Podcast appearances and mentions of charlotte region

A Brooklyn native thriving in Charlotte, Ohavia Phillips is a dynamic force in sports, media, and entertainment. As an electrifying emcee, in-arena host for The Charlotte Hornets, and award-winning entrepreneur, Ohavia lights up stages, arenas, and events with unmatched energy and impact.​From emceeing marquee events like the Jumpman Invitational, UNCF's Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Luncheon, and the Ally Tipoff, to hosting the Queen City Awards and Black Girls in Media celebrations, Ohavia's reach spans industries and audiences. She has been invited to presidential campaign rallies, partnered with esteemed organizations like the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, and consistently commands the mic at the most influential and inspiring events.​Ohavia's media journey is equally impressive. She has been featured across every medium—from radio to television, news, and podcasting. Her magnetic presence and storytelling prowess have landed her collaborations with St. John Knits, Lexus, NPR, Power 98, V101.9, and more. As the founder of The cOHllab, a business highlight program showcasing thriving businesses from the Carolinas and beyond, Ohavia has carved a unique space to amplify voices, create powerful narratives, and inspire communities through her media endeavors.​Her accolades speak volumes: named one of the 50 Most Dynamic Women in the Charlotte Region, featured on Business North Carolina's Power List, and recipient of the Andre Leon Talley Icon Award. Ohavia's commitment to excellence in media and community impact has earned her numerous honors, including the Career Mastered Top Entrepreneurial Woman to Watch and Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award.​Ohavia's interviews have spotlighted prominent figures like Dell Curry, Muggsy Bogues, Stacey Abrams, Dr. Eric “ET” Thomas, J. Alphonse Nicholson (P-Valley), to name a few, solidifying her reputation as a skilled conversationalist and safe-space creator. She has also featured athletes, music icons, artists, and award-winning business owners in her conversations. Her authenticity online continues to shine, earning her a spot as one of Meta's top creators.​In everything she does—from fashion to sports and beyond—Ohavia lives her mantra of “leading with love and impact.” With dreams of establishing a multimedia empire through positivity and connection, Ohavia Phillips is not just living the dream; she's redefining what it means to create meaningful change in media, entertainment, and beyond.#DijeLoQueDijeFind Ohavia on @OHAVIAPHILLIPS on all platforms

The emergence of two cicada broods this year in parts of the U.S. — including ours — means that trillions of these bugs will be singing their mating song. And who can blame them, they've been underground for 13 years. So, let's find out more about these insects, how they live and why they live such odd lives.

Mike Olender, State Director – AARP NC, Audrey Galloway, Manager, Outreach, AARP NC, Helen Mack, State President, Executive Council, AARP NC, and Pat Battle, AARP NC Executive Council, Charlotte Region share how to have a successful AARP University with staff and volunteers. Contact Mike at the AARP NC State Office if you want more information.

Welcome back to the final installment from the Women in Leadership series on Stories from the River. Host Hope Stocker, Manager, Retail Accounting, welcomes back Anita Harris, Director, Customer Experience; Renee Bradley, Regional Manager, Charlotte Region; and Samantha Blum, Associate Director, Customer Experience. They delve into the nuanced experiences of women in the workplace and society at large. The conversation touches on the tendency for women to frequently apologize, and Renee Bradley's commitment to breaking this habit, identifying the act of 'mansplaining' as a common challenge. They explore the significance of parenting skills in leadership roles, drawing parallels between nurturing children and managing teams, where patience, understanding, and setting a positive example are key to success. The panel shares their personal aspirations to be remembered for caring about people and helping them succeed, revealing their past childhood dreams and who they'd love to dine with, including notable figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Michelle Obama. Broader topics such as finding confidence in male-dominated environments, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of solid support systems are also discussed. The universality of imposter syndrome is acknowledged, touching upon gender differences in its perception and expression. An interesting analysis of Taylor Swift's "The Man" leads to acknowledging the career challenges that women, particularly women of color, face, backed by personal experiences, like Samantha being passed over for a job she was qualified for. The dialogue concludes on notes of encouragement, with a sense of camaraderie and a commitment to creating a supportive and vulnerable space at Broad River for all individuals to thrive. Listen to the first part of this series here: https://youtu.be/eIA_tya2bt8  Listen to the second part of the series here: https://youtu.be/UzSFNNjL3eU   This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8Hyx-xq-Xbw  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.  

