https://columbus.org/industry-insights/podcasts/ The Columbus Chamber has debuted new episodes of cbuzz, central Ohio’s first business-themed podcast, in a partnership to reboot the monthly series with Capital University. Production of the new episodes takes place at Capital’s Convergent Media Center, a state-of the-art facility opened in 2017. Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Blubrry PowerPress/11.3.1 no The hub for the Central Ohio business community Columbus Chamber of Commerce false Columbus Chamber of Commerce Columbus Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. Columbus Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. podcast Columbus’ first business-focused podcast https://columbus.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/CBuzzIcon_itunes-1400x1400-1.png https://columbus.org/industry-insights/podcasts/ Columbus, Ohio Columbus, Ohio cdec4de8-ee17-5de4-8259-53a0f70f5c53 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-anthony-mcintosh-uprys-cultivating-community-first-and-elevating-small-businesses-nonprofits/ Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=58640 Anthony McIntosh has more than 25-years of experience in business leadership and strategy. Prior to joining UpRys, Anthony founded SSE Advisors, a strategic business advisory and consulting firm, focused on helping organizations build sustainable success. Anthony has worked for or within small, medium and Fortune 500 companies. His knowledge, experiences and core competencies cut across different industries, including nonprofits, as well as functions within an organization. Anthony’s consulting background, business acumen and diverse experience give him a unique perspective on addressing client issues. Anthony is driven by helping organizations remain relevant, evolve, and build sustainable success. CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Prior to launching SSE Advisors, Anthony served as the Vice President of Sales for Thirty-One Gifts, Senior Director Go-To-Market Strategy & Sales Operations for Motorola, and Partner at Frank Lynn & Associates. Anthony has been instrumental in developing the structure and business model for the UpRys team. AREAS OF EXPERTISE Leadership Strategic Planning Management Business Advising Business Model Optimization Business Development To learn more about UpRys, visit https://www.uprys.com/. Tune in today as Anthony sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss Cultivating Community First and Elevating Small Businesses & Nonprofits. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Anthony McIntosh has more than 25-years of experience in business leadership and strategy. Prior to joining UpRys, Anthony founded SSE Advisors, a strategic business advisory and consulting firm, focused on helping organizations build sustainable succe... Anthony McIntosh has more than 25-years of experience in business leadership and strategy. Prior to joining UpRys, Anthony founded SSE Advisors, a strategic business advisory and consulting firm, focused on helping organizations build sustainable success. Anthony has worked for or within small, medium and Fortune 500 companies. His knowledge, experiences and core competencies cut across different industries, including nonprofits, as well as functions within an organization. Anthony’s consulting background, business acumen and diverse experience give him a unique perspective on addressing client issues. Anthony is driven by helping organizations remain relevant, evolve, and build sustainable success.



CAREER HIGHLIGHTS



Prior to launching SSE Advisors, Anthony served as the Vice President of Sales for Thirty-One Gifts, Senior Director Go-To-Market Strategy & Sales Operations for Motorola, and Partner at Frank Lynn & Associates. Anthony has been instrumental in developing the structure and business model for the UpRys team.



AREAS OF EXPERTISE




* Leadership



* Strategic Planning



* Management



* Business Advising



* Business Model Optimization



* Business Development








To learn more about UpRys, visit https://www.uprys.com/.



