Ashland Connected

Hosted by Amy Daubenspeck

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Oct 2026

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Ashland Connected with Amy Daubenspeck is a podcast that shares information about Ashland business owners, the impact they make in our town, and ways they connect with others to make it happen together. This podcast, brought to you by the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce and Bill Harris Dealerships aims to shine a light on all that is, and all that can be when it comes to doing business in Ashland Ohio.

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October 11, 202620 min

Ashland's Economic Development: A Conversation with Cameo Carey

Ashland is changing. New housing is going up. Long-vacant buildings are coming back to life. Businesses are investing. But most of us only see the finished project — not the years of planning, grant writing, cleanup, conversations and coordination that had to happen first. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce sits down with Cameo Carey, Director of Grow Ashland , for a look behind the scenes at economic development in Ashland County. Cameo explains the role Grow Ashland plays and how public and private partnerships help turn opportunities into actual projects. Cameo also shares why developers are paying attention to Ashland, why some economic-development projects have to remain confidential for months or even years, and how new housing and redevelopment are changing the community. Takeaways — Economic development happens long before the ribbon cutting. Major projects can take years of planning, funding, remediation and coordination before the public sees the results. — Grant funding is helping Ashland reclaim properties that have sat vacant or abandoned. Demolition and brownfield grants have supported projects including the Pump House District, Frontier Building and several other properties. — Developers are paying attention to Ashland. Affordability, quality of life and the community’s growth are helping attract outside investment. — The Pump House District shows how dramatically redevelopment can change an area. Apartments, a hotel and other projects are transforming a block that once contained vacant and deteriorating property. — The Frontier Building is moving toward a new life. Plans include a restaurant downstairs and apartments upstairs in one of downtown Ashland’s longest-vacant buildings. — Workforce development starts before someone begins looking for a job. Programs like Manufacturing Day and Destination Career expose students to modern workplaces and career paths while they’re still in school. — Supporting existing and startup businesses is part of the equation, too. Tax-abatement programs and the Erie Basin revolving loan fund are among the tools helping businesses invest and grow in the area. Helpful Links: Cameo Carey, Director, Grow Ashland: https://www.growashland.com Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

September 13, 202624 min

Why Mental Health Matters: A Conversation with David Ross

Mental health touches every part of a community, but many people may not realize how much work is happening locally to make sure help is available when it’s needed. From counseling and crisis services to prevention programs in schools, peer support and community education, Ashland County has built a network designed to support people at every stage of life. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with David Ross, Executive Director of the Ashland County Mental Health and Recovery Board . David explains the role of the board, how local, state and federal funding supports mental health and substance use services, and how organizations including Appleseed Community Mental Health Center, Catholic Charities and ACCADA work together to meet needs throughout Ashland County. Mental health is ultimately a community issue, and strong communities are built when people know where to turn and know they don’t have to navigate challenges alone. Listen to this episode of Ashland Connected to learn more about the resources available throughout Ashland County and the organizations and people working to keep the community connected. Takeaways — Connection is prevention. Strong friendships and community relationships can contribute to mental health and resilience. — Local funding creates flexibility. Levy dollars allow programs to be designed around specific needs within Ashland County. — Mental health support is accessible. Local agencies provide options for people regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay. — Community partnerships expand the safety net. Appleseed, Catholic Charities and ACCADA provide different but complementary services. — Prevention begins early. School programs help young people develop relationships, decision-making skills and healthy ways to respond to pressure. — Lived experience has value. Peer support allows people further along in recovery to help others who are still navigating that journey. — Mental health extends beyond treatment. Education, awareness, relationships and community-building are important parts of creating a healthier Ashland County. Helpful Links: David Ross, CEO, Ashland County Mental Health and Recovery Board: https://www.ashlandmhrb.org/ Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

August 9, 202619 min

People Helping People for 75 Years in Ashland: A Conversation with Christian Dabney

Seventy-five years is a remarkable milestone for any organization. It represents decades of relationships, trust, and a commitment to serving the people of a community. As your Ashland Community Federal Credit Union celebrates this anniversary, it's also celebrating the members, employees, and neighbors who have been part of that story every step of the way. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Ashland Community Federal Credit Union CEO Christian Dabney to celebrate the credit union's 75th anniversary. Christian reflects on his first year leading the organization, explains what makes credit unions different from traditional banks, and shares why member ownership has allowed the credit union to remain a trusted part of the Ashland community for generations. Takeaways — Credit union members are owners, giving them a voice in the organization's future. — Ashland Community Federal Credit Union has served the Ashland community continuously for 75 years. — Local decision-making allows the credit union to focus on people, not just credit scores. — Profits are returned to members through better loan and savings rates. — Supporting local nonprofits is a core part of the credit union's mission. — Personal relationships and member service remain the credit union's greatest strength. — The 75th Anniversary celebration honors a rich history while looking confidently toward the future. Helpful Links: Christian Dabney, CEO, Ashalnd Community Federal Credit Union: https://ashlandfcu.org Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ ------- The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