Welcome back to the final installment from the Women in Leadership series on Stories from the River. Host Hope Stocker, Manager, Retail Accounting, welcomes back Anita Harris, Director, Customer Experience; Renee Bradley, Regional Manager, Charlotte Region; and Samantha Blum, Associate Director, Customer Experience. They delve into the nuanced experiences of women in the workplace and society at large. The conversation touches on the tendency for women to frequently apologize, and Renee Bradley's commitment to breaking this habit, identifying the act of 'mansplaining' as a common challenge. They explore the significance of parenting skills in leadership roles, drawing parallels between nurturing children and managing teams, where patience, understanding, and setting a positive example are key to success. The panel shares their personal aspirations to be remembered for caring about people and helping them succeed, revealing their past childhood dreams and who they'd love to dine with, including notable figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Michelle Obama. Broader topics such as finding confidence in male-dominated environments, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of solid support systems are also discussed. The universality of imposter syndrome is acknowledged, touching upon gender differences in its perception and expression. An interesting analysis of Taylor Swift's "The Man" leads to acknowledging the career challenges that women, particularly women of color, face, backed by personal experiences, like Samantha being passed over for a job she was qualified for. The dialogue concludes on notes of encouragement, with a sense of camaraderie and a commitment to creating a supportive and vulnerable space at Broad River for all individuals to thrive. Listen to the first part of this series here: https://youtu.be/eIA_tya2bt8  Listen to the second part of the series here: https://youtu.be/UzSFNNjL3eU   This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8Hyx-xq-Xbw  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.  

In the second part of the Women in Leadership series on Stories from the River,  host Hope Stocker, Manager, Retail Accounting, welcomes Anita Harris, Director, Customer Experience; Renee Bradley, Regional Manager, Charlotte Region; and Samantha Blum, Associate Director, Customer Experience. They engage in a powerful discussion on women in leadership; the shift in workplace dynamics is highlighted as Renee Bradley observes the growing acceptance of career-focused women as opposed to the judgment they faced in the past. Moreover, the panel discusses the balancing act of personal and professional responsibilities that women often navigate, especially in relation to motherhood. Addressing the bias and obstacles women leaders face, such as being deemed emotional or sensitive, the conversation turns to building self-confidence and recognizing women's empathetic and natural leadership abilities. They discuss the trend where women often feel pressured to meet 100% of job qualifications before applying, in contrast to their male counterparts who apply with significantly less. The conversation reveals the underlying issues of perfectionism and the false belief that one must know everything beforehand. The guests share personal anecdotes and the collective struggle they face in professional settings, such as the negative biases towards successful women and challenges with confidence and self-worth.  The episode further delves into gender roles and stereotypes, where Anita Harris and Renee Bradley reflect on the changing perceptions of assertive women in the workplace, while Samantha Blum urges women to exist loudly and take charge in leadership roles, thereby challenging traditional gender roles. The importance of mentorship is underscored by all, with discussions on its value in both personal and professional growth. The idea for a women in leadership group at Broad River to promote mentorship and support is also zealously floated, with an emphasis on identifying male allies. Anita Harris wraps up by sharing how age and mentorship have played a significant role in her development as a confident leader. This special series episode for Women's History Month leaves audiences with poignant advice to their younger selves and brings to light the motivational journeys and challenges these women leaders at Broad River have faced and overcome. Be sure to come back on Tuesday for more conversation from this crowd! Listen to the first conversation of this series here: https://youtu.be/eIA_tya2bt8  This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UzSFNNjL3eU  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.  