Tune in today as Anthony sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss Cultivating Community First and Elevating Small Businesses & Nonprofits.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 28:11 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-jamie-stevenson-constructing-hope-mentoring-and-empowering-aspiring-young-talents-danis-culture-and-innovation/ Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=57666 Jamie Stevenson is a highly accomplished construction professional, currently serving as the Vice President of Operations at Danis, a leading construction company. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the states of Ohio and Pennsylvania. A graduate of the University of Dayton, Jamie has dedicated an impressive 28 years to the industry, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership and expertise. He is passionate about sustainability and dedicated to assisting owners in achieving their embodied and operational carbon goals. In addition to his successful corporate career, Jamie actively contributes to his community through volunteer work. He dedicates his time to serving on the Huckleberry House board and volunteering at the New Salem Baptist food pantry. He supports The Builders Exchange of Central Ohio Student Outreach program, mentoring and empowering aspiring young talents in the construction field. Jamie’s commitment to community engagement and leadership excellence was further recognized when he graduated from the Leadership Columbus class of 2020, solidifying his position as a respected and influential figure in both his professional and personal spheres. To learn more about Danis, visit https://www.danis.com/. Tune in today as Jamie sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss Constructing Hope, Mentoring and Empowering Aspiring Young Talents, & Danis' Culture and Innovation. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Jamie Stevenson is a highly accomplished construction professional, currently serving as the Vice President of Operations at Danis, a leading construction company. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the states of Ohio and Pennsylvania. Jamie Stevenson is a highly accomplished construction professional, currently serving as the Vice President of Operations at Danis, a leading construction company. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the states of Ohio and Pennsylvania. A graduate of the University of Dayton, Jamie has dedicated an impressive 28 years to the industry, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership and expertise. He is passionate about sustainability and dedicated to assisting owners in achieving their embodied and operational carbon goals.



In addition to his successful corporate career, Jamie actively contributes to his community through volunteer work. He dedicates his time to serving on the Huckleberry House board and volunteering at the New Salem Baptist food pantry. He supports The Builders Exchange of Central Ohio Student Outreach program, mentoring and empowering aspiring young talents in the construction field. Jamie’s commitment to community engagement and leadership excellence was further recognized when he graduated from the Leadership Columbus class of 2020, solidifying his position as a respected and influential figure in both his professional and personal spheres.



To learn more about Danis, visit https://www.danis.com/.



Tune in today as Jamie sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss Constructing Hope, Mentoring and Empowering Aspiring Young Talents, & Danis' Culture and Innovation.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 30:19 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-bill-nolan-barnes-thornburg-a-vibrant-columbus-legal-market-scene/ Mon, 02 Oct 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=57384 Bill Nolan is the Managing Partner of Barnes & Thornburg’s Columbus office, which he opened in 2009, and an employment lawyer for businesses and executives. His common touchpoint is “helping people win” – clients, teammates, and community partners. As an employer’s lawyer, he is passionate about working with businesses that recognize the value of prevention and compliance to design teams and processes to minimize liability, and to represent them vigorously but thoughtfully in the disputes that are an inevitable part of doing business. He is the current chair of the Ohio State Bar Association’s Labor and Employment Law Section. As an office leader, he has been fortunate to lead a remarkable group of teammates to steady growth far exceeding the expectations for the office. While he is proud to work with many fine and collaborative lawyers, as Office Managing Partner he is most inspired by the office’s business support team and the many members of that team who have progressed to increasingly responsible positions at the firm and who set the collaborative energy of the office. In the community, Bill’s mindset in recent years has led naturally to a heightened focus on inclusion and diversity efforts as several opportunities and partnerships came together, and in turn led to further such opportunities. He is past chair of the Columbus Bar Association’s Managing Partners’ Diversity Initiative, the co-inventor of the Gender Equity in the Legal Industry (GELI) program series in the Columbus and Cleveland legal communities, and the recipient of the 2019 Ohio Women’s Bar Association Sponsor Award and the 2017 Smart Women Awards Advocate for Advancement Award, both given to male allies of women in the workplace. He writes, speaks, and moderates panels on I&D issues regularly. He has come to appreciate that, while it is certainly not enough, it is important for “majority” leaders to show up and strives to set an example in that regard. He is always looking for new partnerships to contribute in some small way to helping all kinds of people win. Among other community roles, he is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, and a former two-term councilman and mayor of Powell, Ohio. To learn more about Barnes & Thornburg LLP, visit https://btlaw.com/. Tune in today as Bill sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss A Vibrant Columbus Legal Market Scene. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Bill Nolan is the Managing Partner of Barnes & Thornburg’s Columbus office, which he opened in 2009, and an employment lawyer for businesses and executives. His common touchpoint is “helping people win” – clients, teammates, and community partners. Bill Nolan is the Managing Partner of Barnes & Thornburg’s Columbus office, which he opened in 2009, and an employment lawyer for businesses and executives. His common touchpoint is “helping people win” – clients, teammates, and community partners. As an employer’s lawyer, he is passionate about working with businesses that recognize the value of prevention and compliance to design teams and processes to minimize liability, and to represent them vigorously but thoughtfully in the disputes that are an inevitable part of doing business. He is the current chair of the Ohio State Bar Association’s Labor and Employment Law Section.



