Behind the Business with the Kendallville Area Chamber of Commerce

Most people misunderstand mental health — believing it’s about being "weak" or needing to fix something. Adriana Uhl, a licensed marriage and family therapist, uncovers the simple yet powerful shifts that can transform how you understand, manage, and improve your mental well-being. In this enlightening episode, Adriana explains that mental health isn’t a static state, but a delicate balance spanni...

Most insurance agents are locked into one company’s products, limiting your options. Martin Carbaugh, a seasoned health insurance expert and state representative, shares how his commitment to independence offers clients a game-changing advantage. Instead of one-size-fits-all coverage, he’s built a practice that truly prioritizes your best interest, with access to the broadest range of plans and th...

Most high school seniors aren’t thinking about car shows—Ryan Kochanski though is breaking the mold. At Oak Farm Montessori, a private school known for hands-on learning, Ryan’s passion for cars turned into a full-blown community event that combines charity, sports, and social fun. In this episode, discover how a simple idea sparked a vibrant car and coffee cruise-in that’s not only showcasing veh...

Most businesses overlook the simple yet powerful strategy that transformed Lamar Advertising from a local billboard provider into a community cornerstone—and how you can leverage this in your own growth. If you've ever wondered how local service providers build lasting relationships and stand out amid digital overload, this episode reveals the secret sauce. Meet Mike Rayburn, an account execut...

Most assisted living facilities are cookie-cutter, but Chandler Place is a vibrant community that feels like home, driven by its commitment to connection, culture, and community involvement. Discover how this Kendallville gem has built a culture of integrity and genuine care that makes residents feel like family, not just patients. In this episode, Ally Brodkorb, Director of Sales at Chandler Plac...

Unlock a groundbreaking approach transforming mental health support in rural communities—where community, skill-building, and genuine connection create lasting change. Keeley Vought, manager at New Hope Clubhouse, reveals how this 36-year-old, peer-run program is changing lives by breaking down the traditional hierarchy of mental health care. From unique transitional employment models that help me...

In this episode, we sit down with Bill Purcell, CEO of Crossroads United Way, to explore how collective giving is transforming communities across Noble County and beyond. Bill shares how United Way operates like a “mutual fund for nonprofits,” allowing a single donation to support more than 30 local organizations—maximizing impact across essential services like literacy, health, and family support...

In this episode of Behind the Business, host Nikole Albright sits down with Angie Kidd, Executive Director of Common Grace Ministries, to explore how the organization is creating meaningful change in our Kendallville community. Angie shares the story behind Common Grace Ministries—how it started, how it has evolved, and the heart behind its mission to serve others with dignity and purpose. Listene...

In this episode of Behind the Business , Nikole Albright sits down with Chris Hall, President of Noble County Events, to talk about building a new organization dedicated to bringing the community together. Chris shares the story behind the launch of Noble County Events, the inspiration that sparked the idea, and the behind-the-scenes realities of organizing community-driven events. From coordinati...

In this episode of Behind the Business , host Nikole Albright sits down with Jayce Riegling of Destination 814 to talk about family legacy, leadership, and the realities of running a restaurant in today’s world. As a second-generation restaurateur, Jayce shares the journey of growing Destination 814 over the past four years, the challenges of staffing in a high-turnover industry, and the dedicatio...

In this episode of Behind the Business , host Nikole Albright sits down with Tanaya Gorski, General Manager of Scooter's Coffee in Kendallville , to talk about resilience, growth, and community impact. Tanaya shares her three-year journey in the coffee industry and the early challenges the store faced—including a flooding incident shortly after opening. Despite setbacks, Scooter’s Coffee has e...

In this episode of Behind the Business , host Nikole Albright sits down with Sarah Baldwin, CEO and co-founder of Story House, a counseling ministry built on the belief that every story has hope . Launched in February 2020—just before the world shut down—Story House has grown into a trusted resource, and is now in the Kendallville community, meeting an overwhelming demand for mental health support...

