Talk Local to me

A house fire revealed a gap in Adam's smoke-alarm setup and helped lead him to start Tech Goat, where he now helps homes and businesses improve security, Wi-Fi and smart-home systems. Adam shares how cameras can miss crucial footage, why separating guest Wi-Fi matters, and how a leak sensor can shut off water before damage spreads. Then Medicare adviser Joe breaks down what to review during open enrollment, including why spouses may need different plans and how moving can affect coverage. Heather and Mike also share local parade news and practical insights from two Central Virginia business owners.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Heather Alto recaps the successful Bedford CenterFest and announces upcoming Christmas parades. She also explains the history and mission of the Central Virginia Business Coalition, which supports over 500 local businesses through networking, marketing, and community events. Heather then interviews Courtney from the Healing Home Foundation, a nonprofit supporting foster, adoptive, and kinship families through trauma-informed resources and caregiver education. Courtney discusses the emotional challenges these families face and shares details about their upcoming Christmas pop-up and ribbon-cutting event on November 14th in Lynchburg.

In this episode of Tea Time, Maggie McCanna, owner of Maggie Takes Pix, shares how her love of photography grew from a childhood hobby into a professional portrait photography business focused on empowering women.Maggie shares how she creates a personalized, luxury photography experience for her clients, from initial consultations and wardrobe planning to professional hair and makeup. She also discusses the challenges of running a business on her own, the importance of knowing your worth, and how joining the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC) helped her build connections within the Central Virginia community after relocating to Amherst County.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, Heather Alto and Mike Norfield highlight the upcoming Bedford CenterFest on September 19, a free street festival in downtown Bedford from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They share what attendees can expect, including vendors, live music, kids' activities, food, parking information, and other event-day details.Later, Allison and Dave from Independent Lifestyles join the conversation to share how their family-owned mobility business helps people maintain their independence. Celebrating 24 years in business, Independent Lifestyles offers a wide range of mobility products and services, including wheelchairs, stair lifts, wheelchair-accessible vehicle modifications, rentals, repairs, and financing options.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, Mike Norfield and Heather Alto welcome Meghan Cucci of Insight Bookkeeping and Consulting, who shares expert advice on managing business finances, recognizing when professional bookkeeping help is needed, and preparing for year-end.Later, Bryan Brammer discusses Forest Living Magazine and its targeted advertising opportunities for local businesses. Throughout the episode, Mike and Heather also highlight upcoming Central Virginia Business Coalition events and discuss the importance of networking, community engagement, and building strong connections to support local business growth.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike cover local community news, including the Bedford Center Fest and upcoming CVABC events. They interview Cam from Brothers That Just Do Gutters, who discusses the importance of proper gutter maintenance and his company's honest, specialized approach to home protection. Georgia then shares the inspiring work of Brooke Hill Farms, a Bedford County nonprofit using equine therapy to transform the lives of over 210 youth and individuals facing mental, physical, and emotional challenges. Listeners are encouraged to support both organizations and engage with their local community.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather from the Central Virginia Business Coalition and Mike from Visiting Angels Lynchburg share updates on upcoming CVABC events, including a baseball networking night, Coffee Talk, and Bedford CenterFest.They're joined by Ula and David from the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra, who share more about the professional orchestra, its youth programs, and upcoming performances, including a Mahler concert and an exciting Sweeney Todd collaboration.Later, Jason from Land & Table discusses the nonprofit's work connecting Central Virginia residents with local farmers and locally grown food. From their LocalFoodLynchburg.com directory and farm tours to an upcoming fall fundraiser, Jason shares how choosing local agriculture can benefit our economy, our health, and our community.It's an episode filled with local events, arts, agriculture, and plenty of ways to get involved and support Central Virginia.

Jennifer Adamczyk, Director of Sales for the Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites in Lynchburg, shares her career journey from event planning to hospitality sales and explains why building relationships is more important than simply making a sale.In this episode, Jennifer highlights the amenities and services offered by both hotels, including meeting and event spaces, extended-stay suites, and comfortable accommodations for both business and leisure travelers. She also encourages locals to think beyond travel by considering hotels for business meetings, special events, and community gatherings.Jennifer also discusses the importance of giving back through community initiatives, including donating kitchen supplies to those in need, and shares her appreciation for Lynchburg's welcoming, collaborative business community.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike from the Central Virginia Business Coalition discuss upcoming local events, including Coffee Talk meetups, Bedford CenterFest, and Christmas parade applications. They interview Susan and Courtney from La Quinta Inn, Ridgeview Event Center, and Appomattox Inn and Suites, highlighting their accommodations and event spaces. The episode also features Michelle, Community Engagement Coordinator at Patrick Henry's Red Hill, who shares the site's history, artifacts, and upcoming Quarter Place Tribute event honoring the African American community connected to the historic plantation.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike welcome Billy, owner of Lugo Mobile Services, a mobile mechanic business serving Central Virginia. Billy explains how he provides convenient on-site vehicle repairs and maintenance, from oil changes to brake work, at customers' homes or workplaces. He highlights his competitive pricing, professionalism, and honesty. The hosts also promote upcoming CVABC events, including a ribbon cutting at 801 Raw Bar, a baseball game networking night, and their monthly Coffee Talk breakfast.