As an office leader, he has been fortunate to lead a remarkable group of teammates to steady growth far exceeding the expectations for the office. While he is proud to work with many fine and collaborative lawyers, as Office Managing Partner he is most inspired by the office’s business support team and the many members of that team who have progressed to increasingly responsible positions at the firm and who set the collaborative energy of the office.



In the community, Bill’s mindset in recent years has led naturally to a heightened focus on inclusion and diversity efforts as several opportunities and partnerships came together, and in turn led to further such opportunities. He is past chair of the Columbus Bar Association’s Managing Partners’ Diversity Initiative, the co-inventor of the Gender Equity in the Legal Industry (GELI) program series in the Columbus and Cleveland legal communities, and the recipient of the 2019 Ohio Women’s Bar Association Sponsor Award and the 2017 Smart Women Awards Advocate for Advancement Award, both given to male allies of women in the workplace. He writes, speaks, and moderates panels on I&D issues regularly. He has come to appreciate that, while it is certainly not enough, it is important for “majority” leaders to show up and strives to set an example in that regard. He is always looking for new partnerships to contribute in some small way to helping all kinds of people win.



Among other community roles, he is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, and a former two-term councilman and mayor of Powell, Ohio.



To learn more about Barnes & Thornburg LLP, visit https://btlaw.com/.



Tune in today as Bill sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss A Vibrant Columbus Legal Market Scene.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 29:50 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-sapna-bob-welsh-leverage-hr/ Tue, 01 Aug 2023 16:30:30 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=55563 A successful entrepreneur, founder, and Partner of Leverage HR, Sapna advises organizations on Leadership Development and DEI. Certified at the Master level by the World Association of Business Coaches, Sapna builds on her own various professional transitions ranging from corporate to dot.com to entrepreneur; and from domestic to international, to coach and train talent for professional fulfillment and success. Sapna has trained and coached countless leaders globally and consulted with some of the most notable Fortune 500, public sector, and non-profit organizations. She is the co-author of 2 books, including her latest, Women Leaders, The Power of Working Abroad and she has consulted and spoken on the topic of talent development and women’s leadership, her specialty, at various conferences and panels. Prior to launching Leverage HR, she was an HR and Talent leader with JPMC , Nationwide Financial Services, and Deloitte. Sapna received her MA in HR from The Ohio State University and her BA from George Washington University. She currently serves on the Boards of Family Mentor Foundation (exec committee), NC4K, Leadership Westerville and was a former national board exec committee member for WELD. As a partner with Leverage HR, Bob advises organizations on Talent Strategy, Leadership Development and Culture. A credentialed ICF coach, he works with executive teams and in one-on-one engagements to increase awareness, connectedness, followership, and impact. Bob has coached and trained leaders in every region of the world from the C-suite to emerging talent in both private and public sectors. He is former group vice president / Chief Learning Officer of DeutschePost DHL where he was based in Europe for many years, and former senior vice president / Chief Talent Officer of IQVIA. He is a seasoned executive with deep experience growing organizational capability and navigating organizational transformation. He received his MBA from Otterbein University and BA from George Washington University. He regularly presents at industry and organizational events and has served on numerous Boards and Committees including Columbus Chamber: Member SBC, MEC, DIBE Committee, and International Coaching Federation: Member Nominating Committee for Global Board, Chair Nominating Committee CIO Board. To learn more about Leverage HR, visit www.leveragehr.com. Tune in today as Sapna and Bob sit down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss creating connected workplaces by developing leaders and crafting inclusive cultures. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. A successful entrepreneur, founder, and Partner of Leverage HR, Sapna advises organizations on Leadership Development and DEI. Certified at the Master level by the World Association of Business Coaches, Sapna builds on her own various professional tran... A successful entrepreneur, founder, and Partner of Leverage HR, Sapna advises organizations on Leadership Development and DEI. Certified at the Master level by the World Association of Business Coaches, Sapna builds on her own various professional transitions ranging from corporate to dot.com to entrepreneur; and from domestic to international, to coach and train talent for professional fulfillment and success. Sapna has trained and coached countless leaders globally and consulted with some of the most notable Fortune 500, public sector, and non-profit organizations.



