Business & Beyond Podcast

Business & Beyond Podcast

by BBB Serving Western Virginia
Season 2
Finding Your Brand Voice
Is your business saying the right thing to the right audience? In the latest episode of Business & Beyond, Julie Wheeler sits down with Becky Freemal⁩, Founder of MarketExec, to explore why a strong brand voice is about much more than logos, taglines, and social media. Becky breaks down the three pillars of an effective brand voice: genuine, simple, and consistent. She also explains why businesses need to combine people and data, why trying to appeal to everyone can muddy your message, and how what happens inside your organization ultimately shapes how customers experience your brand. One of the biggest takeaways? Great marketing tactics can get people through the door, but clarity and consistency are what help build recognition and trust. Whether you are building a business, growing a team, or trying to make your brand stand out, this conversation offers plenty to think about. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content.
Impact Of Authentic Community Storytelling
What happens when a passion for your community becomes a business? In the latest episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast, BBB Serving Western Virginia President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Genya Kalinina and Stan Myshkovskiy, the husband and wife team behind Hello Roanoke, to explore the power of authentic community storytelling. After moving to the Roanoke Valley, Genya and Stan turned a personal hobby into a legitimate business during the uncertainty of COVID. They share how they built an audience by consistently telling the stories of the people, places, and experiences that make our region unique, while also discussing the challenges of evolving a brand, lessons learned along the way, and what it takes to remain authentic as a business grows. For business leaders, their story offers valuable lessons in consistency, brand identity, audience engagement, and building genuine connections. For anyone who calls the Roanoke Valley home, it is a behind-the-scenes look at the people helping tell the story of our community. Watch, listen, and discover why authentic storytelling can be one of the most powerful tools a business has. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content. #Podcast #NewEpisode #BusinessAndBeyond #Storytelling #Influencer #RoanokeVA #SWVA
The Importance Of De-Escalation Tactics
When it comes to workplace safety, “it won't happen to us” is not a strategy. On the latest episode of Business & Beyond, Julie Wheeler is joined by Marko Galbreath, Owner of T4Tactics in Lynchburg, for an important conversation about preparing businesses and their teams for situations they may hope never occur. Marko discusses practical de-escalation tactics, the importance of proper training for potential emergency events, and the skills employees can develop to increase awareness and recognize situations before they escalate. He also shares real-life examples of workplace violence that underscore why preparation matters. For business leaders, preparedness is about creating a workplace where employees understand how to recognize risk, respond appropriately, and know what to do when seconds matter. ------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------ Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content.
Back To School | A Business & Beyond Multimedia Special Series Episode
Back to school is about more than backpacks and school supplies—it's about preparing students for a healthy, safe, and successful year both inside and outside the classroom. In this special edition of the Business & Beyond Podcast, we're bringing together education, healthcare, and community leaders from across Western Virginia to share practical advice, valuable resources, and expert insights for students and families as they head into a new school year. In this episode: • Dr. Jessica Cromer, Superintendent of Floyd County Public Schools, discusses preparing students for success, building strong partnerships with families, and trends shaping today's classrooms. • Dr. Amanda Tiffany of Carilion Children's shares important health and wellness tips, from establishing healthy routines to supporting students' physical and mental well-being. • Tiffany Dennis, Major Gifts Officer with CHIP of Roanoke Valley, highlights community resources available to families and the importance of connecting parents with the support they need. • Marisa Womack, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Blue Ridge, explores the impact of before and after school programs and how they help students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether you're a parent, educator, caregiver, or simply invested in the future of our communities, this episode offers timely information to help students thrive throughout the school year. Subscribe to the Business & Beyond Podcast for more conversations featuring the people, organizations, and ideas shaping Western and Southwest Virginia.
The Importance Of Supporting Community
What does it truly mean to invest in your community? On this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast, BBB Western Virginia President & CEO Julie Wheeler is joined once again by Allen Lawrence, General Manager of the Salem Ridge Yaks, for a conversation about the power of community involvement and the lasting impact local organizations can have beyond their core mission. Allen shares why the Salem Ridge Yaks have made community engagement a cornerstone of their organization, discussing the importance of giving back, supporting local nonprofits, partnering with hometown organizations, and creating meaningful opportunities that bring people together throughout the Roanoke Valley and beyond. Whether you're a business owner, community leader, or simply passionate about strengthening the place you call home, this episode offers valuable insight into why investing in your community is one of the most meaningful investments you can make. Watch or listen today on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. -------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content.