July 12, 202629 min

The Oldest General Store in Ohio: A Conversation with Tia Sponsler about the Olivesburg General Store

The oldest general store in Ohio is found right here in Ashland County, and has been serving its community for 186 years. It's more than a place to grab lunch or pick up a few groceries. It's a place where history, hospitality, creativity, and genuine human connection come together in a way that's becoming increasingly rare. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Tia Sponsler, owner of the Olivesburg General Store , to discuss the remarkable journey that led her to purchase and operate one of Ohio's most historic businesses. Tia shares incredible stories from the building's nearly two centuries of history—including how it once earned the right to sell dynamite—and reflects on the unexpected moments that continually reinforced her vision for the business. Whether you're passionate about local history, love discovering hidden gems, or simply enjoy hearing stories about people making a difference in their communities, this episode offers a refreshing reminder that businesses can become something much greater than a place to shop. Sometimes they become the heart of a community. Takeaways — Sometimes the biggest opportunities begin with a willingness to follow a conviction that doesn't make sense to everyone else. — A business can preserve its history while continuing to evolve, creating new traditions without losing its identity. — People remember places where they feel genuinely welcomed long after they forget what they purchased. — Small, intentional acts of kindness often become the stories customers tell for years. — At Olivesburg General Store, success isn't measured by revenue; it is measured by the strength of the community built around a business. — Faith doesn't stay behind the scenes in Tia's life. Faith shapes the way she leads, serves customers, and makes decisions. — In an increasingly disconnected world, people are hungry for authentic relationships and places where they feel like they belong. Helpful Links: Tia Sponsler, Olivesburg General Store: https://www.facebook.com/LikeOGS Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

June 7, 202622 min

Keeping Ashland County Safe: A Conversation with Joe Baumgard

Ashland is an amazing and wonderful place to do business. Together, we make each other better. The best business owners know they can't be experts at everything, and we don't try to be. Instead, we surround ourselves with trusted people who can help us navigate challenges, solve problems, and focus on what they do best. In this case, to be more safe. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Joe Baumgard of Schmidt Security Pro to talk about the value of relationships, community involvement, and helping local businesses succeed. Joe explains how Schmidt Security Pro works alongside organizations throughout Ashland and the surrounding region to help businesses protect what they've built. More importantly, he talks about understanding each organization's unique challenges, listening first, and bringing expertise to the table so business owners can focus on running and growing their companies. Takeaways — Security systems are only valuable if they function properly when they're needed most. — Modern security solutions increasingly integrate cameras, alarms, access control, and fire protection into a single platform. — Fast response times and reliable monitoring are critical components of effective security. — Small and medium-sized businesses make up a significant portion of Schmidt Security Pro's client base. — Trust and long-term relationships remain essential factors when businesses choose security providers. — Local ownership and community involvement continue to differentiate Schmidt Security Pro after 50 years in business. — Temporary mobile security systems can help protect construction sites, events, and other short-term projects. — Strong chamber and business community partnerships create opportunities that benefit everyone involved. Helpful Links: Joe Baumgard, Schmidt Security Pro: https://schmidtsecurity.com/ Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

May 10, 202624 min

Keeping Ashland County Healthy: A Conversation with Vickie Taylor

Good health doesn’t just happen inside a doctor’s office. It’s built through education, prevention, community support, and the people working behind the scenes to help families stay safe, informed, and connected. Most people never see how much coordination and care go into public health until they need it themselves. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Vickie Taylor, Health Commissioner for the Ashland County Health Department, for a conversation about the many ways public health impacts the Ashland County community every single day. This episode highlights the important role of the Ashland County Health Department and spotlights the broader impact community partnerships can have when agencies, nonprofits, healthcare providers, and local leaders are connected and pulling in the same direction for the good of the people they serve. Takeaways — Public health focuses heavily on prevention, education, and early intervention — Chronic disease, youth vaping, and senior isolation remain major concerns in Ashland County — TheAshland County Heath Department handles far more than most people realize, including inspections, preparedness, screenings, and community outreach — Community partnerships are essential for solving long-term health and social challenges — Programs helping seniors improve balance and mobility are also helping reduce isolation and loneliness — Access to healthy food, insurance, and preventative care continues to affect many local families — The Ashland County Health Department recently achieved national accreditation as part of Ohio’s statewide public health success — Many residents may not realize the department also offers services like birth certificates, lead testing kits, and car seat installation assistance Helpful Links: Vickie Taylor, Health Commissioner, Ashland County Health Department: https://www.health-ashlandcounty-oh.gov/ Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

April 12, 202617 min

Improving Employment Options for Ohio’s Graduates: A Conversation with Tara Haley

