Kanawha Valley Hustlers

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Valeria Gonzalez about her work in AI and machine learning, particularly in healthcare. Valeria explains her focus on predictive AI, which uses data to help hospitals identify urgent cases and improve patient outcomes. She shares the challenges of implementing new technology, such as resistance from healthcare professionals who va...

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I respond to Mark Zuckerberg’s recent announcement about changes at Meta. Despite plans to be out interviewing people this week, a snowstorm keeps me in the studio, giving me time to dive into this major news. Zuckerberg admits Meta has focused on content takedowns in recent years but plans to simplify moderation going forward. They’re elimin...

On this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I dive into the difference between reciprocal and transactional relationships to help listeners set better expectations and avoid misunderstandings. Reciprocal relationships thrive on trust and mutual support, often seen in friendships, marriages, and business networking groups like BNI chapters. These bonds are long-term and aren’t about kee...

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I reflect on 2024, thank listeners for their support, and invite feedback as I plan for 2025. My mission is to cultivate entrepreneurship in the Kanawha Valley by spotlighting local businesses, sharing productivity and marketing tips, and fostering community connections. I ask listeners what they’d like to see next year, whether it’s more int...

I chat with Captain Mike Michels of the Salvation Army to talk about their iconic red kettle fundraiser, which is crucial for supporting the community during the holiday season and year-round. Captain Mike shares the history of the kettle campaign, which started in San Francisco when Captain MacPhee wanted to feed those in need but didn't have the funds. What began as a small effort has now grown...

I chat with John Roberts from Mountain Mission, an organization with nearly 100 years of history, to discuss their work helping those in need. Mountain Mission provides emergency assistance like food, housing, clothing, and furniture, focusing on faith-based support for people going through tough times. John shares how Christmas is especially significant for them, as they provide food for over 1,0...

I join Jay Silverman at the Go Mart Ballpark during the Salango Law, PLLC Dirty Birds Light the Night presented by GoMart, where we’re surrounded by 2.5 million lights. We talk about the effort it takes to transform the ballpark into a holiday spectacle, with features like an ice rink, bumper cars, new rides, and opportunities to visit Santa Claus. This is their second year, and they’ve made impro...

I’m at the GoMart Ballpark for the Salango Law, PLLC Dirty Birds Light the Night presented by GoMart, joined by none other than Santa Claus. He shares how he’s here nightly until December 23rd, greeting visitors and posing for photos amidst a dazzling display of 2.5 million lights. Santa talks about his hustle—delivering presents on Christmas Eve—and how his team of elves handles toy production wh...

I got to talk with Shawn Simms, a personal injury attorney who also dabbles in stock trading. Shawn shares how his mother's experience with medical negligence inspired him to pursue personal injury law, shifting his focus from corporate law to advocating for those injured through no fault of their own. We discuss the challenges posed by tort reform, which often creates barriers for plaintiffs seek...

I got to talk with Yun Liang, a local realtor in the Kanawha Valley. Yun shares her journey from Taiwan to West Virginia at age 14, her transition into real estate six years ago, and how she thrives in a competitive market. She explains that despite higher interest rates and inventory challenges, the demand for homes keeps her busy. Yun talks about how technology, like internet ads, 3D tours, and...

I’m at Meet Ups 64 in Putnam County, talking with Carrie Hodousek about her hustle. She shares her work as the acting communications director for the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office, where she oversees press releases, coordinates events, and helps with programs like SMART529 and unclaimed property returns. Carrie explains how this work connects her to communities across the state, from help...

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Brandon Dennison about his mission to reverse generational poverty in West Virginia through Coalfield Development, which he founded in 2010. Brandon explains how their focus on social enterprise combines a social mission with business efficiency, helping to diversify the economy of southern West Virginia. He acknowledges the regio...

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Jaren Painter from Alpha Technologies about his work bringing fiber broadband to rural West Virginia. Jaren explains how his company is using grants and loans to compete with major players and expand connectivity in areas like Putnam and Wayne Counties. We discuss the challenges of broadband expansion, including high construction...

