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Ashland Connected

Ashland Connected

Hosted by Amy Daubenspeck

BusinessSocietyCultureNewsInterviews guests
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Episodes

44

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN

About the show

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.

Listen to episodes

44 recent
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.orgAmy 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/LikeOGSAmy 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 assistanceHelpful 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 trajectoriesHelpful 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 tooThe Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

December 7, 202530 min

Fortifying Financial Foundations: A Conversation with Jay Dodaro

Doing the right thing for others doesn’t need to be complicated. It starts with showing up, offering help, and caring enough to make decisions that put people first. When service becomes the foundation, everything else seems to fall into place a little more naturally.In this final episode of Season 3 of the Ashland Connected podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Jay Dodaro, President of Star Strategies, about what it looks like to build a business and a financial practice around that simple principle. Jay explains the “fiscal house” framework, how couples can navigate different comfort levels with risk, and why educating clients matters more than selling to them. He also speaks to the way Star Strategies is establishing a stronger presence in Ashland. 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– Putting people first creates stronger relationships and better outcomes– Clear, simple financial guidance helps clients feel confident in their decisions– The “fiscal house” model offers an easy way to understand long-term planning– Couples often have different risk tolerances, and good planning respects both– Company culture grounded in service and empathy makes a meaningful difference– Star Strategies is expanding into Ashland with a focus on long-term community connection– Giving back is a core part of the team’s identity and values– There’s no minimum requirement—everyone deserves accessible guidance– Education builds trust far more effectively than sales pressure– Meeting people where they are makes financial planning more personal and approachableThe Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

November 9, 202544 min

A Vietnam Veteran's Story: A Conversation with Greg Gorrell

Some stories wait a lifetime to be told. The Vietnam War may have ended fifty years ago, but for many who lived through it, including Ashland's own Greg Gorrell, the echoes never stopped. It takes rare courage to turn those echoes into words, to revisit the pain, and to offer hope through the telling. That's exactly what Greg has done. In this special Veterans Day episode of the Ashland Connected podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce sits down with Vietnam veteran and author Greg Gorrell to share his remarkable journey. Greg served in the Mekong Delta in 1967 and recently released his book, Vietnam Survival: There and Home, a deeply personal account of faith, loss, and redemption. Together, they explore his experiences in combat, the struggles of returning home to an unwelcoming nation, and the powerful impact his story is having on veterans and families across Ohio.Greg’s reflections carry the weight of history, memories of search-and-destroy missions, sleepless nights under monsoon rains, and the heartbreak of losing brothers in arms. Yet what stands out most is his compassion for others: the widows who never heard their husbands’ stories, the families who found closure through his book, and the students who may now learn from his firsthand lessons. He speaks not only for himself but for the millions who served, suffered, and still search for peace.As Greg now tells audiences everywhere, “welcome home” are the words Vietnam veterans waited decades to hear. His courage to speak helps others find the strength to do the same, and ensures that the lessons of sacrifice, faith, and healing will never be forgotten.Takeaways-True courage often begins when the silence ends.-Vietnam’s daily reality was fear, uncertainty, and survival in the Mekong Delta.-Coming home to protest instead of gratitude left invisible scars.-Many veterans stayed silent for decades, carrying their memories alone.-Greg's book has inspired families to open old letters and talk about the past.-Each story shared helps preserve history and bring healing.-Speaking to students connects a generation that never knew the war to those who lived it.-“Welcome home” remains the most powerful phrase a Vietnam veteran can hear.-Healing happens when stories are told before it’s too late.Helpful Links: Order Books by mail at Greg Gorrell, 1531 Arrow Drive, Ashland, Ohio, 44805. Call 419-651-9953 to order by phoneBuy on Amazon: https://a.co/d/d2NDh5QThe Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network

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