She is the co-author of 2 books, including her latest, Women Leaders, The Power of Working Abroad and she has consulted and spoken on the topic of talent development and women’s leadership, her specialty, at various conferences and panels. Prior to launching Leverage HR, she was an HR and Talent leader with JPMC , Nationwide Financial Services, and Deloitte.



Sapna received her MA in HR from The Ohio State University and her BA from George Washington University. She currently serves on the Boards of Family Mentor Foundation (exec committee), NC4K, Leadership Westerville and was a former national board exec committee member for WELD.



As a partner with Leverage HR, Bob advises organizations on Talent Strategy, Leadership Development and Culture. A credentialed ICF coach, he works with executive teams and in one-on-one engagements to increase awareness, connectedness, followership, and impact. Bob has coached and trained leaders in every region of the world from the C-suite to emerging talent in both private and public sectors.



He is former group vice president / Chief Learning Officer of DeutschePost DHL where he was based in Europe for many years, and former senior vice president / Chief Talent Officer of IQVIA. He is a seasoned executive with deep experience growing organizational capability and navigating organizational transformation.



He received his MBA from Otterbein University and BA from George Washington University. He regularly presents at industry and organizational events and has served on numerous Boards and Committees including Columbus Chamber: Member SBC, MEC, DIBE Committee, and International Coaching Federation: Member Nominating Committee for Global Board, Chair Nominating Committee CIO Board.



To learn more about Leverage HR, visit www.leveragehr.com.



Tune in today as Sapna and Bob sit down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss creating connected workplaces by developing leaders and crafting inclusive cultures.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 34:38 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-jim-merkel-rockbridge-investing-in-columbus-hospitality-experience/ Sat, 01 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=54871 Rockbridge co-founder and CEO James ’Jim’ Merkel has over two decades of experience building and leading successful hospitality, investment, and operating brands. Jim has always focused on creating great teams while providing a vision for how to grow, lead, and identify opportunities for success in what is an ever-evolving industry landscape. Under Jim’s steady hand, Rockbridge continues to evolve and grow. Rockbridge has raised eight hospitality-focused funds and executed over 290 hotel investments in 39 states with transactions totaling over $10 Billion. Through Jim’s vision, Rockbridge develops, designs, and builds award-winning, independent and branded hotels that have delighted guests and investors, alike, such as Emeline in Charleston, SC (Best New Hotel in the US), Noelle in Nashville, TN (Best Public Spaces, Best Bar), The Eliza Jane in New Orleans, LA (Best Hotel Conversion), and The Cliff House in Ogunquit, ME (Most Beautiful Hotel in the World). Jim also formed RBHD, a leading hotel development and construction management business. In 11 years, RBHD has performed $2.4 Billion in renovation and ground-up construction in over 60 hotels. Jim founded Rockbridge with his partners in 1999. He led the company through a 20-year anniversary celebration in 2019, creating the R20 brand which identifies four core themes called Rocks – Relevance, Relationships, Resilience and Responsibility – that drive Rockbridge’s success. The R20 brand symbolizes slowing down to move forward, being reflective, and planning for the future. RTRX raises awareness and funding for high-risk cancer research and benefits Pelotonia, a 2-day cycling event in Columbus, Ohio. Through RTRX, Rockbridge has raised over $6 Million in 11 years. Additionally, Jim is the top, individual fundraiser in the nation for Big Brothers, Big Sisters’ signature fundraiser, Bowl for Kids’ Sake. His leadership has driven Rockbridge to raise over $1.4 Million dollars for BBBS. Because of Jim’s dedication to the community, Rockbridge has been honored for four consecutive years as a top, community-focused company in Central Ohio. Over the past 23 years, Jim has held key leadership positions on multiple, industry boards, including the Marriott Hotels Advisory Board, AHLA Board of Directors, Hilton Hotels & Resorts Owner Advisory Council, Davidson Hotels & Resorts, Hospitality Ventures Management Group, Makeready, FHG Advisory Board, ILC Advisory Board, and the Lodging Industry Investment Council. In addition, Jim is a member of the Columbus Partnership. He was honored as the C-Suite Executive of the Year in Central Ohio in 2018 and as a Top CEO in 2021 and 2022. He has also been recognized as a Power 100 Executive in Columbus for the past 4 years and was inducted into the Junior Achievement Central Ohio Business Hall of Fame. In 2020 and 2021, Jim was honored as a Smart 50 Business Executive in Central Ohio. To learn more about the Rockbridge, visit www.rockbridgecapital.com. Tune in today as Jim Merkel sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about the hospitality industry in Columbus and bringing people together. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Rockbridge co-founder and CEO James ’Jim’ Merkel has over two decades of experience building and leading successful hospitality, investment, and operating brands. Jim has always focused on creating great teams while providing a vision for how to grow, Rockbridge co-founder and CEO James ’Jim’ Merkel has over two decades of experience building and leading successful hospitality, investment, and operating brands. Jim has always focused on creating great teams while providing a vision for how to grow, lead, and identify opportunities for success in what is an ever-evolving industry landscape.