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I’m talking with Megan Lomax at Meet-Up 64 about her role in making business easier in Putnam County. Megan explains how this event connects professionals from Huntington, Charleston, and Putnam County, helping them grow their networks. She shares insights into Putnam County’s growth, with projects like Toyota’s recent expansion and findings...

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Kasidi Legg, a chief marketing consultant with Kingery and Company. Kasidi shares how she helps nonprofits in West Virginia build capacity, tackling the challenges of limited funding and staffing by providing strategic planning, branding, and fundraising support. She highlights the importance of marketing for nonprofits, ensuring...

I chat with Avon Cobourne Jr., a mortgage loan officer and vice president of the Wealth Builders BNI chapter in Charleston. Avon shares his daily hustle of helping families secure mortgage pre-approvals and emphasizes the dedication required in his role. He highlights the importance of networking, especially with their upcoming event on November 6th at the Embassy Suites, where they aim to connect...

Today I talk with Vannessa King, the events and venues manager for The Cottage at Northgate and The Retreat WV. Vannessa shares what it's like managing two very different spaces – The Cottage, which is ideal for personal celebrations like weddings and parties, and The Retreat, focused on business events and staff trainings. She explains how her job is all about making people feel comfortable and e...

Today I chat with Melissa Pemberton, who shares her passion for building relationships as a copier and printer expert. We discuss BNI, a business networking organization that focuses on giving and receiving referrals. Melissa explains how BNI operates with a focus on Givers Gain, emphasizing the importance of helping others to grow your own business. She talks about the three BNI chapters in Charl...

Today, I talk with Tricia Kingery about her new venture, Tricia Talks, which focuses on motivational speaking and presentations across West Virginia. She explains that this isn't new for her—through her consulting firm, Kingery and Company, she's been doing nonprofit consultation, leadership development, and training for 18 years. Tricia launched Tricia Talks to focus more on topics she loves, lik...

I chat with Cyrus Vagheei to talk about his dual hustle—working as a trainee appraiser with the Department of Highways and being involved in real estate. Cyrus has been passionate about real estate since he was young, learning the business from his family, who has been in it for 30 years. He focuses on residential properties, buying and renovating homes, and sees real estate as a solid long-term i...

In this episode, I talk with Nick Nunnery about his work in economic development, focusing on apprenticeships and tourism in West Virginia. Nick explains how apprenticeships provide hands-on learning and mentorship, which helps businesses in industries like manufacturing, service, and hospitality train skilled workers. We discuss how apprenticeships have been around for centuries and are now becom...

In this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I talk with Captain Mike Michels of the Salvation Army at Little Creek Golf Course. Captain Mike shares his journey from a rewarding career to a calling focused on serving the community. He discusses his background, influenced by his parents who were Salvation Army officers, and his decision to become an officer himself after attending the Salvation Army...

In this episode, I sit down with Eric Arnold, head of the WVU Alumni of Greater Kanawha and a lawyer in Charleston at Hendrickson & Long, PLLC. Eric talks about his involvement with the alumni group, highlighting upcoming events like the WVU football season. He encourages everyone, whether alumni or fans, to stay connected through social media and join the activities. We also discuss his legal car...

Today, I sit down with Travis Kline, head of Job Squad Incorporated, a nonprofit helping people with disabilities find jobs. He explains how they customize roles for individuals and offer services like presort mail handling, which saves clients money while providing employment opportunities. Founded in 1984, Job Squad has grown to serve multiple locations across West Virginia and recently expanded...

I’m at Little Creek Golf Course for the first annual Red Kettle Classic golf tournament, organized by the Salvation Army. I talk with George Michell, a radio personality who helped put the event together with his committee. They spent months planning, starting in May, and while it wasn’t without challenges, everything has gone smoothly enough. There was some debate earlier in the week about postpo...