with growth
Getting and supporting employees for your business
The creation of a “daydream”
Inspiring others to do their best work
Creating opportunities for the local community to bloom
The inspiration Andrew received from his mother and father

Learn more about Reverie Coffee Roasters:

Andrew Gough started Reverie Coffee Roasters in 2013 while working as an educator in the financial services industry. His curiosity for continued learning drove him to start a specialty coffee business. In just a few years, Reverie grew from a small coffee roaster-retailer concept into an award-winning Midwestern coffee institution.

Reverie's desire to revitalize the community it serves has created increased demand for specialty coffee in Wichita. In 2018, the business relocated its flagship location into a new permanent home across the street from the historic East High School. Simultaneously, Founders Bakery was created to fulfill the food service and catering operations for the cafes.

Reverie established Principal Coffee Equipment Solutions, a full-service coffee equipment maintenance and repair company, to keep coffee and water flowing in its own café and many other customers in the region.

Today, Andrew leads a team of 17 coffee professionals determined make the coffee industry a viable career option though sustainable business practices and shared vision. In his extra time, he works directly with leaders at the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) to develop curriculum to make better coffee business owners. At a local level, Andrew and the Reverie team are committed to improving childhood literacy by directing their giving and volunteer efforts to causes making Wichita the future Literacy Capital of America.

Other Resources:

Reverie Coffee Roasters Finds Revenue by Opening Kitchen to Startups (article)
Midwest Living’s 2021 Best of the Midwest Winners (article)
WCF, KMUW and Local Coffee Shops Partner to Encourage Voting (article)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Vicki Bond (Leadership Wichita 2016) - Raise My Head Foundation

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Vicki Bond has always been ready to pick up the phone. From growing and selling her own business to starting a new non-profit while attending Leadership Wichita, she shares with Don and Ebony how she has been inspired to lift up the community with the Raise My Head Foundation. On this episode we discuss:

Stating in the local healthcare industry
Building a business from the basement
How the phone just kept ringing
Selling her business and looking for an opportunity to give back to the community
Leadership Wichita and a call-to-action
The power of the river running through Wichita
Loving your local community

Learn more about the Raise My Head Foundation:

https://raisemyhead.org/

Vicki knew early that mission work was needed in her life. She became passionate about finding something that made a difference. In 2016, she founded Raise My Head Founation, a 2-year residential program for women who have survived lives of prostitution, trafficking and addiction. The first residents entered a beautiful residential home in 2017. Since then, Raise My Head Foundation has grown from an idea to a solid opportunity and solution for women who have identified a need to transition from lives of sex-trafficking and abuse into a more healthy lifestyle.

Vicki has served on the Board of Trustees for Southwestern College. She has served as a member of the Center for Economic and Business Development at WSU. She was an honoree of the Wichita Women in Business awards in 2014 and a member of Leadership Wichita Class of 2016. Vicki speaks frequently proclaiming love as the most powerful force for change in the world. Vicki has most recently presented on topics of human trafficking to the Dole Institute for Politics at the University of Kansas and brings her message to various churches and small groups throughout Wichita and the surrounding area.

Other Resources:

https://www.maydaygroup.net/damon-young

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Damon Young - 2022 Chamber Chair

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0600

The first episode of 2022 starts with a bang as incoming Chamber Chair Damon Young joins the program. He shares his perspectives on leadership and entrepreneurship in Wichita with Don and Ebony and unveils the guest for the upcoming Chair’s Lunch at Intrust Bank Arena on February 9th. On this episode we discuss:

How a social entrepreneur supports other businesses
Getting a business to find their voice
Not re-creating the wheel
Local resources available to help businesses get started
How faith is infused with his vision and leadership
The challenge of unchecked hate in our culture
Creating a common goal and a shared vision
Announcing the Chair’s Lunch guest speaker
Why it’s hard to hate up close
How a business is like soup

Learn more about Damon Young:

Wichita Construction Company Known for Building in Wichita Wants to Help Build Employees’ Lives, Too (article)

Damon Young is a proud member of the Kansas Business Community with a passion for the intersection between community development and economic development. He is on the Board of Directors of the Wichita and Kansas Chambers of Commerce and other industry specific boards.

As a speaker, Damon’s diverse background of collegiate debate, Christian ministry, and business leadership inform a unique perspective that he brings to MayDay as he speaks and writes on topics that impact individuals, businesses, and community organizations. Expect Damon to offer unique insight and ‘challenge the room’ as he shares with your team or organization.

As a consultant, Damon leverages over 20 years of business leadership to enhance his client’s personal and business development and organizational development strategies.

He has a degree in organizational management and leadership from Friends University. Damon is happily married and has 5 children ranging from Elementary School to College age.

Other Resources:

Conversations Are a First Step Toward Trust and Transformation (article)

After Workforce Crisis, Roofer Becomes 2nd Chances Inc. (article)

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Mary Billings - Love of Character [Rebroadcast]

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

As we take a short break to prepare for the new year, we thought it would be a good time to bring back one of our favorite episodes from the first year of the Wichita Chamber Business Accelerator. We hope that you find inspiration from Mary Billings’ story as you make resolutions for your own business. See you all in 2022! Cheers!

Beginning as a passion side-project, Mary Billings came to a crossroads with her party company, Love of Character. Faced with uncertainty, she left the safety and security of a corporate job to pursue growing her own business full time. Join hosts Don and Ebony as they explore the origin success story of this Chief Fun Officer. On this episode we discuss:

Where the business name came from
The invitation to expand into Bradley Fair
The corporate background at Koch Industries
Standing out from the competition by providing unique touches
Jumping head-first and leaving the full-time job to run her business
The business spark on a flight back from Florida
Growing through a pandemic
The supportive local community
Always being kind to others
The challenges of maintaining a work / life balance as a business owner

Learn more about Love of Character:

www.loveofcharacter.com

3200 East Douglas Avenue

Wichita, KS 67208

316-351-5527

2142 N Rock Rd

Wichita, Kansas 67206

316-352-7266

Love of Character is a paper goods & party supplies shop based in Kansas. In the shop you can find creative work by Mary, her team, and some of her favorite finds perfect for gift giving and parties. “For the Love of Character” blog started in 2013 as Mary and her husband, Dustin, started working on home improvements in their old house. The name came from their love of character when searching for the "perfect" house to start their life together. It was the little touches such as the staircase, crown molding and woodwork that sold them on it. Sharing ideas on decorating, party throwing, and gifts, Mary realized she wanted to help others add some character to their lives. Mary reached out to her fabulous Aunt Mary to get the business going who passed away in 2018.

There are currently two Love of Character locations, one in College Hill, one in Bradley Fair; they also do a lot of business on our website across the country. The College Hill shop will be 5 years old this summer. Their balloon business started as an addition to events but has grown to be one of their biggest categories. They have expanded their product selection over the years - when they first opened, they focused on paper goods & party supplies, they now have expanded into more items for baby, toys, home accessories and gifts.

Other Resources:

Love of Character Blog

Good Day Kansas Feature (video)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

https://wichitahabitat.org/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Danielle Johnson (Leadership Wichita 2017) - Habitat for Humanity

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

It’s a milestone today as we hit 50 episodes! Danielle Johnson, Executive Director of the Wichita Habitat for Humanity joins Don and Ebony to share her experiences with the Leadership Wichita program and how it has impacted her perspective on the community. On this episode we discuss:

Getting through to Danielle’s people
The role of Habitat for Humanity providing affordable housing
Working at Wichita State in the office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Having tough conversations with other leaders
How to listen to others when we are “hyperpolarized”
Looking behind the scenes of our community before offering commentary
Getting connected with other leaders she might never interact with normally
Putting tangible goals in front of yourself
The impact of being mentored by Ann Fox

Learn more about Habitat for Humanity:

Danielle Johnson is a Wichitan through and through. She prides herself on being an affordable housing advocate, conversation catalyst, inclusion and diversity educator, community mobilizer, and super volunteer. Danielle was educated in USD 259 and continued her education at WSU earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in public administration. Danielle has served on a number boards to currently include Community Operations Recovery Empowerment (CORE), Rise Up for Youth, and HealthCore Community Clinic. She and her husband Brandon Johnson are the proud parents of three children ages 16, 8, and 2. Danielle has extensive nonprofit and community engagement experience. She most recently worked with WSU as assistant director of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Ultimately, what drives Danielle is her passion for our community as a whole without ever forgetting that community is made up of individuals coming together.

Other Resources:

https://www.cmlcollective.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Christina Long - The CML Collective

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Starting out in journalism through the Wichita Eagle, covering the ethnic and minority communities
Small beginnings with a t-shirt company and evolving
Becoming a creator and not just a consumer
A time of homecoming
The critical need to create a flow of capital and mentoring for minority-owned businesses
The risk of missing the opportunity we currently have
“I am because we are”
Having birthday resolutions
A rising tide lifts all boats
What she learned from a red rubber ball

Learn more about CML Collective:

Other Resources:

https://monarchwichita.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Jen Ray - The Monarch

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Jen realizing she needed to do something else than she was doing
A costly tax mistake
How the Delano area has developed around her
Creeping out of the status quo to stand apart
Watching people try to navigate the roundabout
Having no Plan B
How the small business community has supported The Monarch
Getting employees back after the COVID shutdown
The impact of the new baseball stadium
How local leaders Ben Hutton and Damon Young inspire her

Learn more about The Monarch:

They guarantee you’ll find something you love at our restaurant. Come experience who we are and what they have to offer at The Monarch.