Life happens whether kids are ready for it or not. For as many kids as there are, there are that many stories, and some of them are hard. When it's time to start life outside of school, many need someone who is willing to walk alongside them long enough to make a difference. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Tara Haley, Job Development and Business Engagement Specialist, with Jobs for Ohio Graduates (JOG) in Ashland County. They talk about the program, the impact, and the changes they've seen happen, even in a short time here in Ashland County. From helping young adults transition out of foster care to supporting students with job readiness, financial literacy, and even basic needs like food and safety, the program works on a deeply human level. With the support of our local community, JOG is building trust, creating stability, and helping students believe in what’s possible for their future. Takeaways – Support begins after graduation when it’s needed most – Many students face barriers that go far beyond academics – Consistent follow-up creates accountability and trust – Programs like JOG focus on both life skills and career readiness – Community partnerships are essential to student success – Real progress happens when students feel seen and supported – Exposure to opportunities builds confidence and direction – Even one interview can be a meaningful step forward – Small numbers can still create significant impact – Long-term investment in people changes trajectories Helpful Links: Tara Haley, Job Development and Business Engagement Specialist, Jobs for Ohio Graduates: https://jogworks.org/ Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

March 8, 202631 min

The Struggles and Joys of Scaling a Business: A Conversation with Jeremy Harrison

Starting a business often begins with a simple idea, but the journey that follows rarely unfolds the way anyone expects. The twists and turns are equal parts unexpected, personal, and wonderful, each in their own way, at their own time. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce has a conversation with Jeremy Harrison, founder and CEO of One Table Strategy , to talk about the real story behind building and growing a marketing agency over nearly two decades. They talk about the real-world challenges organizations face, like overcoming economic hardships, growing through change, dealing with personal hurdles while running a business, and why great businesses are built by surrounding yourself with people whose strengths complement your own. Takeaways – Jeremy Harrison started his marketing agency in a spare bedroom in 2006. – The Great Recession forced the business to adapt and rethink its strategy. – Teaching and helping other businesses became a key part of the company’s growth. – The company rebranded from Spire to One Table Strategy to reflect a strategy-first approach. – Strong teams and shared values helped the company through difficult seasons. – AI is changing marketing, but strategy and relationships still matter most. – Entrepreneurs grow faster when they delegate work others can do better. Helpful Links: Jeremy Harrison, Founder, One Table Strategy: https://www.onetablestrategy.com/ Amy Daubenspeck, President, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce: https://ashlandoh.com/ The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

February 8, 202626 min

Connecting Through Communication and Community: A Conversation with Micah Elliot

Every day, businesses and organizations put information out into the world—updates, promotions, reminders—only to wonder later if anyone truly noticed. The challenge isn’t having something to say. It’s breaking through the noise long enough for people to hear it, understand it, and act on it. On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Micah Elliott, Communication Strategist with DRM Productions and Retriever Digital Signage, to explore what effective communication really looks like today. Micah brings a unique perspective shaped by decades in design, branding, and community-building, along with a fresh Midwest lens after relocating from Phoenix to north-central Ohio. Their conversation moves beyond technology for technology’s sake and into the real-world challenges organizations face, like missed messages, overlooked benefits, disengaged audiences, and the growing difficulty of relying solely on newsletters and social media. Micah explains how digital signage can become a living, real-time communication tool, helping businesses, chambers, banks, and community spaces take control of their message and meet people where their attention already is. Takeaways -Most communication fails because it’s never seen -Attention is already on screens and so owning the message changes everything -Clear, consistent visuals reduce confusion for customers and staff -Real-time updates eliminate outdated messaging and manual workarounds -Good communication strengthens trust and community connection -Tools matter, but clarity and intention matter more -When messages are visible, people engage differently -Technology should simplify communication. The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

January 11, 202621 min

Serving With Excellence: A Conversation with Josh Bull

Serving with excellence isn’t about big gestures or flashy promises. It’s about showing up consistently, caring about people, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching. When businesses treat customers like neighbors and employees like family, trust is built naturally, and the results tend to follow. That's how Ashland works! Welcome to the first episode of Season 4 of the Ashland Connected podcast! In this episode, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Josh Bull, General Manager of Bill Harris Ford in Loudonville leadership, culture, and what it really means to serve customers and communities well. From supporting local schools and small businesses to expanding employment opportunities in Loudonville, this discussion highlights how businesses can grow without losing their soul. The conversation explores how a faith-based culture shapes hiring, customer experience, and long-term vision for serving the Ashland area with excellence. This episode reinforces a simple theme of conducting business on purpose for good: when you put people first, you help them move forward with connection, confidence and clarity. Takeaways -Excellence is built through consistency or service and meeting expectations. -Culture matters more than credentials when building strong teams -Treating customers like neighbors creates long-term trust -Transparency removes fear from the car-buying and service experience -Community impact includes donations, but also time and presence -Creativity and fun make businesses more approachable and human -Strong Christian values help guide decisions during growth and change -When employees feel cared for, customers feel it too The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network