Archives: Episodes

In this episode, I chat with Rod Blackstone, the community ambassador for the Charleston Dirty Birds. Rod shares insights into how minor league baseball embraces innovation in marketing, from introducing events like African-American Heritage Night to listening to customer feedback for continuous improvement. We discuss the importance of knowing your audience and tailoring offerings to meet their needs, all while staying dynamic and open to new ideas. Rod’s approach highlights the power of creativity and adaptability in business, reminding us to always strive for improvement. Whether it’s engaging fans or attracting sponsors, Rod’s strategies emphasize the value of innovation and customer satisfaction.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I sit down with Marian from the Kanawha County Public Library to uncover the hustle behind the scenes. Marian reveals the meticulous process of selecting and purchasing over 2000 books monthly, alongside a plethora of other materials and services the library offers. From meeting rooms to an Idea Lab equipped with 3D printers, the library is a hub of creativity and community connection. Marian shares her journey from reference librarian to her current role, navigating the challenges of a larger organization with warmth and dedication. Reflecting on her time in the Kanawha Valley, Marian highlights the friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community. As we wrap up, it’s clear that libraries are more than just shelves of books—they’re vibrant centers of learning and creativity, powered by passionate individuals like Marian. So, next time you visit your local library, remember the hustle behind the scenes and show your appreciation to the dedicated folks making it all happen.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers I had the pleasure of chatting with Jerreyanne Jeffries, a savvy marketer

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.

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.

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.