Other Resources:

Monarch Owner Experiences Success, Stress and Lots of Lessons (article)

The Monarch Owner Talks About Six Years of Success in Delano (article)

https://www.wichitachamber.org

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

John Rolfe - Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0600

We are so excited to have the new Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO John Rolfe join the podcast to share his vision for what the Chamber does for our community. Don and Ebony get inside his vision for supporting businesses in the region. On this episode we discuss:

Native son of Wichita
How the Chamber impacts the quality of life in the community
Being an advocate for local businesses
What “Pride in Place” means
Maintaining civility in contentious times
Moving forward at rocket speed
Who inspires John Rolfe
What makes Wichita unique
His love of “old school” music
Always looking for people to hire that are smarter than you
Living a balanced life

Learn more about the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce:

John Rolfe is the President and CEO of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. Prior to joining the Chamber, he served as the Chief Business Officer at the Kansas Leadership Center (KLC), where he directed all business operations, business development and community outreach efforts. Before joining KLC, John served as Chief Operating Officer for Houston First Corporation, Houston, TX and was the CEO and President of Go Wichita Convention & Visitors Bureau. He has also served as Deputy Secretary of the Kansas Department of Commerce and in other economic development and marketing positions.

John is a graduate of Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, holding a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He continues to be involved in various boards and civic organizations which focus on education, youth, travel & tourism, the arts and leadership.

John is married to Felicia, an Anchor at KWCH 12 and they have two daughters. He enjoys sports, working out, traveling, dining out and spending time with his family.

Other Resources:

https://www.wichita.gov/ParkandRec/Pages/default.aspx

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Troy Houtman (Leadership Wichita 2016) - Wichita Parks and Recreation

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Troy Houtman was always supposed to be an accountant, but he found a passion for growing communities through Parks and Recreation. He shares with Don and Ebony how the Leadership Wichita program challenged him in new ways and gave him a network of support across the city. On this episode we discuss:

Why Troy got started in Parks and Recreation
How the 2016 Leadership Wichita class is the best
Non-profits helping people falling through the gaps
Wichita getting a “pickle-plex”
Adding Cultural Arts to his responsibilities
The four (4) legs of a great city
The similarities between Wichita and a kitchen appliance
The untapped potential of Wichita
The impact his first boss had on Troy and how he cared for his employees and community

Learn more about Wichita Parks and Recreation:

Troy Houtman is the City of Wichita Park & Recreation Director and started in November of 2014. Troy brings over 30 years of experience to the job with previous working locations at the City of San Antonio and the City of Austin. His background includes working in many areas of Parks and Recreation to include aquatics, youth and adult sports, golf, park maintenance, CIP projects, and general recreation programming. Specifically, the depth of his experience involves development of partnerships, contract development, park development, budget management and employee development.

Several mentors have had a huge impact on Troy’s management style and desire to become a Parks & Recreation Director. These influences have shaped his vision of public service and the passion for delivering quality service to the community to include arts and cultural activities. It is his belief that local government is the most important tool for creating and providing a high quality of life for its citizens. The function of the Park and Recreation Department is to enhance these opportunities and further develop pride in the community. The Park and Recreation Department is the most important department for outreach and cooperation with Wichita residents in order to achieve their vision of what the community should be and what programs should be offered.

His goals include more exposure for the department, more partnerships, more interaction with the community, more programs offered, upgrades to parks and park amenities. All of these contribute toward the departmental goal of enhancing the quality of life in Wichita.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Josh Oeding / Mary Beth Jarvis - NXTUS

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Josh’s transition from Koch to NXTUS
Establishing the entrepreneurial mojo of Wichita
Helping any business leader that walks through the door
Taking inspiration from the local craft brewery scene
How NXTSTAGE is Shark Tank without the makeup and cameras
Wichita Startup Week
How we can all be involved with local business startups

Learn more about NXTUS:

https://www.nxtus.io/

At NXTUS, Inc, is a catalyst for the region’s startup ecosystem. At their essence, they serve as a nexus for entrepreneurs, investors, corporate partners, and the community at-large.

Their primary aim is to achieve the ‘next us’ by growing startups, strengthening innovation culture and building support systems.

An initial e2e Accelerator class, launched in 2016 was made up of Appointment Launch, Buddy Brands, Knoxx / Alyss Analytics, KingFit, Reverie Roasters, and Tru-Building.

Other Resources:

https://humlicekfamilydental.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dr. Ashley Humlicek - Humlicek Family Dental

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Getting started purchasing a practice from a retiring dentist with consistent values
Creating a different dental experience
Learning the business side of health professions
Her moment of self-reflection
The assumptions and advantages of being a female dentist
Why Dr. Ashley got involved with the local business community
The helpfulness of the local dental and business network

Learn more about Humlicek Family Dental:

Some areas where Humlicek Family Dental Excels:

1) Reducing dental anxiety. We have noise cancelling headphones, blankets, air diffusers, offer laughing gas and pre appointment sedation medications.

2) Keeping everything we can in house. We are certified in both Implants and Invisalign, we do crowns/bridges, root canals etc. and we treat ages 1 on up!

3) Customer service is at our core and we do everything we can to make our patients informed and satisfied.

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Taishma Council - Virtual Goals Assistant Agency

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0500

When the pandemic started in 2020, Taishma Council saw a business opportunities to support others in the midst of chaos. Through a team of virtual assistants, she shares with Don and Ebony how the Virtual Goals Assistant Agency helps others grow and become successful. On this episode we discuss:

Seeing a new opportunity in the pandemic through virtual assistants
What is a virtual assistant?
Hiring all over the country and creating a culture remotely
Bringing on a team that adds different skills to the business
The “Dream Team”
Why she calls her clients “goal achievers”
How the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce has supported her
The impact of Christina Long on her life

Learn more about Virtual Goals Assistant Agency:

https://www.vgaallc.com/

Virtual Goals Assistant Agency excels at understanding the importance of consistency for a small business's brand and being a reliable and resourceful Goals Assistant. We're dedicated to encouraging our Goal Achievers to find the gaps/weaknesses in their business and we use our skills/talents to add value. My superpower is using my experience of managing 20+ small businesses/non-profits to set up all our Goal Achievers for success. I've now offer VIP days proving delegation strategies to businesses who already have a team but doesn't know how to fully utilize them, talk in their language, or tap into their creativity.

Taishma Council, 26, is the owner and CEO of Virtual Goal Assistant Agency LLC, which aims to provide reliable remote administrative support for entrepreneurs, rescuing them from the "superhero syndrome". The Dream Team values consistency, effective communication, and being resourceful. They specialize in operations support by managing day-to-day administrative work, content creation, social media management, word processing, and more. At Virtual Goals Assistant Agency, business owners will be matched with a trained part-time remote assistant, or a part-time professional online business manager to accomplish their annual goals! Taishma and her family relocated to Wichita, KS in 2014 as her husband, Saemetruis Council, was a Senior Airmen in the United States Airforce. Prior to being a full-time entrepreneur, Taishma worked as an operations specialist in the mortgage industry while attending WSU and used her free time as a volunteer to non-profits assisting with organizing and project management. Taishma serves as a board member for Sedgwick County SMART Justice Board. She spends a lot of time working at The Hive, visiting local parks with her son, and she doesn't shy away from making new friends!

On the horizon: Soon we will be collaborating with CORE Access to offer back-end systems at a discounted rate, such as Sales Funnels, Call Tracking, Email Marketing, Reputation Management, and more.

Other Resources:

Pandemic Disproportionately Impacting Women-owned Businesses (video)

Business Leader Born Through Traumatic Pregnancy (podcast)

Meet Taishma Council (article)

http://www.kansasbusinessservices.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Donna Wright - Kansas Business Services, LLC

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

When businesses come to Kansas Business Services, LLC it’s about more than just business. Donna Wright shares with Don and Ebony how she and her son are supporting the community and culture through this work that they do. On this episode we discuss:

Helping companies be their best selves
How Donna came on board the business
The importance of social media
The challenges that minority owned businesses face
“It’s not about money, it’s about core values”
Measuring success through the relationships you foster
Leaving a legacy
How family fits into the entrepreneurial life

Learn more about Kansas Business Services:

Kansas Business Services is an administrative management and management consulting firm dedicated to dynamic internal and external organizational growth and development. Drawing on 50 years of private sector, not-for-profit, and public (government) experience we specialize in organizational management and corporate governance, providing turn-key solutions to take your organization to the next level. Whether your company is looking to execute on current opportunities or poise itself for new ventures our suite of business support services can stream-line the process to success and educate you on how, what, and when to capitalize on the market.

Kansas Business Services is a Woman-owned business based in the American Midwest. The KBS team is comprised of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with a cumulative 50 plus years of experience in all subjects of business services. Our expertise includes international & domestic business operations and negotiations, high-growth business development, strategic organizational management, and pricing analysis and financial projections. The total return on investment from our experience has been directly responsible for tens of millions of dollars in acquisitions and procurements in the private and public sectors.

Other Resources:

https://huttonbuilds.com/services/strategic-planning/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Brandon Gaide - Sevenfold

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Helping organizations become more strategic
Partnering with construction firm Hutton to build something new for businesses
The meaning behind the Sevenfold name
The marriage of strategy and innovation
Launching change, not just talking about change
How getting married relates to business strategy
De-risking strategy
Going beyond operational conversations to give leaders a place to belong
Can Wichita handle new ideas?

Learn more about Sevenfold:

Other Resources:

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Bonnie Tharp - Copp Media

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Imagine for a moment just how much media has changed over the last 30 years, from TV and radio to internet and social media. Bonnie Tharp, founder of Copp Media, has been in the middle of that transition and shares her story of growth and transition with Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

The role of media buying
Moving into a new building during COVID
The focus on building relationships with clients while helping them build their business through media buying
Growing with Freddy’s from the beginning
The days of going to the library to perform research
The evolution of media over 30 years
How family has contributed to and helped grow the business

Learn more about Copp Media:

https://coppmedia.com/

Bonnie has gone from a media buyer to business owner. She brought her advertising agency (Copp Media Services) into fruition almost 30 years ago. From occupying one single small room in her home to the new home of Copp Media located in Delano on McLean Boulevard, a lot has changed. But the one thing that has remained the same is her philosophy. It’s always about doing the right thing for her clients, never putting herself first and keeping ‘no’ out of her vocabulary. If it’s humanly possible to do it, Bonnie will be certain that it’s done and done right.

Bonnie Tharp is a woman who knows the meaning of dedication, professionalism and compassion. Over the past thirty plus years she has gone from media director at a large agency to the creation of her own media buying agency Copp Media Services. Copp Media offers specializes in developing marketing tactics based upon clients goals and objectives. Bonnie has been known to say that anyone can place an ad ---- anywhere. But it is the right place and the right ad to generate success.

