Talk Local To Me

Tea Time: Brown's Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical

Matt Litchford of Brown's Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical shares the story behind the company's growth over the past 20 years. He discusses how founder Brandon Brown built the business from the ground up with a small loan, as well as his own 25-year career in the electrical trade and what led him to join the Brown's team.Matt also talks about the expansion of the company's services to include electrical work, the challenges of building customer awareness, and the importance of hiring trustworthy employees. He emphasizes the value of following industry codes and standards, as well as the role community support and the CVABC have played in helping Brown's grow into a trusted local business.

Sweet Indulgence Bakery, T4Tactics, Paul Davis Restoration, Coleman Custom Creations

Kennedy's Miracle Carriage and The Blue Lady

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike welcome several local business owners who are making a positive impact throughout the Bedford community.First, Kelly and Pam from Kennedy's Miracle Carriage discuss their non-emergency medical transportation service, which serves a 100-mile radius with certified drivers and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They also share their vision for a future nonprofit that will help provide transportation for individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford it.The conversation continues with Jai from The Blue Lady, who announces the restaurant's upcoming relocation and rebranding as Electric Blue Eatery. He also highlights his other ventures, including a chocolate shop and Queen Bees, a boutique specializing in wigs and plus-size clothing.This episode shines a spotlight on entrepreneurship, community service, and the innovative ways local businesses are meeting the needs of Central Virginia residents.

Tea Time: Mountain Laurel Learning

Rebecca Mason, founder of Mountain Laurel Learning, shares her journey from corporate food service and café operations to becoming a solopreneur. Today, she offers food safety certifications and leadership development for businesses.She discusses the challenges of switching industries, her passion for supporting local entrepreneurs, and why Central Virginia feels like home. Rebecca also shares a key insight: entrepreneurs are finite resources and must protect their time, energy, and well-being to sustain their businesses long-term.

Shineforth

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike discuss ways to support small businesses during the summer slowdown, offering practical tips like shopping locally, dining out, and buying gift cards. They also welcome guests Melissa and Benny from Shineforth, a local foster care organization, who share insights on fostering, debunk common misconceptions, and highlight the urgent need for foster parents particularly for teenagers. Benny shares his personal fostering journey, while Melissa outlines the support Shineforth provides. Listeners are encouraged to get involved through fostering, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness.

Gleaning For The World and Eight O One Raw Bar

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike highlight upcoming CVABC events, including a special Coffee Talk at Campbell County Rescue Squad, before welcoming two guests making a difference in Central Virginia.James from Gleaning For The World shares details about the nonprofit’s disaster relief efforts, the Teddy Bear Brigade, pet food assistance program, and the upcoming Duck Pluck fundraiser happening June 6th. His conversation shines a light on the organization’s ongoing mission to serve communities in need both locally and beyond.The hosts also sit down with Thomas, owner of 801 on Rivermont, a seafood-focused restaurant known for its fresh menu, live entertainment, and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.This episode is all about community involvement, giving back, and supporting the local businesses and organizations that help Central Virginia thrive.

Tea Time: Love Heals

Courtney and Sarah from Love Heals, a nonprofit dedicated to freeing people from medical bondage, one concert at a time, share their story and mission. Courtney explains how the organization began in 2018 with a benefit concert for a friend battling breast cancer and has since grown into a movement focused on treating people as human beings, not causes.Sarah shares her journey from a volunteer to a dedicated team member. Together, they discuss the challenges of operating in a traditional community like Lynchburg, their monthly Love Heals Live concerts, and their matching donation campaign. They also encourage supporters to become a Heartbeat member at weareloveheals.org.

Love Heals

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike celebrate National Small Business Week by encouraging year-round support for local businesses. They recap a successful putt-putt tournament and the new Altavista Town Market. Guests Courtney and Sarah from Love Heals, a nonprofit eliminating medical debt through community concerts and storytelling events, share their mission. They highlight their "Heartbeat Members" program, offering matched donations in May. The episode blends community updates, small business advocacy, and heartfelt conversation about supporting neighbors facing medical hardships, all wrapped in lighthearted humor and creative fundraising ideas.

Tea Time: Joe the Home Pro

Mike with Joe the Home Pro shares how building a home with his father at age 15 shaped his expertise in construction and home inspections. After being laid off in 2023, he launched his Lynchburg-based home inspection and repair business. He discusses the challenge of building awareness among realtors, his relationship-driven approach to marketing, and his commitment to educating homeowners. Mike also highlights his appreciation for the Central Virginia community and the support of the CVABC in growing his business.

Cabi and Hilton Hotels

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike celebrate Earth Day and Professional Assistants Day while highlighting upcoming CVABC events, including a Coffee Talk, the Women in Power conference, and a Putt Putt Tournament. Fashion stylist Sherrie introduces Cabi, a women's clothing brand offering personalized styling experiences. Jennifer from Hilton Hotels shares the brand's global reach, local community involvement during their Global Week of Engagement, and exclusive perks for CVABC members. The hosts wrap up by emphasizing the value of CVABC membership and community connection.