In this episode, we sit down with Margarita White, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Noble County, for an inspiring conversation about philanthropy, leadership, and the power of local impact. Margarita shares her personal journey into philanthropy, the challenges and celebrations that have shaped her work, and how the foundation connects generous donors with causes that truly matter...

In this episode of "Behind the Business," host Nikole Albright sits down with Tim Walz, the principal of St. John Lutheran School, to discuss the school's rich history and its role in the Kendallville community. Tim shares insights into his 15-year tenure at the school, highlighting its reopening in 1981 after a brief closure and the significant growth it has experienced since then....

In this episode of Behind the Business, host Nikole Albright interviews Amber Collins, owner of JBS Consulting. Amber shares her journey of starting her own business, the challenges she faced, and the importance of community support. She discusses her unique approach to bookkeeping and financial consulting, emphasizing personalized service for small businesses. Amber also shares her future aspirat...

In this conversation, Dr. Meleah Shull shares her journey of taking over Jansen Family Chiropractic, a legacy practice in Kendallville. Indiana. She discusses the challenges and celebrations of maintaining the practice's long-standing reputation while introducing new services. Dr. Schall emphasizes the importance of community engagement, her unique offerings like craniosacral therapy and acupu...

In this episode of Behind the Business, host Nikole Albright speaks with David Dressler, a commercial loan officer at Midwest America Federal Credit Union. David shares his journey from being a fifth-generation farmer to a banking professional, discussing the challenges and achievements he has faced in the banking sector. He emphasizes the importance of community support and engagement, detailing...

In this conversation, Scott Frick, a CPA with deep roots in the Kendallville community, shares his journey from a young student fascinated by accounting to a successful business owner. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges he faced in establishing his practice, and how he gives back to the community. Scott emphasizes the significance of local support and the personal touch in c...

In this episode of Behind the Business, host Nikole Albright sits down with Kelli Byerley, owner of Crafter's Boutique in Kendallville. Kelli opens up about her journey into the crafting world, the rewarding challenges of entrepreneurship, and the meaningful role her shop plays in the community. She shares insights into the classes she offers, the one-of-a-kind creative experiences available,...

In this episode of Behind the Business, host Nikole Albright interviews Ron Stanley, owner of R & T Monuments, discussing the services they provide, their community involvement, and the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements. Ron shares his journey into the business, the challenges faced, and how they support the local community. Ron shares how he and his wife Tracy emphasize the impo...

In this episode of Behind the Business, Gene Belschner from Creating Magic Vacations shares insights into his journey as a vacation planner, discussing the challenges he faced in building his business, the importance of community support, and his unique approach to client service. He highlights his focus on creating memorable experiences for families and his plans for future group travel opportuni...

In this conversation, Teresa Steele shares her journey as a business coach, detailing her entrepreneurial background, the evolution of her coaching practice, and her commitment to community engagement. She discusses the diverse services she offers, including assessments and coaching methodologies, and emphasizes the importance of understanding individual strengths. Teresa also highlights her commu...

In this episode of Behind the Business, host Nikole Albright speaks with Wes Smith, Director of Development for Southern Pike Solar, about the challenges and rewards of solar development, the importance of community involvement, and the future plans for solar energy in Kendallville. Wes shares insights into the technology behind solar power, the economic impact of their projects, and his personal...

In this episode of Behind the Business, host Nikole Albright interviews Beckitt Lowe, a high school sophomore and co-founder of Grey Wolf Workers, a lawnmowing and lawncare company in Kendallville. Beckitt shares his journey of starting the business at a young age with his good friend Cohen McCreery, the challenges he faced, and the pride he feels in his accomplishments. He discusses the importanc...

In this episode, we sit down with Grace Caswell, CEO of the Noble County Visitors Bureau. She shares her journey to Kendallville, the challenges of running a nonprofit organization, and the unique aspects of the communities within Noble County. She discusses the bureau's support for local events and festivals, as well as future plans for tourism development in the area. Whether you are new to Nobl...