Under Jim’s steady hand, Rockbridge continues to evolve and grow. Rockbridge has raised eight hospitality-focused funds and executed over 290 hotel investments in 39 states with transactions totaling over $10 Billion. Through Jim’s vision, Rockbridge develops, designs, and builds award-winning, independent and branded hotels that have delighted guests and investors, alike, such as Emeline in Charleston, SC (Best New Hotel in the US), Noelle in Nashville, TN (Best Public Spaces, Best Bar), The Eliza Jane in New Orleans, LA (Best Hotel Conversion), and The Cliff House in Ogunquit, ME (Most Beautiful Hotel in the World). Jim also formed RBHD, a leading hotel development and construction management business. In 11 years, RBHD has performed $2.4 Billion in renovation and ground-up construction in over 60 hotels.



Jim founded Rockbridge with his partners in 1999. He led the company through a 20-year anniversary celebration in 2019, creating the R20 brand which identifies four core themes called Rocks – Relevance, Relationships, Resilience and Responsibility – that drive Rockbridge’s success. The R20 brand symbolizes slowing down to move forward, being reflective, and planning for the future.



RTRX raises awareness and funding for high-risk cancer research and benefits Pelotonia, a 2-day cycling event in Columbus, Ohio. Through RTRX, Rockbridge has raised over $6 Million in 11 years. Additionally, Jim is the top, individual fundraiser in the nation for Big Brothers, Big Sisters’ signature fundraiser, Bowl for Kids’ Sake. His leadership has driven Rockbridge to raise over $1.4 Million dollars for BBBS. Because of Jim’s dedication to the community, Rockbridge has been honored for four consecutive years as a top, community-focused company in Central Ohio.



Over the past 23 years, Jim has held key leadership positions on multiple, industry boards, including the Marriott Hotels Advisory Board, AHLA Board of Directors, Hilton Hotels & Resorts Owner Advisory Council, Davidson Hotels & Resorts, Hospitality Ventures Management Group, Makeready, FHG Advisory Board, ILC Advisory Board, and the Lodging Industry Investment Council. In addition, Jim is a member of the Columbus Partnership. He was honored as the C-Suite Executive of the Year in Central Ohio in 2018 and as a Top CEO in 2021 and 2022. He has also been recognized as a Power 100 Executive in Columbus for the past 4 years and was inducted into the Junior Achievement Central Ohio Business Hall of Fame. In 2020 and 2021, Jim was honored as a Smart 50 Business Executive in Central Ohio.



To learn more about the Rockbridge, visit www.rockbridgecapital.com.



