Talk Local To Me

Samantha Simmons, owner of S&S Services, shares how she turned a moment of necessity into the launch of her bookkeeping business. She opens up about the challenges that came with growth, the lessons she learned along the way, and the vital role the community has played in her success. Samantha also reflects on how the CVABC has played an important part in her journey, why backing local busines...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, Heather and Mike highlight upcoming events in Central Virginia and speak with Charity Johnson of Craftsman Custom Homebuilders about the home-building process, transparent pricing, and customization options. They also welcome Angela from Blue Ridge Town and Country LLC, who shares insights on smart home buying, investment strategies, and available grants. The e...

Jesse Reynolds and Talya Coleman of The Eros Group share their entrepreneurial journey and the story behind their company’s name. They talk about their passion for creative problem-solving in marketing and branding, as well as the challenges they’ve navigated along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the power of teamwork, and their commitment to uplifting and...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Mike sits down with Linda from Bedford Ride, a nonprofit dedicated to providing non-emergency medical transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities in Bedford County. They discuss Bedford Ride’s 25th anniversary, upcoming community events, and the critical role volunteers play in keeping the organization moving. Linda shares inspiring storie...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Heather Alto sits down with Melody Divers, co-owner of Chapel Creek Farms in Bedford County. Heather also provides updates on upcoming community events and business opportunities. Melody shares insights into the farm’s sustainable beef production, their customizable beef share program, and popular annual events like “Burgers and Bluegrass.” The conversatio...

Jay Brooks with Paul Davis Restoration of Lynchburg, Roanoke & Southside, VA, shares how the company was established locally, inspired by the owners’ strong family ties and commitment to community service. He discusses the challenges of standing out in a competitive market, how his military background shaped the company’s values, and the strategies they use to build trust through local engagem...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike chat with Patricia, Executive Director of Bright Hope 512, about her organization’s unique approach to children’s education and community development in Central Virginia. The show also features Jennifer from R Photography, who shares tips for successful family and event photography. The episode highlights upcoming local business events, t...

In this episode of "Talk Local to Me," hosts Heather and Mike discuss recent snowstorms, upcoming Central Virginia Business Coalition events, and the challenges of working from home. Guest Theresa, founder of Empower and Flourish, shares her journey from conventional to functional medicine after a personal health crisis. She explains her holistic approach, focusing on root causes and practical lif...

Marko Galbreath, owner of T4Tactics, shares his journey from retired police officer to entrepreneur, providing firearms training, safety education, and active shooter response programs for businesses, churches, and schools nationwide. The conversation dives into the challenges of promoting safety awareness, the importance of prevention, and the role local businesses play in strengthening communiti...

Mike Norfield of Visiting Angels shares the personal inspiration behind launching his in-home care business, the challenges of educating the community about caregiving, and why supporting local businesses is so important for both employees and owners. He also highlights the value of CVABC for networking, wraps up with rapid-fire questions, offers practical business advice, and closes with a heartf...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike spotlight local events, weather updates, and upcoming business coalition activities. They welcome Andrew from Rhodey Entertainment, a local DJ, photographer, and karaoke host, who shares insights on creating memorable weddings and events through personalized music, photography, and interactive entertainment. Andrew discusses his approach...

Ashley Beesley, owner of Sweet Indulgence Bakery, shares her powerful journey—from surviving domestic violence to founding a bakery dedicated to employing and supporting women as they heal from trauma. She opens up about the challenges of building her business, the importance of community support, and her commitment to creating a safe, family-friendly workplace. The conversation showcases the impa...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike explore the challenges and opportunities small businesses face at the beginning of the year, from goal-setting and adapting to change to managing stress. They emphasize the value of networking and share updates on upcoming CVABC events, along with a new loyalty punch card program. Special guest Tamika joins the conversation to promote the...

Jennifer Sherwood, owner of Creative Cove Designs, shares how her business grew from a small apparel venture in 2020 into a thriving shop offering embroidery, custom apparel, and workshops. She discusses overcoming challenges, the importance of community, and her passion for supporting other small businesses. The episode highlights Jennifer’s entrepreneurial journey, her advice for aspiring busine...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike kick off 2026 by reflecting on last year’s goals and setting new intentions for the year ahead. They explore the value of clear, actionable goal-setting, learning from challenges, and being intentional with commitments. The conversation includes practical advice on staying organized, preventing burnout, and making thoughtful choices. They...

In this episode, Jordin Weisz—owner of the Vincent Van Gogh Café—shares how his passion for art, inspired by his grandmother, and his commitment to health and wellness came together to shape his one-of-a-kind café. Operating as a drive-through trailer near Jefferson Forest High School, Jordin discusses overcoming personal and business challenges, the importance of community support, and his missio...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Heather Alto sits down with Chris from CF World Travel to explore today’s biggest travel trends and tips for planning unforgettable trips. Chris shares insight into his agency’s recent merger, explaining how it’s expanded their resources and strengthened training opportunities allowing them to better serve travelers. The conversation covers popular destina...

In this year-end episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike look back on 2025, share their holiday traditions, and highlight the importance of supporting local businesses. Guest Jordan recounts his journey from launching Rollerblade as a pandemic-era food truck to opening a full brick-and-mortar restaurant. The discussion explores the realities of small business ownership, the impact of c...

In this special holiday episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Mike and Heather celebrate Mike’s birthday and reflect on the recent Christmas parades across Central Virginia. They talk about the value of preserving family memories through photography, spotlight guest Maggie’s luxury portrait services for women in midlife, and offer helpful tips for taking great holiday photos. The episode also highlig...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike recap recent holiday happenings, including Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, and highlight the upcoming Christmas parades. They interview Allison Rakos about her natural wellness products and dive into current health trends. Later, they chat with Chad from Rakos Exterior Cleaning, who shares his entrepreneurial journey, breaks dow...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike spotlight local business events, holiday activities, and community initiatives in Central Virginia. They interview representatives from Legacy Wealth and Legacy Insurance, discussing financial literacy, wealth management, and the importance of business and personal insurance. The episode highlights charitable partnerships, such as support...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike highlight Central Virginia’s holiday happenings, from Small Business Saturday and Giving Tuesday to local Christmas parades. They’re joined by David Glover of the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra to talk about the orchestra’s impact in the community and its upcoming holiday concert. The episode also spotlights Infinity Day Spa, showcasing wel...

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Heather Alto highlights local business efforts and festive happenings, including the “Shopper on the Shelf” campaign and upcoming Christmas parades. She’s joined by Christopher from Valley Ridge Wildlife Removal, who shares humane approaches to managing nuisance wildlife such as snakes, bats, and raccoons throughout Central Virginia. The episode also featu...

In this episode of Talk Local To Me, hosts Heather and Mike shine a light on the power of collaboration and community within Central Virginia’s small business landscape. They share the latest local business updates, spotlight upcoming events, and welcome Ashley Beesley of Sweet Indulgence Bakery, who shares how her bakery’s mission supports and empowers trauma survivors. Joined by Rob from Mission...