Chamber Vibes

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett sits down with Al and Jennifer from the Bedford Domestic Violence Coalition. They chat about how the coalition supports survivors through things like transportation, medical costs, and shelter projects. Al, who’s been with the coalition for ten years, shares insight into their mission and how they secure funding. Jennifer, the treasurer, talks about the importance of community involvement and keeping finances transparent. Foster also touches on the Chamber of Commerce’s role in supporting local initiatives and upcoming events. Tune in to hear about the coalition’s partnerships, fundraising efforts, and their year-round work to raise awareness about domestic violence.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, chats with Tara from Center in the Square, a nonprofit in Roanoke, VA. They talk about how the chamber supports local businesses and dive into exciting upcoming events like the spring job fair. Tara shares how she got involved with Center in the Square, the impact it has on the community, and fun initiatives like the Miniatures on the Market event and the Illuminates winter light show. It’s a great conversation about community, collaboration, and keeping downtown Roanoke vibrant—don’t miss it!

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, introduces the podcast's mission and upcoming events. She then interviews Brooke, Senior Program Manager at the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Brooke discusses her background, the association's programs, and resources for Alzheimer's disease. She highlights the importance of community involvement, recent advancements in research, and legislative efforts.

On this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett—Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce—is joined by the team from Croft Insurance Services. Joining her are owner Sue Melody, President Melody Kee, and team member Anne. They dive into the details of the new Medical Savings Account (MSA) and why it’s a game-changer. With no network restrictions, tax benefits, and the ability to roll over unused funds, this flexible option puts more control in the hands of clients when it comes to managing healthcare costs. Tune in to learn more!

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, discusses the Chamber's mission and upcoming events. Guest Tony Martin from the Bedford Urban Garden (BUG) shares his background as a farmer and teacher, and details BUG's community gardening efforts. The conversation highlights BUG's initiatives to address food insecurity, provide educational programs, and foster community involvement. Tony emphasizes the importance of gardening for community building and discusses future plans for BUG, including expansion and ongoing support needs. 

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, director of marketing and events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, speaks with Erica McFadden, manager of the Bedford Farmers Market. They discuss the market's history, its role in promoting local agriculture, and community involvement. Erica shares her background as a former school teacher and yarn shop owner, emphasizing the market's welcoming environment and diverse vendor offerings. They highlight upcoming events, including children's programming and holiday markets, and encourage community participation. 

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, introduces guest Josh Daniel, founder of Counterculture Solutions. Josh, with nearly 21 years of Army service, shares his journey and the mission of his business, which focuses on personal development and safety training. The discussion covers the importance of school security assessments, maintaining a welcoming yet secure environment, and the evolving landscape of Bedford.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, Host Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, introduces upcoming events aimed at supporting local businesses. Mary Jo from the Bedford Area Family YMCA highlights various programs, including childcare, youth sports, and new initiatives like a teaching garden and pickleball. 

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes podcast, host Foster Garrett chats about upcoming chamber events and sits down with reps from Member One Federal Credit Union. Jessica Clarkson talks about her work in business development and how credit union membership can make a difference, especially after their recent merger with Virginia Credit Union. Alex Lucas shares his journey from education to finance and dives into why financial literacy matters, highlighting Member One's educational programs. They also break down the differences between credit unions and banks, touch on the importance of financial education, and share how Member One supports the community.

In this episode of the Chamber Vibes Podcast, Foster Garrett, Director of Marketing and Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, chats about exciting upcoming events and local business happenings in Bedford, Virginia. Tina Anderson from Spring Oak Senior Living shares plans for their holiday events, including a special lighting ceremony. Leah Jones also joins the conversation to talk about her family's businesses, Kubota of Lynchburg and Confident Equipment in Montvale, and their efforts to give back, like the "Fill a Tractor, Feed the Community" food drive. It’s all about supporting local businesses and spreading community spirit!