In the second part of the Women in Leadership series on Stories from the River,  host Hope Stocker, Manager, Retail Accounting, welcomes Anita Harris, Director, Customer Experience; Renee Bradley, Regional Manager, Charlotte Region; and Samantha Blum, Associate Director, Customer Experience. They engage in a powerful discussion on women in leadership; the shift in workplace dynamics is highlighted as Renee Bradley observes the growing acceptance of career-focused women as opposed to the judgment they faced in the past. Moreover, the panel discusses the balancing act of personal and professional responsibilities that women often navigate, especially in relation to motherhood. Addressing the bias and obstacles women leaders face, such as being deemed emotional or sensitive, the conversation turns to building self-confidence and recognizing women's empathetic and natural leadership abilities. They discuss the trend where women often feel pressured to meet 100% of job qualifications before applying, in contrast to their male counterparts who apply with significantly less. The conversation reveals the underlying issues of perfectionism and the false belief that one must know everything beforehand. The guests share personal anecdotes and the collective struggle they face in professional settings, such as the negative biases towards successful women and challenges with confidence and self-worth.  The episode further delves into gender roles and stereotypes, where Anita Harris and Renee Bradley reflect on the changing perceptions of assertive women in the workplace, while Samantha Blum urges women to exist loudly and take charge in leadership roles, thereby challenging traditional gender roles. The importance of mentorship is underscored by all, with discussions on its value in both personal and professional growth. The idea for a women in leadership group at Broad River to promote mentorship and support is also zealously floated, with an emphasis on identifying male allies. Anita Harris wraps up by sharing how age and mentorship have played a significant role in her development as a confident leader. This special series episode for Women's History Month leaves audiences with poignant advice to their younger selves and brings to light the motivational journeys and challenges these women leaders at Broad River have faced and overcome. Be sure to come back on Tuesday for more conversation from this crowd! Listen to the first conversation of this series here: https://youtu.be/eIA_tya2bt8  This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UzSFNNjL3eU  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.  

As Ally Business Administration Executive Ali Summerville assumes the role of 2024 CLT Alliance chair, she shares her vision for the organization and the region's vibrant business community. In this podcast, Summerville discusses emerging trends, the importance of strengthening the community's ecosystem, and bringing business leaders together to contribute to economic success in the Charlotte Region.

This fall the Charlotte Region is playing host to two collegiate-level basketball events, the Ally Tipoff and the Jumpman Invitational.  In this podcast, hear from Miller Yoho, director of communications and marketing with the Charlotte Sports Foundation and Bridget Sponsky, executive director of brand and sponsorship marketing at Ally. Yoho and Sponsky provide a snapshot of each event and the importance of collegiate sports in developing the future business leaders of tomorrow.  

Through years of accomplishments, 2023 Citizen of the Carolinas Mike Lamach has risen to support all who do business in the Charlotte Region, in areas including civic leadership, public policy and economic growth. In this podcast, CLT Alliance President & CEO Janet LaBar sits down with Mike to discuss the great strides he has made for the region and his hopes for the future.  Listen as Mike shares some pivotal moments in his career, what drives him to make a difference, and advice for future leaders. You can learn more about Mike here. Register to join the celebration at this year's inaugural Tate Awards at this link. 

The AARP Charlotte, NC Region - Associate State Director, Rebecca Gilbert and Lead Volunteers, Pat Battle and Roger Pierce will implement a program (October 2023) in which trained volunteers will train Seniors 50+. Two classes, "Essential Classes and iPad Essentials will be taught at four different library branches. They have secured partnerships in the Charlotte Region to support this program. All classes are free to participants. It is important for seniors to manage their everyday lives using technology.

The Charlotte International Arts Festival is an annual celebration of imaginative visual and performing arts from the most creative international and local minds. In this podcast, we sit down with Danny Knaub, vice president of marketing for Blumenthal Performing Arts, to talk about what's in store for this year's CIAF. Hear about the festival's growth and economic impact as well as how it's creating a welcoming space for all in the Charlotte Region. 

