Shenandoah Valley Life

In this episode, we talk with Richard Turk, an Aviation Mechanic with United Airlines at Dulles Airport and an adjunct instructor for Blue Ridge Community College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program. After 30 years living and working in San Francisco, Richard and his wife made the move to the Shenandoah Valley. He shares what brought them here and why the Valley became the place they wanted...

In this episode, we chat with CPA and entrepreneur Lydia Heatwole, owner of Amplified Financial Solutions. Lydia takes us behind the scenes of building a business in the Shenandoah Valley and shares how the relationships, connections and sense of community she’s found here have helped her business grow. Originally from neighboring West Virginia, Lydia also talks about what brought her to the Valle...

In this episode, we talk with Nathan Garrison, Town Manager for the Town of New Market and former SVP Business Development Manager. A native of Rockingham County, Nathan shares how the Valley has shaped him not just personally, but in his career path as well.

In this episode, we talk with Valley native and commercial realtor Chad Dunham. As a longtime business owner with experience in both commercial and residential real estate, Chad brings a unique business perspective and deep understanding of the Valley to his work at Cottonwood Commercial. Listen in as Chad shares the connections and experiences that shaped his career, his transition into commercia...

In this episode, we sit down with Shenandoah Valley native Matt Blauch, president of Blauch Brothers. After growing up in the family business, Matt now leads the company alongside his brother as the third generation of family ownership. He reflects on his decision to carry on the legacy, how the business has evolved since its founding in 1954 and the values that have remained constant through the...

In this episode, we talk with Kyle Lawrence, director of the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition and an avid cyclist, about the journey that brought him to the Shenandoah Valley. Kyle shares how he became part of the region's biking community, the exciting work underway to expand trails and improve accessibility and why he and his family continue to call the Valley home. Whether you're an...

Amanda Kellogg, director of Professional Development with JMU's School of Professional and Continuing Education joins this episode of SV Life. With a background in education, Amanda taught at Radford University for 8 years before transitioning into administration and eventually making the move to Harrisonburg and JMU. Listen in as she shares her story and why she and her family choose to make...

In this episode of SV Life, we talk with Rockingham County native and commercial realtor Mike Martin. Mike shares the story of his professional journey -- from teaching, coaching and training local students to helping businesses and investors navigate commercial real estate through Cottonwood Commercial. Mike shares insights into the Shenandoah Valley's growth, the importance of building relat...

In this episode we talk with Garth Knight -- a South Carolina native who has called the Valley home for more than five years. Now the VP of sales with LD&B Insurance, Garth shares his professional journey and the connections he's made in the community.

From a student at JMU to a years long career with Appeal Production to a successful launch as an entrepreneur, Bryn McIntyre Rankin has been building a career, and a life, in the Shenandoah Valley since she arrived here a decade ago. Listen in as Bryn shares her story, including what makes raising a family here so special.

In this episode, we talk with Keith May, Shenandoah Valley native, long time real estate broker and champion of the region. Keith, owner and broker for Cottonwood Commercial, shares his story, where he sees the Shenandoah Valley region going and why he will always call the region home.

In this episode, we talk with Amanda Leech, executive director of the United Way of Central Shenandoah Valley. Amanda grew up in a military family, moving frequently through her growing up years. After coming to Harrisonburg to attend JMU, Amanda has now made a home and life in the Valley. Listen in as Amanda shares her story and highlights the mission and service of the Central Shenandoah Valley...

In this episode, we talk with Scot Lilly - longtime resident, programs manager for Farm Credit of the Virginias and champion of agriculture in the Shenandoah Valley. Scot shares his story, talks about how ag has evolved and continues to innovate and highlights the impact of the ag sector to our region.

In this episode, we talk with Joe Ulmer, Valley native and owner of Overlook Produce Bakery and Deli. Starting as a small farm stand, Joe and his family have grown their operation to a year-round destination featuring produce, a greenhouse, a deli, locally made products and more. Listen in as Joe shares his story and the vision he has for the future of Overlook Produce!

Valley native and recent JMU graduate Kyle Showalter shares why he chose to stay in the Shenandoah Valley after graduating from James Madison University. Now working as the assistant controller for Partners Excavating, Kyle talks about why he values working at this long-standing Valley company and how he turned an internship into a full time career opportunity.

In this episode of the SV Life Podcast, we sit down with Vanessa Morosco, Executive Director of the American Shakespeare Center. Vanessa first discovered the Shenandoah Valley as a recent college graduate performing with the Shenandoah Shakespeare ensemble. After building her career across the country, her journey came full circle when she returned to guide the organization forward. Listen in as s...

Brooke Buffington, Associate Vice President of Career and Professional Development at Mary Baldwin University joins the SV Life podcast to share her passion for helping students craft their message and find their path after graduation. Transitioning to higher ed after years in a corporate setting, Brooke has a unique perspective in bridging communication between businesses and prospective employee...

Maya Elcox was first introduced to Ryzing Technologies as a high school student mentee. As she progressed through her educational journey, she had the opportunity to intern with the company and today, is a full-time employee. Listen in as Maya, a Shenandoah Valley native, shares her story and some inspiring words for all young girls interested in STEM.

In this episode of SV Life, we chat with Ann Cundy, executive director of the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC). Ann grew up in Richmond but always had strong ties to the Shenandoah Valley. She went to college in the area and eventually decided to put down roots here. Ann shares her story and gives us a look at some of the many programs and projects the CSPDC is involved in.

In this episode we talk with Piete Casius, President & CEO of Friendship Industries. Living in the Shenandoah Valley since 2008, he shares the journey that brought him to Virginia and eventually to his leadership role. Starting as Director of Commercial Operations at Friendship Industries in 2016, Piete reflects on how working at a nonprofit has shaped him personally—and the meaningful impact...

It's National Dairy Month and in this episode, we're talking with Amanda Culp, director of Marketing for Maola Dairies. A local dairy co-op that works with farmers in the Valley and beyond, Amanda shares some of the co-op's history and future plans plus where you might their products in the Valley. Educated in forestry and a native of Texas, Amanda also shares a little of her own story...

In this episode of SV Life, Jay sits down with Kevin Hutton, Director of Massanutten Technical Center. Coming from a family of educators, Kevin always felt drawn to the field and shares the path that led him from the classroom to his current leadership role at MTC. A native of the Shenandoah Valley, Kevin reflects on the time he spent out of the area and the reasons he ultimately moved back, under...

In our milestone 50th episode of the SV Life Podcast, we’re turning the mic around! Our very own host and SVP Executive Director, Jay A. Langston, Ph. D.—a 40-year veteran of economic development—is in the hot seat. With decades of experience and a passion for economic development, Jay shares his journey and passion for the region he champions. Don’t miss this special episode that brings Jay’s sto...

This episode of SV Life features Tom Weber, Chief Medical Officer for MD Ortho Systems. Listen in as Tom shares his journey to becoming a doctor and the evolution of practicing in a hospital setting to redefining the way care is delivered through a proprietary digital platform.

What does it mean to energize the community for good? Tune in as Kevin Gibson shares the journey of VA Momentum, a local running events organization founded by two friends with a vision to create inclusive spaces where people of all skill levels and backgrounds feel welcome.