She taught Media Planning, Buying and Selling at WSU for many years. She continues to see and work with past students, which is one of the things that makes her most proud. She believes in supporting our local non-profits, and as an organization they are committed to touching as many organizations as possible.

Other Resources:

A Conversation with Bonnie Tharp (article)

http://www.abcbilingualresources.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Claudia Yauiar-Amaro - AB&C Bilingual

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0500

In the world of providing marketing and media to the local Hispanic community, Claudia Yauiar-Amaro is all over the place. She shares with Don and Ebony how AB&C Bilingual has created a bridge to the Spanish-speaking community in the Wichita area through intentional and thoughtful engagement. On this episode we discuss:

Focusing on the community through local businesses
Getting into radio through journalism passion
Focusing on supporting the Spanish-speaking community through media
The difficulty in charging money for things you are passionate about
Having relationships with local TV and radio stations
The challenges for a woman of color in the marketing space
The desire to partner and collaborate more inteionally with other marketing firms
The purchasing power of Latinos in the Kansas community
Her near term goal for AB&C Bilingual
Choosing the right business model

Learn more about AB&C Bilingual:

Claudia Yaujar-Amaro is the owner of AB&C Bilingual Resources, LLC. a bilingual marketing company in Wichita. She is also the founder of Planeta Venus Online an Online Spanish Radio Station in Kansas. Claudia works tirelessly with other leaders in the community on Diversity and Inclusion, and makes sure language differences are not a barrier to communication. She loves to work with local businesses and organizations to bridge the gap of communication with the Hispanic community.

AB&C Billingual Resources helps you communicate effectively with customers, patients, students and parents who do not speak English, or feel more comfortable with an interpreter next to them. They also want to make sure you feel confident about your message being delivered.

They go beyond decoding words. Language is an expression and it carries feelings and emotions. They want to make sure their work is meaningful for everyone.

With many years of experience in the different fields, they offer interpreting in any setting; professional translations, proofreading and consulting services to connect communities who are not integrated because of the language barriers. They can help you with community outreach and help manage your social media to increase your clientele.

https://www.wichitachamber.org/annualmeeting

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Ben Hutton - 2021 Chamber Chair

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0500

The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting is coming up. Which makes this a great time for us to catch up with the 2021 Chair Ben Hutton, CEO of Hutton. He joins Don and Ebony to talk about his leadership path as well as what to expect from special guest speaker Patrick Lencioni at the Annual Meeting. On this episode we discuss:

Starting work from the age of 12
How Ben’s leadership has been impacted by his father, his faith and his network
The importance of showing up
Why he wanted to be a leader of the Chamber
The good a business can do for the community
How chasing the wrong goals taught Ben his biggest lesson as a leader
What the Chamber represents
The upcoming annual meeting on November 16, 2021 with guest speaker Patrick Lencioni
Why people should attend the annual meeting
Entering the danger
Making dumb suggestions
Being stuck with the same entrepreneurial stories for 15 years

Learn more about the Wichita Regional Chamber Annual Meeting:

https://www.tablegroup.com/

Podcast

Ben Hutton was swinging a hammer as soon as he could lift it. By age 12, he was working job sites. He studied construction management at Kansas State University and started at Hutton as a project manager. Soon after, he was leading the company’s business development efforts. In 2010, he became president. In 2016, CEO. Since then, the company’s capabilities have expanded and the number of employees more than tripled.

Patrick Lencioni’s teachings have been instrumental in Ben’s leadership journey. You might recognize Pat from The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Death by Meeting, or Ben’s personal favorite Getting Naked!

Lencioni is the pioneer of the organizational health movement and one of the world’s foremost experts on leadership and teamwork. As an author, speaker, consultant and CEO of the Table Group, Pat has spent the last 20 years shaping the organizational health movement by helping leaders develop cohesive teams and engaged employees.

Patrick’s books have sold more than 6 million copies and his work has been featured in Fortune, USA TODAY, Bloomberg Businessweek, and Harvard Business Review, to name a few.

During his time in Wichita, Patrick will be focused on his new model, The Working Genius.

Far too many people in the world suffer needlessly because they don't understand their personal areas of working genius. As a result, they don't do the kind of work that gives them joy and energy, and they end up in jobs and projects that are draining and demoralizing. This is a grave tragedy on two levels.

First, it leads those people to lose confidence in themselves and enthusiasm for life, which is devastating for them, their families and friends, and society as a whole. That alone is heartbreaking.

Second, organizations and teams–even families–that don't tap into the true genius of their members can't come close to realizing their potential. They are left puzzled by their inability to achieve their goals. This often leads them to make inaccurate and hurtful judgements about one another, and to feel unnecessarily guilty about their own shortcomings.

What makes all of this particularly tragic is that it is avoidable. The solution is for everyone–employees, managers, students and spouses–to identify their areas of working genius, as well as their areas of life draining weakness, and to put themselves in a position to tap into their genius more and engage in their weakness less.

Annual Meeting is open to the community and anyone who purchases a ticket will be given access to the Working Genius assessment so you can tap into your own genius and discover the gifts you bring to work!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Steve Dixon - P.B. Hoidale

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0500

His great-grandfather starting the business from his garage
Why he likes to hire people who don’t already have a lot of experience
Treating employees like family
What concerns Steve about talent development
Helping the team feel pride in the value they provide
How technology has evolved their offering
Why community investment brings energy to Steve’s life
Desiring and supporting growth in the Wichita entrepreneurial community
Providing career opportunities outside of the typical college path

Learn more about P.B. Hoidale:

https://www.hoidale.com/

https://dawnmonroetraining.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dawn Monroe - Dawn Monroe Training

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes your super-power just finds you. That’s what happened to Dawn Monroe as she began her first job out of college helping others learn how to use Word Perfect and Lotus. From there, she shares with Don and Ebony how she built her own technical education business, Dawn Monroe Training, from the ground up. On this episode we discuss:

What is an MOSM
Starting with a desire to help others
“Zoom”-ing through the pandemic
Helping others to become more efficient with business tools
How much Excel the average person actually uses
Always having Charlie available in a pinch
Where she has found a niche in the training industry
How she engages with new potential markets
Why personal learning drives her business forward

Learn more about Dawn Monroe Training:

Dawn Monroe is a certified Microsoft Office Specialist Master (MOSM), Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE), Modern Classroom Certified Trainer (MCCT), Certified Virtual Educator (CVE) and a Certified Virtual Presenter (CVP) with a background of nearly 30 years in the technical training industry. Dawn teaches and consults on popular software applications like Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and many others, with corporate workshops, webinars and speaking engagements in her hometown of Wichita, KS, and around the United States. Dawn has a unique ability to translate technical concepts in a simplified, fun way, and empowers business professionals through ongoing skill development.

How did she get started? A certification in Interaction Management prepared Dawn to teach essential business skills to employees and supervisors in manufacturing. As computing became the norm in the 90s, Dawn found herself teaching computer skills to business owners and their employees. She began teaching Windows, Word and Excel in their infancy. (Remember Lotus 123 and WordPerfect? She taught those too!)

During her five years at Butler Community College as an Adjunct Instructor, Dawn taught Microsoft Office both in the classroom and online. Her duties there also included facilitating staff workshops and student orientation sessions. She continues that relationship as a contract trainer for BETA @ Butler.

She had a long-term contracting relationship with a well-known training franchise since 1995. There, Dawn continued to help business professionals learn to use a wide range of computer applications. Her proficiency grew to include Mac and PC-based applications such as Access, Excel, Office 365, OneNote, Outlook, PowerPoint, Project, Publisher, Windows and Word.

http://www.dondlinger.biz

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Tom and Raymond Dondlinger - Dondlinger Construction

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0500

There aren’t many companies that can claim they have been in business longer than electricity has been available in Wichita, but that’s what the four-generation Dondlinger Construction can hang their hard hat on. Tom and Raymond Dondlinger share with hosts Don and Ebony what has contributed to their long term success over a century in business. On this episode we discuss:

The history of a multi-generational business
How people drive success in your business
How diversification has helped growth
The key of finding great people and developing leaders who can inspire
Horizontal v. vertical growth
Valuing your workforce
How the team responded to the challenges of COVID
Unexpected opportunities in the construction industry
How technology is impacting the industry

Learn more about Dondlinger Construction:

It all began in 1898, when N.L. Dondlinger built the foundation for what would become one of the largest and most diversified construction companies in Kansas. For over a century, we have exceeded our clients’ expectations for safely delivering a quality product on time and within budget.

The firm initially established operations in Claflin, Kansas and ultimately relocated to Wichita in 1925 and began building small commercial projects and in some of Wichita’s finer residential areas. The advent of World War II, coupled with Kansas’s growth, launched the company into larger commercial projects such as schools and hospitals. In the postwar boom, commercial building exploded and the company diversified by adding a utility division in 1956. Dondlinger & Sons soon diversified again, adding a heavy highway division in 1987 followed by an earthwork division in 2007.

Dondlinger has grown from small commercial and residential projects into one of the most capable and trusted providers of construction services in the Midwest. Their portfolio features projects of all sizes, levels and complexities; from small office renovations to some of the most complex civil operations in Kansas. Their extensive experience and capabilities ensure that we are able to meet our clients’ needs on every project.

Other Resources:

Dondlinger Company History (document)

Dondlinger Builds Legacy of Multi-Generational Success (article)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

http://www.eiarchitecture.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Milt Mounts - Essential Images Photography

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0500

It’s a simple story, where a desire to capture great photos of his children eventually led to Milt Mounts moving his photography from hobby to business. But as he shares with Don and Ebony, his Essential Images business did not necessarily go in the direction you would expect. On this episode we discuss:

Going from hobbyist to business owner
Finding a niche in photography
Differences between photographing people and buildings
Staying on the cutting edge of technology
How client recommendations tell him he is a success
How social media is a key marketing tool
What makes Wichita a great place to live and work
How important customer service is to survival

Learn more about Essential Images Photography:

Committed. Passionate. Professional.