This year, the CLT Alliance Foundation is unveiling the inaugural Tate Awards. This celebration will recognize excellence in business leadership and highlight the accomplishments of outstanding change agents, entrepreneurs, and businesses of all sizes in the Charlotte Region. In this podcast, hear from CLT Alliance Board Chair Kieth Cockrell and CLT Alliance Foundation Chair Chris Moxley about the need to support small business leaders and how this event benefits the Charlotte Region. 

Are you an entrepreneur looking to scale your business? In this podcast, we are spotlighting a partnership program designed to accelerate the growth and success of minority-owned businesses in the Charlotte Region. Hear from Scale Up CLT partnership leaders and entrepreneurs involved with the program about how you can get involved, the importance of the growing small business community, and advice to entrepreneurs looking to take their next steps. 

As a global company looking to establish a North American headquarters, GNT had several competitive regions to consider. So, what led leaders to choose Gaston County? In this podcast, we sit down with Vice President of GNT USA Jeannette O'Brien to talk about why the Charlotte Region is the best place for the company's workforce, innovation, and continued growth. 

E & J Gallo Winery recently opened a new state-of-the-art production facility and distribution center in Chester County, South Carolina. In this podcast, Gallo's Vice President of Eastern Operations Erich Kaepp gives us an inside look at what led to the $423 million investment. Listen to learn why factors like talent, geography, and quality of life make business better in the Charlotte Region. 

Guest host Erik Spanberg sits down with Jesse Cole, founder of the Savannah Bananas, in advance of the team's visit to Kannapolis Tuesday and Wednesday.

Guest host Erik Spanberg is joined by Jesse Cole, founder of the Savannah Bananas, in advance of the team's visit to Kannapolis next week.

From the road to the rail and the sky, cargo is moving in and out of the Charlotte Region every day. In this podcast, we sit down with leaders from American Airlines, Armstrong Transport Group, and Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway Company to talk about supply chain trends and opportunities. Find out why these companies choose to do business in the Charlotte Region and how they're looking to grow. 

214: Should You Consider a Sabbatical as a Nonprofit Leader? (Laura Belcher)Are you ready for a sabbatical? Is your organization ready for you to take a sabbatical? Are work sabbaticals the latest nonprofit retention strategy? In episode #214 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Laura Belcher, the President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region, shares why her recent sabbatical was beneficial for both her and her organization. Laura explains how best to prepare yourself - and your team - for the sabbatical. The planning effort can also clarify essential leadership roles and increase organizational capacity amongst the team. Laura also addresses policy implications and provides great tips to help put your plan in motion!  ABOUT LAURALaura Belcher joined Habitat for Humanity of Charlotte in 2014, excited by the possibility of removing barriers to homeownership for working families in the community. She oversees the implementation of strategic plan tactics that establish aggressive goals for the affiliate. Since 2014, the organization has seen a 300% increase in families served through growth in new home production, increases in existing home preservation efforts, providing more diverse housing solutions and the expansion of financial literacy programs, demonstrating a commitment to innovate and reach an even broader audience. In February 2020, Laura managed the merger between Habitat Charlotte and Our Towns Habitat, creating Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region, combining strengths and eliminating duplicative processes and technologies. The combined affiliate has served over 4000 families since inception, operates one of the largest Habitat Construction operations in the US, runs a network of 6 ReStores, and supports 3 international partners. Laura has served on many committees of Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI); she is currently serving a second 3-year term on the HFHI US Council where she holds the office of Vice Chair. She spent the first 20 years of her career in corporate roles with Arthur Andersen, Wachovia Securities and Transamerica. Laura was a CPA, graduated from the College of William and Mary, and spent 9 years in nonprofit work as CFO/COO of the Arts & Science Council prior to joining Habitat. She attributes her passion for Habitat to her church where she started volunteering and building houses over 20 years ago.  EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES Demon Copperhead: A Pulitzer Prize Winner by Barbara KingsolverLearn more about Laura hereListen to Laura discuss if a merger is right for your nonprofit in episode 51 of Your Path

As we strive to create economic opportunity for all in the Charlotte Region, we are sitting down with the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber to get an in-depth look at the economic impact of the LGBTQ+ community and the challenges the LGBTQ+ workforce faces. In this podcast, learn about the importance of intersectionality, how the chamber is working to create equity, and what should be top of mind for business leaders during Pride Month and every month. 

