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In today’s episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers Podcast, I sit down with Joshua Higginbotham, a candidate for agriculture commissioner in West Virginia. We discuss the role of the commissioner, emphasizing the importance of education and retaining young talent in agriculture. Josh shares insights into the challenges facing family farms, including the aging demographic and the rise of corporate farming. Despite these hurdles, he sees potential in agritourism and emphasizes the need for innovation and technology in farming. Josh encourages aspiring farmers to start small and provides resources for those interested. His passion for agriculture and commitment to the future of West Virginia are evident throughout our conversation. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just beginning, Josh’s vision of a vibrant agricultural sector is truly inspiring.

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In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I chat with Erin Noon, the Communications and Events Coordinator for the Charleston Area Alliance. We discuss leveraging the energy of spring for business growth, emphasizing the importance of making connections within the community. Erin emphasizes the need for businesses to understand their target market and tailor their offerings accordingly, highlighting the significance of strong communication and active listening. We delve into the challenges of navigating diverse communication styles in our evolving market, stressing the importance of flexibility and exploration of various channels. Erin shares strategies for ensuring customer delight and adapting to the ever-changing landscape, emphasizing continuous learning and adaptation.

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In this episode, I chat with Doug Skaff outside the Charleston newspaper building, where he shares his journey of rescuing the Charleston Gazette-Mail from bankruptcy. As president of HD Media and a man with multiple entrepreneurial ventures, Doug’s story is one of seizing opportunities and making dreams real. He emphasizes the importance of ideas, teamwork, and customer satisfaction in every endeavor. From starting student clubs to running for secretary of state, Doug’s passion for serving his community shines through. His insights into politics and business are both practical and inspiring, reminding us to hustle hard and always listen to the needs of our customers. As we wrap up, Doug’s optimism and determination leave a lasting impression, urging us to embrace every opportunity with a smile and a drive to make a difference.

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In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I interview Hunter Wilkes, a 17-year-old high school senior eager to learn from seasoned professionals. Hunter shares his insights on effective marketing techniques, emphasizing the importance of technology and social media for reaching a wider audience. He highlights the need for inclusivity and openness in fostering a productive environment, drawing from his own experiences. When it comes to achieving long-term goals, Hunter advocates for learning from mentors who have already succeeded. He also discusses effective leadership philosophies, citing the EDGE method from his time in the Boy Scouts. Hunter stresses the value of professional relationships, recommending openness to criticism and the importance of finding a mentor. Overall, Hunter’s wisdom and perspective offer valuable lessons for hustlers of all ages, reminding us to embrace innovation, inclusivity, and mentorship on our journey to success.

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In today’s episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I caught up with my friend Tristan Leavitt, who leads the nonprofit Empower Oversight. Tristan is dedicated to helping federal government employees blow the whistle on waste, fraud, and abuse. Despite legal protections, whistleblowers face challenges, and Tristan’s expertise in this area ensures they receive support. We discuss the intricacies of whistleblower protection and the importance of remaining nonpartisan in such work. Tristan’s commitment to truth and accountability shines through as he shares stories of individuals standing up against powerful institutions. Beyond his nonprofit work, Tristan is running for the House of Delegates, focusing on job creation, education improvement, and education freedom. He’s also involved in micro-schooling initiatives, advocating for individualized learning experiences. Throughout our conversation, Tristan’s passion for making a difference in the Kanawha Valley community is palpable, and his dedication to transparency and accountability is truly inspiring.

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