These are Milt Mounts’ three favorite words as a photographer. It's always been his goal to provide the most professional service and the highest quality product to his clients. Every project is handled with in-depth communication and a thorough understanding of the desired results. Every venue he shoots is a unique piece of art, knowing that countless hours of time, energy and sweat was poured in by the team. His job is to showcase the work in a way that his clients will be proud to include in their portfolio.

Based in Kansas, Milt has traveled the country as a photographer capturing architecture from coast to coast as well as overseas. He shoots with top of the line Canon equipment and has tackled small single room assignments up to multi-unit structures.

Other Resources:

Essential Images Opens (article)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Ashley Cozine - Cozine Memorial Group

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0500

When one thinks of dynamic and evolving industries, funeral services does not immediately come to mind. However, Ashley Cozine is continuously looking for opportunities to innovate with the Cozine Memorial Group and he shares those developments with hosts Don and Ebony. On this episode we discuss:

The origins of the longtime family-run business
Finding unexpected opportunities to expand and diversify
The real competition that Cozine faces
Running building projects during the middle of a pandemic
How social media fits into the business climate
Only having one shot to please your customers

Learn more about Cozine Memorial Group:

http://www.cozine.com

Cozine Memorial Group’s tradition of providing funeral services to the families of Wichita, Kansas and the surrounding communities began in 1913. Since that time, they have continued to expand our offerings and raise the bar of funeral service in our community and across the country.

Broadway Mortuary and Kensington Gardens have earned a reputation for caring, compassionate service with unsurpassed professionalism and attention to detail…making Cozine Memorial Group the leading choice among funeral, cremation, and cemetery providers in Wichita!

Their commitment to providing funeral and memorial service excellence to families like yours has been recognized on a national level. They are the only mortuary in Wichita to have been inducted into the National Funeral Directors Association’s Hall of Excellence. This achievement recognizes the top 2% of funeral homes in the nation for outstanding services to families, commitment to the community and dedication to upholding the highest ethical and professional standards.

Continuing this legacy of service excellence while also redefining funeral service, they are excited to announce that our new Cozine Life Events Center is currently under construction and set to open in 2021. This new facility will set the standard for funeral service and provide families with unmatched options and hospitality as they honor, celebrate, and remember the life of their loved one.

Other Resources:

Getting to Know Ashley Cozine (article)

Broadway Mortuary Owners have Unique Plan for the Future (article)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Bill Gardner - Gardner Design

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0500

The constantly changing world of branding
How success and risk are tied together
The connections and relationships that kept Bill in Wichita
Tips and pitfalls that companies need to be aware of during branding process
Where branding is going in the future

Learn more about Gardner Design:

www.gardnerdesign.com

Other Resources:

Gardner in the News (website)

Logo Lounge (website)

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https://www.paintthetowne.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Jessie Sterling - Paint the Towne

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0500

When Jessie Sterling saw a unique opportunity for a new business in Wichita she jumped right in with Paint the Towne. Despite having no business background, she has continued to thrive and operate 12 years later. Jessie shares with Don and Ebony what led her to become an entrepreneur and her unique perspective on success. On this episode we discuss:

The meaning behind the business
Going from elementary school teacher to entrepreneur
Jessie’s unique way of finding instructors
How she used potential competitors as a pathway to success
Having to get laws changed to allow the business to operate
Persevering despite a lack of formal business training
Listening to your customers
How a primarily “in-person” business survived during COVID

Learn more about Paint the Towne:

Wichita’s original paint and sip studio where they host guided paint parties for kids and adults. Jessie Sterling started Paint the Towne 12 years ago this year.

Paint the Towne has always been about the experience that can be created for others. This business allows so many different groups of people of all ages to come get creative and enjoy themselves. They encourage the fun, engaging, diverse image that the Wichita community has built for itself. Through her own struggles and successes, Jessie realizes that her business only is what it is today because of her staff, customers, and community. Starting out with very little, she has been able to grow this business beyond her original business plan, and bigger than she thought it would ever be. Jessie appreciates the continued support from the community, which in turn allows her to continue to grow her business.

Nominated for a 2021 Small Business Award for the way they pivoted during COVID.

Jessie is a former Elementary teacher, who now spends her time at work painting and partying with aspiring artists young and old. She was born and raised in Wichita, got her BS from K-State and is a self taught artist. When she isn't working she is running around her four kids, attending PTO and Art Council meetings.

Other Resources:

Paint the Towne Now Has Three Locations (article)

Paint the Towne Owner Started Her Business Going Out on a Limb (article)

Visit Wichita

Douglas Design District

Exploration Place

Tanganyika Wildlife Park

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Dan Reisig and Jeff Ollenburger - UV&S

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Where does Hollywood go when they need to store critical items? Who does a local medical supply company turn to when filing records? Honestly, the same company: UV&S. Host Don Sherman is joined by Jeff Ollenburger and Dan Reisig to talk about how UV&S has grown into Wichita and worldwide from their original business beginnings in Hutchinson. On this episode we discuss:

Company expansion worldwide
Creating a museum and salt mine tour to meet a demand
Listening to your clients so they can steer you to success
Serving as a back office for storage of small businesses
The shifting need towards digital storage
Finding the right people to work with
The two things you need to know about ransomware
The importance of staying connected to the local community through the Chamber of Commerce
The value of the Business Expo and how to have success there
Serving employees and their families
Staying balanced in a business of technology that operates 24/7 across multiple time zones
Coopetition

Learn more about UV&S:

https://uvsinc.com/

UV&S incorporated on June 11, 1959, founded by a group of Kansas businessmen who predicted the need for a secure location to protect and manage information. They evaluated numerous sites nationwide, then chose the salt mine in Hutchinson, Kansas. Known in the industry as an early entrant in the offsite records management field, UV&S is still a privately owned and operated business. Many of the original families continue in the management and direction of our company.

The company grew to encompass six records centers – three underground and three above ground. Underground facilities in Kentucky, Missouri and Kansas provide the highest level of security from natural disasters and potential civil unrest for clients nationally and internationally. Above ground facilities in Oklahoma and Kansas serve local metropolitan areas.

We acknowledge a diverse client population that migrates data and information, for storage, from over 38 countries worldwide. The salt mine in Hutchinson, Kansas is our largest facility – more than 650 feet underground with a vertical entrance; protecting records in every form and movie film. In Wichita, Topeka and Oklahoma City our three state-of-the-art records centers are used primarily for active rotation and retention of a geographically near clientele.

Services are provided to customers in a traditional “fee for service” arrangement. From transportation, handling, inprocessing, retrievals, refiles, copying and destruction, UV&S can accomplish it all. With the proliferation of third party air transportation and overnight delivery, the distance of our vaults is transparent to our users.

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Sarah Bagby - Watermark Books and Cafe

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0500

What do you do when national competition comes flooding in? How do you survive? This is the story of a small local bookstore outlasting large national chains. Sarah Bagby has been leading Watermark books through difficult challenges, but has always been able to move forward, partly on having the right focus. She joins host Don Sherman to share what makes her business stand out. On this episode we discuss:

Becoming more entrepreneurial in the face of competition
Growing up in a house of readers
Why a book is not a passive experience
Being in the business of ideas
Keeping people from feeling alone during the pandemic
How the community helps her bring national authors to town
How the internet scares Sarah
Not forgetting the value of local retail businesses
Everyone comes in with a problem to solve
Focusing on customer engagement
Admiring local non-profit leaders
Reopening the cafe

Learn more about Watermark Books and Cafe:

www.watermarkbooks.com

For 45 years, Watermark Books & Café, an independent locally owned bookstore and café, has been a home for books in Wichita, KS. While our physical store houses books, our home extends well beyond the four walls and into our community. We sponsor over 100 author events featuring bestselling and soon-to-be bestselling authors. We collaborate with non-profits, other local businesses, schools, churches, libraries, and other organizations that make our community what it is. Since 1996 we have been an anchor for the Lincoln Heights Village Shopping Center at the southwest corner of Douglas and Oliver.

Mission statement: Our purpose is to connect books with readers and to provide tasty food for our café patrons. We match myriad books to a diverse population of readers, including children, in physical, eBook and audio format. With open minds and a knowledge of books, we strive to be a place for discovery and expansive experiences. We support local authors, donate to nonprofit organizations, schools, libraries, and source our coffee from a local roaster. Whether you seek an author event, a book club, a coffee meet-up or something good to read, we welcome you and are committed to representing

our entire community in our selection of books.

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Amy Williams - Journey Unseen Special

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0500

On the second chapter of our Journey Unseen series host Don Sherman is joined by Amy Williams who shares about how she learned to own her own space when she entered the room. With these special conversations we share the stories of women in our community who have had a profound impact on our community through their leadership and achievements. On this episode we discuss:

What brought Amy back to Wichita
Having a passion for customer relations
Teaching others to play nicely in the sandbox together
Growing up as the bossy older child in the family
The value of adaptability
Having to tell the Emperor they have no clothes
Owning your own space when you enter a room
The struggle when you don’t see progress being made
Why Amy got started in DE&I (Diversity, Ethics and Inclusion)
Helping people see other worlds
The continuous movement towards integration
Always learning from others
Dealing with the polarization in our country

Amy joined Spirit AeroSystems in December 2015 and is currently the Senior Manager for Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I).

Additional Resources:

Women Who Lead (article)

DEI Task Force at the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce (website)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Vera Bothner - Journey Unseen Special

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0500

We wrap up our special three-part Journey Unseen series with Vera Bothner. As she shares with us her unique career journey as a woman in business, she reflects with host Don Sherman on the pivots and changes she has made each step of the way and what she has learned from those. On this episode we discuss:

Initially wanting to get into clinical psychology serving children
Finding the unexpected path
A passion for working with people
Being an expert in communicating with people
Being able to look back on Old Town as an idea coming to fruition
Struggling to say “no”
How the Kansas Health Foundation gave Vera a chance to pivot
Creating more margin in your life
Not waiting for someone else
Clearing obstacles to allow others to reach their vision
Dealing with imposter syndrome
Recharging by carving out alone time
Learning from the next generation of leaders
Carrying a torch for your clients and the community

It also helps explain her interest in truly understanding people, and her desire to champion causes and clients that can make her small corner of the world just a bit better.