With several economic development wins in its portfolio and a big project in the pipeline, Rowan County continues to bring new business to the Charlotte Region. In addition to creating jobs, Rowan EDC is also attracting diverse talent with its new campaign and working to grow its young professional community. Find out why both companies and people are choosing to call Rowan home in this podcast. 

Get to know some of the newest leaders at the CLT Alliance Foundation. In this podcast meet Foundation President Nate Hogan, Foundation Executive Vice President Lauren Wooden, and Foundation Director of Small Business & Entrepreneurship Tya Bolton. Find out why these leaders choose to call the Charlotte Region home and how they are looking to make an impact. Ready to join the movement and stay connected with the CLT Alliance Foundation team? Don't miss out on the latest developments and work being done by the CLT Alliance Foundation. Fill out our "Stay Connected" form now and become part of our community!

How is economic development evolving in the Charlotte Region? In this podcast, CLT Alliance Chief Business Recruitment Officer Danny Chavez sits down with EDAC Chair Jenn Bosser to discuss current and future strategies that benefit the 15-partner region. Hear about regional strengths and the importance of regional relationships. Plus, find out what led Bosser to leave Raleigh to lead economic development for the booming Iredell County.

The Charlotte Region has a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, but the business community has the opportunity to help small businesses scale up. In this podcast, we are continuing our "Start Up and Scale Up" conversation from our Exploring Economies trip to Tampa. Hear from three local entrepreneurs about how trust and collaboration with small businesses can make the entire region stronger. This podcast features:Vanessa Mathews, President, AsfalisMiguel Avila, President, Daily View Pools LLCGiovanni Avila, Construction Project Manager, Daily View Pools LLC

Why start and grow a business in the Charlotte Region? Nufabrx Chief Marketing Officer Jason Andree answers that question in this podcast with 704 Shop Co-Owner Chris Moxley. Plus, hear how collaboration drives innovation for both of these successful businesses and advice on how to grow the entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

As the Charlotte Region continues to grow, transportation infrastructure must advance. In this podcast, Tony Lathrop, who sits on the N.C. Board of Transportation and chairs the board's Funding/Appropriation Strategies (FAST) Committee, discusses the vital connection between economic development and investment in transportation. Learn why our current road system is graded as "low/adequate," and what it will take to keep the region's competitive edge.

Today's episode is a recording of a SEVEN Talk from the 2022 Alumni Forum. This talk, given by Debbie Weston Harden '79, is entitled, “Can I Do It All?” You can watch all of the SEVEN Talks on our YouTube channel. Debbie is a partner at Womble Bond Dickinson. The alumna was a member of the first class of women scholars.More about DebbieDebbie Weston Harden '79 is a member of the first class of female scholars, who were dubbed the “Dirty Dozen.” As a scholar, she was one of the first to participate in five summer programs, which led her to a career in law. As a partner based in the Charlotte office of Womble Bond Dickinson, Debbie has practiced law for more than three decades, focusing on complex commercial litigation and counseling of boards of directors and other fiduciaries. She is a Chambers USA–ranked commercial litigator who has also been selected for inclusion by Woodward-White Inc. in five industry/practice areas in The Best Lawyers in America recognitions. Debbie and her husband, Mark (UNC Class of '77; MBA '81), have three children, all of whom have completed their graduate education and begun their “adult” lives. While their children were younger, both Mark and Debbie's community service focused on the family's interests and activities. Debbie served on the Uptown YMCA's Board of Directors, as a former chair, and later served on the Board of the Children's Theater of Charlotte/ImaginOn and the Greater Charlotte Cultural Trust. Most recently, as an empty nester, Debbie has pursued her passion for quality and affordable family housing, serving six years on the Board of Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region. During her spare time, Debbie enjoys reading, travelling with her family, spending time in the North Carolina mountains, and playing golf with Mark.How to listenOn your mobile device, you can listen and subscribe to Catalyze on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. For any other podcast app, you can find the show using our RSS feed.Catalyze is hosted and produced by Sarah O'Carroll for the Morehead-Cain Foundation, home of the first merit scholarship program in the United States and located at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. You can let us know what you thought of the episode by finding us on Twitter or Instagram at @moreheadcain or you can email us at communications@moreheadcain.org.