Tune in today as Jim Merkel sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about the hospitality industry in Columbus and bringing people together.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mika...]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 33:05 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-amy-taylor-cddc/ Thu, 25 May 2023 18:26:41 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=54206 Every day, Amy Taylor puts passion into practice as the President for the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation and Capitol South, where she has led the creation of city-changing projects in Downtown Columbus for more than 15 years, including Scioto Mile, Columbus Commons, the Scioto Greenways and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. These developments have created green space and cultural attractions that revitalized the heart of Ohio’s capital city, catalyzing more than $400 million in private investments.  Recently, Amy led the 2022-2032 Downtown Strategic Plan process, which generated a roadmap for the next 10 years of Downtown development. She also serves as project executive for The Peninsula mixed-use development, leading efforts of the public and private sectors to redevelopment this key area of downtown.  Councilmember Nick Bankston is a dedicated public servant and thought leader on issues facing Columbus neighborhoods. He currently serves as President & CEO of Gladden Community House. At City Council, Councilmember Bankston chairs the Small & Minority Business, Technology and Economic Development committees. A proud graduate of East High School and The Ohio State University and a lifelong resident of Columbus, Councilmember Bankston is a champion for the people of Columbus and determined to make an impact in his community. He has dedicated his career to public service – previously serving as the Project Manager of Neighborhood Transformation Strategies for the City of Columbus. In that role, Councilmember Bankston oversaw the City’s neighborhood revitalization planning and implementation efforts for Mayor Ginther’s priority neighborhoods, Linden and the Hilltop. This was a nearly $1 million project that created long-term, strategic and holistic community plans for the revitalization and redevelopment of these two neighborhoods focusing on both people and place, which has resulted in over $100 million in public and private investment. To learn more about the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation, visit www.columbusddc.com. Tune in today as Amy Taylor and Councilmember Nick Bankston sit down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about downtown Columbus development and the future of the City of Columbus. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Every day, Amy Taylor puts passion into practice as the President for the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation and Capitol South, where she has led the creation of city-changing projects in Downtown Columbus for more than 15 years, Every day, Amy Taylor puts passion into practice as the President for the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation and Capitol South, where she has led the creation of city-changing projects in Downtown Columbus for more than 15 years, including Scioto Mile, Columbus Commons, the Scioto Greenways and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. These developments have created green space and cultural attractions that revitalized the heart of Ohio’s capital city, catalyzing more than $400 million in private investments. 



Recently, Amy led the 2022-2032 Downtown Strategic Plan process, which generated a roadmap for the next 10 years of Downtown development. She also serves as project executive for The Peninsula mixed-use development, leading efforts of the public and private sectors to redevelopment this key area of downtown. 



Councilmember Nick Bankston is a dedicated public servant and thought leader on issues facing Columbus neighborhoods. He currently serves as President & CEO of Gladden Community House. At City Council, Councilmember Bankston chairs the Small & Minority Business, Technology and Economic Development committees. A proud graduate of East High School and The Ohio State University and a lifelong resident of Columbus, Councilmember Bankston is a champion for the people of Columbus and determined to make an impact in his community.



He has dedicated his career to public service – previously serving as the Project Manager of Neighborhood Transformation Strategies for the City of Columbus. In that role, Councilmember Bankston oversaw the City’s neighborhood revitalization planning and implementation efforts for Mayor Ginther’s priority neighborhoods, Linden and the Hilltop. This was a nearly $1 million project that created long-term, strategic and holistic community plans for the revitalization and redevelopment of these two neighborhoods focusing on both people and place, which has resulted in over $100 million in public and private investment.



To learn more about the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation, visit www.columbusddc.com.