Mary Purcell of Five Rings Financial shares how a career change led her to a mission of helping middle-income Americans build financial confidence and work toward financial freedom. In this episode, Mary discusses what inspired her to join Five Rings Financial, her passion for financial education, and the impact of her women-focused programs, including Wine, Women, and Wealth and Money 101. She also talks about the importance of networking through the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC), the challenges of growing a business in Central Virginia, and her commitment to supporting the local business community.

Cindy Burns, founder of Living Forward, shares how losing her husband at the age of 54—and later realizing she hadn't fully processed her grief—inspired her to become a widow coach.In this episode, Cindy discusses the challenges of building her business, the importance of community support, and how the CVABC has helped her grow. She also offers hope to those navigating grief, reminding them that while grief never completely disappears, it does become more manageable with time, support, and the courage to stop pretending everything is okay.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike welcome Kelly, owner of Media Mosaic, to discuss social media marketing for small businesses. Kelly shares practical advice on creating engaging content, choosing the right platforms, and balancing authenticity with AI-generated material. The hosts also explore how AI tools can streamline business tasks like email management and phone systems. The episode wraps up with upcoming Central Virginia Business Coalition events, including networking meetups, a baseball night, and holiday parades.

Pam and Kelly, co-owners of Kennedy's Miracle Carriage, a faith-based non-emergency medical transportation company in Bedford, Virginia, share how personal experiences caring for aging loved ones inspired them to launch their business and fill a critical transportation need in the community.In this episode, they discuss the challenges of navigating certifications and regulations, the rewards of helping clients maintain their independence, the importance of local networking, and their commitment to serving the community with compassion and care.

Joel Battige of Six33 Mortgage, a mortgage brokerage serving Central Virginia, shares his 21-year journey in the lending industry, his move from Florida to Central Virginia, and the challenges of building trust with local real estate professionals as a newcomer.In this episode, Joel debunks the common myth that homebuyers need a 20% down payment and explains why clear communication is the foundation of every successful client relationship. He also discusses how the CVABC has supported the growth of his business and emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses to strengthen the community.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Mike and Heather discuss upcoming Central Virginia Business Coalition events, including ribbon cuttings, a Back to School Bash, and Bedford Centerfest. Guest Mike from Strategic Doers Group shares insights on Integrated Leadership, emphasizing the importance of clarifying business purpose, balancing personal and professional life, and building scalable systems. The conversation also covers time management, team dynamics using the Working Genius framework, and the value of community networking. Heather promotes the CVABC's Christmas in July membership drive, encouraging local business owners to engage actively with their community.

Ron Ferrin, founder of Shop Click Give, shares how his passion for supporting teachers inspired him to create an innovative e-commerce platform that gives back to local communities. Through Shop Click Give, businesses can set up free merchant accounts and donate 5–10% of each sale to a classroom, school, or nonprofit chosen by the buyer.In this episode, Ron discusses the challenges of overcoming skepticism, the importance of supporting local businesses, and how joining the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC) helped increase awareness of his mission. He also shares valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of patience, persistence, and building a solid financial foundation before pursuing a passion-driven business.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Heather Alto of the Central Virginia Business Coalition shares upcoming events, including a Christmas in July membership drive, Bedford Centerfest, and the first annual Community Champions Back to School Bash. She then welcomes Amy and Kevin, co-owners of Love and Umami, a new Asian-inspired food business. The couple shares how their passion for bold flavors and inclusive dining led them to launch their business in Lynchburg. They discuss their diverse menu of rice bowls, Asian hot dogs, and tiramisu, and where locals can find them throughout the week.

In this special episode of Talk Local to Me, co-hosts Heather and Mike turn the microphone on themselves. Mike shares his journey building Visiting Angels of Lynchburg, a senior home care service, discussing caregiving challenges, community involvement, and his passion for karaoke. Heather highlights her work championing small businesses through the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC), emphasizing the power of networking and authentic relationships. Together, they reflect on leadership, entrepreneurship, and what it means to truly serve their community, offering listeners an intimate look at the people behind the podcast.