Fraud In The Marketplace
Fraud is evolving. Is your business prepared? In the latest episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler is joined by Brandon Farmer, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Bank of the James, for an important conversation on the growing threat of fraud in today's marketplace. From check fraud and phishing scams to social engineering and cybercrime, Brandon shares practical advice to help businesses and consumers recognize warning signs, protect their financial information, and avoid becoming the next victim. Learn why employee education, layered security, and taking a moment to stop and verify before acting can make all the difference. Whether you're a business owner, manager, or consumer, this episode offers timely insights that can help you stay one step ahead of today's increasingly sophisticated scams. Watch, listen, or download the full episode today and discover how awareness and preparation are your strongest defenses against fraud. -------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content.
The Importance Of Internet Safety
The internet has transformed the way we live, work, and communicate, but it has also created new risks for children, families, seniors, and businesses. In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast, Eddie Worth of the Safe Surfin' Foundation shares real-world stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for navigating online threats, protecting your digital footprint, and staying safe in the age of artificial intelligence. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with your colleagues, friends, and family. To stay up to date on future conversations featuring local business leaders, industry experts, and trusted voices from across Western Virginia, follow the Business & Beyond Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms. -------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content.
Cybersecurity And Your Business
Cybersecurity isn't just an IT issue. It's a business issue. In this episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler sits down with Doug Turpin, Co-Founder and Chief Disruption Officer of Tight Technologies, to discuss the realities of cybersecurity in today's business environment. From common misconceptions and emerging threats to incident response planning and business preparedness, Doug shares practical insights that every business leader should understand. Whether you're a small business owner or part of a larger organization, this conversation offers valuable guidance on protecting your business before a cyber incident occurs. Watch or listen now to learn how preparation, planning, and awareness can help strengthen your organization's cybersecurity posture. ---------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------- ------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------- ------------------- Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content.
Service To Success: Leadership Forged In Service, Proven In Business
Their service to our country shaped who they are. Their service to their communities continues every single day. Available from BBB Western Virginia, 'Service To Success' is a special feature spotlighting veteran-owned Accredited Businesses across Western Virginia and the incredible stories behind the people who lead them. From military service to entrepreneurship, these business owners share powerful insights on leadership, sacrifice, resilience, trust, and what it truly means to continue serving others long after their time in uniform. This is more than business. This is purpose. This is leadership. This is community. Enjoy the Business & Beyond Podcast? Be sure to Subscribe to our podcast and never miss an episode! #BBB #BusinessAndBeyond #Podcast #Spotlight #VeteranOwned #SmallBusiness #Stories #Patriotism #MilitaryAppreciation #WhyWeAreHere
Importance Of Customer Care
In the latest episode of the Business & Beyond Podcast presented by BBB Serving Western Virginia, President and CEO Julie Wheeler is joined once again by Samuel Oakey III, President of Oakey's Funeral Service & Crematory, for a thoughtful conversation on compassion, trust, and service. Sammy shares how Oakey’s works to provide uncompromised customer care for families navigating some of the hardest days of their lives. From hiring the right people to investing in training, education, and professionalism, this episode highlights the importance of empathy and consistency in building trust within the community. This conversation goes beyond business and offers a meaningful look at what it takes to serve others with dignity, compassion, and integrity when it matters most. Watch, listen, or download the full episode now and hear how one local business continues to set the standard for care in our region. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Business & Beyond is a multimedia brand owned by Better Business Bureau Serving Western Virginia (“BBB Western Virginia”). This podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, financial, or business advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, partners, or BBB Western Virginia. Guest appearances do not imply endorsement, and the podcast is not responsible for statements made by guests. Experiences shared are personal and may not reflect typical results. Any external websites or resources mentioned are provided for convenience, and we are not responsible for their content.
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