Tune in today as Amy Taylor and Councilmember Nick Bankston sit down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about downtown Columbus development and the future of the City of Columbus.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 32:05 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-tonya-kelly-med-empower-our-youth-foundation-advocating-for-our-youth/ Mon, 01 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=53806 Tonya Kelly, MEd, is the CEO/Founder of the 501c3 non-profit organization called Empower Our Youth Foundation. Tonya, by career, is a fourth-grade elementary teacher in Columbus, Ohio. The organization began in 2017 when her second daughter experienced being bullied till she had thoughts of suicide. With both of her daughters being bullied, and in 2019 her granddaughter was bullied, I witnessed firsthand the negative impacts, the family emotions, and experiences that damage a child’s self-esteem and quality of life. Over the past three years, Tonya has shared her testimony and served as an Anti-Bullying advocate and Community resources advocate assisting families in officially reporting any forms of bullying to the appropriate authorities and mentoring students. Tonya is a community activist for bullying prevention resources and services with her Empower Our Youth Foundation organization, which is working to bring attention to the problem of all forms of bullying happening in our schools and communities. Tonya is available for educational speaking engagements. To learn more about Empower Our Youth Foundation, visit https://empowerouryouthfoundation.org/. Tune in today as Tonya sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about providing resources for youth and the importance of advocating for yourself. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Tonya Kelly, MEd, is the CEO/Founder of the 501c3 non-profit organization called Empower Our Youth Foundation. Tonya, by career, is a fourth-grade elementary teacher in Columbus, Ohio. The organization began in 2017 when her second daughter experienced... Tonya Kelly, MEd, is the CEO/Founder of the 501c3 non-profit organization called Empower Our Youth Foundation. Tonya, by career, is a fourth-grade elementary teacher in Columbus, Ohio. The organization began in 2017 when her second daughter experienced being bullied till she had thoughts of suicide. With both of her daughters being bullied, and in 2019 her granddaughter was bullied, I witnessed firsthand the negative impacts, the family emotions, and experiences that damage a child’s self-esteem and quality of life. Over the past three years, Tonya has shared her testimony and served as an Anti-Bullying advocate and Community resources advocate assisting families in officially reporting any forms of bullying to the appropriate authorities and mentoring students. Tonya is a community activist for bullying prevention resources and services with her Empower Our Youth Foundation organization, which is working to bring attention to the problem of all forms of bullying happening in our schools and communities. Tonya is available for educational speaking engagements.



To learn more about Empower Our Youth Foundation, visit https://empowerouryouthfoundation.org/.



Tune in today as Tonya sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about providing resources for youth and the importance of advocating for yourself.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 29:22 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-andrew-kingery-the-white-stone-consulting-group-leadership-in-the-workplace/ Sat, 01 Apr 2023 09:42:08 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=53187 Andrew is skilled at hardwiring organizations to excel at value creation using the Laws of Value Creation - built from a decade of his own research and the latest in science. Prior to founding The White Stone Consulting Group in 2017, Andrew led the US Shopper & Customer Marketing team at a global skin care company. He began his career at a Big 4 accounting firm and later held a variety of leadership roles in CPG where he helped turnaround category leading brands for a private equity firm. Andrew holds a BSBA from The Ohio State University in Accounting and Management Information Systems. He is a certified Lumina Learning practitioner qualified for Lumina Spark and is a former Ohio State CPA. Andrew is known as a trusted advisor with keen insight into complex issues. When facilitating and coaching, he is adept at creating a positive environment and shaping new beliefs for greater effectiveness. His Value Practitioner approach is a behavior based way to ensure clients are intentional and effective about creating value. To learn more about The White Stone Consulting Group, visit wscg.consulting. Tune in today as Andrew Kingery sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about creating value within your workplace and how to be a leader. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Andrew is skilled at hardwiring organizations to excel at value creation using the Laws of Value Creation - built from a decade of his own research and the latest in science. Prior to founding The White Stone Consulting Group in 2017, Andrew is skilled at hardwiring organizations to excel at value creation using the Laws of Value Creation - built from a decade of his own research and the latest in science. Prior to founding The White Stone Consulting Group in 2017, Andrew led the US Shopper & Customer Marketing team at a global skin care company. He began his career at a Big 4 accounting firm and later held a variety of leadership roles in CPG where he helped turnaround category leading brands for a private equity firm. Andrew holds a BSBA from The Ohio State University in Accounting and Management Information Systems. He is a certified Lumina Learning practitioner qualified for Lumina Spark and is a former Ohio State CPA. Andrew is known as a trusted advisor with keen insight into complex issues. When facilitating and coaching, he is adept at creating a positive environment and shaping new beliefs for greater effectiveness. His Value Practitioner approach is a behavior based way to ensure clients are intentional and effective about creating value.



To learn more about The White Stone Consulting Group, visit wscg.consulting.



Tune in today as Andrew Kingery sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about creating value within your workplace and how to be a leader.