Heather Alto of the Central Virginia Business Coalition (CVABC) shares the organization's history, dating back to 1906, and its evolution into a thriving business coalition serving Central Virginia.She discusses her passion for empowering local businesses, the challenges of raising awareness, and the impact of signature events like the Lynchburg and Bedford Christmas Parades, the Empower Women's Seminar, and Bedford Centerfest. Heather also emphasizes the importance of collaboration over competition and encourages the community to Buy Local, Support Local, and Think Local.

Matt Litchford of Brown's Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical shares the story behind the company's growth over the past 20 years. He discusses how founder Brandon Brown built the business from the ground up with a small loan, as well as his own 25-year career in the electrical trade and what led him to join the Brown's team.Matt also talks about the expansion of the company's services to include electrical work, the challenges of building customer awareness, and the importance of hiring trustworthy employees. He emphasizes the value of following industry codes and standards, as well as the role community support and the CVABC have played in helping Brown's grow into a trusted local business.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike welcome several local business owners who are making a positive impact throughout the Bedford community.First, Kelly and Pam from Kennedy's Miracle Carriage discuss their non-emergency medical transportation service, which serves a 100-mile radius with certified drivers and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They also share their vision for a future nonprofit that will help provide transportation for individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford it.The conversation continues with Jai from The Blue Lady, who announces the restaurant's upcoming relocation and rebranding as Electric Blue Eatery. He also highlights his other ventures, including a chocolate shop and Queen Bees, a boutique specializing in wigs and plus-size clothing.This episode shines a spotlight on entrepreneurship, community service, and the innovative ways local businesses are meeting the needs of Central Virginia residents.

Rebecca Mason, founder of Mountain Laurel Learning, shares her journey from corporate food service and café operations to becoming a solopreneur. Today, she offers food safety certifications and leadership development for businesses.She discusses the challenges of switching industries, her passion for supporting local entrepreneurs, and why Central Virginia feels like home. Rebecca also shares a key insight: entrepreneurs are finite resources and must protect their time, energy, and well-being to sustain their businesses long-term.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike discuss ways to support small businesses during the summer slowdown, offering practical tips like shopping locally, dining out, and buying gift cards. They also welcome guests Melissa and Benny from Shineforth, a local foster care organization, who share insights on fostering, debunk common misconceptions, and highlight the urgent need for foster parents particularly for teenagers. Benny shares his personal fostering journey, while Melissa outlines the support Shineforth provides. Listeners are encouraged to get involved through fostering, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness.

Courtney and Sarah from Love Heals, a nonprofit dedicated to freeing people from medical bondage, one concert at a time, share their story and mission. Courtney explains how the organization began in 2018 with a benefit concert for a friend battling breast cancer and has since grown into a movement focused on treating people as human beings, not causes.Sarah shares her journey from a volunteer to a dedicated team member. Together, they discuss the challenges of operating in a traditional community like Lynchburg, their monthly Love Heals Live concerts, and their matching donation campaign. They also encourage supporters to become a Heartbeat member at weareloveheals.org.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike celebrate National Small Business Week by encouraging year-round support for local businesses. They recap a successful putt-putt tournament and the new Altavista Town Market. Guests Courtney and Sarah from Love Heals, a nonprofit eliminating medical debt through community concerts and storytelling events, share their mission. They highlight their "Heartbeat Members" program, offering matched donations in May. The episode blends community updates, small business advocacy, and heartfelt conversation about supporting neighbors facing medical hardships, all wrapped in lighthearted humor and creative fundraising ideas.

Mike with Joe the Home Pro shares how building a home with his father at age 15 shaped his expertise in construction and home inspections. After being laid off in 2023, he launched his Lynchburg-based home inspection and repair business. He discusses the challenge of building awareness among realtors, his relationship-driven approach to marketing, and his commitment to educating homeowners. Mike also highlights his appreciation for the Central Virginia community and the support of the CVABC in growing his business.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike celebrate Earth Day and Professional Assistants Day while highlighting upcoming CVABC events, including a Coffee Talk, the Women in Power conference, and a Putt Putt Tournament. Fashion stylist Sherrie introduces Cabi, a women's clothing brand offering personalized styling experiences. Jennifer from Hilton Hotels shares the brand's global reach, local community involvement during their Global Week of Engagement, and exclusive perks for CVABC members. The hosts wrap up by emphasizing the value of CVABC membership and community connection.