Additional Resources:

Women in Business - Vera Bothner (article)

40 Under 40 - Vera Bothner (article)

Solutions Needed to Fix Perception of Cuts at Wichita State Sunflower (article)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Yolanda Camarena - Journey Unseen Special

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Growing up with five sisters
Family values growing up in south Texas
Lessons learned from moving around in a military family
Being a first generation college student
Being active and engaged on campus
H.A.L.O. (Hispanic American Leadership Organization)
Making decisions with intention
The value of the relationships in your life
Being the only Latina at Harvard
Why mentoring became so important in her life
What motivates Yolanda
The Push

Additional Resources:

Wichita State University Scholarship Announcement (article)

Outstanding Philanthropist: Gene and Yolanda Camarenta (article)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Ajamu Webster - DuBois Consultants, Inc.

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0500

An entrepreneurial seizure and the passion to help others grow and achieve their potential. That’s how it all began for Ajamu Webster when he first created Dubois Consultants. Hosts Don and Ebony catch up with Ajamu to discuss how he expanded from his first location in Kansas City to the Wichita market and how he has approached growing and building his business over 30+ years. On this episode we discuss:

The journey towards creating a new construction consulting firm
The Entrepreneurial Seizure
How his old firm and boss helped him to launch out on his own
Being surrounded by great people
Eat what you can grab
The opportunity at the Northwest Wichita Water Treatment Facility
Identifying a niche
The impact that states and municipalities can have on hiring
Defining success as an entrepreneur
Struggles with making local inroads
The paradigm shift needed in Wichita
Identifying a problem that you want to solve
Knowing your business partners

Learn more about DuBois Consultants:

dubconinc.com

For over thirty years, DuBois Consultants has partnered with some of the worlds most renowned

architectural and engineering firms. Our innovative water infrastructure solutions have served municipalities, developers, private and public sector utilities throughout the greater Kansas City area and beyond.

Ajamu provides key insight from the president’s chair. Prior to starting the company in 1988, the Los Angeles native served as a project engineer at Butler Construction Company and a structural engineer for local giant Burns and McDonnell. His leadership is integral to the recent strategic focus and growth of the company. His attention to detail assures thoroughness and quality in each project.

Mr. Webster has over 38 years of engineering experience with water and wastewater facilities, with emphasis on analysis and inspection, structural design, rehabilitation, and renovation. Between creating strategies, fine tuning tactics, and leading his design teams, Ajamu dedicates much of his time inspiring future engineers in the Kansas City community through various engagement and outreach efforts through his firm. His serve is also extended through several city boards and commissions where he served as a Parks Board Commissioner, through mayoral appointment, for the City of Kansas City Missouri Parks and Recreation and the Missouri Training and Employment Commission. His most recent mayoral appointment is with the City of Kansas City Economic Development Corporation Board where he serves as the Vice Chair of the Loan Corp Committee.

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Mike Mathia & Jason Toevs - Quicc

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0500

So a Human Resources director and a farmer walk into a bar. Sounds like the start of a great joke, but it is the true story of an AI based video tech firm with an international reach that started right here in Wichita, Kansas. Mike Mathia and Jason Toevs, co-founders of Quicc, join hosts Don and Ebony to explore everything from starting out with heavy involvement to investors and pivoting into new opportunities amid explosive growth. On this episode we discuss:

The evolving vision around helping others create content
Dealing with buyers and investors too early
Trying to scale a new business while also educating the market
Pivoting into new opportunities with automatic video captioning
Massive growth with the company pivot
How customers struggle to keep the right content in front of their audience
Seeing ahead and moving beyond a commoditized service to stand apart from the industry
What scares them about being a start-up in Wichita
Being a part of the next wave of video and enabling fast development in content creation
Saying yes to the conversation
What keeps companies and talent from wanting to stay in Wichita

Learn more about Quicc:

Quicc is every team’s secret weapon to amplify their brand by repurposing video content like a global heavyweight, without needing a media empire behind you to do it. Are you a video creator harnessing the power of video to educate, entertain, inform, and connect with your audience? If so, look no further than Quicc! In a world with so many viewers now watching video without sound, we've helped creators just like you in over 100 countries worldwide achieve maximum

accessibility and increased audience engagement through a simple, automated, custom process to caption video content at lightning speed.

Mike & Jason are the Co-Founders of Quicc, a local Wichita startup that continues to grow. Video content was hard for them to scale in their first startup, which led to building Quicc. Since then they have been blown away by the community of creators who have been a part of our rapid growth! They believe in building a sustainable, transparent, and liberating product/company and hope others will join us by using Quicc as their own secret weapon in creating video content!

More Information:

Tech startup, Big Dog part of pilot program to increase and diversify Wichita exports (article)

Connector in Chief (article)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Stacy Ward-Lattin - Hopping Gnome

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0500

The upcoming 6th anniversary celebration of Hopping Gnome
Home brewing competitions
Touring the taproom scene in Colorado
Wanting to build something in Wichita and help the community
Being a cheerleader for activities and events around town
Starting a business with zero business background
Overcoming the fear of talking about their business idea to get support from others
Coming up with the right name and location
Relationships with other local brewers in Wichita
The reason they used Kickstarter to help launch
New partnership with WSU Tech
Surviving the COVID-19 pandemic by getting creative and working with the Kansas legislature
Ceiling Breakers Podcast
All the great things women are doing in the Wichita community
Growing new relationships
Supporting local artists

Learn more about Hopping Gnome:

Ceiling Breakers Podcast

The name stuck and after finding a local graphic designer to create the awesome logo, Hopping Gnome Brewing Company was born.

Located in the up-and-coming Douglas Design District, Hopping Gnome Brewing Company joined the growing craft beer community as the first taproom in Wichita, KS.

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Scott Redler - Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Doing things the Freddy’s Way
How always looking for improvement led to making the hot dog better
The strategy about french fries
How Scott knew it was time to franchise
How to choose a franchisee
Building a culture and mission into your organization
The “no jerk” rule
The importance of teaching our children the right values to set them on a path to success
The reward of seeing others succeed
Reinvesting profits with guest driven decisions
A major donation to Butler County Community College
Acquisition talk
The Wichita quality of life
How a PMA is critical to success
HPA/LPA in business
The power of consistency

Learn more about Freddy’s:

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Joy Eakins - Cornerstone Data

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0500

When competing on the global scale in data analytics, it’s important to find ways to stand out. Joy Eakins has done just that as her team focuses on delivering for their clients while also serving our local community. Joy joins hosts Don and Ebony to discuss how her business has provided great service to a community that is desperate for data as it fights the COVID-19 pandemic. On this episode we discuss:

Volunteering to help with the COVID-19 pandemic
Helping customers gain a competitive edge
Partnering with former guest Luis Rodriquez at KeyCentrix to create a new product
Networking for growth and setting new standards in the data business
Always do the best work you can
The mysterious world of data
Why Joy stopped writing business plans
Having a network of people you can rely on
Expanding into new business opportunities
The necessity of always learning and growing
Being passionate about serving the local community

Learn more about Cornerstone Data:

www.cornerstonedata.com

The consultants at Cornerstone Data work with businesses to understand the questions leaders are asking and identify the unique data required to answer those question. Then they design processes and visualizations so leaders can view that data the minute they need it – anywhere in the world. Cornerstone was founded as Cornerstone Design & Development in 2008.

In 2015, Cornerstone won the Wichita Chamber Small Business of the Year award, at the time the smallest business ever to have received it. By 2018, the renamed Cornerstone Data, Inc. focused its services in emerging technologies for advanced analytics, data engineering, reporting, and visualizations. In 2019, Cornerstone teamed with local firm Keycentrix to launch Script MetRx, a Data-as-a-Service offering for specialty pharmacies that ingests data from the pharmacy management system and provides analysis and reporting for the enterprise. Local Cornerstone Data clients have included the Kansas Leadership Center and BKD.

During the COVID pandemic, Cornerstone Data voluntarily provided COVID analysis of data for leaders throughout Kansas and nationally – to both private and public sector leaders. They continue to provide those services more than a year later.

Specialties include: Power BI, Azure Data Factory, .NET, Azure SQL Synapse Analytics, SQL Server, Azure Analysis Services, DAX, Business Intelligence & Reporting.

Other resources:

Joy Eakins feature in the Wichita Business Journal (article)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Conan Fugit - Lamphouse Photo Booth Co.

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 26 May 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes all it takes is that small moment of inspiration to create a business that is truly unique. Conan Fugit and his wife, Katherine, turned their love of campers and photography into a thriving photo booth business to travel to events all over the Wichita area. Conan talks with hosts Don and Ebony about their love for vintage and nostalgic items led to their experimentation and how Wichita provides the supporting community needed for small businesses to thrive. On this episode we discuss:

Being inspired by vintage campers to create a new business
Creating a new business that is tangential from food trucks
Living a nostalgic life
Traveling to big events all over Wichita
How customers find them
Standing out in a crowded space from the competition
Always looking for unique opportunities and ways to grow and pivot
Staying relevant when events aren’t happening
Thinking about how to scale while continuously reevaluating the overall business
How Wichita is friendly to entrepreneurs
The resources that helped them weather the pandemic

Learn more about Lamphouse Photo Booth:

www.lamphousephotoco.com

Their first event was in 2013, and they will celebrate 8 years in business this June. They started with a vintage camper analog photography studio & darkroom that was featured on the Phoblographer and Rangefinder magazine. In 2015 they merged into exclusively digital photo booths. Today they have the Birdie Booths which we take to weddings, public events, and corporate parties as well as the Little "Lampy" Camper photo booth.

The pandemic shifted their priorities from in-person events to connecting with our followers via social media, so they took the year to start a YouTube channel where they document remodeling vintage campers and also talk about what it's like to operate a photo booth business out of one. It started as a fun distraction but eventually grew into its own unique business venture. They also recently started renting their first vintage camper remodel from the channel for elopement photo shoots, mini sessions, and other photography content projects through Lamphouse.