A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 30:55 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-robyn-pollina-palmer-donavin-discovering-your-leadership-style/ Tue, 21 Feb 2023 18:39:42 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=52588 Robyn Pollina is the CEO of Palmer-Donavin Manufacturing Company.  Palmer-Donavin, a wholesale distributor of building materials and residential entry doors, is headquartered in Grove City, Ohio, and has locations throughout the Midwest.  Palmer-Donavin became a 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) company in March of 2007, the same year the company celebrated its 100th year in business.  Robyn has been with the company since 1995.  After graduating from Ohio State University in 1993, she started her accounting career at Coopers & Lybrand as an auditor.  She then served two years as Palmer-Donavin’s controller, then 23 years as CFO, and was appointed CEO on August 1, 2020. To learn more about Palmer-Donavin, visit www.palmerdonavin.com. Tune in today as Robyn Pollina sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about employee-owned companies and growth culture within your leadership team. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Robyn Pollina is the CEO of Palmer-Donavin Manufacturing Company.  Palmer-Donavin, a wholesale distributor of building materials and residential entry doors, is headquartered in Grove City, Ohio, and has locations throughout the Midwest. Robyn Pollina is the CEO of Palmer-Donavin Manufacturing Company.  Palmer-Donavin, a wholesale distributor of building materials and residential entry doors, is headquartered in Grove City, Ohio, and has locations throughout the Midwest.  Palmer-Donavin became a 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) company in March of 2007, the same year the company celebrated its 100th year in business.  Robyn has been with the company since 1995.  After graduating from Ohio State University in 1993, she started her accounting career at Coopers & Lybrand as an auditor.  She then served two years as Palmer-Donavin’s controller, then 23 years as CFO, and was appointed CEO on August 1, 2020.



To learn more about Palmer-Donavin, visit www.palmerdonavin.com.



Tune in today as Robyn Pollina sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about employee-owned companies and growth culture within your leadership team.















A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
]]> Columbus Chamber of Commerce full false 28:35 https://columbus.org/podcasts/cbuzz-jennifer-griffith-first-merchants-bank-paying-it-forward-in-the-banking-industry/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:22:35 +0000 https://columbus.org/?post_type=cbus_podcasts&p=51963 Jennifer Griffith is the Regional President of First Merchants Bank’s Ohio Region and has been serving the Central Ohio banking community for over twenty years. She is a graduate of The Ohio State University, with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. Jennifer has been dedicated to the growth of First Merchants since 1996 when it was then known as Commerce National Bank. She began her career in the commercial credit department, led the commercial sales team, and accepted her current role in 2008. Jennifer demonstrates her advocacy by aligning with the mission of the Ohio Bankers League and has served on its board of directors. She, along with the Ohio team, actively engage with local leaders, including The Conway Family Business Center, of which she is a board member, the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Entrepreneurs’ Organization, and The Salvation Army of Central Ohio. Under Jennifer’s leadership, First Merchants has consistently been recognized as one of the Best Employers in Ohio. Her commitment to providing an exceptional work environment is the foundation of building a local team that excels in our marketplace. Tune in today as Jennifer sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about helping find solutions for businesses and the community and how commercial banking is taking the lead. A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here. Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. Jennifer Griffith is the Regional President of First Merchants Bank’s Ohio Region and has been serving the Central Ohio banking community for over twenty years. She is a graduate of The Ohio State University, with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. Jennifer Griffith is the Regional President of First Merchants Bank’s Ohio Region and has been serving the Central Ohio banking community for over twenty years. She is a graduate of The Ohio State University, with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. Jennifer has been dedicated to the growth of First Merchants since 1996 when it was then known as Commerce National Bank. She began her career in the commercial credit department, led the commercial sales team, and accepted her current role in 2008. Jennifer demonstrates her advocacy by aligning with the mission of the Ohio Bankers League and has served on its board of directors. She, along with the Ohio team, actively engage with local leaders, including The Conway Family Business Center, of which she is a board member, the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Entrepreneurs’ Organization, and The Salvation Army of Central Ohio. Under Jennifer’s leadership, First Merchants has consistently been recognized as one of the Best Employers in Ohio. Her commitment to providing an exceptional work environment is the foundation of building a local team that excels in our marketplace.



Tune in today as Jennifer sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to talk about helping find solutions for businesses and the community and how commercial banking is taking the lead.















A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.



Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
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