As Bank of America's Kieth Cockrell transitions into the role of CLT Alliance 2023 chair, he shares his vision for the organization and the business community. In this podcast, hear how Cockrell plans to help leverage public and private partnerships, strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, bring economic success to the Charlotte Region, and create opportunity for all. 

The CLT Alliance's 2022 Citizen of the Carolinas, Michael Marsicano, shares the pivotal moments in his impactful career. In this podcast, he shares tips for future leaders and advice on how everyone can continue to move the Charlotte Region forward.  Plus, hear what drives him to never stop improving the community and his plans for retirement. 

Bird is the word! Birdwatching as a hobby has taken flight in recent years, and there is plenty to see in the Charlotte region. Local bird enthusiasts fill us in and answer your questions.

Higher education and the business community are working together to foster a strong talent pipeline and spark innovation within the Charlotte Region. In this podcast, hear from QM Power Inc. on why it chose to partner with the Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC) and UNC Charlotte to grow its business in the evolving energy industry.  This conversation spotlights how public-private partnerships are pushing the Charlotte Region to the forefront of engineering and innovation both in higher education and in the business community. 

The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance has added several members to its newly rebranded Select CLT team this year. In this podcast, Chief Business Recruitment Officer Danny Chavez hosts a conversation to help the business community get to know the Select CLT team and the specialties they bring to economic development. Meet the team of six helping businesses relocate and expand to the Charlotte Region. 

In this podcast, leaders from Northeastern University-Charlotte and Atrium Health discuss the current challenges facing the health care workforce and opportunities to grow the talent in the Charlotte Region. The CEO and Dean of Northeastern University-Charlotte Angela Hosking details new programs meant to help more students earn degrees and certifications. Atrium Health's AVP of Learning and Career Development Gerard Camacho shares opportunities to improve talent pipelines in order to fill a growing number of jobs. 

The Charlotte Region will soon be at the center of the world stage as the President Cup tees off at Quail Hollow Club. We sat down with the Executive Director of the 2022 Presidents Cup Adam Sperling and Executive Committee and Host Committee Chair for Corporate Hospitality and Sales Geoff Gray to discuss the tournament itself and its overarching benefit for the business community. Find out what fans can expect, the changes to the famous golf course and why Charlotte was the perfect host location as the tournament ventures into the southeast for the first time.

In the first six months of 2022, the Charlotte Region saw a strong labor market with a high number of job announcements and low unemployment rate. In this podcast, CLT Alliance Chief Business Recruitment Officer Danny Chavez and Principal Economic Researcher Antony Burton take a look at where the Charlotte Region's economy is now and what the economic development landscape looks like for the rest of 2022. Hear why companies are moving to the Charlotte Region and which industries are looking to invest. 

Neighboring Concepts has a history of transforming underserved areas. Even as Darrel Williams, founding partner of the architecture firm, looks to transition leadership, the mission to bring opportunity and create sustainable communities drives the entire staff. In this podcast, hear from Williams, Cathy Morrison and Luke Volkmar as they share the projects underway in the Charlotte Region right now. Plus, hear the success stories of how Neighboring Concepts has used architecture and design to create better lives for the communities where we work, live and play.

We take a look at the growing problem of gun violence and that of illegal firearms used in crimes. What is being done and how you can help.

The Charlotte Region is home to a growing and evolving workforce; young professionals make up a large piece of that talent. Charlotte Regional Business Alliance Young Professional Board Chair Kristerpher Smith and Vice Chair Solange Tricanowicz sit down to discuss how YPs (ages 21-39) impact the business community. In this podcast, hear tips on how to advance your career, grow your network and be a part of the Charlotte Region's future. Sign up for CLT Alliance YP emails here.