Angela Joy and Mason Dudley share the founding story of the Blue Ridge Town & Country Real Estate Team, discussing their backgrounds, the challenges they've faced, and their passion for helping clients build wealth through real estate. Tony Goodman of Atlantic Union Bank provides insight into home financing options and available grants. The conversation highlights the supportive local business environment, the importance of persistence, and the value of investing in the community.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike recap their successful Home and Health Expo before welcoming two guests. Amanda from The Kidd Team explains how her agency helps Central Virginians navigate Medicare, Medicaid, and health insurance, debunking common enrollment myths. Courtney and Sarah from Love Heals nonprofit discuss their mission of supporting people facing medical hardships through benefit concerts, caregiver meetups, and community advocacy. The episode highlights an upcoming concert benefiting community member Ashley, recovering from surgery complications, with the Central Virginia Business Coalition serving as a presenting sponsor.

Melody Divers of Chapel Creek Farms shares how she and her husband, Johnny, transitioned from teaching and landscaping to full-time farming across 2,000 acres in Bedford County. Named after their two sons, Chapel Creek Farms offers grass-fed beef shares, seasonal cider, and agritourism events. Melody discusses the challenges of learning business skills from scratch, the value of community support, and the importance of building a lasting family legacy. She also highlights their upcoming “Burgers and Bluegrass” event on April 25th in Montvale, Virginia.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, host Heather Alto flies solo, covering upcoming local events including the Central Virginia Home and Garden Show, the Empower Women's Conference, and the CVABC Open putt-putt tournament. Guest Danielle introduces Hill City Picnics, her luxury picnic experience business in Lynchburg, offering curated setups for dates, proposals, and group events. Real estate agent PJ then discusses Smith Mountain Lake's appeal, shares tips on avoiding contractor scams, and promotes the fifth annual SML Buzz community event benefiting local nonprofits.

Sherrie McNamara, local owner of Cabi, shares her journey of joining the company during the pandemic and the challenges of building brand awareness without a traditional storefront. She discusses how Cabi empowers women through community-driven shopping experiences and personal connections. The conversation highlights the importance of supporting local businesses, the unique value Cabi brings to Central Virginia, and the joy she finds in helping women feel confident and connected through fashion.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike welcome two local business owners. Rebecca Mason of Mountain Laurel Learning discusses her professional training services, including ServSafe food safety certification courses and an upcoming DISC personality assessment program designed to improve workplace communication. Cindy Burns introduces her rebranded business, Still Living, where she works as a grief coach specializing in supporting widows through their unique grief journey. Both guests highlight their commitment to serving the Lynchburg community and share how listeners can connect with their businesses.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike highlight a full lineup of upcoming Central Virginia business and community events, including the Lead On Summit, Coffee Talk at Chick-fil-A, the Home and Health Expo, the Empower Women's event, and the ABC Open Putt Putt Tournament. They're joined by Jeremiah from Shipley's Donuts, who shares how his business stays actively involved in the community and supports local initiatives. He also talks about an exciting partnership with the Puzzled Foundation, helping raise awareness and give back to autism-related causes. This episode is all about collaboration, community impact, and creative ways businesses and individuals can support local organizations, educators, and each other.

Jennifer Sherwood, board member of the Puzzled Foundation, shares the nonprofit's mission to support individuals with autism and other disabilities in Central Virginia. She discusses the foundation's origins, its all-volunteer structure, and the challenges of raising awareness while working toward nonprofit status.The episode also highlights upcoming fundraisers, community outreach efforts, and the importance of advocacy and empathy for families affected by autism, emphasizing the foundation's dedication to making a meaningful impact in the local community.

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike welcome guests Ryan and Jennifer of R&R Pool Care. The show highlights upcoming community events, local business updates, and the importance of networking through the Central Virginia Business Coalition. The conversation also delves into mental health awareness, with personal stories about therapy, parenting challenges, and the value of professional support. The episode blends practical advice for pool owners, encouragement for community engagement, and open discussion about mental well-being, showcasing the power of local connections in Central Virginia.

Talya Coleman of Coleman Custom Creations shares the journey of launching and growing her family-run renovation business in Lynchburg, Virginia. She discusses the challenges of working in the industry, the importance of community support, and balancing business with family life. Talya also dispels common myths about contractors and expresses gratitude for the local business networks that have supported her along the way. The episode also shares how to connect with Coleman Custom Creations for your home renovation needs.

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 businesses matters, and wraps up with rapid-fire insights on her favorite local spots and best business advice. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the power of teamwork and invites listeners to connect with her for reliable, trusted bookkeeping.

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 episode offers practical advice on building, buying, and financing homes while emphasizing the value of local expertise and encouraging listeners to make informed real estate decisions.

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 empowering local businesses.