Other Resources:

Wedding Wire profile (website)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

SBA Loans and Support w/ Wayne Bell

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 19 May 2021 03:00:00 -0500

It seems like a time of chaos, especially for small businesses. Trying to remain open and pay employees is an ongoing challenge, but the Small Business Administration can provide assistance to new businesses or established companies that are struggling. Wayne Bell, District Director of the Wichita SBA, joins hosts Don and Ebony to talk about the programs that the SBA makes available to support all small businesses, from sole proprietorships to companies with up to 500 employees. On this episode we discuss:

The types of services that the SBA provides and where to get in touch with them
How the SBA serves businesses in all parts of their life cycle
The purpose behind the SBA
Initial steps you can take to get an SBA loan
The atmosphere around the SBA when a pandemic shut down the country
The success and challenges around the PPP
How to define a small business
The Restaurant Revitalization Fund
The challenge of getting people back to work
Benefits of current SBA loans

Learn more about the SBA:

Created in 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. The SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capiOver the years, the SBA has developed many small business loan and assistance programs, special outreach efforts and initiatives to aid and inform small businesses. The following describes briefly all the services and information available through the Wichita office:

Financial assistance for new or existing businesses through guaranteed loans made by area bank and non-bank lenders.
Free counseling, advice and information on starting, better operating or expanding a small business through (SCORE) Counselors and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) network to America’s Small Business.
Assistance to businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals through the Minority Enterprise Development Program.
Women's Business Ownership Representatives are available to advise women business owners.
Special loan programs are available for businesses involved in international trade.
If you're a veteran, you can get business counseling and information about SBA guaranteed loans, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses.

Wayne Bell is the District Director for the Wichita Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Wayne has been in this role since October 27, 2008. His professional background includes extensive experience in public and private sectors, combined with a thorough understanding of the small business environment in Kansas. Prior to SBA, Mr. Bell served as Administrative Officer for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the US Department of Homeland Security at Wichita Mid-Continent Airport. With TSA he managed human resources, customer service, stakeholder relations, purchasing, and IT contract services for Kansas. Before federal employment, Mr. Bell held leadership positions at Beech Aircraft, Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, and with private manufacturing firms in Hutchinson, Kansas. He also gained experience in small business as a partner in a Wichita-based service firm. A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Mr. Bell attended Wichita State University (WSU) and earned both an Executive MBA and Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology.

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Carla Lawless - Shea by Dolce

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 12 May 2021 03:00:00 -0500

It’s all in the family with Shea by Dolce. Carla Lawless’s daughter was inspired to create beauty products to assist with her own eczema struggles while leveraging her engineering knowledge. Now the mother and 3 daughters have leveraged their own unique skills and experiences to create a whole different kind of beauty company. Carla shares with hosts Don and Ebony how this endeavour continues to inspire and ground her family. On this episode we discuss:

Looking for something new through research and experimentation
The problem that shea butter solves
Leveraging all the online tools that are available to help small businesses
How growth has happened on a local and national scale
The focus on providing quality natural ingredients
Why the preparation is so key for manufacturing their products
Growing into new avenues through subscription boxes
Anticipating how much product will be needed
The value of staying connected to customers over time
Different backgrounds coming together to make something great

Learn more about Shea by Dolce:

https://sheabydolce.com/

Shea by Dolce is a family owned company that takes pride in providing quality products to enhance your health and beauty. The business was created to address the concerns of dry skin by restoring moisture and balance. They use natural ingredients to provide sweet nourishment for your skin and hair. Their products are handmade to ensure quality. You can purchase their products online via their website. They also have a blog to help you learn more about why having healthy skin is important and the steps to take to achieve healthy results by using their products.

Carla has been with Shea by Dolce since October of 2016. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in music education. She also is part of the New Spring Church family and is currently the Music & Artistic Development Director.

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Social Media and Digital Marketing w/ Krissy Buck - WSU Tech

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 05 May 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Diving into the digital media world
The unique career journey Krissy has followed
The goal of the digital marketing program at WSU Tech
Finding your customers online
The importance of the customer journey
Some basic keys to SEO for your website and YouTube
Being effective at content creation
The types of videos that people prefer online
How often should you sell to your customers through Social Media?
Using all the digital tools that are available to you
How often you should be posting
Serving others online in order to grow
Highlighting user generated content
How social media influencers are bridging the gap between brands and customers
Leveraging a chat bot effectively
The flywheel approach to transitioning followers to customers
The Accept / Seek / Go approach
The value of building an online community
The biggest mistake she sees small businesses make online

Learn more about WSU Tech:

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Mary Billings - Love of Character

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Where the business name came from
The invitation to expand into Bradley Fair
The corporate background at Koch Industries
Standing out from the competition by providing unique touches
Jumping head-first and leaving the full-time job to run her business
The business spark on a flight back from Florida
Growing through a pandemic
The supportive local community
Always being kind to others
The challenges of maintaining a work / life balance as a business owner

Learn more about Love of Character:

www.loveofcharacter.com

3200 East Douglas Avenue

Wichita, KS 67208

316-351-5527

2142 N Rock Rd

Wichita, Kansas 67206

316-352-7266

Other Resources:

Love of Character Blog

Good Day Kansas Feature (video)

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https://www.martinizing.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Sherrie Hill - Martinizing Dry Cleaning

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Expanding a business just mere weeks before a pandemic sets in? That’s exactly what happened to Sherrie Hill when she expanded her dry cleaning business in March of 2020. Joining hosts Don and Ebony, they explore Sherrie’s positive outlook and how she has found opportunities in the midst of struggle. On this episode we discuss:

Buying the Martinizing Dry Cleaning business and where the term “Martinizing” comes from.
Buying the franchise right before COVID hits and the shock of everything
Focusing on quality and customer service to drive word-of-mouth
Growing a purchased business
Always striving and challenging yourself to grow
Using the pandemic as an opportunity to slow down
The key of staying positive as an entrepreneur
Obtaining certification with the government and opportunities to expand
Implementing new technology in the business
Being rooted deeply in community and volunteering
Being a role-model for others as a black, female-owned business
The influence of family values on Sherrie’s business approach
Strong competition in the Wichita area
The struggle to keep from being a workaholic
Being available for your employees and customers when they need you

Learn more about Martinizing Dry Cleaning:

(316) 252-8588

Martinizing Dry Cleaning is dedicated to making your buying experience seamless and their number one priority. Their goal is to make your life easier by delivering quality garment care along with new technologies. They are proud to serve our community and our first-rate customer service will earn your trust.

Your local Martinizing dry cleaners provide dry cleaning, shirt laundry, alterations, wash & fold, bulk laundry, leather cleaning, wedding gown cleaning and wedding gown preservation in addition to many bulky household items such as comforters. They are your professional local dry cleaners. Martinizing Dry Cleaning has 2 locations in Wichita and are an environmentally green cleaners, servicing Wichita, Andover, Augusta, Derby, El Dorado, Park City, & Newton. They are proud to say that they DO NOT use toxic products to clean and disinfect items!

Other Resources:

ICT Cleaners Expanding (article)

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squeegeesquad.com/franchise/wichita-ks/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

James Barfield - Squeegee Squad & B&W Building Maintenance

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes the business is already prepared and it just needs to be brought to a new location. James Barfield discusses being a franchisee for a larger brand and how he focuses on being a resource partner locally in Wichita. Joining hosts Don and Ebony, they dive into the opportunities he has found, while also the challenges and struggles he faces being a black business owner. On this episode we discuss:

How he engages in digital and print marketing
Radio advertising on KMUW during Black History Month
Being a resource partner instead of a service provider
Using Squeegee Squad as an introduction to the whole business
The value of word of mouth and relationship building
How the support of a corporate team helps him locally
Being safety-conscious with high-rise buildings
Thinking about how a franchise can be expanded
How a lack of competition creates opportunities to grow in Wichita
Barriers that minorities have to overcome
The stress and intimacy that comes with a small business
The support gap needed for black-owned businesses
Staying healthy through regular meditation, prayer and exercise

Learn more about Squeegee Squad:

316-202-6020

Facebook Profile
Instagram Profile
LinkedIn Profile
Twitter Profile

James is a Wichita native who was once a student of the YEK (Youth Entrepreneurs Kansas) program. He now lends his time and expertise by volunteering for this program. He holds an associate degree in Business, Marketing, Six Sigma and Project Management from Wichita Area Technical College. James and his team have done some major commercial work in Kansas City at Garmin International and at Dallas City Hall in Texas.

Other Resources:
James Barfield Brings Squeegee Squad to Wichita (article)
Getting to Know James Barfield (article)

Youth Entrepreneurs (website)
BOMA (website)
WIBA (website)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Ethan Eck - Eck Fabrication

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Inventors come from all over the world, and Ethan Eck has found the right spot to perfect his inventions in Kingman, Kansas. Ethan shares with Don and Ebony how his Chem-Blade product revolutionizes a pain point for farmers across America and how he plans to grow his business in the heartland. On this episode we discuss:

Starting in chassis building for motorsports
How little things make a big difference in business
The role of the Chem-Blade in an agriculture operation
Making something that meets the needs of others
Finding the fit to make sales, with effort leading the way
Building a dealer network with a phone and an e-mail address
Licensing manufacturing of products
Looking for a problem that needs a solution
How a lack of normalcy makes it difficult to project growth
Be vicious with your Google search
Always make time for networking, you are never in that much of a hurry
Taking pride in your hometown
Difficulty in finding labor in a small town
Lifting up and supporting local businesses
The future of Eck Fabrication

Learn more about Eck Fabrication:

https://eckfab.com/

620-491-0461

Ethan grew up on a family farm but also worked in various industries like Oil & Gas, construction, and manufacturing. His education consisted of only technical school at WyoTech in Laramie WY, learning automotive and how to build racecar chassis. Ethan is also a member of the Wichita Manufacturers Association, an affiliate of the Chamber, where he serves on the executive board as president in 2021. He has participated in several different entrepreneurial programs in Kansas. From the Launch A Business program at K-State 2015, LaunchPrep at WSU 2018, to the Manufacturer’s Round Table at the Wichita Chamber in 2019. Showcased at the 2015 Commodity Classic, an event produced by several national farm organizations. Chem-Blade was selected as one of two winners in a 2014 national ag inventor contest.

