Business & Beyond Podcast

Fraud is evolving. Is your business prepared? In the latest episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler is joined by Brandon Farmer, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Bank of the James, for an important conversation on the growing threat of fraud in today's marketplace. From check fraud and phishi...

The internet has transformed the way we live, work, and communicate, but it has also created new risks for children, families, seniors, and businesses. In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast, Eddie Worth of the Safe Surfin' Foundation shares real-world stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for navigating online threats, protecting your digital footprint, and staying safe...

Cybersecurity isn't just an IT issue. It's a business issue. In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Doug Turpin, Co-Founder and Chief Disruption Officer of Tight Technologies, to discuss the realities of cybersecurity in today's business environment. From common misconceptions and emerging threa...

Their service to our country shaped who they are. Their service to their communities continues every single day. Available from BBB Western Virginia, 'Service To Success' is a special feature spotlighting veteran-owned Accredited Businesses across Western Virginia and the incredible stories behind the people who lead them. From military service to entrepreneurship, these business owners share powe...

In the latest episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler is joined once again by Samuel Oakey III, President of Oakey's Funeral Service & Crematory, for a thoughtful conversation on compassion, trust, and service. Sammy shares how Oakey’s works to provide uncompromised customer care for families navigating some of the...

In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Wayne Firebaugh of Wayne Firebaugh Inc. for a strategic conversation on business value and long term planning. Wayne shares clear, practical insight into how leaders should evaluate their business beyond emotion, understand true market value, and prepare fo...

Marketing isn’t just a piece of your business strategy. It can be the difference between growth and getting left behind. In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Becky Freemal, Chief Marketing Officer and Founder of The Market Exec for a practical and insightful conversation on marketing fundament...

In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, Julie Wheeler sits down with Allen Lawrence, General Manager of the Salem RidgeYaks to discuss the team’s transition from the Salem Red Sox into a bold new identity. Allen shares insight into what sparked the rebrand, the strategy and thought process behind the change, and how the organization is workin...

Your website is often your first impression — is it working for your business, or against it? In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler is joined by returning guest Jen Slightham, CEO of 434 Marketing in Lynchburg, for a timely conversation on optimizing your online presence. From building a strong, recognizable...

What does it take to lead and innovate in today’s building industry? In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, BBB President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Alicia Smith, VP and COO of F&S Building Innovations in Roanoke to discuss leadership, workforce challenges, operational strategy, and how innovation is shaping the future of const...

In the latest episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast from BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Bob Fetzer of Building Specialists, Inc. for a timely and impactful discussion on labor shortages and what they mean for our region. From construction sites to skilled trades across Western Virginia, businesses are feeling the pressure. But what’s really driv...

What does it take to keep a family business thriving for nearly a century and still growing strong in the 21st century? In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast, BBB Serving Western Virginia President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Matt and Cindy Shelor of John T. Morgan Roofing and Sheet Metal Company for a compelling conversation about legacy, leadership, and longevity. As stew...

In this episode, host Julie Wheeler is joined by Wayne Firebaugh of Wayne Firebaugh, Inc. The conversation dives into the key business tax reforms taking effect in 2026, breaking down what they mean for small business owners and leaders. Julie and Wayne unpack the practical impacts of the changes, strategies for navigating new tax requirements, and considerations for planning and growth. Whether y...

On the Season 2 debut episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast , President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Sammy Oakey III, President of Oakey's Funeral Service and Crematory in Roanoke, VA, to discuss the importance of marketplace consistency in the business world and how finding your voice can make you the next trusted leader in your community. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget...

On this week's episode of Business & Beyond , CEO and President Julie Wheeler sits down with Alicia Smith, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of F&S Building Innovations in Roanoke, VA, to discuss what it's like being a leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry and the importance of encouraging more women to pursue careers in skilled trades. If you enjoyed this episode, don...

On this week's episode of Business & Beyond, CEO and President Julie Wheeler sits down with James Wisler, CEO of Wisler Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric in Rocky Mount, VA to discuss the best steps you can take as a business leader to expand your marketing strategy. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow our other socials to stay engaged! ------------...

On this week's episode of Business & Beyond, CEO and President Julie Wheeler sits down with Jennifer Slightham, President of 434 Marketing, to discuss the key differences of AEO vs. SEO and how the technology to boosting your online visibility is changing. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow our other socials to stay engaged! Learn more about improving your...