In Raleigh, Columbia, and Washington, the public and private sectors are working together to improve the Charlotte Region. In this podcast, we hear from Duke Energy Vice President of Governmental Affairs and External Relations Kevin McLaughlin. He explains how advocacy starts in an elected leader's hometown before it's ever brought to a capitol. Find out how his work at Duke Energy and as the vice chair of the CLT Alliance Advocacy Committee has led to historic legislation in the Carolinas. Plus, find out what legislative priorities lie ahead for the business community.

During the CLT Alliance's Exploring Economies trip to Austin, business and civic leaders from Charlotte got a first-hand look at what makes the Austin regional economy thrive. In this podcast, find out how the Charlotte Region stacks up against Austin in areas including talent, transportation, entrepreneurship and affordability.  EY Central Private Leader and Charlotte Managing Partner and CLT Alliance Chair Malcomb Coley and CLT Alliance President and CEO Janet LaBar discuss what they learned, why the Charlotte Region is competitive and how we can continue to make Charlotte a great region for all to work and play. 

The Charlotte Region is quickly growing with new talent moving here every day. In this podcast, Truist Chief Teammate Officer & Head of Enterprise Diversity Kimberly Moore-Wright describes the banking company's recruitment strategies and how they changed during the pandemic. Plus, hear her thoughts on diversity, equity and inclusion as well has how Truist is advancing the community and economic mobility.

The owners of Brooks' Sandwich House and Myers Park Presbyterian Church are teaming up to build more than a dozen townhomes in east Charlotte to help address the city's affordable housing crisis.In 2018, one year before Scott Brooks was shot and killed at the beloved NoDa restaurant during an armed robbery, he and his brother David donated a 2-acre tract of land on East Lane Drive, just off W.T. Harris Boulevard, to Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region. Habitat drew plans to maximize the use of the property to build 17 affordable townhomes on a lot that would accommodate eight or fewer freestanding single-family homes. “It's going to be such a boost for people-- hardworking people-- like ourselves and I think it's going to be something that's appreciated and I can sleep well at night knowing I've done my part," David Brooks said.READ MORE: https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/brooks-sandwich-house-habitat-humanity-townhomes-myers-park-presbyterian-donation/275-01b4cfdb-ff77-4acd-a385-8e6fe28574c9The Iredell County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help to find a missing woman. According to a post from the Iredell County Sheriff Facebook page, Niecy Rose Moore was last seen in the area of Shinnville Road in Mooresville on Monday, March 14. Deputies say she is reported to have schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Authorities believe she is in the Gastonia area with an unknown male. Moore also reportedly took at Uber to the 1400 block of E. Franklin Boulevard in Gastonia on Monday.https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/iredell-county-missing-woman-investigation/275-72924064-353b-497c-a530-74ba6d5fe24bWatch Wake Up Charlotte each weekday morning from 4:30 to 7 a.m. on WCNC Charlotte, and as always, join the conversation on social media using #WakeUpCLT! 

The owners of Brooks' Sandwich House and Myers Park Presbyterian Church are teaming up to build more than a dozen townhomes in east Charlotte to help address the city's affordable housing crisis. In 2018, one year before Scott Brooks was shot and killed at the beloved NoDa restaurant during an armed robbery, he and his brother David donated a 2-acre tract of land on East Lane Drive, just off W.T. Harris Boulevard, to Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region. Habitat drew plans to maximize the use of the property to build 17 affordable townhomes on a lot that would accommodate eight or fewer freestanding single-family homes.  “It's going to be such a boost for people-- hardworking people-- like ourselves and I think it's going to be something that's appreciated and I can sleep well at night knowing I've done my part," David Brooks said. READ MORE: https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/brooks-sandwich-house-habitat-humanity-townhomes-myers-park-presbyterian-donation/275-01b4cfdb-ff77-4acd-a385-8e6fe28574c9 The Iredell County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help to find a missing woman.  According to a post from the Iredell County Sheriff Facebook page, Niecy Rose Moore was last seen in the area of Shinnville Road in Mooresville on Monday, March 14.  Deputies say she is reported to have schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.  Authorities believe she is in the Gastonia area with an unknown male. Moore also reportedly took at Uber to the 1400 block of E. Franklin Boulevard in Gastonia on Monday. https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/iredell-county-missing-woman-investigation/275-72924064-353b-497c-a530-74ba6d5fe24b Watch Wake Up Charlotte each weekday morning from 4:30 to 7 a.m. on WCNC Charlotte, and as always, join the conversation on social media using #WakeUpCLT! 