Other Resources:

Member Minute (article)
Successful Farming - Chem-Blade ES Released (article)
Now That's Rural - Ethan Eck (article)
High Plains Journal - Every Ounce Counts (article)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Succession Planning w/ Chad Hanson - Emprise Bank

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

One thing that often is forgotten when starting and running your own business is how you finish. On our first deep dive conversation, Chad Hanson from Emprise Bank joins us to talk about succession planning for your business. Don and Ebony bring the questions and Chad guides us through things to consider as you plan your exit. On this episode we discuss:

Using SBA loans as a tool for starting a business
The importance of succession planning
The dangers of not having a plan
How soon to get started on your succession plan
The real definition of a succession plan
What parties, inside and outside of the company, should be involved
What resources are available to learn from
The value of trusted advisors
What happens after you have the plan
The importance of being flexible

Learn more about Emprise Bank:

emprisebank.com

316-383-4301

Twitter Profile
LinkedIn Profile
Instagram Profile
YouTube Channel

Chad Hanson joined Emprise Bank in 2019 as Strategic Relationship Manager and Commercial Segments Leader. In this role, he oversees key commercial relationships and strategic growth efforts in addition to leading Emprise’s business banking group. Chad has more than 15 years of broad experience in the financial industry. He has been responsible for business development, managing a large client portfolio, and sourcing and managing a variety of real estate and private equity investments. Chad is a graduate of Wichita State University, having earned a BBA in Finance with Emphasis in Real Estate. He is active in the community with past involvement including serving at Make A Wish, Youth Entrepreneurs, Junior Achievement, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Other Resources:

Small Business Administration (website)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Luis Rodriguez - KeyCentrix & Method Productions

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Growing in Wichita, some think it's not possible. But Luis Rodriguez is convinced that Wichita is a fantastic location for growing any kind of business, particularly the technology kind. He joins hosts Don and Ebony to discuss his roles at KeyCentrix and Method Productions and what challenges face Wichita as the economy transforms during the current technology evolution. On this episode we discuss:

Different roles at KeyCentrix and Method Productions
The Pythagorean Theorem (I know, right)
How KeyCentrix makes life easier for pharmacies
Getting customers outside the Wichita area
Midwestern values and building relationships
Beating competitors on the east and west coasts
Hiring the right people to help you grow
Taking care of your employees
Making connections through the chamber
The challenges that Wichita faces in pivoting to more technology businesses
Cost-effectiveness of developing software in Wichita
Investing in the community through scholarships

Learn more about KeyCentrix:

keycentrix.com

800-444-8486

Twitter Profile
LinkedIn Profile

Since its inception in 1974, Keycentrix has become a nationally known pharmacy software company serving 1,000 pharmacies across the US, most of them out of state. They are recognized for reliable, accurate and stable technology solutions that include a portfolio of inventory management and Point-of-Sale (POS) systems for specialty, retail and mail-order pharmacies." KeyCentrix is a founding member of FlagshipKansas.Tech, which is expanding and growing the tech sector in our state.

Learn more about Method Productions:

method-productions.com

316-202-5258

Instagram Profile
LinkedIn Profile

Located in downtown Wichita, this talented group produces videos, graphics, commercial photography, social
media assets, audio recordings and podcasts. Among their clients are the Chamber and SKT. They have been
in business for about 12 years and have collaborated with numerous area businesses including Digital Brand
Communications, Burly Studios and Applies & Arrows.

With over 10 years of technology executive leadership experience, Luis Rodriguez joined Keycentrix as Chief Technology Officer in 2015. Soon after in February of 2018, Rodriguez was appointed President. Today, Rodriguez is responsible for steering Keycentrix’s explosive national growth and enjoys the everyday challenges that come with running a full-service technology company. Luis also operates Netability an IT services company, and is a partner in Method Productions an award winning video production company. Altogether, Rodriguez has accumulated an impressive 15 years of technology experience and is well-versed in a variety of other industries including, but not limited to, retail, finance, restaurant, manufacturing, and healthcare. Prior to leading Keycentrix, Rodriguez operated NerdUnit, an IT Service company for small to mid-sized businesses and later served High Touch Technologies, overseeing all software development operations, strategic technology initiatives, research, and development. Additionally, Rodriguez is active in the technology sector, serving on the Board of
Directors for the Tech Council of Kansas (FlagshipKansas.Tech), Forbes Technology Council and having served on the Citrix Advisory Council. He also has provided classroom instruction in programming and data structures/business intelligence.

Other Resources:

Mayor’s Weekly Media Briefing - July 30, 2020 (video)
KeyCentrix Growing in Wichita (article)
Health Care Tech Provider Acquires Local IT Company (article)
Greater Wichita Partnership
Flagship Kansas

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https://www.4feathersboutique.com

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

April Albert - Four Feathers Boutique

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Sometimes where you end up is not what you expected. April Albert, owner of Four Feathers Boutique, joins hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade to share how she unexpectedly pivoted from eCommerce to having her own storefront. On this episode we discuss:

Humble beginnings: starting out with 3 tank tops and a pair of leggings in the basement
The April synergy
The unique story behind the business name
Striving to allow women to be active, comfortable and fashionable
Social media marketing is everything
Making live videos and being 100% authentic
Being present in the business and connecting with customers
Dreaming big picture about the future and setting goals through a vision board
Being willing to pivot
Creating her own app for her business
The challenge of finances: cash flow, profit, etc.
Tagging on social media is the new “word of mouth”
Unwinding with weightlifting, wine and family time

Learn more about Four Feathers Boutique:

316-413-6012

Shopping App

Four Feathers in the premier Midwest boutique for women’s trendy boutique clothing, carrying items that combine comfort and style. Jewelry, gifts, shoes and other accessories are also found at the location in Goddard, Kansas.

April utilizes social media (Facebook Live and contests) and her own shopping app to expand her audience. She’s also way ahead of the latest trends. Check out new items like a java sock on her Facebook page.

Other Resources:

Good Day Kansas (article/video)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Eddie Sandoval - Pinole Blue

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Sometimes a simple idea can explode into a full-blown business. Eddie Sandoval started Pinole Blue in his dorm room at Wichita State and now finds his products on the shelves of Whole Foods. He also shares with hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade some crazy stories around marking through TikTok. It’s a business hero origin story in Wichita. On this episode we discuss:

The evolution of Pinole Blue through the initial inception
Starting the business with a simple idea at Wichita State and working in his dorm room, bringing back his first load of blue corn in a truck across the border
Going viral on social media fueling growth during the pandemic
How TikTok is their key marketing strategy, allowing people to understand their business and products
Allowing goals to evolve from the content creation and customer engagement
As a new business, leaning on the resources that are available to you
Leveraging influencers on social media
Stress relief through running and reading
The need for a local community kitchen in Wichita
Finding inspiration in Toms Shoes

Learn more about Pinole Blue:

https://pinoleblue.com

316-760-5683

Pinole Blue offers cookies, protein balls and different flavors of pinole (including pumpkin spice) in 300 stores across 18 states. Most recently, Whole Foods Market began carrying Pinole Blue Tortillas (which are also produced in different flavors---ask about the red tortillas they make for Cheifs games and Valentine’s Day). And don’t miss the delicious tamales and cocoa bombs Pinole Blue foods are organic, vegan, non-GMO, U.S. made, Mexican-sourced and gluten-free. Bonus: They offer free shipping and sell their own t-shirts.

Eddie Sandoval’s family is from Chihuahua, Mexico. Growing up, he would take trips twice a year to visit and bring home pinole, a multiuse, nutrient-dense mixture of roasted ground maize savored by his family for generations. It eventually became his life’s work.

Eddie and Pinole Blue believe in giving back. They financially support the Tarahumara people in northern Mexico in their artisan work.

Other Resources:

Pass the Chipotle (podcast)

Wichita Life (podcast)

WeGotGoals (podcast)

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Chrissy Robben - Hexcode Designs

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0600

It’s time to talk about marketing. Chrissy Robben, the owner of Hexcode Designs shares her keys to marketing with hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade. She will share how embracing business diversity and diving into her clients’ businesses has helped her to deliver a great customer experience. On this episode we discuss:

Ebony and Chrissy as kindred Poli-Sci spirits
Being active on social media and creating interactions with other businesses
Taking time to know your customer’s business
Keeping clients successful during the pandemic
Developing solutions for your social media
How marketing keeps things exciting for Chrissy
Developing a culture in your team that is excited about the future
The struggle of changing and pivoting when needed
Managing uncertainty
The pressure of adding additional staff to a business
The small town feel of Wichita
Breaking into marketing in Wichita, where there are already many other great firms
How the Wichita Chamber of Commerce has facilitated growth

Learn more about Hexcode Designs:

316-202-8845

A one-stop marketing and branding agency located in downtown Wichita. Hexcode means “the six- digit code that informs the browser to display the color of your website.” A graduate of Wichita State University, Robben earned a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts (Graphic Design) as well as Political Science and Government. She co-founded Hexcode Designs, LLC in 2016 and owns the firm after buying out her original partner.

Other Resources:

Hexcode Designs Moves Downtown (article)

Nuggets of Wisdom (video)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Janice McClelland - McClelland Inc.

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Throughout the years, McClelland Inc. has been a business staple in Wichita since 1928. Even being in a market dominated by technology shifts, this family business has continued to evolve. Janice McClelland, owner and President, joins hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade to share about how those shifts have occurred and finding opportunity and growth during a pandemic. On this episode we discuss:

The business beginning in 1928 with pulling speakers behind a Model T
Completing a recent name change
Coming into a family business and growing
Expanding from just sound into new technology areas
Sharing marketing space to promote important community events
The power of “word of mouth” marketing
Differentiation through customer support
Having a passion for legacy, employees and community
Thriving through a pandemic because of people
Knowing your team so that you can be flexible
The importance of building roots in a community
Accountability to maintain your health
Shifting a business with constantly changing technology

Learn more about McClelland Sound:

https://Macsound.com

316-265-8686

The largest and most experienced sound engineering and contracting firm in the state of Kansas. McClelland provides audio, video lighting and control services for a variety of industries as well as hotels, educational institutions, and houses of worship.

Established in 1928, the company had a mural painted on the south side of their building to pay tribute to their history. That history included providing services for the Forum (predecessor to Century II). The company provides sponsorship support to community organizations and events like Botanica’s Illuminations, the American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball, Wichita Symphony Orchestra and Autumn & Art.

Janice has helped in the family business since she was old enough to push buttons. After leaving the community for a short time period, she returned to Wichita to run the family business. She officially joined McClelland in 2001 and is the 3rd generation family leader of the business. She became President and Owner in 2016.

Other Resources:

Rotary Club of Wichita

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This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Stacy Edmundson - Red Door Three

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0600

It’s no joke, exhibit and display company Red Door Three was founded on April Fool’s Day in 2014. Hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade are joined by owner Stacy Edmundson discussing her passion for helping her customers. Learn how she overcame the negativity of others to have incredible success and growth. On this episode we discuss:

How her background in sales got Stacy started in the exhibit and display business
The pressure of getting it right with customers the first time
Having a passion for being the one-stop-shop for customers
Transitioning from a job to owning a business
Surviving even when you’re told you will fail
Standing out from the competition by not requiring contracts, relying on the quality of your work
The challenge of being in an industry that gets completely shut down by the pandemic
What the future looks like for conventions and exhibits
Being responsible with the client’s money
The simple success of surviving
The value of being involved in Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce events
Being a role model for her children and being fortunate enough to love what you do
The symbiotic nature of businesses

Learn more about Red Door Three:

reddoorthree.com

316-570-2273

Wichita Manufacturers Association

Opened six years ago on April 1. Offering the latest trends and materials in trade show booth design and custom fabrication. Exhibits should communicate your message, attract intended audiences, and deliver results.

Other Resources:

Trade Show Marketing Ideas and Tips (Nimlok blog)

Member Minute Profile (article)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Brandon Huynh - KimSon Asian Market

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Being a small family business means wearing a lot of different hats. While the title says Marketing Manager, Brandon Huynh does a lot more than that in the business his father started more than 15 years ago. He joins hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade to discuss how the KimSon Asian Market was founded in a recession but has continued to grow and thrive over the years. On this episode we discuss:

Growing up working and being connected to the family business, then transitioning to leading it
The balance of wearing all the hats of a small business
Adding a personal touch to help customers
The mystery of what is inside the market, providing unique cultural food options
Using social media platforms to grow your reach
How the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce supports and promotes small businesses
How opportunity is born out of tragedy
The critical elements of timing and location in planning for expansion
Standing out amongst competitors
How blending mindsets with others can produce better outcomes for the business

Learn more about KimSon Asian Market:

316-262-5235

KimSon Asian Market offers fresh produce, seafood, meats, and homemade delicacies with a welcoming cultural flavor. A family-owned business located on the south side of Wichita, it serves the best Banh Mi in town.

Other Resources:

Another Trip to KimSon Asian Market (video)

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All Metal Recycling Facebook Profile

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Clint Cornejo - All Metal Recycling

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Sometimes junk and scrap just finds its way into your blood. Hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade are joined by All Metal Recycling’s Clint Cornejo to talk about how leading a recycling and scrap business has turned into his passion. He talks about growing up constantly being around the family business and his support of the Kansas Honor Flights. On this episode we discuss:

Desiring to be involved in the family business and the expectations that come with that
Being around the family business from a young age and learning the value of hard work
How the recycling business shifted from working with individuals to businesses
The key of a personal touch
How marketing changes when working with industrial businesses instead of individuals
Growing transparency in a business to increase trust
Dealing with copper theft
Providing direct solutions and help for industrial customers
The value of integrity in business and how that impacts reputation
How AMR has grown through acquisition
The local history of recycling yards and keeping that alive
Building a family legacy in business
How to hire the right people into your business
Managing growth by taking the right incremental steps
Getting involved and supporting the community through Kansas Honor Flights

Learn more about All Metal Recycling and AMR Steel & Supply:

allmetal-recycling.com

316-262-1475

AMR Supply and Scrap Facebook Profile

Allmetal Recycling was established in 2009, building on what brothers Marty & Ron had been doing growing up in the construction and demolition business from the 1970’s. Today Clint & Kolby Cornejo, Marty & Ron’s sons, own and operate Allmetal as well as offering new and reusable steel products out of its sister company, AMR Steel & Supply.

The area’s leader in metal recycling, the company buys, processes, sells and brokers ferrous and non ferrous recycled materials. They process and packages materials before sending the metal directly to mills around the U.S. and the world.

Other Resources:

All Metal Recycling Expansion (article)

Striving to be ‘the New Image’ in Recycling (article)

Winning the Chamber Small Business Award (article)

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https://www.tilliesflowers.com/

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Jennifer Barnard - Tillie's Flowers

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0600

It isn’t often you get to talk about a business older than electricity. Jennifer Barnard, co-owner of Tillie’s Flowers, joins hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade to discuss the second oldest business in Wichita. She shares how flowers communicate a unique language and how Tillie’s has connected with the community. On this episode we discuss:

Being the 2nd oldest business in Wichita
How the business was started and passed through the family
Learning social media on the fly as a key part of your marketing strategy
Tying business longevity into a promotion
The communication of sending a flower and how it differs from other plants
How to have longevity through innovation
Networking with other floral shops
How to grow and thrive during a pandemic shutdown
How to market by touching customers in multiple ways
How COVID-19 has impacted product sourcing and labor
The benefits of the tight Wichita community

Learn more about Tillie’s Flowers:

316-687-0630

Society of American Florists

Tillie’s is one of the oldest businesses in Wichita. It has been family owned and operated since 1876. Tillie’s delivers flowers to the entire Wichita metro area, including Augusta, Andover, Bel Aire, Goddard, Derby, Haysville, Kechi, Mulvane, Maize, Park city, Rose Hill, and Valley Center. They operate two locations: 3701 E. Harry and 715 N. West Street.

Other Resources:

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

Kansas Grape Growers and Winemaker’s Association

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Jennifer McDonald - Jenny Dawn Wine Cellars

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0600

We’re back with another installment of the Wichita Chamber Business Accelerator and this time we are getting some wine tasting done. Hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade are joined by Jennifer McDonald, founder of Jenny Dawn Wine Cellars talking about how her love of wine inspired her to start her own business, going against the grain to create an award- winning urban winery in Wichita. On this episode we discuss:

How a love of wine inspired the start of a business from an HR professional
Leveraging a California wine incubator to get started
Developing a supply chain and getting the necessary licensing in Kansas
Building in a style brand to your business
The importance of being flexible and taking feedback
Getting started with eCommerce
The importance of managing cash flow
How the Launch Prep program at Wichita State University propelled the Jenny Dawn business forward
What it feels like looking at previous business plans and how they evolve
The value of wise counsel
How her previous experience in HR influenced Jennifer McDonald’s business approach
Using the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce to network and create partnerships
Helping customers out of their comfort zone to experience something new
Creating a family legacy
Having the faith to never give up

Learn more about Jenny Dawn Wine Cellars:

jennydawncellars.com

316-633-3022

Founded in 2016 by Jennifer McDonald, Jenny Dawn Cellars has grown from the dream of an at-home winemaker into Wichita’s first urban winery.

In 2017, Jenny Dawn Cellars established a working partnership with a wine facilitator in Napa, California. In 2019, Jenny Dawn Cellars opened a winery and tasting room in the heart of downtown Wichita located at Union Station. Jennifer now crafts and bottles her wines on-site, with grapes and juice sourced from the finest growers in California and Kansas.

As of June 2020, Jenny Dawn Cellars has 11 handcrafted wines:

Union Station Chardonnay, Black Locomotive Crimson Cabernet, Red Caboose Dry Rosé, 2019 Rosé Wine (Watermelon), 2018 Chardonnay, 2017 Pinot Noir, 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2017 Sweet Red Wine (Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah Blend), Wichita Passion (Blackberry Wine) and Wichita Moments (Apple Wine).

Jenny Dawn Cellars winery and tasting room at Union Station offers charcuterie and small bites, venue rentals, private wine tastings, wine locker memberships, and Winuecation - a monthly educational class.

Other Resources:

Association of African American Vintners

The Jenny Dawn Cellars Story (video)

Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Sheryl Wohlford - Automation-Plus

Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0600

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Wichita Chamber Business Accelerator, hosted by the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce and powered by Evergy. On this episode hosts Don Sherman and Ebony Clemons-Ajibolade are joined by Sheryl Wohlford, owner of Automation-Plus to discuss how their company has operated in the midst of a pandemic and how they create the family feel in their small business. On this episode we discuss:

The purpose behind creating this podcast
How Automation-Plus was started at the time of the Andover Tornado
Why their current size of 20 employees is the sweet spot
Trying to pivot quickly during the COVID-19 pandemic
How they identified an underserved niche in aerospace manufacturing and moved to set a new standard
Diversifying from the aerospace industry
Dealing with the uncertainty in manufacturing
How LinkedIn is tailored for connecting with others on a professional level
How the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce has provided opportunities for connection with other small businesses
The family feel they created in their business
Doing business plans as a small business
Why doing business in Wichita has been great
The local importance of focusing on keeping jobs and young talent in Wichita
How Sheryl thinks about eventually transitioning out of the business when retiring
The key tenets of integrity and accountability in business
The difficulty of saying "no" and balancing community involvement with business resonsibilities
How the world is being changed by Zoom and Microsoft Teams

Learn more about Automation-Plus:

AutomationPlus.net

316-946-9988

Founded in 1987, Automation-Plus provides both direct part mark and label marking services using ink, laser, chemical and mechanical systems.

Other Resources:

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