In this podcast, we get an inside look at global manufacturer DMG MORI. General Manager of Southeast U.S. Christoffer Stigsby explains why the company chose the Charlotte Region for its new regional headquarters and shares his message to other businesses looking to relocate. Plus, hear his vision for the future of manufacturing in the U.S. and across the world. 

Are you an entrepreneur looking to scale your business? Listen up. Chairman of EO Accelerator Bryan Delaney explains his successful entrepreneurial journey and how he is working with the CLT Alliance to help the entrepreneurs in the Charlotte Region. Through Scale Up CLT, a scholarship program to help diverse entrepreneurs, and the EO Accelerator program, entrepreneurs are transitioning from working for their business to working on their business. Learn more about the program and hear tips for entrepreneurs in this podcast. Learn more about Scale Up CLT and EO Accelerator by visiting CharlotteRegion.com or EOCharlotte.org.

Are you a high-potential professional? If so, listen to Director of Corporate Operations for Security at Atrium Health Phillip Kemp describe how he's growing professionally in the Emerging Business Leaders program. Find out how this program is helping a dynamic and diverse group of professionals enhance their leadership capabilities and connect with high-performing peers from across the Charlotte Region. Hear why Kemp joined the program and his message to others looking to become a leader in their industry. Learn more about the EBL program here. 

In this podcast, hear how the newly announced partnership between the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce and NASCAR came to be after years of work. Plus, Chad Turner, the chamber's president and CEO, explains how inclusivity is evolving in the Charlotte Region and what businesses can do to change culture. 

About Today's GuestsMichelle MageeMichelle Magee serves as the Private Grant & Development Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region. In her role, Magee manages a portfolio of more than 60 grants annually that help support the organization's $27 million budget. Prior to joining Habitat Charlotte Region, Magee spent nearly a decade in the nonprofit sector working with local organizations and served in various capacities, including program management, volunteer coordination, and events. Magee graduated from the University of North Carolina Asheville with a bachelor of arts degree in Creative Writing.  Michael Delarosa Michael Anthony Delarosa is the Director of Habitat for Humanity International's Veterans Build program. Since joining Habitat for Humanity in 2017, Michael has played a pivotal role in designing and cultivating some of the most innovative partnerships, including collaborations with veteran organizations, federal, state and local government entities, and other non-profits to create sustainable impact for active, transitioning and veterans deserve a safe, decent, and affordable place to live. Michael served as a U.S. Marine in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Hurricane Katrina.Links Mentioned In This EpisodeHabitat for Humanity International's Veterans Build Initiative Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region PsychArmor Resource of the WeekThe PsychArmor resource for this week is resource of the week is the PsychArmor Course Understanding Why Collaboration Is Important In Supporting The Military Affiliated Population. This course is designed for community leaders interested in exploring some key components to a successful collaborative journey. You will learn how collaboration can provide the structure needed to impact the lives of military members, veterans, their families, and their caregivers. Watch this course to assist in your collaborative journey as well as hear examples of how others have used collective impact principles to better their community. You can find the course by following this link https://psycharmor.org/courses/why-collaboration-is-so-important-in-supporting-military-members-veterans-their-families-and-caregivers/  This Episode Sponsored By:This episode is sponsored by PsychArmor, the premier education and learning ecosystem specializing in military culture content. PsychArmor offers an online e-learning laboratory with custom training options for organizations.Join Us on Social Media PsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, mortgage interest rates have dropped significantly. More homeowners are refinancing, and since they are mostly staying home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they're […]